What is a DOT physical?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires all drivers with a commercial driver’s license (CMV) to undergo regular physical examinations by a certified physician. The purpose of the exam is to assess your health and make sure you don’t have any physical, emotional, or mental health issues that may impair your ability to drive your vehicle safely.
Bethel Family Medicine is a certified DOT medical practice. Dr. Jennifer Hall DiFalco provides the exam and medical certificate you need to maintain your CMV.
What do I need to bring to my DOT physical?
The team at Bethel Family Medicine provides you with a list of items you need to bring to your DOT physical. As a reminder, you should bring:
- Valid government-issued identification, such as your driver’s license
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Hearing aid, if necessary
- List of all the medications you take, including dosage information
If you have any underlying health issues, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, Dr. DiFalco may ask you to bring a medical release letter from your primary care physician noting that this medical issue is being managed.
What can I expect during my DOT physical?
The team at Bethel Family Medicine provide comprehensive DOT physical examinations to ensure that you’re healthy enough to safely drive a commercial vehicle. Your exam includes:
- A review of your medical history
- Discussion of your medication and supplement use
- A urine sample
- A thorough physical exam
The urine test isn’t a drug test, although your employer may request a drug test as well. The purpose of the urine test is to look for medical conditions that may disqualify you from safely driving a commercial vehicle, such as uncontrolled diabetes.
After your examination, Dr. DiFalco completes the medical examination certificate, which is valid for up to 24 months. If you have a medical condition that needs to be monitored, your certificate may be valid for less than 24 months. Dr. DiFalco determines the length of your medical certificate based on your exam.
At Bethel Family Medicine, Dr. DiFalco is not only a highly trained physician, but also fully understands the regulations set forth by the Department of Transportation to provide a comprehensive and fair DOT physical.
To schedule a DOT physical, call Bethel Family Medicine today or book an appointment online.
