DOT Physicals in High Point: What Commercial Drivers Should Know

If you drive a truck, a bus or another commercial vehicle for a living, you have probably heard of the DOT physical. It is a medical exam meant to show that a driver is healthy enough to operate a commercial vehicle safely. Many drivers see it on the calendar every so often, and it is easy to put off until the last minute.

Earnst Chiropractic Clinic at 231 Baker Road in High Point is authorized to complete North Carolina Department of Transportation physicals. Many people do not expect to find that at a chiropractor's office, so this article explains what to think about before you call.

A DOT physical is different from a regular checkup. Its purpose is not to treat anything but to find out whether a driver meets health standards for commercial driving. It looks at your general health and medical history, and the examiner uses what he finds to decide whether you are qualified.

Because the rules around commercial driving are set by regulators and can change, we are not going to try to list them here. The right source for the current requirements is the agency itself and your employer or carrier. The office can tell you what applies to your appointment when you call.

Sort out the paperwork question first

Before you book, find out what your employer, carrier or licensing situation requires from you. Some drivers have a particular form to bring, some need their results sent to a specific place, and some have their own rules on top. A short call to your dispatcher or safety manager can save you a second trip.

Check the date on your current medical card, too. Do not wait for the day before it expires. Leaving time before the deadline means that if the examiner wants to see a follow-up from another doctor, you are not suddenly unable to work.

What to bring and what to ask

The office is the best source for exactly what to bring, so ask when you call. As a general rule, it helps to arrive prepared to talk about your health, so gather the basics ahead of time.

• A list of the medicines you take, with doses, and the names of the doctors who prescribe them.
• Glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids if you use them.
• Any paperwork from your employer or carrier.
• Notes or records about ongoing health conditions you are being treated for.
• Your current medical card, if you have one, and a photo ID.

Also ask what to expect at the visit, what the office needs to see, and what happens if the examiner wants more information. Ask how far ahead to book. We are not going to quote fees or lengths here, because the office can give you accurate answers on the phone.

Be honest about your health

It can be tempting to leave things out if you are worried about your job. Do not. The exam is built around a truthful health history, and an incomplete one can create bigger problems later. Many health conditions can be managed, and drivers often continue working while they do so. The examiner can explain what is needed.

If you take medicine or have a condition under a doctor's care, bring that information so it can be taken into account. If you are not sure whether something matters, say it anyway and let the examiner decide.

Why the road is hard on the body

Drivers spend long hours seated and often deal with vibration, loading, climbing in and out of cabs and irregular schedules. It is common for back, neck and hip strain to build up. If you have aches that come with the job, mention them. Dr. Tyler Earnst is a Doctor of Chiropractic, and the same office that handles the DOT physical also offers chiropractic care for adults.

A physical is a separate matter from treatment, and you can book one without anything else. But if your back has been nagging you on long hauls, it is a good moment to bring it up. If you ever have chest pain, trouble breathing, or sudden weakness while on the road, pull over safely and call 911.

How to book

The simplest way to get started is to phone the office at (336) 434-4600. The office is open Monday through Thursday, with a break in the middle of the day, and closed Friday through Sunday, so plan your call around that and leave a message if no one picks up right away.

Tell them you need a DOT physical, ask what to bring, and pick a time that leaves you room before your card expires. You can also stop by the blue house at 231 Baker Road, between South High Point and Archdale, to ask in person.