HGV medicals are important. Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers are required by law to undergo regular medical examinations to ensure they are fit to operate large and potentially dangerous vehicles. The law requires them to undergo the medical. These medicals help protect not just the driver, but other road users as well. But what happens if your medical uncovers something unexpected? This is the question we will answer.
At SimplyMedicals, we know that the idea of failing an HGV medical can be stressful. However, being prepared—both mentally and practically—can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll guide you through how to approach the process and deal with any surprises calmly and confidently.
What Are Unexpected Findings?
An “unexpected finding” in an HGV medical is any health issue that you may not have been aware of, but which could affect your ability to drive safely. Common examples include:
- High blood pressure
- Undiagnosed diabetes
- Vision or hearing issues
- Cardiac irregularities
- Mental health conditions or sleep disorders (such as sleep apnoea)
These findings don’t always mean you’ll be disqualified from driving, but they may require further investigation or treatment before you’re cleared to drive.
The key is not to panic. Most conditions, when managed correctly, won’t automatically stop you from keeping or renewing your licence.
How to Reduce the Risk of Surprises
While you can’t control every outcome, there are steps you can take to prepare for your HGV medical and reduce the risk of surprises:
- Have regular check-ups: Visiting your GP annually—even if you feel fine—can help catch and manage issues early.
- Monitor your blood pressure: High blood pressure is one of the most common reasons for HGV medical referrals. Home monitoring can help you track your readings and stay in a healthy range.
- Be honest on your form: It may be tempting to gloss over certain symptoms, but transparency helps doctors make accurate assessments and provide the right support.
- Bring relevant documentation: If you’re already managing a health condition, bring letters from your GP or specialist, test results, and a list of medications.
What to Do If a Health Issue Is Found
If your HGV medical at SimplyMedicals does uncover something unexpected, don’t worry—we’re here to help.
We’ll explain the findings clearly and recommend the next steps. In some cases, this may mean seeing your GP for further tests, or temporarily pausing your application while a condition is brought under control. Once your health is stabilised, you can usually return for a follow-up medical and continue your licensing process.
Remember: the goal of these medicals isn’t to stop you from working—it’s to keep you safe on the road for the long haul.
Need an HGV medical? Book yours today with SimplyMedicals for expert care, clear advice, and professional support every step of the way.
Ultimately, It all starts with your HGV medical Examinations.
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