The Department of Transport (DOT) asks commercial drivers to have a DOT physical exam to get a certificate of occupational health. The physical includes checks for specific health issues related to long-distance driving. The checkup is carried out by a nurse or doctor. The DOT keeps a registry of medical practitioners able to administer the test.
Driving long distances places strain on the back, neck and shoulders. It also calls for good concentration, alertness and visual acuity. A DOT physical checks that the candidate’s fitness meets all these criteria. Long hours and night shift also take their toll, requiring monitoring for occupational health.
Some medical conditions affect a person’s ability to remain conscious and alert for long periods. These can include diabetes and sleep disorders. Heart disease is also of particular concern for drivers. Serious medical conditions may present a safety issue, both to the driver and to others. Thus, they need to be managed properly.
“Commercial drivers” generally means truckers. It may also refer to bus drivers and people who operate heavy construction vehicles. It does not generally include taxi drivers and private passenger services. Most people in this trade need a new certificate of health every two years. Diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure may call for an annual DOT physical instead.
Any driver transporting hazardous chemicals will need a DOT physical. A DOT physical is also necessary when driving a total weight of 10,000 lbs. Any driver moving fifteen or more passengers at a time, whether paid or voluntary, will need a DOT physical. The requirement generally covers all Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers. It is not for light goods and private passenger transport.
The checkup involves completing a medical history form. This covers existing medical issues, medications, past surgeries and general health. A physical examination follows, including testing hearing, eyesight and blood pressure. A DOT physical also includes a urine and drug test.
Most of the conditions that a DOT physical looks for do not prevent a person from commercial driving. Poor eyesight can usually be corrected with glasses or contacts. Diabetes and heart issues can be properly managed day to day. Profound deafness may prevent a person from employment as a commercial driver. Severe sleep disorders (for example, narcolepsy) can also be a reason not to get a job as a driver.
It may be useful to bring medical notes to the physical to help fill in the form. The physical itself requires no preparation except for a healthy lifestyle. The purpose of these checkups is to protect the health and safety of commercial drivers. A person suddenly taken ill at the wheel poses a serious risk to themselves and others. Occupational health checkups are as essential as vehicle maintenance to ensure safety.
If your employer has asked you to get a DOT physical, contact your doctor or health care professional. At the physical itself, inform the doctor of any existing medical conditions or medications in use. The Department of Transport requires all commercial drivers to have up-to-date health certificates. Book an appointment with your local health care provider.
Get more information here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Contrary to what some may believe, diabetes requires professional treatment since it is a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar. With treatment, patients can manage their diabetes and reduce its impact on their lives. A primary care physician, or PCP, will guide patients through diabetes treatment, connecting them with specialists and using treatment strategies…
DOT drug testing is performed as part of the biannual DOT physical checkup for all commercial drivers. The Department of Transport is responsible for ensuring that all commercial drivers are sober. For the well-being of employees and the public, the DOT monitors drug and alcohol use with regular testing. Keep reading to find out what…
Professional breathing treatments, also known as respiratory therapy, are essential for managing various respiratory conditions. These treatments can help relieve symptoms, improve breathing, and prevent complications in individuals with chronic conditions like asthma and COPD, as well as acute respiratory infections. Understanding the different options available for breathing treatments ensures that patients receive the right…
Drug screening is integral to many industries and institutions, such as workplaces, in-patient treatment programs, and sports organizations. These screenings look for signs of prescription, legal, or illegal drugs in a urine or hair sample. If you have an upcoming drug screening, you may have questions about the process. Here is what you should know.Drug…
If you have or suspect that you have diabetes, it is recommended to visit your…
Keep reading to find out what happens during a DOT drug testing.
Understanding the different options available for breathing treatments ensures that patients receive the right medical…
If you have an upcoming drug screening, you may have questions about the process. Here…
Learning the signs for each situation can help you determine where to go and likely…
In healthcare, laboratory services include collecting, analyzing, and testing patient samples to help diagnose, treat,…