The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that interstate drivers of heavy vehicles undergo complete physical examinations every two years to maintain their CDLs, or commercial driver’s licenses. Get this important assessment with a professional listed on the National Registry Of Certified Medical Examiners.
Let’s talk about the importance of the DOT physical examination and where you can go for this examination in Grand Junction, CO.
Why Do I Need a DOT Physical Examination
Driving a heavy vehicle such as a truck or passenger bus carries great responsibility. The driver must be physically and mentally capable of enduring long hours and making quick decisions about road conditions and traffic on highways and the interstate. Lives depend on the driver’s skill and health status. As such, the CDL must be earned and maintained through mandatory physical assessments biannually.
The vehicles which require drives to have valid CDL are those which:
- Carry eight or more passengers for a monetary fee
- Carry 15 or more passengers for a monetary fee
- Transport hazardous materials with identifying placards
- Move cargo weighing 1000 pounds or more
Who Offers DOT Physicals
A Level-II accredited healthcare provider (for the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation) must perform the DOT physical. This provider is fully qualified to assess and rate various driver impairments which may disqualify an individual from operating a heavy vehicle that carries passengers or cargo over highways within and between states.
After successfully completing a DOT physical, the driver receives a certificate valid for two years. Some drivers qualify for limited medical exemptions as outlined by law. The certified medical provider is qualified to grant these exemptions based on medical history, physical exam, and other factors.
What Does a DOT Physical Exam Entail
A Department of Transportation physical exam is a complete, head-to-toe assessment of the individual applying for or recertifying a commercial driver’s license. The healthcare provider will assess:
- Vision and hearing
- Height, weight, and vital signs
- Musculoskeletal strength and gait
- Skin
- Range of motion and flexibility
- Reflexes
- Mental acuity
- Sleep history
- Cardiovascular health (blood pressure)
- Abdomen (hernias) and genitourinary system
- Urine (to check blood sugars)
To facilitate this assessment, bring any assistive devices you have–corrective lenses, hearing aids, dentures–and a list of your current over-the-counter and prescription medications. If you are being followed by a medical specialist, such as a sleep apnea doctor, bring the latest exam and lab reports.
People generally do not pass DOT exams if they have an uncorrected vision or hearing problems, hernias, or undiagnosed and untreated hypertension and diabetes. Seizure disorders, such as epilepsy, and untreated sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy, are disqualifiers, too.
The Best DOT Physical Provider in Grand Junction, CO
At WorkPartners Occupational Health, taking care of our valuable workers is our only business. Our Department of Transportation physicals are conducted by our highly qualified and registered physician’s assistant. Also, we are actively involved in Workers’ Comp services, such as assessments and back-to-work rehabilitation programs.
To find out more about us or schedule a DOT physical examination, call us at (970) 241-5585 or request your visit online. We will be happy to deliver the services you need to work safely and in the best of health.
