If your professional driver’s application has identified a need for further heart tests to determine your medical fitness, Northway Clinic Cardiologists in East London can help. 

Our cardiac and general assessments are suitable for:

• Private Hire Drivers (TFL)
• Licenced London Taxi Drivers (TFL)
• HGV & PHV Drivers (DVLA)
• Train Drivers (ORR)
• Pilots (CAA)
• Other professionals who are required medical assessment for work purposes.

Licensing authorities have a duty to protect drivers and members of the public by ensuring that anyone applying for a vocational license meets the criteria for medical fitness. Usually, they will require a medical declaration and initial assessment by a GP and depending on your personal history, they may ask for further information and tests. People with known heart conditions will often have to repeat these tests at least every 3 years to meet the DVLA Group 2 criteria for licensing.

Common conditions that require further tests are

• Angina
• Arrythmia
• Chest Pain of Uncertain Origin
• Heart Valve Disease
• Ischaemic Heart Disease

The exact requirements for tests can vary and you will be informed by TFL, DVLA, ORR, CAA and/or the Local Authority after your initial medical declaration and assessment (usually performed by a GP) what you need. The most common tests required are:

Exercise Tolerance Test

The test performed at Northway Clinic is on a stationary bicycle according to DVLA/TFL guidelines. It involves cycling for approximately 10 minutes while remaining free of signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease. The Cardiologist will monitor your heart with an ECG throughout the procedure, looking for any signs of blockages in the blood vessels or changes in the heart rhythm.

Stress Echocardiography

Sometimes the DVLA will ask for a Stress Echocardiogram to look at how well the heart muscle works under increased stress. This test is similar to Exercise Tolerance Testing but also involves an ultrasound scan of your heart at intervals throughout the test.

Echocardiography

This is an ultrasound scan of the heart which is done at rest to look at how well the heart, valves, and surrounding blood vessels are functioning.

All of these tests are performed to the standards set by TFL and/or the Local Authority where you are applying for your license. The Doctor will complete the form required with the results of your tests and an official Northway Clinic stamp. You should bring all letters and forms required for your license submission to your appointment.

Prices

Consultation – £150

Exercise Tolerance Test (Stress Bike ECG) – £250

Stress Echocardiography (Stress Bike ECHO) – £350

Cardiac Ultrasound (Echocardiography) – £200

If you would like to book an appointment please call us on 020 3405 0860 or send a request.