Which condition requires a driver to be referred for follow-up evaluation?

The condition that requires a driver to be referred for follow-up evaluation is macular degeneration. This condition involves the deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina, leading to significant vision problems that may impair the ability to drive safely. Because it can lead to central vision loss, individuals with macular degeneration are at a higher risk of having difficulties with tasks that require sharp vision, such as reading road signs or recognizing pedestrians.

In contrast, bacterial conjunctivitis and episcleritis, while they can affect vision, generally do not cause lasting impairment that would necessitate a follow-up evaluation for driving fitness in most cases. Bacterial conjunctivitis is typically a treatable condition that often resolves without long-term effects once appropriate treatment is initiated. Episcleritis usually presents with mild discomfort and is often self-limiting, rarely affecting vision to the extent that it impacts driving capabilities significantly or requires extensive follow-up. Therefore, while monitoring for all these conditions is important, macular degeneration stands out as the condition that unequivocally necessitates a referral for further evaluation regarding driving fitness.