Tag Archives: DOT COMPLIANCE

DOT Checklist Need to know what to bring to your DOT physical?

DOT Checklist

Need to know what to bring to your DOT physical?

To contact us directly to discuss what you need to bring to a DOT Physical, Click Here

All drivers

Drivers who have high blood pressure

 

Drivers who require eyeglasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids

  • Bring your glasses, contacts, or hearing aids
  • You will be required to pass a vision and hearing test

Drivers who have diabetes

  • Your blood sugar should be controlled
  • Bring the most recent results of a lab test called a Hemoglobin A1C (HgAIC) and your blood sugar logs or other records related to your diabetes.
  • For info click here DOT MEDICAL GUIDELINES -DIABETES

Drivers who have nighttime sleep disturbance (sleep apnea) and use a CPAP machine

  • Bring a reading from your machine documenting your proper use of the machine; a letter from your sleep specialist may also be required
  • Bring at least 90 days of data, but data from the past year is best
  • Click here for more info on OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA (OSA): How To Know If You Have It

Drivers who have heart-related issues, (including the use of stent, valve replacement, pacemaker, open-heart surgery, cardiac bypass surgery, or heart attack)

  • At minimum, bring a letter from your cardiologist (heart specialist) that outlines your medical history and current medications and indicates you are safe to drive a DOT vehicle
  • You may also need to bring the results of a recent stress test, ECHO cardiogram, or other testing completed within the past 1-2 years
  • For more info on DOT REGULATIONS AFTER A HEART ATTACK click here

Drivers who have suffered a stroke, a brain tumor, seizure disorder, or bleeding in the brain

  • Bring a letter from your neurologist (brain and nerve specialist) that outlines your medical history, current medications, and current neurologic and psychiatric state

Drivers who have experienced the permanent loss of use in an arm or a leg

  • Bring an overview from your physician of the injury and if you have any work restrictions due to the injury
  • You may need a Skilled Performance Examination in order to qualify for your DOT card

Drivers who are taking any medications that may cause sedation or sleepiness or controlled substances (includes narcotics, sleeping pills, anxiety medication, ADHD medication)

Drivers who are taking the blood thinner Coumadin (Warfarin)

  • Bring a recent INR (blood level and clearance) letter from your doctor

Does a DOT Physical Include a Drug Test ?

The DOT physical exam requirements do not include a drug test. You will still have to give a urine sample which is used for a kidney screen for potential medical conditions.

However, companies do often require a pre-employment drug test.

So your company may request to have a drug screen done at the same time as you take your DOT physical.

Not all medical examiner’s offices that conduct DOT physicals have a drug testing service at Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol testing we are certified to provide drug & alcohol testing and participate in the required consortium utilizing Team CME services.

If you are uncertain if you will qualify for a DOT card, you may want to schedule a visit with your primary or specialty physician BEFORE your re-certification date. Each physical examination, just like each DOT applicant, is unique. AS always if you have questions or concerns call us at 615-452-1575 or email your questions to [email protected].

The above are guidelines only, and not meant to be all inclusive or as a guarantee of passing the exam. Additional testing or/information may be required by your DOT examiner.

Contact us with any questions you may have.

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you. Please use one of the various methods below and we’ll look forward to connecting with you soon!

Phone Number: 615-452-1575

Email Address: [email protected]

Our Location: 529 Hartsville Pike Gallatin, TN 37066

Right next to Sumner Regional Medical Center across from Perkins Drugstore. Parking for your big rig next door in the Food Lion parking lot.

By Dr. Michael Tigges         Dr. Michael Tigges

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Dr. Tigges knows how important it is that you continue your livelihood as a commercial driver. With his extensive knowledge of the DOT Physical Exam medical guidelines, Dr. Tigges will steer you through the DOT Physical Exam requirements so you can Keep on Truckin’.

Does a DOT Physical Include a Drug Test ?

Does a DOT Physical Include a Drug Test ?

Urine Sample

“Does a DOT physical include a drug test” is a recurring question asked by CMV drivers. Most CMV drivers are required to take a DOT physical exam every 2 years to maintain their DOT medical certificate and CDL. For many, the DOT physical is extremely stressful, since it can determine the fate of their careers.

Being prepared and knowing what to expect from your DOT physical can make all the difference.

For Drivers Wondering if a DOT Physical Includes a Drug Test, SameDayDOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing Offers Answers

What will my DOT physical evaluate?

The objective of a DOT physical is to evaluate whether or not a driver is healthy enough to operate a commercial motor vehicle. A driver with health issues like sleep apnea, diabetes, poor vision and high blood pressure could be hazardous if their medical conditions become unmanageable while driving. The job of a DOT physical is to keep unsafe CMV drivers off the road, making a safer road for everyone.

Does the DOT physical exam include a drug test?

The DOT physical exam requirements do not include a drug test. You will still have to give a urine sample which is used for a kidney screen for potential medical conditions.

However, companies require a pre-employment drug test.

So your company may request to have a drug screen done at the same time as you take your DOT physical.

Not all medical examiner’s offices that conduct DOT physicals have a drug testing service.

SameDayDOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing are qualified to perform CDL/DOT physicals in Tennessee, as well as BAT (Breath Alcohol Testing) and Drug Testing through a split urine collection (in compliance with the DOT employment drug test requirements).

What drugs will I be tested for?

The medical examiner will take urine samples that test for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine and amphetamines/methamphetamines.

What if I fail the drug test?

Failing any portion of the DOT physical exam could cause your DOT medical certificate to be denied. On top of that, if a driver tests positive for drugs, he/she could lose his CDL and be required to meet with a substance abuse professional.

What if I refuse to take the drug test?

According to the FMCSA website, refusing to take a drug test is generally treated the same as testing positive and could follow the same consequences.

SameDayDOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing offers the best healthcare for the best price and works with your schedule. SameDayDOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing knows that health needs are not always planned, which is why we welcome Walk In’s, Monday thru Friday. No appointment needed.

The content presented on this page is not intended to diagnose health problems or take the place of professional medical care.

Contact us with any questions you may have.

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you. Please use one of the various methods below and we’ll look forward to connecting with you soon!

Phone Number:
615-452-1575

Email Address:
[email protected]

Our Location:
529 Hartsville Pike
Gallatin, TN 37066

Right next to Sumner Regional Medical Center across from Perkins Drugstore. Parking for your big rig next door in the Food Lion parking lot.

[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]

Medical Condition – Medical Release Opinion

One of the complications of getting your medical certificate is if you have a medical condition that may pose a risk to safety while operating a commercial motor vehicle.

How does this play into the FMCSA DOT physical exam?

The medical examiner has a responsibility to ensure that a commercial driver does not have any medical condition which could impact that driver’s ability to meet all the physical and mental demands of the job, now or for the period for which the medical card will be issued.

Here’s what the DOT doctor is checking for:
•Have you had a medical condition which poses a risk to safety?
•Do you have symptoms that may indicate an undiagnosed condition?
•Do you currently have a diagnosed condition?
•Is the condition being treated?
•Is the treatment effective, and safe, for you to drive a CMV?
•Is the medical condition stable, and safe, for you to drive a CMV?

If a medical condition is a concern, the medical examiner must evaluate whether the condition is a risk for incapacitation:
•Is the onset of incapacitation symptoms so rapid as to interfere with safe driving?
•Is the onset so gradual that you may be unaware of diminished capabilities?

Medical Release Opinion

To ensure that the medical examiner can complete the DOT physical exam at your appointment you should bring a Medical Release Opinion letter from your treating physician. You can download instructions and a letter template here, or refer your treating physician to this page for the necessary information.

Download Medical Release Opinion information here.

If you do not have the necessary documentation with you, for the DOT physical exam, the medical examiner may have to temporarily disqualify your medical certificate. You will need this documentation before you can be reconsidered for qualification for a medical certificate.

Medical Conditions

These are the medical conditions listed on the FMCSA long form for which you should have supporting documentation for the medical examiner:

Illness or injury within the last 5 years • Head/Brain injuries, disorders or illnesses • Seizures, epilepsy • Eye disorders or impaired vision (except corrective lenses) • Ear disorders, loss of hearing or balance • Heart disease or heart attack; other cardiovascular condition • Heart surgery (valve replacement/bypass, angioplasty, pacemaker • High blood pressure • Muscular disease • Shortness of breath • Lung disease, emphysema, asthma, chronic bronchitis • Kidney disease, dialysis • Liver disease • Digestive problems • Diabetes or elevated blood sugar controlled by diet or pills or insulin • Nervous or psychiatric disorders e.g. severe depression • Loss of, or altered consciousness • Fainting, dizziness • Sleep disorders, pauses in breathing while asleep, daytime sleepiness, loud snoring • Stroke or paralysis • Missing or impaired hand, arm, foot, leg, finger, toe • Spinal injury or disease • Chronic low back pain • Regular, frequent alcohol use • Narcotic or habit forming drug use

Role Of A Commercial Driver

It’s important that your primary care physician, who is treating you for the medical condition, also understands the physical, mental, and emotional demands of your job, as well as the responsibilities, work schedule and job stresses you have to deal with.

These are extraordinary factors that a family practice physician or specialist does not encounter when dealing with their general patients. These factors must be considered in the doctor’s Medical Opinion Release letter. See Driver’s Role – FMCSA 49 CFR 391.41 pg4

Qualification For Your Medical Certificate

The DOT doctor, aka certified medical examiner, has been certified for evaluating the special circumstances of a commercial driver.

The Medical Opinion Release letter from your primary care physician helps the DOT doctor to evaluate your medical condition in view of the safety risk in driving a commercial vehicle. However, the decision to qualify or disqualify you for a medical certificate rests with the DOT doctor, not your primary care physician.
DOT CERTIFIED AD1

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Your Best Driver Failed a DOT Drug Test, Now What?

failed drug
What CDL Drivers & Employers Need to Know

For many employers it can be a stressful and confusing time when an employee tests positive on a DOT mandated drug or alcohol test.

Does the employer now have to “DO” anything?

Must the employee be fired? How long will the driver be out?

Can the driver be re-hired?

The key is to precisely follow the DOT regulations in order to handle the situation correctly and maintain regulatory compliance.

Once an employer has received a verified positive drug test result, the employer must immediately remove the employee from DOT covered safety sensitive functions. The employer should not wait for a written report from the Medical Review Officer or the results of a split specimen test (if one has been requested by the employee).

A verified positive DOT drug or alcohol test is a direct violation of the federal drug and alcohol testing regulations.

Employers who are required to comply with DOT regulations must provide an individual who has tested positive for drugs or alcohol on a pre-employment (including an applicant or new employee), random, reasonable suspicion or post-accident test with information about qualified Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs). Employers are not required to pay for the employees evaluation or treatment; however they must provide a list of locally available DOT SAPs. Employers may provide the list of SAPs through a Third Party Administrator (TPA).

In order to be eligible to perform safety sensitive duties, the employee in violation must successfully complete the DOT Return to Duty Process. This process involves being evaluated by a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), completing treatment and/or education as recommended by the SAP, and a follow-up evaluation by the SAP. The time it takes to complete the DOT SAP process varies and depends upon the level of treatment and education recommended for the employee, as well as the employee’s dedication to the process. The SAP is not an advocate for the employee or the employer. Rather the SAPs function is to protect the public’s interest in safety.

It is important to note that only a DOT qualified SAP may provide the required evaluation, recommendations and determination of successful compliance required to become eligible for consideration for a return to safety sensitive duty by an employer. In order to be qualified to act as a DOT SAP, the SAP is required by federal regulations to have specialized training, maintain specific professional credentials and undergo continuing education. They are also required to adhere to specific rules and regulations regarding facilities in which they recommend for treatment and education.

Once the employer has been notified by the DOT SAP in writing that an employee has successfully completed the recommendations, the employer may choose to return the employee to safety sensitive duty pending a negative return to duty test. The employer must also ensure that the employee is in follow-up testing as recommended by the SAP.

What if I fail or refuse a test?

You fail a drug or alcohol test by testing positive to a drug test, or registering a 0.04 or greater alcohol content. Either of these results requires you to be immediately removed from performing safety-sensitive functions (i.e., driving CMVs) until successful completion of the return-to-duty process with a DOT-qualified substance abuse professional.

Your refusal to submit to a drug or alcohol test is generally equivalent to testing positive to a drug or alcohol test. You must immediately be removed from performing safety-sensitive functions (i.e., driving CMVs) until successful completion of the return-to-duty process with a DOT-qualified substance abuse professional. The DOT regulations outline refusals to test for drugs and alcohol. Some refusals are determined by medical review officers (49 CFR Part 40 Subpart G) and alcohol technicians (49 CFR Part 40 Subpart N). For others, the determination is the employer’s responsibility. Refusals to submit to a drug or alcohol test are defined in §382.107. The employee handbook available on the ODAPC Web site provides examples of conduct that the regulations define as refusing a test (49 CFR Part 40 Subpart I and Subpart N) and what happens if you test positive, refuse a test, or violate FMCSA regulations. It is, therefore, critical to understand the specific circumstances that define a refusal, which can be found in §40.191, §40.261 and §382.107.

DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing Services, Evaluations and Drug Free Workplace Solutions Need a Drug and/or Alcohol Test? Call Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing.

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you. Please use one of the various methods below and we’ll look forward to connecting with you soon!

Phone Number:
615-452-1575

Email Address:
[email protected]

Our Location:
529 Hartsville Pike
Gallatin, TN 37066

Right next to Sumner Regional Medical Center across from Perkins Drugstore. Parking for your big rig next door in the Food Lion parking lot.map for DOT

About Us

Dr. Michael J. Tigges

Certified DOT Medical Examiner
Chiropractic Physician

Dr. Michael TiggesDr. Tigges is one of the first in TN to become a certified DOT Medical Examiner of the United States Federal Government. The National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners requires all medical examiners performing physical examinations for interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers to be trained and certified in FMCSA physical qualification standards.
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If You Take These Medications, You Might Not Get A CDL

benzo4

If You Take These Medications, You Might Not Get A CDL

If you suffer from anxiety, depression or other mental illnesses but take medication to treat the symptoms, you may be ineligible for a CDL or you may need a Medical Release Opinion letter.

Millions of Americans suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses or chemical imbalances. The symptoms of these illnesses can range from minor to severe and most are easily controlled with medication. The medications given for mental illnesses can help suffers live a normal, happy life.

According to the FMCSA, “individuals who live under chronic emotional upsets may have deeply ingrained maladaptive or erratic behavior patterns. Excessively antagonistic, instinctive, impulsive, openly aggressive, paranoid or severely depressed behavior greatly interfere with the driver’s ability to drive safely. Those individuals who are highly susceptible to frequent states of emotional instability (schizophrenia, affective psychoses, paranoia, anxiety or depressive neurosis) may warrant disqualification.

For more information follow this link: https://goo.gl/9t6ttF

“Careful consideration should be given to the side effects and interactions of medications in the overall qualification determination. See Psychiatric Conference Report for specific recommendations on the use of these medications and potential hazards for driving.”

A 2009 FMCSA Medical report states:

It is the opinion of the MEP that all individuals with a history of the following psychiatric disorders should undergo additional medical and psychiatric evaluation to further assess functional ability before being considered qualified to drive a CMV:
•Psychotic Disorders
•Bipolar Disorders
•Major Depressive Disorder with a history of psychosis, suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation or a suicide attempt
•Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
•Antisocial Personality Disorder

The MEP believes that all individuals currently taking benzodiazepines or similar drugs which act on benzodiazepine receptors should be immediately prohibited from driving a CMV.

Individuals who take benzodiazepines for any length of time should not be allowed to drive until the drug has been cleared from their system (i.e., within seven half-lives of the drug and any active metabolites). Chronic users of benzodiazepines (i.e., regular use for more than a month) should also wait an additional week after the drug has cleared from their system before resuming driving to ensure that the drug has been completely eliminated. It is also suggested that FMCSA provide information regarding the half-life and seven half-lives of benzodiazepines and active metabolites to medical examiners for use at the time of examination.

Given the functional impairments and increased crash risk associated with benzodiazepine use, the MEP believes that:
•individuals currently taking benzodiazepines not be allowed to drive a CMV
•individuals who are taking benzodiazepines should stop taking them long enough ahead of driving for them to be cleared from their systems before being allowed to drive a CMV (it takes seven half lives for a drug to be completely eliminated from the body)
•chronic users of benzodiazepines should wait an additional week after the drug has been cleared from the body (i.e., seven half lives plus one week) before driving a CMV to ensure that it has been completely eliminated.

The MEP is of the opinion that all individuals currently taking lithium be excluded from driving a CMV at night.

What to do?

Give your Certified Medical Examiner all the information so he may contact and discuss with the prescribing doctor and if necessary get a ………………..

……………………………Medical Release Opinion

To ensure that the medical examiner can complete the DOT physical exam at your appointment you should bring a Medical Release Opinion letter from your treating physician. You can download instructions and a letter template here, or refer your treating physician to this page for the necessary information.

Download Medical Release Opinion information here.

If you do not have the necessary documentation with you, for the DOT physical exam, the medical examiner may have to temporarily disqualify your medical certificate. You will need this documentation before you can be reconsidered for qualification for a medical certificate.

Medical Conditions

These are the medical conditions listed on the FMCSA long form for which you should have supporting documentation for the medical examiner:

Illness or injury within the last 5 years • Head/Brain injuries, disorders or illnesses • Seizures, epilepsy • Eye disorders or impaired vision (except corrective lenses) • Ear disorders, loss of hearing or balance • Heart disease or heart attack; other cardiovascular condition • Heart surgery (valve replacement/bypass, angioplasty, pacemaker • High blood pressure • Muscular disease • Shortness of breath • Lung disease, emphysema, asthma, chronic bronchitis • Kidney disease, dialysis • Liver disease • Digestive problems • Diabetes or elevated blood sugar controlled by diet or pills or insulin • Nervous or psychiatric disorders e.g. severe depression • Loss of, or altered consciousness • Fainting, dizziness • Sleep disorders, pauses in breathing while asleep, daytime sleepiness, loud snoring • Stroke or paralysis • Missing or impaired hand, arm, foot, leg, finger, toe • Spinal injury or disease • Chronic low back pain • Regular, frequent alcohol use • Narcotic or habit forming drug use

As always if you have questions drop me a message or a phone call and we will help you in any way we can:

By: Dr. Michael Tigges

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you. Please use one of the various methods below and we’ll look forward to connecting with you soon!

Phone Number:
615-452-1575

Email Address:
[email protected]

Our Location:
529 Hartsville Pike
Gallatin, TN 37066

Right next to Sumner Regional Medical Center across from Perkins Drugstore. Parking for your big rig next door in the Food Lion parking lot.

About Us

Dr. Michael J. TiggesDr. Michael Tigges

Certified DOT Medical Examiner
Chiropractic Physician

Certification:

Dr. Tigges is one of the first in TN to become a certified DOT Medical Examiner of the United States Federal Government. The National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners requires all medical examiners performing physical examinations for interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers to be trained and certified in FMCSA physical qualification standards.


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Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing Gallatin, TN

http://dotphysicaldoctor.com/tn/dr-michael-tigges/

Dr. Michael Tigges is a Certified DOT Medical Examiner

What Drivers Are Saying

“Great place to go to! Very nice and welcoming from the moment you walk into the door. I would highly recommend everyone to go to Dr Tigges for any medical needs. The lady in the office is extremely nice as well.”
Justin M

“Very short wait time. Super friendly staff. I always get stressed when I get a physical for work, which causes blood pressure issues. The staff kept me calm and got me through it just fine. The doctor had great information to offer that will help me in the future.”
Robert D

“Great experience! Friendly professional staff. I will definitely be using them again and I highly recommend them!”
Damar N

“Very good group of people. I was a walk in. Only wait time I had was me filling out papers. Staff was excellent, made me feel like I was family. Tigges did a great job of explaining things I didn’t know and he didn’t miss a thing in the exam. I would recommend him to anyone. I am even going to send my wife there for chiropractic care. I will return for my next DOT physical.again!”
Dwight C

“From the moment I walked in until my physical was completed the staff & Dr. Tigges was extremely nice, professional, & very welcoming. It made me feel alot more at ease for the DOT physical. I also did not have to wait long at all. I would highly recommend Dr. Tigges to anyone that needs a DOT!! Best in this area!!”
Toya G

DOT Medical Exam Services

  • DOT/CDL MEDICAL EXAM  ~  Our prices are the lowest in the area. $75.
  • Certified DOT Drug Testing
  • Certified DOT Breath Alcohol Testing
  • School Bus Driver Physicals
  • Pre-employment Physicals
  • DOT Random Drug Testing Programs

We will gladly answer any questions you may have prior to your exam.

6

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DOT Physical Doctors Driver Friendly™ DOT Physical Locations

Same Day DOT Physicals
Drug & Alcohol Testing
Gallatin, TN

Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing
529 Hartsville Pike
Gallatin, TN
37066
Phone: 615-452-1575
Fax: 615-230-6041

Directions

 

Parking

truck3grey

Parking for big rigs, buses and tractor trailers is available right next door at Food Lion Grocery Store.

615-452-1575

 

Same day appointments
Walk in’s welcome

Please call for appointments

Office Hours (Central Time)

Monday – Friday
7:00am – 5:00pm

Weekends
By Appointment

Having affordable and fast testing is crucial to keep drivers on the road and that’s what we strive to provide our clients.

We’d love to hear from you
Please contact us

DOT Physical Doctor

 

Dr. Michael Tigges
National Registry #9693225035

Pass Your DOT Medical Exam!

Dr. Tigges knows how important it is that you continue your livelihood as a commercial driver. With his extensive knowledge of the DOT Physical Exam medical guidelines, Dr. Tigges will steer you through the DOT Physical Exam requirements so you can Keep on Truckin’.

DOT Medical Exam Services

  • DOT/CDL MEDICAL EXAM  ~  Our prices are the lowest in the area. $75.
  • Certified DOT Drug Testing
  • Certified DOT Breath Alcohol Testing
  • School Bus Driver Physicals
  • Pre-employment Physicals
  • DOT Random Drug Testing Programs

We offer same day appointments and while appointments are preferred, walk-ins are welcome.
Our office staff Virginia and Shelia are here to help.
No Waiting! We are committed to getting you back on the road in no time.

We are a TeamCME Clinic! Nationally Recognized as a Provider of Fair, Ethical DOT Physical Exams!

For more information see our Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing website.

We take care of your DOT Medical Card process and get it done right the first time at Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing!

 

Other Services

    • Digital X-ray on site
    • Chiropractic treatment
    • Physiotherapy
    • Rehabilitative exercises
    • Workers’ Comp and Personal Injury Auto Accident Whiplash Treatment
    • Physical Abilities Testing Certified
    • Nutrition

 

Local Business Information

Food Lion Market. Perkins Drugs. Sumner Regional Medical Center. Hardens. Sonic Drive In.

Serving Tennessee local areas: Gallatin, Hendersonville, Portland, Hartsville, Westmoreland, Lafayette, Nashville, Sumner County.

DOT Physical Without Hassles

Guidebook cover - 30Questions about getting
your Medical Card
Get the GUIDEBOOK here

More Questions?Get your questions answered here

QR-SameDayDOT

https://goo.gl/S1zfHx

What Drivers Are Saying

“Great place to go to! Very nice and welcoming from the moment you walk into the door. I would highly recommend everyone to go to Dr Tigges for any medical needs. The lady in the office is extremely nice as well.”
Justin M

“Very short wait time. Super friendly staff. I always get stressed when I get a physical for work, which causes blood pressure issues. The staff kept me calm and got me through it just fine. The doctor had great information to offer that will help me in the future.”
Robert D

“Great experience! Friendly professional staff. I will definitely be using them again and I highly recommend them!”
Damar N

“Very good group of people. I was a walk in. Only wait time I had was me filling out papers. Staff was excellent, made me feel like I was family. Tigges did a great job of explaining things I didn’t know and he didn’t miss a thing in the exam. I would recommend him to anyone. I am even going to send my wife there for chiropractic care. I will return for my next DOT physical.again!”
Dwight C [contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form] 

QR-SameDayDOT

https://goo.gl/S1zfHx

What to Expect During Your DOT Physical

What to Expect During Your DOT Physical

The Department of Transportation requires some drivers to get regular physicals to make sure they can drive safely. If any of the following apply to you, you must get a DOT physical and carry a DOT medical certificate when you drive a commercial vehicle:

  • You are paid to operate a motor vehicle that holds nine to 15 passengers; you drive the vehicle more than 75 miles from where you report to work; you operate this vehicle for interstate commerce purposes
  • You operate a motor vehicle with a gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight, gross vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight of at least 10,001 pounds; you operate this vehicle for interstate commerce purposes
  • You transport hazardous materials in certain quantities

 

DOT Restrictions

There are some restrictions for commercial drivers who have certain health problems. If you take injectable insulin for Diabetes, for example, you cannot get a commercial driver’s license. You must have at least 20/40 correctable vision in both eyes. The DOT does allow you to wear contact lenses or glasses to improve your vision. You cannot use narcotics, amphetamines, or other habit-forming drugs if you want to obtain or renew your commercial driver’s license.

Driver Health History 

Before meeting with the examiner, you must fill out the DOT physical form. The first section has room for your name, Social Security number, birthdate, driver’s license number, address, and telephone number. The second section asks about your medical history. You must indicate whether you have had any of the following:

  • Brain injuries or neurological disorders
  • Epilepsy or seizures
  • Loss of hearing
  • Impaired vision
  • Kidney disease
  • Digestive problems
  • Psychiatric disorders
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Paralysis
  • Stroke
  • Missing limbs
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Chronic pain

 

You should answer each question truthfully, or you could face serious legal consequences in the future.

DOT Physical Exam Procedure

If you want to comply with federal law, a qualified medical examiner must complete your DOT physical form. A qualified examiner may be a doctor, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner or Chiropractor who has been federally certified by the FMSCA. The examiner will review your health history and ask you to list the medications you take on a regular basis. During your DOT physical, the examiner will also do the following:

  • Check your pulse and blood pressure
  • Perform a vision test
  • Observe your general appearance
  • Examine eyes ears throat
  • Listen to your heart and lungs
  • Check for spine deformities
  • Perform a neurological exam
  • Press on your abdomen to check for abnormalities
  • Perform a hernia check

 

DOT Physical Forms 

Once the medical examiner completes all the DOT physical requirements, you will discuss any hazards created by your health history or current medical condition. The examiner must document these hazards on your DOT physical form and determine whether you meet the standards for receiving a medical certificate.

If you meet the standards and do not require periodic medical monitoring, your certificate will be valid for two years. In some cases, the medical examiner will issue a certificate that lasts for only three months, six months, or one year. The examiner will also note whether you must wear a hearing aid or corrective lenses. If you do not meet the standards, the examiner will not be able to issue a valid medical certificate.

DOT Physicals at Your Convenience 

https://samedaydot.com/tennessee-dot-physical/

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Pass Your DOT Medical Exam!  Dr. Tigges knows how important it is that you continue your livelihood as a commercial driver. With his extensive knowledge of the DOT Physical Exam medical guidelines, Dr. Tigges will steer you through the DOT Physical Exam requirements so you can Keep on Truckin’. Having affordable and fast testing is crucial to keep drivers on the road and that’s what we strive to provide our clients.DOT CERTIFIED AD1

DOT CERTIFIED PHYSICAL EXAM IN SUMNER COUNTY. Gallatin; Hendersonville; Portland.

DOT CERTIFIED AD1

DOT Certified Medical Exams are now being offered at Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing in Gallatin, TN. Also serving Hendersonville and Portland, TN. We are focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction – we will do everything we can to meet and exceed your expectations. We offer low-cost, quick, convenient and comprehensive medical exams for commercial drivers to meet federal DOT regulations needed to obtain and maintain commercial driver’s licenses.

Our goal is to provide a worry-free experience to our patients. Your Certified Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Tigges will treat you with the respect you deserve. Our experienced healthcare professionals will address medical issues upfront, avoiding delays in obtaining your medical examiner’s certificate.

Call Today to schedule an appointment (615) 452-1575
529 Hartsville Pike [contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]
Gallatin, TN 37066
Next to Sonic and Sumner Regional Medical Center.

Dr. Michael Tigges
Dr. Michael Tigges

Not so fast on medical cards: CDL commercial drivers still must carry, Don’t get caught without your Medical Card!!

A driver was just in the office with a friend and was surprised that his buddy received a medical certificate/card following his physical here. Apparently, when the other driver got his physical at another clinic, he was told they no longer received a card stating they were “self-certified”. That is incorrect. They have to have the card to send a copy of it to the state to “self-certify”.

We went to the source at TEAMCME office for clarification. What they clarified is as follows:

 The new law states that you have to carry your card for a minimum of 15 days.

BUT…since the state and national registries are not linked yet, and since police officers/state troopers do not have the capability of pulling the copy of the card up on their in car computers yet, it is expected that all CDL drivers  and any drivers holding a medical certificate/card SHOULD CARRY THEIR CARD WITH THEM. They can be fined or parked if they do not have that card in their possession.

 The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s CDL “medical” section page in the Registration portion of its website, accessible at this link, reflects the recent change relative to driver medical cards. As reported previously, CDL holders are required to report their new medical certifications to the state driver’s licensing agency and, as of January 30, will only need to carry the paper copy of their medical card with them for 15 days thereafter, emphasizes Marissa Padilla, FMCSA spokesperson. “FMCSA has worked with state licensing agencies to ensure that medical information is electronically available to law enforcement officers through the Commercial Driver License Information System. The implementation of this regulation will relieve drivers from the burden of carrying a paper document and reduce the potential for fraud.”

Several readers, however, irrespective of whether CDL or non-CDL drivers, noted they’d continue carrying their card and/or the full medical long form in the interim, absent solid evidence that roadside officers wouldn’t be continuing to request certification documentation during inspections. Noted Tom Strese under news of the change on Overdrive‘s Facebook page, for instance: “Maybe [carrying the medical card is] no longer required — until the first uninformed officer writes a person up for not having it.”

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO: Continuing to carry physical proof of certification will remain the best option, and make sure you get a medical card from your Certified medical examiner upon completion of your DOT Physical.

CDL Medical/Physical Requirements

You must have a valid MCSA-5876 – Medical Examiner Certificate (A “MCSA-5876 – Medical Examiner Certificate” is provided by a National Registered Medical Examiner only. For additional information, please contact www.fmcsa.dot.gov.), or a photographic copy of your valid Certificate, to receive a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or other commercial license product (e.g., commercial learner’s permit). The Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card) is a federally mandated (U.S. Department of Transportation) document that certifies you meet all physical and medical standards for operating a commercial motor vehicle and the original or photographic copy must be in your possession whenever you are driving.

Special Information Updates – JANUARY 2015 – Pertaining To ALL STATES

MEDICAL EXAMINERS MUST CONTINUE TO ISSUE MEDICAL CERTIFICATES TO ALL DRIVERS

The FMCSA has requested that all medical examiners continue providing drivers with a paper copy of the medical certificate so that Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders can provide a copy to the State licensing agency, and the non-CDL drivers can provide the documentation to their employers and Federal and State enforcement officials.

The Agency is currently completing efforts to put into place an electronic system to enable medical examiners to transmit the medical certificate information from the National Registry system to the State licensing agencies. However, until that system is completed, medical examiners must continue to issue paper copies of the medical certificates to drivers who pass the medical exam.

ALL DRIVERS MUST CONTINUE TO CARRY A PAPER COPY OF THEIR MEDICAL CERTIFICATE

Commercial Drivers – You still need to carry a paper copy of your medical card, until FMCSA announces that this is no longer necessary.

Dr. Tigges is a 2014 FMCSA National Registry Certified Medical Examiner, and is qualified to perform CDL/DOT physicals in Tennessee, as well as BAT (Breath Alcohol Testing) and Drug Testing through a split urine collection (in compliance with the DOT employment drug test requirements). Appointments are preferred, and are available 6 days a week. [contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]

Dr. Michael TiggesDr. Michael Tigges

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