DOT Physical Exam Clinic in Edmond, OK

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, Dr. Kevin Penwell, serves as a certified medical examiner (CME) to conduct Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exams. Dr. Penwell is certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and is highly experienced in conducting this comprehensive health assessment specifically designed for commercial vehicle drivers.

We understand the significance of DOT physical exams in ensuring the safety of all road users. Hence, we spend about 90 minutes conducting the examination, meticulously recording the findings, and determining whether drivers meet the DOT’s physical and mental health standards.

The examination involves a thorough review of the driver’s past and present medical history, a detailed physical examination, and checks for any chronic conditions or disabilities. We also conduct vision and hearing tests as part of the examination, as per the standards set by the FMCSA.

In addition to physical fitness, we also evaluate the mental health of drivers, assessing their cognitive function, emotional stability, and mood. This is a vital part of the examination, as it ensures that drivers are mentally capable of safely operating commercial vehicles.

We also conduct mandatory urine drug tests and breathalyzer (alcohol) tests as part of the DOT physical exam to screen for drug and alcohol use. We believe that these tests are essential to keeping everyone’s transportation system safer.
We are committed to helping commercial drivers maintain their licenses. This is the reason DOT physical exams are done every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

A DOT physical at our clinic starts with the driver providing a detailed medical history. This includes information about any past or current medical conditions, medications, surgeries, and lifestyle habits. Our healthcare providers will then review this form to understand the driver’s health history and any potential issues that might affect their ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

Our physical exam is a comprehensive evaluation of the driver’s overall health. We will assess everything from the driver’s eyes, ears, mouth, and throat to their heart and lungs, and even cardiovascular and respiratory health. We also examine the abdomen for any unusual masses, sounds, or tenderness and evaluate the vascular system through pulse checks.

In our neurological examination, we test the strength, coordination, and balance of the driver’s arms, legs, and other body parts. Mental and emotional health is also evaluated for cognitive function and signs of depression or anxiety.

As part of a DOT physical exam, we conduct a thorough examination of the driver’s sight and hearing. Our vision test checks both distant and near vision, peripheral vision, and color vision essential for recognizing traffic signals. We also conduct a hearing test to ensure the driver can hear a forced whisper at 5 feet or less with or without hearing aids.

To maintain the safety of drivers and the public, DOT physical exams also incorporate a substance abuse evaluation. This includes a urine test, used to screen for diabetes and drug use. If any abnormalities are detected, we may require further tests.

At the end of the exam, our healthcare providers will review the results and determine whether the driver meets the DOT’s physical qualifications to operate a commercial vehicle. The driver will receive a medical examiner’s certificate, good for up to 24 months if they pass the exam. However, the certificate may be issued for a shorter period if a condition that requires monitoring, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, is identified.

As part of our commitment to comprehensive care, we ensure the validity period of a DOT physical exam, generally two years, is strictly adhered to. Nevertheless, the length of time could be reduced based on the driver’s general health. If we determine the driver is physically and mentally fit, a medical examiner’s certificate (MEC) valid for two years will be issued. But if any health issue is detected that may impact safe driving, the MEC could be issued for a shorter period, allowing for closer monitoring of the condition.

In some instances, drivers may be required to have a follow-up DOT physical before their MEC expires. This is to ensure their continued fitness for duty. Commercial drivers are thus advised to always schedule their next DOT physical before the current one expires to maintain their CDL certification.

We emphasize the FMCSA’s mandate that all drivers must continue to meet the physical and mental standards outlined in its regulations throughout their MEC’s validity period.

We encourage drivers to consult with Dr. Penwell or the certified medical examiner who performed their DOT physical for specific information regarding the duration of their MEC and any follow-up requirements. By adhering to these regulations, commercial drivers can ensure their physical and mental fitness, allowing them to continue operating their vehicles safely on public roads.

We understand the importance of DOT physicals for those seeking to secure or maintain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Our certified medical examiners are well-equipped to ensure that a driver is physically and medically able to safely operate a commercial vehicle.

We are proud to offer DOT physicals at our convenient locations. We understand that finding a certified medical examiner in your area can be difficult, but our clinics are easily accessible for most Oklahoma residents.

We make it simple for you to schedule your DOT physical. It is advised that you accomplish this far before the expiration of your existing medical certification. This gives you plenty of time to take care of any possible health problems that could impact your ability to pass the physical.

When you come for a DOT physical, you can expect a comprehensive examination, including a review of your medical history, a physical examination, urine analysis, vision and hearing tests, and a neurological evaluation.

Remember, DOT physicals are valid for two years. Make sure to schedule a new physical before the expiration date to continue operating a commercial vehicle subject to DOT regulations. Our team is here to assist you in maintaining your CDL. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 805 W Covell Rd Edmond, OK 73003. We serve patients from West Moore OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, Norman (24th) OK, Edmond OK, Yukon OK, I-240 & Sooner RD OK, Tecumseh OK, Bethany OK, Choctaw OK, and surrounding areas.