Anyone who drives a commercial motor vehicle in the United States requires certifications to ensure the safety of themselves and others who use the nation’s roads. Part of these certifications include a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical.
Dr. Gladys Bailon of South Central Family Practice Clinic in Soldotna, Alaska, is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as a licensed medical examiner qualified to give DOT physicals.
If you’re employed as a commercial vehicle operator or if you’re planning to pursue this line of work, you’ll need a DOT physical every two years or more often if you have certain medical conditions. We’ve prepared this blog so you’ll know how to prepare and what to expect at your DOT physicals.
Having a commercial drivers’ license (CDL) is only part of the qualification needed to operate vehicles like passenger buses, semi-trucks, or vehicles carrying hazardous material.
Your CDL demonstrates that you have the training and skills to operate your vehicle, while the DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) shows that you’re physically and mentally capable of doing the job.
CDL holders need to be in generally good health and able to handle the demands and responsibilities of driving commercial vehicles. Although it isn’t a demanding physical examination, you’ll need to provide information in addition to the basic assessment of your physical condition.
You can download the medical examination report form from the US DOT website. The first two pages cover your medical history, an overview of your health history, including diagnoses, surgeries, medical procedures, current symptoms you may have, as well as medications and/or supplements you may be taking. Feel free to complete this at home before your appointment.
You may need to complete additional forms, usually to provide further information about common and specific medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and more. Preparing this information in advance can help prevent delays.
Dr. Bailon reviews your medical history and asks any questions that might arise because of it. The physical exam is typically a review of your vital signs and may include:
These steps give Dr. Bailon an overall picture of your health to assess your fitness for operating a commercial vehicle.
Dr. Bailon discusses her findings with you. There are five possible outcomes:
Dr. Bailon will discuss your results and what they mean, as well as your next steps.
Contact us at South Central Family Practice Clinic to schedule a DOT physical. Book your appointment online or call a team member at our office today.
