For commercial drivers, passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is an important part of staying safe and on the road. At Adena Occupational Health, Jennifer Ross, DO, helps drivers meet these federal requirements with care and guidance that put safety and wellness first. Hear from Dr. Ross on how to best prepare for an exam and what drivers need to know for their next DOT physical.
What is a DOT physical?
A DOT physical is an examination mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Commission to ensure commercial drivers are medically fit to operate their vehicles. Since commercial drivers are typically operating very large vehicles, the goal of the exam is to make the roadways safer.
What to bring to your exam
Preparation is key to making your DOT visit quick and smooth. Dr. Ross notes that drivers should bring a few important items to their exam, including their driver’s license or another form of ID, a list of current medications, and any test results related to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea.
Having these documents ready helps the provider complete the certification efficiently and ensures your information is accurate.
Before you arrive: set yourself up for success
Many drivers feel nervous before a physical, but a few simple habits can help.
“Drivers can be prepared for the visit by getting good rest the night before the exam,” Dr. Ross advises. “Remember that smoking and/or drinking caffeine along with the anxiety of having a physical can affect blood pressure and ultimately how long the driver can be certified.”
Getting plenty of sleep and avoiding caffeine or nicotine the day of your exam can help keep your blood pressure steady.
Maintaining health between exams
DOT physicals are typically required every one to two years, depending on your health and certification status. Maintaining good habits between visits helps keep you eligible and feeling your best on the road.
“The one factor that impacts most drivers' physicals is their weight,” Dr. Ross shares. “An individual’s weight will affect their blood pressure and blood sugar and can be the key reason for sleep apnea. These conditions are the primary problems that affect a driver’s eligibility.”
She adds, “Healthy snacks instead of processed convenience foods and walking as much as possible when not driving are great ways to combat weight gain.”
Small lifestyle changes, such as choosing fruits or nuts instead of chips and taking short walks during breaks, can make a big difference over time
Need to find a DOT physical near you?
Adena Occupational Health offers DOT physicals at multiple locations in south central and southern Ohio. To schedule an appointment, call 740-779-7813 or visit Adena.org/OccupationalHealth.
Stay healthy. Stay certified. Stay safe on the road.
Dr. Jennifer Ross is a family physician with more than 25 years of experience, including 10 years with Adena Health System. She serves patients through Adena’s Occupational Health Clinic in Circleville, helping local workers and employers maintain health, safety, and compliance with federal regulations.
Outside of work, Dr. Ross enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and three children.