DOT Physicals in Dale City

Before you get behind the wheel of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), make sure your health is up to par. By doing so, you are not only ensuring your own safety but also the other drivers on the road. At AFC Urgent Care in Dale City, we are happy to offer U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. This thorough examination helps make sure your overall wellness meets the necessary criteria to do your job.

What Is A DOT Physical?

Driving heavy machinery like 18-wheelers, buses and other vehicles containing hazardous materials is a huge responsibility. AFC Urgent Care, Dale City is here to make sure you are healthy enough under the government guidelines to operate a CMV. For instance, you should be able to clearly hear things around you, visualize highway signs and not fall asleep. Certain health conditions or prescribed medications have a tendency to affect your capability of doing these tasks.

At AFC Urgent Care, Dale City, we begin a DOT Physical by taking a complete, comprehensive review of your medical history, along with any medications you take on a daily basis. It will also include:

• Checking blood pressure and pulse
• Testing vision
• Testing hearing
• Checking for spine deformities
• Examining the mouth for difficulties with breathing or swallowing
• Examining coordination and reflexes
• Listening to your heart and lungs
• Checking the abdomen for abnormalities
• Checking for hernias
• Urinalysis for indications of underlying medical conditions

You will need to get a DOT Physical every two years to maintain a valid medical examiner’s certificate (MEC).

Who Needs A DOT Physical?

The following are some examples of individuals who may be required to get a DOT Physical:

• Operate a vehicle built to accommodate over 15 passengers
• Receive compensation for operating a vehicle designed for over 8 passengers
• Transport hazardous materials requiring a placard in your vehicle
• Operate a vehicle on the interstate with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight exceeding 10,000 pounds (5 tons)

How To Prepare For A DOT Physical:

One of the many benefits of coming to your local AFC Urgent Care, Dale City for a DOT Physical is you can just walk-in when it’s convenient for you. Here are some things you may need to do to prepare for your physical:

• Collect Personal Information: Bring any required documents, such as your driver's license, medical history, and a list of medications you're currently taking.
• Get Adequate Rest: Make sure to get enough sleep the night before your exam to ensure you're well-rested and alert.
• Avoid Stimulants: Refrain from consuming stimulants like caffeine or nicotine before your exam, as they can affect your blood pressure and heart rate.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before your appointment to stay hydrated, which can help with the urine sample you may need to provide.
• Review Health History: Be prepared to discuss your medical history with the examiner, including any chronic conditions, surgeries, or past injuries. If you take prescription medications, you may also want to bring them with you to your appointment, along with any relevant documentation.
• Check Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels: If you have concerns about your blood pressure or blood sugar levels, consider monitoring them in the days leading up to your exam and discuss them with your provider.
• Complete Necessary Forms: Fill out any required paperwork or forms before your appointment to expedite the process.

What Happens After Your DOT Physical:

Once one of our physicians at AFC Urgent Care, Dale City performs your exam, you can expect one of the following results:

• You will receive your two-year medical exam certificate (MEC) if you pass all required sections of the exam
• You may receive a certificate that’s not as long, if it is determined that you need periodic medical monitoring
• You will not receive a certificate if one of our providers determines you failed the exam