Department of Transportation Mandates New Changes in Physical Exam Procedures
The National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, which establishes requirements for truck and bus drivers (Commercial Driver’s Licenses), has issued new and more stringent rules for Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations. As a result of these mandates, providers who perform DOT physical exams are now required to have copies of a driver’s 5-year health history for those individuals with complex or chronic medical conditions. Because of this change, obtaining a physical examination and medical clearance at walk-in clinics may prove challenging for providers and patients alike. Medical Examiners are required to carefully review the medical records and health history, and provide referral and coordination with specialists and primary care providers. Individuals who utilize walk in services for DOT physicals will be required to coordinate follow-up care with their primary provider prior to certification. As such, the Great Falls Clinic recommends individuals with chronic or complex conditions to schedule DOT physical exams with a certified examiner, rather than utilizing walk-in care.
These regulations become effective May 21, 2014. All DOT examiners are required to complete these examinations and become certified by the National Registry for Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). For more information contact the Federal Motor Carrier Association at 1-800-832-5660.
The Great Falls Clinic has several certified providers. To schedule an appointment, please call the Clinic at 406-454-2171.
