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Commercial truck drivers are required to meet health criteria standards that are set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or the FMCSA. The goal of these standards is to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles on the roadways. In order to meet these standards drivers must keep themselves healthy enough to be deemed safe drivers.
Traditionally, drivers tend to make appointments with their primary physician to have these physical exams completed. With the current health state of emergency, many doctors are unable to see patients for weeks after an appointment is requested. What other options are available when a commercial driver needs a DOT physical before the doctor is able to see them?
You Can Obtain a DOT Physical at Your Local Urgent Care Centers
DOT physicals can be obtained at your local urgent care centers and other walk-in clinics much sooner than at your physician’s office. It is best to call and schedule an appointment to ensure that a medical examiner is currently in the building, but walk-ins are welcome.
What Will the Urgent Care Check for My Physical?
Walk-in clinics and urgent care centers are required to staff medical examiners that are trained and certified to perform DOT physicals. The DOT physical will evaluate your current health in the following areas:
- Vision
- Heart Health
- Blood Pressure
- Respiratory Health
- Hearing
- Health History
If you have pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure, you will need to show that you have these conditions under control with your primary physician by use of safe prescription medications.
What Should I Bring?
To save yourself time, and to ensure that your DOT Physical is quick and successful, there are several things you can do before you appointment to be prepared.
- Fill out the driver’s portion of the Medical Examination Report before you arrive.
- Ask about cost before arrival, the exam is affordable, but it is not covered by insurance.
- Write down your medical information, including your doctor’s name, phone number, and a list of all medications and dosages.
Completing these steps will save you and the medical staff time and ensure that you are able to get your DOT exam completed on your first visit.
Stop in a Walk-In Clinic Today
Get your DOT physical done quickly by stopping in a local urgent care center today. There is no need to wait weeks for an exam when these can be completed on a walk-in basis. Medical professionals at the urgent care are trained ready to help you get the certification you need.
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