How to make a complaint about the DVLA medical assessment process

CDT Test (Carbohydrate Deficient Transferrin)

Convicted Driver Insurance

Reets

Well-known member
I just got through to DVLA to chase medical and whether they’ve received everything and whether she could tell me anything and she said “it is likely that they are going to write to my GP..”

Does that mean I failed the CDT or is it because they are doing this with all HRO now?
 
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Jimbo2167

Well-known member
Reets said:
I just got through to DVLA to chase medical and whether they’ve received everything and whether she could tell me anything and she said “it is likely that they are going to write to my GP..”

Does that mean I failed the CDT or is it because they are doing this with all HRO now?
Click to expand...
From reading a lot of posts on here i think they're contacting GPs more these days and more so if there is anything on your medical declaration or from the Dr who done the medical and of course if your CDT was higher than expected Mind if i ask when your medical was cos i had mine on 20th July and not a peep since
 

KeyWorker

Active member
Reets said:
I just got through to DVLA to chase medical and whether they’ve received everything and whether she could tell me anything and she said “it is likely that they are going to write to my GP..”

Does that mean I failed the CDT or is it because they are doing this with all HRO now?
Click to expand...
Hi
I think we can take it as a given, that as HROs, the DVLA will contact our GPs
At the end of my ban, I was informed of this after my DVLA Medical. As a HRO classified as an abuser, my cdt was 0.3 so no real concerns, and I answered all the questions with an honest no.
When I applied for my second license the DVLA wrote to my GP before I received any information about the DVLA Medical.
I think keeping in touch with our GPs and making sure they are fully updated, and know in advance that they will be contacted by the DVLA is generally helpful, as is having a conversation with them about the responses on the forms they fill out. Also a good idea to take a photo of the forms that we forward to the DVLA…to ensure that there isn’t even a slight difference in what we put on the forms and what we discuss with our GPs. Any minor differences could cause problems….as has been stated on this site, it’s about integrity.
Good luck everyone, Jane
 

Reets

Well-known member
I posted on the medical thread as I've just received my licence back and promised I'd update here. I also posted how nervous I was around the time leading up to the medical and my experience from the day of the medical; concerns about the CDT analysis and questions from the DVLA Medical doctor. Posters have been so helpful along my journey - I wish I had found this site much earlier on..

I offended in Oct 2019 and following an extremely stupid decision, I found my life spiralling out of control somewhat with external factors contributing to the DD mistake (where fortunately I did not do serious damage as a result of that stupid 'decision'); but led on to serious mental un-wellness and debilitating shame.

So - I decided to quit drinking for 16 months from the January 2020 until May 2021. Not too difficult through lockdown and the guilt; if anyone can empathise - I had never been that person - whoever that person is.. I then took the decision to moderate post - final lockdown. Had a couple of blowouts through May and June then completely reigned myself in again 4 weeks before my due medical. I was supplementing everyday for those 4 weeks (and advice on here) with milk thistle, spirulina; a Vit C high strength effervescent tablet and a women's multi-vit. I was trying to drink alcohol-free, plenty of water and the odd Bud. I went to a wedding (close family) 2 weeks into my abstinence and had a glass and a 1/2 prosecco during the toasts; a very small glass of white wine and then about 4 hours late at night a bottle of Peroni. I was really paranoid this could raise my levels.

I have found out today after my medical (early July) that my CDT was 0.8%. It is for me a HUGE relief. It's almost like the licence reissued is small in comparison for what the CDT result reflects. I believe this was the most stressful time of my life and a waiting game for which I am very, very lucky I have been dealt with pretty quickly given the Covid situ and strain on the DVLA.

And I am very grateful to all of the people that have supported me throughout that split second decision.. You really find out who your true friends are. And I will never make the same mistake again ever. I have purchased a breathalyser to check - in case (not that I intend to ever use it); fully realise the luxury and privilege of being able to drive, necessity of chaperoning my kids. about after 2 winters on foot/train, seriousness of my mistake, acknowledgement of where I was when I messed up. I don't drink like I was. I won't ever again. I never respected alcohol and now I do..

And all of the people on here who have replied and privately messaged me - thank you so much.

No one can ever understand how an insane decision can steer the course of your path and the detrimental mental effects/trauma that follow. Please PM me if you need to or are struggling - this forum has become part of my daily life. I will never forget the people who have helped me on here..

And now I move on to the Insurance posts. Eek. Good luck to all that unfortunately have to work though all of this.... I hope my post helps one of you ...
 
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bad past

Active member
looking back at all these posts, im suddenly very worried.. what happened is about 5 years ago i was done for drunk in charge, but got off with 10 points , no ban. like a fool, 6 weeks latter i was caught d/driving again and the judge threw the book at me.. whilst waiting to go to court i had a very bad time, drunk every night, so bad i was hospitalisd 3 nights in a row... at court i got a 5 year ban, and 12 weeks in prison.. inside i got all the help i could ever have asked for.. alcohol counciling, full detox. etc,etc.... since that day i went in prison, iv not had so much as a shandy.. and thats the truth.. NOW , to today.. i should get my paperwork for my medical no 6/1/22, my ban is over 7/4/22... nobody ever told me that i would have to prove that i havent had a drink, i dont think iv even been to my doctors in the last 5 years , iv not even thought of having any tests done.. the CDT test will show that , but how for back can the CDT go..? hope someone can give me some answears
 

RSC

Well-known member
Reets said:
I posted on the medical thread as I've just received my licence back and promised I'd update here. I also posted how nervous I was around the time leading up to the medical and my experience from the day of the medical; concerns about the CDT analysis and questions from the DVLA Medical doctor. Posters have been so helpful along my journey - I wish I had found this site much earlier on..

I offended in Oct 2019 and following an extremely stupid decision, I found my life spiralling out of control somewhat with external factors contributing to the DD mistake (where fortunately I did not do serious damage as a result of that stupid 'decision'); but led on to serious mental un-wellness and debilitating shame.

So - I decided to quit drinking for 16 months from the January 2020 until May 2021. Not too difficult through lockdown and the guilt; if anyone can empathise - I had never been that person - whoever that person is.. I then took the decision to moderate post - final lockdown. Had a couple of blowouts through May and June then completely reigned myself in again 4 weeks before my due medical. I was supplementing everyday for those 4 weeks (and advice on here) with milk thistle, spirulina; a Vit C high strength effervescent tablet and a women's multi-vit. I was trying to drink alcohol-free, plenty of water and the odd Bud. I went to a wedding (close family) 2 weeks into my abstinence and had a glass and a 1/2 prosecco during the toasts; a very small glass of white wine and then about 4 hours late at night a bottle of Peroni. I was really paranoid this could raise my levels.

I have found out today after my medical (early July) that my CDT was 0.8%. It is for me a HUGE relief. It's almost like the licence reissued is small in comparison for what the CDT result reflects. I believe this was the most stressful time of my life and a waiting game for which I am very, very lucky I have been dealt with pretty quickly given the Covid situ and strain on the DVLA.

And I am very grateful to all of the people that have supported me throughout that split second decision.. You really find out who your true friends are. And I will never make the same mistake again ever. I have purchased a breathalyser to check - in case (not that I intend to ever use it); fully realise the luxury and privilege of being able to drive, necessity of chaperoning my kids. about after 2 winters on foot/train, seriousness of my mistake, acknowledgement of where I was when I messed up. I don't drink like I was. I won't ever again. I never respected alcohol and now I do..

And all of the people on here who have replied and privately messaged me - thank you so much.

No one can ever understand how an insane decision can steer the course of your path and the detrimental mental effects/trauma that follow. Please PM me if you need to or are struggling - this forum has become part of my daily life. I will never forget the people who have helped me on here..

And now I move on to the Insurance posts. Eek. Good luck to all that unfortunately have to work though all of this.... I hope my post helps one of you ...
Click to expand...
 

RSC

Well-known member
Think (am no medical expert) that drinking lots of water can only be good. PS Congrats
 

Polly3

Well-known member
RSC said:
Am no medical expert but sure drinking lots of water is good Ps Congrats
Click to expand...
Go to your GP and make sure they are updated re your progress. People on here who have been abstinent for only a few months report very acceptable CDT scores. You have done brilliantly. Well done .
 

Deleted member 15417

bad past said:
looking back at all these posts, im suddenly very worried.. what happened is about 5 years ago i was done for drunk in charge, but got off with 10 points , no ban. like a fool, 6 weeks latter i was caught d/driving again and the judge threw the book at me.. whilst waiting to go to court i had a very bad time, drunk every night, so bad i was hospitalisd 3 nights in a row... at court i got a 5 year ban, and 12 weeks in prison.. inside i got all the help i could ever have asked for.. alcohol counciling, full detox. etc,etc.... since that day i went in prison, iv not had so much as a shandy.. and thats the truth.. NOW , to today.. i should get my paperwork for my medical no 6/1/22, my ban is over 7/4/22... nobody ever told me that i would have to prove that i havent had a drink, i dont think iv even been to my doctors in the last 5 years , iv not even thought of having any tests done.. the CDT test will show that , but how for back can the CDT go..? hope someone can give me some answears
Click to expand...
If you haven’t touched a drop then don’t spend a second worrying . You’ve done your jail time and you will serve your ban .
There are people on here that I’ve read that have carried in drinking until 2 weeks before and passed the cdt test .
Seriously don’t spend to much time in here reading and reading as you will do your head in . You will see people contradicting each other as well … because we are all different and our bodies different.

Stay off the beer and any other substances and take it all as it comes .
 

Luna2000

Well-known member
bad past said:
looking back at all these posts, im suddenly very worried.. what happened is about 5 years ago i was done for drunk in charge, but got off with 10 points , no ban. like a fool, 6 weeks latter i was caught d/driving again and the judge threw the book at me.. whilst waiting to go to court i had a very bad time, drunk every night, so bad i was hospitalisd 3 nights in a row... at court i got a 5 year ban, and 12 weeks in prison.. inside i got all the help i could ever have asked for.. alcohol counciling, full detox. etc,etc.... since that day i went in prison, iv not had so much as a shandy.. and thats the truth.. NOW , to today.. i should get my paperwork for my medical no 6/1/22, my ban is over 7/4/22... nobody ever told me that i would have to prove that i havent had a drink, i dont think iv even been to my doctors in the last 5 years , iv not even thought of having any tests done.. the CDT test will show that , but how for back can the CDT go..? hope someone can give me some answears
Click to expand...
I found this after a quick search online.

Carbohydrate Deficient Transferrin, Serum

Provides laboratory test information for Canterbury Health Laboratories
www.labnet.health.nz

Our metabolisms are different so each will have a different reading.

After 24 months abstinence (absolutely NO alcohol,) my private CDT reading was 0.20%.
 

C J 1980

Well-known member
The thing to remember is that the DVLA is very 'black & white' in their attitudes to drinking and alcohol. It's very much a zero tolerance attitude, all across the board for anyone unlucky enough to become a High Risk Offender.

If you are labelled as a 'misuser' or 'dependant' you need to be very careful about your drinking habits, certainly while the DVLA have you under their microscope.

I've not consumed alcohol for two years now. As I have a second DVLA medical due around the end of the year (it might be early 2022 due to the DVLA delays) I don't propose consuming any alcohol until I am at least clear of my second medical.

Once, the second medical is out of the way and I have been granted a longer licence (wishful thinking!), I might be in a position to enjoy a drink without feeling guilty or looking over my shoulder.

The first few years of the HRO process is definately the hardest - having regular LFTs with your GP and passing your first couple of CDTs. I would advise anyone on here, just to simply refrain from alcohol during this phase so that you have that sound piece of mind.

As another forum member has highlighted, if you do still enjoy a drink, the DVLA must never be told about it. Even declaring a celebratory glass of sherry at Christmas will get your licence revoked.

This goes back to what I said at the start of my thread - it is very black & white! My Dad has a saying of ''sometimes being too honest does you no favours'' and this is exactly true with the HRO system.

''If it isn't written down, it hasn't happened!'' is another phrase I relate to that one of my old work supervisors used to say. This is exactly true with the DVLA and anything held on a NHS database. If you have had any recent alcohol, this must not be documented anywhere!

I cannot criticise safe, sensible, controlled drinking but it is important to remember that CDTs are designed to monitor us and ensure we are behaving ourselves.

Certainly, whilst anyone is subject to annual (yearly) CDTs, I would encourage them to simply avoid any alcohol until at least a longer licence has been issued.

Thats my thoughts on the subject anyway, for what it's worth.

CJ
 

Deleted member 15417

C J 1980 said:
The thing to remember is that the DVLA is very 'black & white' in their attitudes to drinking and alcohol. It's very much a zero tolerance attitude, all across the board for anyone unlucky enough to become a High Risk Offender.

If you are labelled as a 'misuser' or 'dependant' you need to be very careful about your drinking habits, certainly while the DVLA have you under their microscope.

I've not consumed alcohol for two years now. As I have a second DVLA medical due around the end of the year (it might be early 2022 due to the DVLA delays) I don't propose consuming any alcohol until I am at least clear of my second medical.

Once, the second medical is out of the way and I have been granted a longer licence (wishful thinking!), I might be in a position to enjoy a drink without feeling guilty or looking over my shoulder.

The first few years of the HRO process is definately the hardest - having regular LFTs with your GP and passing your first couple of CDTs. I would advise anyone on here, just to simply refrain from alcohol during this phase so that you have that sound piece of mind.

As another forum member has highlighted, if you do still enjoy a drink, the DVLA must never be told about it. Even declaring a celebratory glass of sherry at Christmas will get your licence revoked.

This goes back to what I said at the start of my thread - it is very black & white! My Dad has a saying of ''sometimes being too honest does you no favours'' and this is exactly true with the HRO system.

''If it isn't written down, it hasn't happened!'' is another phrase I relate to that one of my old work supervisors used to say. This is exactly true with the DVLA and anything held on a NHS database. If you have had any recent alcohol, this must not be documented anywhere!

I cannot criticise safe, sensible, controlled drinking but it is important to remember that CDTs are designed to monitor us and ensure we are behaving ourselves.

Certainly, whilst anyone is subject to annual (yearly) CDTs, I would encourage them to simply avoid any alcohol until at least a longer licence has been issued.

Thats my thoughts on the subject anyway, for what it's worth.

CJ
Click to expand...
So CJ am I right in thinking you are on a one year licence and being CDT ‘d yearly as a way of being allowed to continue to drive ??
 

C J 1980

Well-known member
Autumntwist said:
So CJ am I right in thinking you are on a one year licence and being CDT ‘d yearly as a way of being allowed to continue to drive ??
Click to expand...

Autumntwist

To answer your question -

I was re-instated with a 12 month temporary licence in January 2021 following a drink driving ban. I am a HRO and I was put in the category of a 'misuser'. I did my first DVLA medical on the 19th November last year (2020) and I will need to attend a second medical in due course. Like I said in my previous post, I don't anticipate doing my second medical until early next year (2022), so I'll be using good old Section 88 when my current licence expires because of all this fiasco with the DVLA.

For anyone subject to the HRO process, it can last six years at the conclusion of the ban. The DVLA can plough you with 6 x 12 month licences, with a annual medical every year if they wanted to, but it is very rare for this to happen (you would have had to have p****d someone off at Swansea to be put in this scenario!). Everyone, I have spoken to on this site, always gets a 12 month month temporary licence in their first year if they are a HRO who has declared anything in their medical history. It is almost like a 'probation' period to ensure you remain on your best behaviour.

The second year is a conundrum - the DVLA could potentially just give you another 12 month driving licence or they may loosen the noose and give you a slightly longer licence (say 3 years). I am hoping for the latter next time around, then at least I don't have to put up with the DVLA nonsence again in another 12 months down the line.

CJ
 

Deleted member 15417

C J 1980 said:
Autumntwist

To answer your question -

I was re-instated with a 12 month temporary licence in January 2021 following a drink driving ban. I am a HRO and I was put in the category of a 'misuser'. I did my first DVLA medical on the 19th November last year (2020) and I will need to attend a second medical in due course. Like I said in my previous post, I don't anticipate doing my second medical until early next year (2022), so I'll be using good old Section 88 when my current licence expires because of all this fiasco with the DVLA.

For anyone subject to the HRO process, it can last six years at the conclusion of the ban. The DVLA can plough you with 6 x 12 month licences, with a annual medical every year if they wanted to, but it is very rare for this to happen (you would have had to have p****d someone off at Swansea to be put in this scenario!). Everyone, I have spoken to on this site, always gets a 12 month month temporary licence in their first year if they are a HRO who has declared anything in their medical history. It is almost like a 'probation' period to ensure you remain on your best behaviour.

The second year is a conundrum - the DVLA could potentially just give you another 12 month driving licence or they may loosen the noose and give you a slightly longer licence (say 3 years). I am hoping for the latter next time around, then at least I don't have to put up with the DVLA nonsence again in another 12 months down the line.

CJ
Click to expand...
Ahhh fantastic I see now .
Drink I can live without…
Driving I cannot…

Its simple really if I want to drive and get my life and more importantly my mental health back don’t drink .

And as we have said also .. if it’s not written on paper it hasn’t happened.

who ever said ‘honesty is the best policy’ … well from more than one occasion in my life I can say ….

IGNORE THAT 🤦🏻‍♂️
 

Polly3

Well-known member
Autumntwist said:
Ahhh fantastic I see now .
Drink I can live without…
Driving I cannot…

Its simple really if I want to drive and get my life and more importantly my mental health back don’t drink .

And as we have said also .. if it’s not written on paper it hasn’t happened.

who ever said ‘honesty is the best policy’ … well from more than one occasion in my life I can say ….

IGNORE THAT 🤦🏻‍♂️
Click to expand...
I agree with what you say re the importance of your health. I gave up drinking , belatedly, because of the severe impact it was having on every aspect of my well being . I’ve had my full 10 year licence returned, but as you indicate , the benefits of avoiding alcohol go way beyond that . I hope the process goes smoothly for you .
 

bored waiting

Well-known member
Reets said:
I posted on the medical thread as I've just received my licence back and promised I'd update here. I also posted how nervous I was around the time leading up to the medical and my experience from the day of the medical; concerns about the CDT analysis and questions from the DVLA Medical doctor. Posters have been so helpful along my journey - I wish I had found this site much earlier on..

I offended in Oct 2019 and following an extremely stupid decision, I found my life spiralling out of control somewhat with external factors contributing to the DD mistake (where fortunately I did not do serious damage as a result of that stupid 'decision'); but led on to serious mental un-wellness and debilitating shame.

So - I decided to quit drinking for 16 months from the January 2020 until May 2021. Not too difficult through lockdown and the guilt; if anyone can empathise - I had never been that person - whoever that person is.. I then took the decision to moderate post - final lockdown. Had a couple of blowouts through May and June then completely reigned myself in again 4 weeks before my due medical. I was supplementing everyday for those 4 weeks (and advice on here) with milk thistle, spirulina; a Vit C high strength effervescent tablet and a women's multi-vit. I was trying to drink alcohol-free, plenty of water and the odd Bud. I went to a wedding (close family) 2 weeks into my abstinence and had a glass and a 1/2 prosecco during the toasts; a very small glass of white wine and then about 4 hours late at night a bottle of Peroni. I was really paranoid this could raise my levels.

I have found out today after my medical (early July) that my CDT was 0.8%. It is for me a HUGE relief. It's almost like the licence reissued is small in comparison for what the CDT result reflects. I believe this was the most stressful time of my life and a waiting game for which I am very, very lucky I have been dealt with pretty quickly given the Covid situ and strain on the DVLA.

And I am very grateful to all of the people that have supported me throughout that split second decision.. You really find out who your true friends are. And I will never make the same mistake again ever. I have purchased a breathalyser to check - in case (not that I intend to ever use it); fully realise the luxury and privilege of being able to drive, necessity of chaperoning my kids. about after 2 winters on foot/train, seriousness of my mistake, acknowledgement of where I was when I messed up. I don't drink like I was. I won't ever again. I never respected alcohol and now I do..

And all of the people on here who have replied and privately messaged me - thank you so much.

No one can ever understand how an insane decision can steer the course of your path and the detrimental mental effects/trauma that follow. Please PM me if you need to or are struggling - this forum has become part of my daily life. I will never forget the people who have helped me on here..

And now I move on to the Insurance posts. Eek. Good luck to all that unfortunately have to work though all of this.... I hope my post helps one of you ...
Click to expand...
curious , how did you find out your CDT result ?
 
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