Dear Colleagues,
Social aspects are remarkable among the studies conducted in the field of epilepsy and the studies published in our journal. The problem of stigmatization and the level of disability of individuals with epilepsy who appear to be physically healthy are noteworthy. Driving license is one of the most important among these issues.
Whether or not people with epilepsy can get a driver’s license has been on our agenda for many years. Until recently in Türkiye, individuals with epilepsy could not get a driver’s license under any circumstances. In the modern world, we knew and learned that this was not the case. We were learning about the low risks of epilepsy causing serious accidents while driving. Finally, the struggle was resolved with a seemingly reasonable regulation. Patients who certify that they have been seizure-free for three years, take one or at most two anti-seizure medications and have regular check-ups every 6 months will be able to get or renew their driver’s license. However, the disorganization and unsystematic nature of our healthcare system has exhausted neurologists. The pressure on physicians to obtain a driver’s license by unregistered patients has made our colleagues rebel from time to time. However, I think this situation is temporary. Our duty is to bring up the issue frequently in patient education events and social media so that patients can learn the necessary conditions for a driver’s license and manage the process in a healthier way.
I wish my dear colleagues a good summer period.
S. Naz Yeni, M.D., Prof.
Editor-in-Chief
