DRIVER FRIENDLY DOT PHYSICAL EXAM
Department of Transportation physicals are never fun, but when you choose the right examiner to perform your physical, you'll have a stress-free exam from a practitioner who truly cares about your well-being. We offer DOT physicals to the Greater Quad Cities Area. At Newhouse Health Solutions, the needs of the patient are always put first, so if you're looking for a DOT physical in the Quad Cities Area, you’ve come to the right place. Not only will you get a thorough exam from a Certified Medical Examiner, but you'll also learn how to make healthier choices for a more balanced life.
Services Provided
- DOT driver exams: As part of our dedication to comprehensive patient care, Newhouse Health Solutions offers DOT exams for commercial driver’s licenses and physicals for drivers who don’t require a CDL but who haul enough weight to require a DOT exam.
- DOT drug and alcohol testing: A basic DOT exam does not include drug and alcohol testing, but it can be performed at the same time as your regular exam if it’s required by your company. Drug and alcohol testing requires a separate test and is not included in the cost of a basic DOT exam.
- Pain management: We’ve seen lots of repetitive strain injuries in the drivers that have come through our clinic. On top of DOT exams for drivers, we also offer regular chiropractic services to help relieve pain in your back, neck, shoulders, hips, and legs.
What to Expect During Your DOT Exam
A DOT exam is a simple and hassle-free three-step process that involves taking your medical history, performing the exam, and filling out all the necessary paperwork.
Step One: Medical History
To provide an idea of your general health and family background, you'll be asked to fill out a brief one-page medical history detailing past illnesses, diseases that run in your family, and your overall health.
Step Two: The Exam
Once you’ve provided your medical history our team will review the information you’ve provided, go over any medical conditions you may have, and perform a basic urinalysis test. As part of the exam, we also:
- Measure your height and weight
- Take your blood pressure and pulse
- Test your range of motion
- Examine your eyes and ears
- Check your breathing
Step Three: Paperwork
The final step in the process is the paperwork. Once your medical history and exam are complete, the office will fill out all the necessary paperwork to process the exam results. When you leave the office, you'll get a copy of the exam to take with you when you get your CDL, and a second copy to give to your company. We’ll also keep a scanned copy of the exam in your file at the office. And after all the paperwork has been processed, you'll get your very own DOT medical card to keep with you at all times when you're driving.
Note: If you need a copy of the DOT exam faxed to your company, please have the fax number handy.
Preparing for Your Physical
A DOT physical at Newhouse Health Solutions only takes about 30 minutes. We accept cash, all major credit cards, and company checks. To prepare for the exam, compile all your medical records, put together a list of any medical conditions you’ve been diagnosed with, prepare a list of medications and the name of the prescribing doctor, and take note of any medical devices that you require.
On the day of the exam, you'll have to bring all of this with you. Here's a checklist of things you should bring (where applicable):
- Photo identification
- Medical records
- List of medications, including strength and dosage, for both prescription and over-the counter drugs
- Eye glasses
- Hearing aids
- Copy of your most recent stress test (for heart conditions)
- Copy of your latest sleep test result (for sleep apnea)
- Contact information, including names, phone numbers, and fax numbers for all your doctors
Right before your exam: Make sure you drink a glass of water and come in with a full bladder, as you will have to provide a urine sample.
Tips on Managing Your Blood Pressure
We understand that lots of people don’t like doctors, hospitals, and medical exams and that anticipating your appointment may elevate your blood pressure. But we work with drivers all day, and understand how important it is for you to pass your DOT exam. To help prepare yourself for the appointment, here are things you can do in the days and weeks leading up to your exam:
- Take your medication every day as prescribed and on schedule
- If you forget a dose, take it as soon as possible if that’s what your doctor recommends
- Tell our team if you’ve recently missed a dose so that he can recheck your pressure later on or the following day
- Reduce your caffeine, nicotine, and sugar consumption
- Remember that you won’t actually find a single white coat in our clinic!
Contact us today to get your DOT Physical scheduled
DOT physical FAQ
Q: Who needs to get a DOT physical?
A: Commercial drivers who operate vehicles that require a commercial driver's license (CDL) are required to get a DOT physical.
Q: How often do I need to get a DOT physical?
A: DOT physicals are typically required every two years, but the frequency may vary based on the driver's health and medical history.
Q: What happens during a DOT physical?
A: During a DOT physical, a licensed medical examiner will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and conduct tests to assess your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical health.
Q: What medical conditions could disqualify me from getting a CDL?
A: Medical conditions that could disqualify you from getting a CDL include high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and certain heart conditions.
Q: Can I go to any doctor for a DOT physical?
A: No, only licensed medical examiners who are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) can perform DOT physicals.
Q: How long does the DOT physical exam take?
A: The length of the exam can vary, but it typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour.
Q: What happens if I fail the DOT physical?
A: If you fail the DOT physical, you may be required to get treatment for any medical conditions that are disqualifying, and you will not be able to operate a commercial vehicle until you pass the exam.