What information must be included in the documentation from a cardiologist?

The requirement for an original tracing of heart activity is essential in assessing a driver's cardiovascular health. The FMCSA mandates that a qualified medical examiner, when evaluating a driver’s fitness, requires concrete evidence of cardiac function, which is often provided through an original electrocardiogram (ECG) or other relevant tests. This tracing offers a direct insight into the electrical activity of the heart, allowing for a thorough evaluation of any potential issues, such as arrhythmias or other heart diseases that might impair the individual's ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

Including the original tracing ensures that the medical examiner has the most accurate and detailed information on the driver's cardiac status, enabling them to make an informed decision about the driver’s ability to meet the medical standards set forth by the FMCSA. It serves as a critical part of the documentation that supports the overall assessment of a driver’s health and ensures road safety.