Foundation researcher wants to prove that patients with defibrillators can safely drive

"By law, doctors must report patients with a medical condition that may make it dangerous for them to operate a motor vehicle. Heart and Stroke Foundation researcher Dr. Christopher Simpson is studying how heart patients fit into that picture, particularly those who have implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) - devices that send electrical pulses to the heart if it stops or beats improperly. Current regulations may restrict people who need ICDs from driving because their device signals a history of a sudden and dangerous cardiac event (such as sudden cardiac death, ventricular fibrillation, or ventricular tachycardia). 'The problem is that commercial drivers could be willing to lie to their doctors about symptoms because otherwise it could mean losing their license and then their job,' says Dr. Simpson. 'That affects patient-doctor trust and prevents patients from getting the care they need.'" - Heart and Stroke Foundation