dot physical near me

The Comprehensive Guide to NC DOT Physical Examinations

February 10, 2023

The Department of Transportation (DOT) exam is an important part of the medical evaluation process for those who drive commercial motor vehicles in North Carolina. The DOT exam is designed to ensure that drivers are physically and mentally capable of operating a commercial vehicle safely.

The DOT physical examination must be conducted by a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s National Registry. If you are looking to get a DOT physical, here is a guide to help you prepare for it and also learn what you can expect during the exam.

What Is Included in a DOT Physical?

The DOT exam consists of several different components. The first step in the process is completing paperwork, which includes medical history forms and other documents related to your driving record.

Next are the various tests that need to be completed. The DOT physical exam will include checking the following:

Your height and weight
Your vision and hearing
Your vital signs, including pulse rate and respiration
Your blood pressure levels
Your posture and alignment
Your range of motion and flexibility
The proper management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and sleep apnea
Any digestive disorders
Any respiratory issues
Any neurological health issues, such as epilepsy or other seizure disorders

The medical examiner may order some laboratory tests, such as basic blood work to check various health-related factors, a drug test, and more, based on the medical history of the person. All these assessments help determine if a person meets federal standards set forth by FMCSA regulations, so they can drive commercially in North Carolina with confidence, knowing they are medically fit to do so responsibly and effectively.

If an individual passes the DOT physical, they will be given a copy of the results and be provided a Medical Examiner’s Certificate. A typical DOT physical exam is valid for up to 24 months unless the individual has a medical condition that requires testing in less than 24 months.

It’s important for all individuals planning on taking the DOT exam in North Carolina to understand what it entails ahead of time. This will help them prepare better, both mentally and physically, prior to their appointment date, which increases their chances of passing without issue.

How To Prepare for Your DOT Physical

Before your DOT physical, make sure to take your medications as prescribed and dress in loose, comfortable clothing. You should be able to produce a urine sample, so it is advised to come with a full bladder.

Bring the following to the testing facility:

Your driver’s license
A complete list of medications that you take
Any assistive devices that you use to manage your health conditions
Glasses, contacts, and hearing aids, if applicable

If you have any questions, make sure to place a call to the facility administrating your NC DOT Physical ahead of time.

DOT Physical in King, NC

Cardinal Urgent Care in King, North Carolina, is a certified medical examiner for DOT physicals. Our friendly and professional staff can help you prepare for this exam and ensure you understand what you need to bring and do to have a smooth exam process.

We strongly advise that appointments be made in advance for NC DOT physicals. The number to call is (336) 983-9111, or use our online form to schedule your DOT physical.

Getting Ready for a Pre-Employment Drug Test

January 20, 2023

Pre-employment drug testing is an important step in the hiring process for most companies. By testing applicants for drug use, employers can ensure that they are not hiring individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others. Drug use can lead to absenteeism, accidents, and injuries on the job, and can also create a hostile work environment. By requiring a pre-employment drug test, employers can help protect their businesses from such risks.

A DOT physical is a requirement before you can be employed to drive a commercial vehicle. This is according to guidelines established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Being ready for your pre-employment drug test is important to ensuring the process goes smoothly. Fortunately, there isn’t a lot you have to do to prepare. If you have a drug test coming up, here are some tips on how to get ready for your test.

Rest Well the Night Before

A good night’s sleep will help you to feel relaxed, refreshed, alert, and focused for your test. Aim for at least six to eight hours of sleep the night before your test. Not having enough sleep can make you feel tired, irritated, moody, and even a little sick. While this won’t affect the results of your drug test, it is optimal that you feel your best when going in for appointments for a better overall experience.

Drink Plenty of Fluids Leading Up To the Test

This will help flush out your system and avoid dehydration. Also, since most drug tests are done via urine testing, you want to be able to produce a good sized sample for the test. Make sure not to drink a lot of water right before the test, because this can dilute the sample and lead to an inconclusive result. The trick is to drink small amounts of water throughout the day and no more than 16 ounces of water in the hour leading up to your appointment time.

Get to the Appointment On Time

The last thing you want is to be late for your test, because it may need to be rescheduled if the clinic is fully booked. Therefore, find out the exact location and how to get there ahead of time, so you don’t have to worry about it on the day of your test.

Bring the Important Documents

A DOT pre-employment drug test requires that you bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license. If you do not have a driver’s license, another form of government-issued ID will suffice, such as a passport or military ID. Most employers pay for drug testing of employees and potential employees, therefore, you likely don’t have to worry about making a payment.

Pre-Employment Drug Testing in King, NC

A pre-employment drug test sends a message to applicants that the company takes its commitment to maintain a safe and productive workplace seriously. By requiring all applicants to undergo drug testing prior to being hired, companies can protect themselves from potential liability issues down the road, should an employee later be involved in an accident or incident while on duty. It also fosters a better, more productive, and safe work environment for all employees.

Cardinal Urgent Care in King, North Carolina, is a walk-in clinic that provides DOT physicals for pre-employment testing. Our friendly staff can answer any questions you may have about the test, as well as help you prepare for it for greater success.

For DOT physicals, we require patients to make an appointment. Call our office today at (336) 983-9111, or use our convenient online request form. Our friendly staff looks forward to assisting you!

4 Things To Avoid When Getting A DOT Physical

December 2, 2022

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to have a DOT physical to ensure they are physically qualified to operate a CMV. The physical must be performed by a DOT medical examiner.

DOT physicals are an important part of keeping commercial drivers safe on the road. The DOT physical follows guidelines established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). During a DOT physical, a certified medical examiner will check your health numbers, such as your blood pressure, heart rate, vision, and hearing, among other things. The examiner will also ask questions about your medical history and identify any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely. Drivers must pass all aspects of the DOT physical in order to be cleared for driving duties. A DOT physical is critical to becoming a commercial driver.

Here are 4 things to avoid when getting a DOT physical.

1. Choosing The Wrong DOT Physical Provider

First and foremost, anyone who needs to undergo a DOT physical should make sure that they get their DOT physicals from a licensed, certified, and registered DOT medical examiner. Use the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, or call the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at (202) 366-4001 to check for a DOT medical examiner located near you. Seeing the wrong provider will result in wasted time on your part, as a DOT physical cannot be completed by just anyone.

2. Not Being Forthright with the Medical Examiner

Second, you should be honest with the medical examiner about your health history and any medications you are currently taking, and be prepared to discuss your medical conditions. The medical examiner is not there to judge you, but rather to ensure that you are healthy enough to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Also, just because you have a medical condition, doesn’t mean you will fail the exam. The important thing is to have your health and chronic medical conditions under control – which is what the examiner will be assessing.

3. Forgetting Important Documents for the DOT Physical

Third, make sure to bring important health records and reports to your DOT physical appointment. A DOT physical includes a vision and hearing test, which means you should bring eyeglasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids with you to the clinic. If you have diabetes, take your latest Hemoglobin A1C (HgAIC) lab results. If you have heart disease, you should bring the latest report from your cardiologist.

4. Being Unprepared for the DOT Physical

Finally, and most importantly, you must remember to prepare for your DOT physical by avoiding caffeinated and sugary food and drinks at least 24 hours before the exam. Eat smaller meals and avoid putting too much salt in your food, as sugar, salt, and caffeine can increase your blood pressure and heart rate. In addition, try to get eight hours of sleep before your test. It’s important to be alert and present during your appointment to best engage with the provider.

Schedule Your DOT Physical in King, NC

Cardinal Urgent Care in King, NC provides a variety of physical exams, including the DOT physical. Our providers are licensed and certified DOT medical examiners, who are compassionate and caring toward our patients. Cardinal Urgent Care is committed to providing convenient and affordable medical services to our patients.

Our friendly and helpful staff is more than happy to help you prepare for your exam. Call our office today at (336) 983-9111 for any questions or to schedule your DOT physical. You can also use our online appointment request form.

Your Healthcare Partner: DOT Medical Card

November 11, 2022

Commercial driving is a physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding occupation. To ensure commercial drivers are healthy and fit to be navigating the roadways, they need to have a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical card to show for it. This card is a prerequisite to getting a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Let’s talk a little bit more about why you need a DOT medical card and how to get one.

What Is a DOT Medical Card?

Simply put, a DOT medical card is an essential certification document given to drivers who operate commercial vehicles. Before you can get it, you need to undergo a DOT physical exam administered by a qualified medical examiner first.

A DOT medical card is only valid for a maximum of 2 years, after which a renewal will be necessary. However, should the medical examiner see a need to monitor an individual driver’s condition, they may issue a card that is valid for less than that amount of time.

Why You Need a DOT Medical Card

Compliance with the Law

Every commercial driver in the United States is required by law, specifically by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), to have a DOT medical card. Noncompliance can lead to a fine or the cancellation of your CDL. Furthermore, your employment opportunities in the transportation industry will be limited without a DOT medical card.

To Ensure Safety on the Road

All drivers should be in good physical condition to drive, but even more so if they are operating a commercial vehicle. That’s because these vehicles may:

Weight 10,000 pounds or more
Be hauling potentially hazardous materials
Carry 15 passengers or more

The main purpose of a DOT medical card is to ensure that you are healthy enough to drive a commercial vehicle on public roadways.

It’s an opportunity to Monitor Your Health

It is recommended for every individual, whether they drive or not, to regularly monitor their overall health. Thus, being required to get a DOT medical card offers you a good opportunity to do just this.

To get a DOT medical card, you typically need to have the following assessed:

Medical history
Illegal substance consumption
Vision and hearing
Neurological function
Circulatory and urinary function
Orthopedic capacity

Disqualifying conditions may include substance abuse, diabetes, hypertension, vision and/or hearing impairment, neurological incapacities, and more.

How Do You Get a DOT Medical Card?

Contact a Qualified Medical Examiner

To get a DOT medical card, you need to be examined first by a qualified medical examiner. A medical professional qualified to administer DOT physicals and distribute DOT medical cards will be listed in the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

Get a DOT Physical

Your medical examiner will conduct your DOT physical exam to ensure you are in the best physical condition for a commercial driving career. If you are not, you will either be disqualified from getting a DOT medical card or provided with one under certain limitations and limitations.

When going to your DOT physical appointment, make sure to bring your medical records with you as well as any physical aids you currently need. Depending on your medical history, you may be required to undergo a further assessment.

Submit the DOT Medical Card to the DMV

Once you obtain your DOT medical card, you are required to submit it to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You can do this by going in person or by sending it by fax or email.

Remember to submit your medical card to the DMV as soon as it is provided to you by your medical examiner. Most states’ DMV departments set a specified range of time after which your DOT medical card will no longer be valid for submission.

Follow Renewal Guidelines

Your DOT medical card will expire after 2 years, under normal circumstances. Hence, you should be aware of your state’s renewal guidelines, since they can vary from state to state. If you develop any disqualifying medical condition within those 2 years, inform your physician to keep your records updated. It is recommended that you get a new DOT physical before your current medical card expires – so there is no interruption in your ability to drive a commercial vehicle.

Getting a DOT Medical Card in King, NC

Are you looking for work as a commercial vehicle driver in King, North Carolina? Look no further than Cardinal Urgent Care for your DOT physical exam. We have a team of friendly and experienced physicians who can offer you a variety of services, including occupational medicine and DOT physicals.

To get a DOT medical card, we’d love it if you would schedule an appointment through our online request form in advance. You may also contact us by calling (336) 983-9111. We believe in ensuring the health and safety of those who navigate our roadways, and we look forward to becoming your trusted healthcare provider.

5 Factors to Consider When Hiring DOT Physicals in King, NC

November 4, 2022

Do you want to drive large commercial vehicles, such as trucks or buses, for a living?

For that, you’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and a valid DOT medical card. And the only way to obtain the card is to pass a DOT physical, which you’ll need to take every 1-2 years for the duration of your commercial driving career. Getting a DOT physical ensures that you’re performing at your peak and that nobody else will be put at risk.

If this is your first time getting a DOT physical, you might wonder what to expect. Here are the steps involved in getting a DOT physical.

Physical Exam

You can face serious penalties if you fail to comply with the strict DOT exams and requirements. So, it’s important to be familiar with the components of a DOT physical. It is necessary to verify that you don’t suffer from any serious medical conditions that might hinder you from safely operating a commercial vehicle. The exam needs to be conducted by a certified medical professional listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

During your physical, the examiner will assess the following:

General Appearance
Eyes (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration)
Ears (e.g., perforated ear drums, tympanic membrane scarring)
Throat and mouth (e.g., swallowing or breathing problems)
Heart (e.g., extra sounds, heart murmurs)
Chest and lungs (e.g., respiratory conditions)
Driver’s abdomen (e.g., muscle weakness, liver enlargement, visceral issues)
Vascular system (e.g., abnormal pulse rates, varicose veins, carotid problems)
Genitourinary system (e.g., hernias)
Extremities (e.g., limb deformities or defects)
Spine and musculoskeletal system
Neurology (e.g., neurological impairments and reflexes)

Preparation

If you’re physically fit and in good health, there’s very little you need to do to prepare. After all, it is simply a checkup to ensure you’re fit enough to operate a commercial vehicle.

But if you’re overweight, managing any health issues, or recovering from a serious condition, you’ll likely need to make additional preparations. Here are some good practices for anyone that is getting ready to take their DOT physical:

Make healthy choices. Adopt a healthy routine as soon as you can – and at least 3 weeks before your DOT physical. Start eating healthy and being physically active. Make sure to get enough sleep every night as well.

Bring all the necessary documents and paperwork. Prepare to bring all relevant medical records, including a list of your medications and health conditions.

Be diligent in taking your medications. Take your medications at the right time and in the right dosage. Being inconsistent with or stopping your medications altogether might impact your results in the physical.

Avoid unhealthy habits. Smoking, consuming sugary foods and drinks, and excessive caffeine intake are some habits you should try to avoid.

Be honest when discussing your health history. Don’t embellish or withhold any information from your examiner. Be honest and consistent with the information you’ll provide them during your exam.

Requirements

Here are some of the things you need to bring:

Medical records
Recent laboratory results if you have diabetes or similar conditions
Glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids if you need them to drive
List of your current prescription medications and health conditions

You might also need forms that must be signed and returned to your employer. You will also be asked to fill out a health history questionnaire before your exam.

Medical Conditions

Certain health conditions may disqualify you from getting a CDL. These are conditions severe enough to disrupt your ability to safely operate a large commercial vehicle and may include diabetes, hernias, obesity, and sleep apnea.

If you have any of these conditions, one of the following may happen:

The examiner will determine if you’re qualified to drive, despite the condition. You may still pass the exam if your condition isn’t serious enough to prevent you from safely driving in a professional capacity.
You might be temporarily disqualified. In this case, you’ll need to retake the exam before a medical card can be issued.
You may apply for an exemption. Some conditions can be exempted as long as you and your medical examiner believe you can still drive a commercial vehicle.
You’ll apply for a Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate. If you have a missing or impaired limb, you’ll need an SPE to prove you can safely drive a commercial vehicle.

Cost

Getting a DOT physical will, of course, cost money. The price will vary depending on where you get it and whether or not you’ll be paying for it. The range can be anywhere from $50 to 300. But the good news is that most employers usually pay the cost!

DOT Physicals in King, NC

DOT physicals are crucial to helping to prevent accidents and protect public safety on the roadways. These examinations are important because they ensure you can safely perform the functions of your job.

Looking for DOT physicals in King, North Carolina? Here at Cardinal Urgent Care, our expert providers deliver the comprehensive and compassionate care you deserve. We are here to ensure that you‘re on the road, at peak performance levels. Call our friendly staff at (336) 983-9111 to learn about our services or book an appointment through our online request form.

We look forward to serving you!

How It Works: Getting a DOT Medical Card

September 23, 2022

Driving is a very serious responsibility. To help ensure public safety, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all commercial drivers have a valid medical certificate – also called a DOT card. A DOT medical card is a document showing you have received clearance from a certified medical examiner that you are fit to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).

Getting A DOT Medical Card

The process of securing a DOT medical card is not difficult, but there are a few steps you need to follow. Here’s how it works:

Undergoing A Physical Examination

First, you need to get a physical examination from a certified medical examiner.

At the physical examination, they will determine if you are physically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle. Your examiner will look at:

Your medical history
Your current health status
Whether or not you use corrective lenses

The medical examiner will also perform vision, hearing, and urine tests.

If you have a medical condition that could affect your ability to drive, the medical examiner may require you to get additional testing or treatment. These conditions may include:

High blood pressure
Diabetes
Sleep apnea

Securing A Medical Exam Report

After the examination, the medical examiner will give you a DOT Medical Examination Report Form (MCSA-5875). This form will list any medical conditions that could affect your driving ability.

Suppose the medical examiner determines that you are not medically qualified to drive. They will give you a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MCSA-5876) that will list the reason why you are not qualified.

You can then take it to your physician for additional testing or treatment. Once you have addressed the concerns, you may return to the medical examiner for another examination.

Receiving Your DOT Card

Once the medical examiner has determined that you are physically qualified to drive, they will give you a DOT card. This card is valid for up to two years.

You must carry your DOT card with you whenever you are driving a commercial vehicle. Authorities will ask to see your DOT card if you get pulled over.

If your card expires, you must undergo another physical examination and obtain a new DOT card.

A DOT Medical Card vs. A Driver’s License

It’s important to note that the DOT medical card differs from a state-issued driver’s license. A DOT card only shows that you are medically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle. It does not permit you to drive.

You will need a separate permit or license from your state’s DMV to drive a commercial vehicle legally.

For example, the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) offers a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). To get a CDL, you must pass a written exam and a skills test. You will also need to have a valid DOT card.

Getting A DOT Medical Card In King, NC

All commercial drivers in the United States are required to have a DOT card. You can obtain it through a physical examination from a certified medical examiner. They will determine if you are physically qualified to drive commercial vehicles.

Do you need a DOT medical card in King, NC? Look no further than Cardinal Urgent Care. We have expert providers who can help you with the process of securing a DOT medical card. You may call our friendly staff at (336) 983-9111 to learn about our comprehensive services. You may also fill out our convenient appointment request form to book a consultation.

We look forward to serving you!

DOT Medical Card: How to Get It?

September 9, 2022

Driving can be physically taxing. So, to ensure that a driver is in the right condition to drive, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has mandated all commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders receive a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical card.

DOT medical card is a certificate a commercial driver gets to demonstrate that he/she is physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to operate a commercial vehicle.

Let’s talk about how you can get a DOT medical card in North Carolina.

How to Get DOT Medical Card?

You need to follow a few simple steps to get a DOT medical card.

Contact Healthcare Provider. First, you are required to pass a DOT physical to get a DOT medical card or renew it (usually renewal is required every two years). For this, contact FMCSA-certified medical examiners (CMEs).

If you’re an interstate driver, find an approved provider in your state who is able to administer your physical.

Get Physical Done. The second step is taking the DOT physical examination. During your physical, your healthcare provider will ask about your detailed medical history, including your history of:
- Surgical procedures
- Prescription and OTC medication use
- Tobacco, alcohol, and illegal substance use
- Medical condition
- Failed drug test

You will also receive a physical exam, which involves checking your:

General appearance
Height
Wight
Blood pressure
Vision
Hearing
Eyes
Skin
Heart
Lungs
Extremities and joints
Circulatory system
Gait and much more

The medical provider will also do additional tests to check for other medical problems. During the physical, you will be checked for your sleeping habits, like heavy snoring, daytime sleepiness, gasping for breath during sleep, and much more. Your medical examination provider will also record your physicals and submit a report to the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. You will receive DOT medical card on passing the physicals.

Submit DOT Medical Card. After receiving the medical card from a medical provider, you must submit the card to the office of the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It’s pertinent to mention here that drivers who pass their DOT physical and get their card are required to renew it every 24 months. But if you have problems like sleep apnea, diabetes, and high blood pressure, you may be asked to renew your card every 12 months.

DOT Medical Card in King, North Carolina

At Cardinal Urgent Care, you can fulfill all your healthcare needs under one roof. We have a team of medical providers who offers a wide range of ancillary services, including sports physicals, DOT physicals, school physicals, and occupational medicine services.

If you’re planning to get your physicals done, please let us know ahead of time or book an appointment. You may call us at (336) 983-9111 or fill out this form.

Who Needs a DOT Physical?

August 26, 2022

A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a head-to-toe physical assessment that ensures you meet all the health standards required to drive a commercial vehicle. Even the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has mandated DOT physicals to make sure you have no medical condition or physical limitation restricting your ability to drive a commercial vehicle and putting you and others’ road safety at risk.

Let’s talk about who needs a DOT physical, what it consists of, and where you can go to get one if you are located in North Carolina.

DOT Physical: Who Needs It?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSA), you need a DOT physical done every two years if you drive a commercial vehicle. FMCSA refers to commercial vehicles as any self-propelled or towed vehicle driven on highways and involved in transporting passengers or property. Commercial motor vehicles are involved in interstate commerce.

So, according to FMCSA guidelines, you will need a DOT physical, if you:

Drive a vehicle that is designated to carry more than 15 people
Drive a vehicle that carries hazardous material and requires the vehicle to display a hazmat placard
Operate a vehicle on the interstate gross combination weight of over 10,000 pounds
Transport over 8 passengers for a fee

DOT Physical: What does it Consist of?

DOT physical involves a medical history and a standard physical exam. For medical history, you will be asked about your history of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication use, surgical procedure, alcohol consumption, illegal substance use, etc. The physical exam covers your whole body from head to toe. The functioning of your bodily systems, such as the genitourinary, neurological, and cardiovascular systems, is also checked.

During a DOT Physical, your doctor confirms that you have no limb loss and physical impairment. You will also be checked for any current clinical diagnosis of a medical condition like heart disease, respiratory dysfunction, orthopedic or neuromuscular disease, etc. In addition to physical exams, DOT physical covers your hearing, vision, general appearance, sleep, and gait.

Requirements To Pass the Test

To pass the test, you must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, at least 70-degree horizontal peripheral vision, and be able to recognize traffic signal colors. You may use corrective lenses. You must also be able to hear a whisper at a distance of not less than 5 feet. Moreover, on an audiometer, your hearing loss in the better ear must not be greater than 40 decibels at various frequencies.

Have any medical conditions due to which you can’t pass the test? You are allowed to apply for an exemption. You can seek an exemption from vision, hearing, and seizure requirements.