Remove Frustration by Following This Four-Step Guide to Prepare for Your Next DOT Physical

 

 

As a Class A CDL holder, you are subject to rigorous guidelines relating to your health. In recent years, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has attempted to move from defined protocols and instead promote a more collaborative approach between the medical examiner and the primary care provider. 

What does that mean for a commercial driver? In the age of shifting liability, the medical examiner is seeking affirmation from the drivers’ primary care provider to ensure disclosed health conditions are being treated and managed properly. This ultimately will result in improved health outcomes for drivers. Below are four tips that will ensure your next DOT physical is a frustration-free experience:

1. Honesty is Best. Hiding is not an option. In the age of electronic medical records, your previous doctor’s visit, diagnosis, and medications are much more easily accessible. You can no longer “doctor shop” and hope to avoid disclosing your medical issues. You are required to provide an accurate and comprehensive account of your current and past health history according to 49 CFR 390.  
2. Supporting Documentation May Be Required. The medical examiner may ask for additional information from your primary care provider related to your medical conditions or medications. This is standard practice and may take a few additional days. Don Hummer Trucking recommends you schedule your physical two weeks in advance to ensure there is time for this coordination between providers. This process generally takes hours or days not weeks to complete.  
3. Medical Conditions for Additional Consideration. There are some conditions that will always require extra clearance time. Be mindful if you have any of the following conditions, additional processing time may be needed:  high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease.  
4. Items to Bring to the Exam. Driver’s license, glasses or contacts, hearing aids, skills performance waiver (if you have one), list of every medication along with dosage, and a list of conditions that align with each medication.