A Drive for Safety – Helping You Find The Best CME’s For Your DOT Physical Exam
Preferred Alliance Has Helped Hundreds Of Drivers With Their DOT Medical Exams
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a division of the Department of Transportation, makes it their top priority to ensure the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of each CMV Operator in order to ensure the safety of all those who share the road. Part of this priority entails the regular administration of DOT Medical Examinations, more commonly known as DOT Physicals.
Preferred Alliance, Inc. can help you and your drivers stay in compliance by assisting you in locating Certified Medical Examiners (CME’s) that can perform fair and consistent DOT Physicals. We are proud to offer DOT medical exams as part of our employer solutions services.
Visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov for more information on the DOT medical exam.
Call us today at (877) 272-5227
What Does a DOT Physical Entail?
DOT exams are fairly similar to a normal physical exam only more in-depth regarding the individual’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Because of the vast array of regulations surrounding a Driver’s ability to safely perform their job, ONLY a DOT certified CME can do a full scope examination. Driver’s should expect to be tested on their hearing, vision, blood pressure, and overall physical/mental capabilities.
Your examination will include:
You must complete our Medical History Form before we begin your DOT Physical. You must indicate whether you have had any of the following:
Brain injuries or neurological disorders
Epilepsy or seizures
Loss of hearing
Heart attack or heart disease
Impaired vision
Kidney disease
Digestive problems
Psychiatric disorders
Dizziness or fainting
Paralysis
Stroke
Missing limbs
Spinal cord injuries
Chronic pain
A medical professional must perform your physical examination in order to be compliant with federal laws. A nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant, or a doctor are all qualified examiners. The examiner will ask you about any medications that you have taken or are currently taking and will study your overall health history.
Your examiner will also perform the following tests:
Blood pressure & pulse
Vision test
Examine ears, eyes, throat, & mouth
Hernia check
Look for spine deformities
Neurological examination
Apply pressure to your abdomen to check for abnormalities
Listen to your heart and lungs
At one time a DOT urine drug test was mandatory with a physical. It is no longer a requirement under DOT. However, although uncommon, the physician can conduct his own drug test if he deems it necessary. The urine test for medical purposes not related to drug testing and a DOT urine test is only permitted under specific circumstances. A physical is not one of them.
Please Note: Insurance doesn’t cover the DOT Physical, current employers are required by law to pay for the physical examination
Allows Us To Help You With Your DOT Physicals
Who We Have Helped
Stockton Unified School District
Professional Charter Services
Valley Pacific Petroleum Services, Inc
Diesel Master Inc.
Testimonials
“Merced County Schools Insurance Group has contracted with Preferred Alliance since DOT-compliance for our Member District’s commercially licensed drivers. The program has been seamless, and without exception, perfectly compliant and trouble-free.”
“DOT regulations are very complex with plenty of gray areas – one mistake can close us down. Preferred Alliance’s timely response and accurate information on how to manage the testing process has helped us achieve ‘letter-perfect’ compliance. We have had a great relationship for almost 10 years – there’s no reason to consider anyone else.”
“I have had the pleasure of working with Preferred Alliance for our seasonal drug testing needs since 1998. In our industry, we place high demands on our testing providers for flexible scheduling, quick turnaround, and competitive pricing. Preferred Alliance has consistently exceeded our expectations.”
What To Bring To a DOT Physical Exam
In order to ensure a smooth, stress-free exam process it is important that all Drivers have any and all necessary information with them at the time of the physical. Examples of what a driver should bring include, but are not limited to:
List of ALL medications they currently take including the dose and contact information for the prescribing Doctor.
Eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, or any other visual or audio aid required in order to perform the job functions.
Relevant screening, testing, and diagnostic results for any Driver who suffers from:
- Any form of sleep a disorder such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and insomnia.
- Heart conditions including the use of a pacemaker or stent or anyone who has had a heart attack or open heart/bypass surgery.
- Mental disorders including stroke, seizures, brain tumors, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, or any other disorder that has the ability to negatively impact their mental capacity.
- Anyone who has suffered permanent loss of use in an arm or leg.
*The information above is meant for general guideline purposes only and is not a direct reflection of any or all of the information or testing that may be required. Each physical exam is tailored to a case-by-case basis to be as unique as the individual driver. If a Driver is unsure of their ability to pass it may be beneficial to have them meet with their primary care or specialist PRIOR to scheduling a recertification.
We Are Here To Help You Secure a Drug-Free Workplace!
We have satisfied thousands of clients during the last 40+ years. With our meticulous, fast, and effective drug testing protocols, we promise to meet the needs of your business. Preferred Alliance, Inc. is committed to ensuring you and your Drivers maintain DOT compliance. For assistance in locating CME’s or to inquire about any of our other DOT compliant services please contact us today!