MPI launches strategy to reduce wait times for driver assessment program

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) and Manitoba Health will launch a strategy to reduce wait times for an appointment with the province’s Driver Assessment Management Program (DAMP).
DAMP is the sole means of assessing drivers who sustain cognitive and/or physical injuries that may affect their ability to drive. As demand for these assessments increases, wait times can exceed six months, a government of Manitoba release says.
Manitoba Health has committed funds to expand functional driving assessment services in Winnipeg and into rural Manitoba, expanding assessment services to Brandon and Winkler. Long-term plans call for additional expansion to other parts of the province.
MPI is responsible for determining fitness to drive for drivers with known or suspected medical conditions. The insurer will introduce new assessment methods that have successfully reduced wait times in other jurisdictions in Canada.
MPI will also work with organizations to educate seniors so they are better able to assess their own driving-related skills and identify ways to mitigate the natural effects of aging.