It is essential to know that all drivers need to get a physical examination. They require you to get an annual medical review called a DOT physical exam. This is a requirement by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration of every company, school, or commercial driving job. This article will cover all the information you need for this physical exam.
DOT physical is a kind of medical examination that requires drivers to have it once every year. It is a requirement from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This agency requires all employers to ensure that the driver meets all the requirements of being fit and healthy before they are allowed to work. This will ensure the safety of everyone on the road, especially when you are driving. You will be subjected to an extensive medical and physical exam to test your overall health.
Most of the requirements in a DOT physical include evaluating your body systems like the neurological and cardiovascular. They also look into your hearing, eyesight, and respiratory system. You are required to give urine samples and blood specimens as part of the tests done on you. Lastly, you will be given a vision test.
If you are preparing for the DOT physical, review the requirements. The FMCSA requires that you have a medical examination every year before you start your job. This will include tests for drugs and alcohol as well. You must ensure you get all the vaccines the CDC requires, like influenza, pneumonia, and others. You are required to show proof of vaccination during your DOT physical exam. It is important to note that the DOT physical exam differs from a regular doctor’s examination.
You will be required to have your blood drawn in a laboratory as part of your physical. You need to wear a gown that covers most of the features of your body so that the doctor can tape the area and clean it with an antiseptic. Then, you will be required to lie on an exam bed for about five minutes and wait for the phlebotomist to take away your blood sample. The phlebotomist will use a butterfly needle or any other kind allowed by the FMCSA.
You will be given a vision test before you leave the eye doctor’s office. This ensures that you do not have any eye disease like glaucoma or macular degeneration. The doctor will evaluate your eyesight, and you will be required to pass the test. There are some additional tests that you may pass depending on your health.
Some other tests can be done on you during your DOT physical exam. There can be a blood pressure test and a resting ECG. You can also undergo the spirometry and pulse oximetry test. You may have other tests depending on your history or some other pre-existing diseases that you have. See your doctor beforehand to know what tests will be done on you during the DOT physical exam.
