DOT Physicals

A DOT (Department of Transportation) physical assesses your fitness for the demanding role of a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) driver, contributing to road safety. This comprehensive examination, conducted at Cohen Care, encompasses various health checks:

Blood pressure and pulse rate: Your Cohen Care provider will assess your blood pressure and pulse, measuring systolic and diastolic levels and checking for irregular heart rates.

Hearing: Drivers must be capable of hearing a 'forced whisper' at a maximum distance of 5 ft., with or without a hearing aid. This standard ensures a hearing loss of less than 40 dB in the better ear.

Urinalysis: A urine test screens for underlying medical conditions, including diabetes.

Vision: Drivers need a minimum acuity of 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. Additionally, they must have at least 70º of peripheral vision in each eye along the horizontal meridian.

The physical exam covers various categories, including:

• Abdomen and viscera (enlarged liver, muscle weakness, viscera)

• Ears (scarring or perforated eardrums)

• Eyes (cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration)

• Extremities (limb impairment)

• Heart (irregular sounds, murmurs, or pacemaker)

• Hernia

• Lungs and chest (abnormal breathing, cyanosis, or impaired respiratory functions)

• Mouth and throat (checking for breathing or swallowing difficulties)

• Neurological conditions (ataxia, asymmetrical deep tendon reflexes, coordination, impaired equilibrium, or speech pattern)

• Vascular system (irregular pulse, carotid artery, or varicose veins)

• Spine and musculoskeletal issues (limited motion, previous surgery, tenderness, etc.)

A healthcare provider performing a hands-on examination during a DOT physical.