D.O.T. Services
What Is a DOT Physical?
A DOT physical is an exam performed that confirms our baseline health and physical skills in key areas important for safe commercial driving. Some of these skills include sensory skills such as the ability to perceive color vision, the ability to hear above a certain volume level at a specific distance, and vision of at least 20/40 (with or without corrective lenses). Dr. Deutschmann can check these skills during your DOT physical.
You may also need to clear certain hurdles related to your overall physical health, such as a blood pressure reading that does not exceed 140/90 or blood sugar levels that conform to normal ranges. These indicators tell the DOT whether you might be at risk for a sudden health crisis while driving -- one that might cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
Easy, Quick Exams with Dr. Selam Deutschmann
A variety of healthcare providers can obtain the necessary licensing to perform DOT physicals in most states, including chiropractors. These professionals must become Certified Medical Examiners and hold a place in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners before performing such physicals. Dr. Deutschmann at The Spine Center has the necessary credentials and skills to perform this exam.
A chiropractic DOT physical takes only a matter of minutes. Please don't drink or use tobacco for at least half an hour before your exam, as these substances may affect exam results. Bring as much documentation of your current medical status (including lists of medications) to our chiropractic office. We will check vital signs, run a urinalysis, and check your vision and hearing. Dr. Deutschmann will give you a copy of the necessary information while keeping another copy on file at our clinic.
5 Tips to Passing the DOT Exam
- If you are on medication, make sure you are taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- Bring any medical paperwork you think might help, i.e. doctor's note, sleep apnea results.
- No caffeine, sugar, or salty food or drinks the night before or the day of the test.
- RELAX, it's an important test but at the end of the day it's still just a test
- Arrive on time and relax. To get the best results, you have to stay calm and relaxed.