As a commercial driver, you must go for regular tests to check that you are still in shape and fit for your job. DOT physicals Hackensack checks your physical, mental, and emotional health once every year to eliminate the possibility of a medical condition that may hinder your ability to drive safely. However, you may need more than one test every year if you have medical conditions that need regular testing to ensure they do not harm your driving ability.
When Are DOT Physicals Necessary?
You may require DOT physicals if you are a driver and wish to get your commercial driver’s license. DOT physicals will help determine your physical health, how safely you can operate a vehicle, and your ability to drive well. The evaluation will ensure that you can handle the physical and mental demands of handling commercial vehicles health-wise. You may require DOT physicals if you will be transporting hazardous materials on vehicles displaying hazmat placards, operating motor vehicles carrying more than 15 people, and vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds. Your doctor may schedule you for annual physicals if you have hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. After passing your DOT physical, you will receive a certificate allowing you to drive commercial vehicles.
What Is Included in DOT Physicals?
Your doctor may require information from you, which they will do through a series of questions. First, fill out a form that gives detailed information about your medications, previous surgeries, current medical conditions, and use of drugs and alcohol. Secondly, your doctor will perform a physical exam to test your vision, hearing, and blood pressure, among other health indicators. Your doctor will then perform a urinalysis to test your system for drugs and substances. You may also need blood work to check sugar levels, among other health conditions. Your doctor may also take you through ECG and EKG tests to check your heart condition, rhythm, and patterns. All the tests aim to determine how healthy you are to drive safely.
What Preparations Can You Make Before DOT Physicals?
Before going in for a DOT physical, you should do a few things as you prepare. First, ensure you take your medications as per your prescription and be up to date. Secondly, if you use visual aids, visit your eye doctor to keep your prescriptions and eye health history updated. You may need to avoid heavy alcohol intake and drug misuse. Also, avoid sugary foods that affect your blood sugar levels drastically. Additionally, you can keep a healthy weight and consider a regular exercise schedule while maintaining a healthy diet to help keep you in shape. Lastly, please keep all your medical records in order, plus your prescriptions, so you can bring them along on your day of DOT physicals.
Get your DOT physicals for your commercial driver’s license at All Health Medical Group. The medical team will ensure they assess your health properly by reviewing your medical history, giving you a physical exam, and performing other health tests. Pick up your phone and make that call today. You can also go to the website and book your online appointment.
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