THE EXAM

Step 1: You will be required to fill out a brief one page medical history.

Step 2: You will have your DOT physical exam with Dr. Hartigan. This exam will include:
  • A review of your medical history.
  • The driver will discuss any medical conditions or concerns with Dr. Hartigan.
  • the actual physical exam is about fifteen minutes (as outlined in Federal DOT regulations).
  • a routine urinalysis (not a drug test).
Step 3: Our staff will gladly prepare your paperwork.
  • you will receive a laminated CDL Medical Card to keep with you at all times.
  • you will receive two copies of the completed DOT physical form, one for your CDL, one for your company. (this form may also be faxed to your company; please have the fax number with you at the time of your exam).
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Payment is $75.00. We accept cash, check or credit card.
If you have any questions surrounding your examination before, during or after your visit, we encourage all of our patients to contact us and we will gladly assist you.

** Dr. Hartigan is available for on-site exams at your location for groups of five or more.

DOT REQUIREMENTS FOR PASSING EXAM

Basic requirements for passing a DOT physical exam are:
  • vision in both eyes as well as each eye individually needs to be 20/40, with visual improvement devices, such as glasses or contacts allowed.
  • ability to distinguish color is necessary.
  • should be able to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of at least five feet.
  • blood pressure has to be lower than 160/100; prescription medication may be used to control blood pressure.
  • diabetes controlled through a diet, oral medication or insulin is permitted (note: recent changes in regulations now allow for insulin controlled diabetics to be issued a DOT medical card. Certain requirements must be met. A form will also be provided to you that your primary care physician must complete).
  • no use of a schedule one drug, amphetamine, narcotic or any habit forming drug is permitted.
  • In case you are currently diagnosed with a cardiovascular disease such as collapse, congestive cardiac failure or cardiac insufficiency, then you will be required to provide the DOT Physical Medical Examiner with a stress test as well as with a note from your physician stating that you are capable of driving a commercial motor vehicle with no restrictions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If you have any of the following medical conditions, please bring supporting medical documentation:
Diabetes: bring a list of medications, the name of the prescribing physician and recent blood sugar recordings.
Heart Condition: if you have heart disease or have suffered a heart attack, you will need to bring a copy of your latest stress test.
High Blood Pressure: please bring a list of all medication you take for your high blood pressure, including the name of your prescribing physician.
Medications: please bring a list of all prescription medications that you currently take, this should include the mg (dosage) and the frequency that you take the medications. Please include over the counter medications as well.
Managing your high blood pressure:
Make certain that you have an adequate amount of your high blood medication on hand. If you should forget to take your high blood pressure medication, most physicians recommend taking it as soon as possible. Reducing the amount of salty foods (sodium) and avoiding adding salt to your food will help lower your blood pressure. Reducing your intake of coffee, sodas, energy drinks and potato chips will also aid in lowering your blood pressure.
The day of the DOT physical exam:
Please bring all pertinent medical records and a list of your medications. Eye Glasses: please be certain to bring your eye glasses if needed. Drink Water: you will be required to give a urine specimen so please drink as much water as possible prior to your exam.
What is the purpose of a DOT physical?
The purpose of a DOT physical is to determine fitness to operate a commercial motor vehicle. It is not intended to replace regular health evaluations by your primary care provider.
How long is a DOT medical card good for?
If the driver has no restrictions, a DOT medical card is good for two (2) years. Medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes can restrict the length of time the medical card is valid.
Why do a urine test?
The urine test screens for blood, sugar and protein. It can determine conditions such as high blood pressure impacting the kidneys or early signs of diabetes or kidney infection. This is NOT a drug test.
How much does a DOT physical cost without insurance?
The CDL/DOT physical exam is $65.00. The payment options are cash or check.
Does my medical insurance cover DOT physical exams?
No, DOT physicals are not covered by insurance plans. Payment for the exam is your responsibility at the time of service. If you are seeking reimbursement from your insurance company, please request an itemized statement.
Does a DOT Physical include a Drug Test?
A drug test is not part of the DOT physical exam. However, your Company may request to have drug testing done at the same time. DOT drug testing can be arranged through local diagnostic labs adjacent to our office.
Can I obtain a copy of my DOT physical form?
We provide all required forms. We will give you two (2) copies of the long form; one for the driver and one for your company. We can fax your DOT form to your company, if you request. We will maintain a copy of the exam for our records. You will be given a laminated DOT certificate for you to carry with you when you drive.

DOT FORMS

This form is Required for your Massachusetts DOT CDL physical!! CLICK here to download the form, PRINT and FILL OUT completely prior to your scheduled appointment. Please call us with any questions or concerns.

MetroWest DOT Physicals

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Dr. James M. Hartigan
Email Dr. Hartigan
tel: 508.620.1940
MAIN OFFICE:
MetrowWest Chiropractic Associates
* adjacent to MetroWest Medical Ctr
95 Lincoln St., Framingham, MA 01702
National Registry #: 2655074459
Certification Date: 11/30/2013
OFFICE HOURS:
Mon, Tue & Thu: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm
Mon & Thu: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Wed: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fri & Sat: By Appointment
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