Question
The subject of devices for the hearing impaired was raised in another forum and I have a question regarding hearing loss and deafness.If I may let me give you some background information to help with your opinion in my case.In 2000 I was diagnosed with a cholesteatoma(I hope I spelled that correctly)in my left ear.It was so large that it had pinched the facial nerve on the left side of my face causing paralysis.At any rate I had to undergo a surgery and the entire inner and middle ear had to be retracted which left me 100% deaf in that ear.I have since completed driver training and am currently an OTR driver for Swift.When I went for my physical I explained the surgery to the Doctor and I passed.He said he could'nt forsee any problems that my being deaf in that ear would cause in my being able to perform the duties required.I hear just fine in my right ear.The way that I interpet what the FMCSR 391.43(11) says;"First percieves a forced whispered voice in the better ear at not less than 5 feet with or without the use of a hearing aid" is that I can hear that whisper in my right ear but not in my left ear.If I stay with Swift for the duration of my driving career I should'nt have a problem but if I move on to another company is this going to be a disqualifing condition in the eyes of another examiner?
Answer
If Swift's Drs. passed you, most others will as well.
Keeping you safe, healthy and on the road.
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