Tag Archives: DOT PHYSICAL FORM

DOT MEDICAL GUIDELINES -DIABETES

DOT MEDICAL GUIDELINES -DIABETES

The Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Examination is very highly regulated as illness complications can have serious consequences for the driver, the examiner, and the general public. DOT medical guidelines outline the health criteria that commercial vehicle drivers must meet to qualify for certification. One health condition that is closely reviewed by the DOT is diabetes. Individuals with known or suspected diabetes are required to provide specific medical information to the DOT-certifying physician regarding diabetic control. The DOT definition of diabetic control often causes confusion for individuals seeking certification, as well as their employers. The following information provides answers to common questions and clears up misconceptions about diabetes and DOT certification. The maximum certification for a person with diabetes is one year. According to DOT guidelines, a person with diabetes, whether controlled with diet alone or diet plus medication, must meet the following criteria:

  • Maintain a glycosylated hemoglobin (Hemoglobin A1C or “HBA1C”) of 10% or less.

The HBA1C is a measure of the average amount of sugar in the blood over the last 3 months. A normal HBA1C is less than 5.7%. Values between 5.7 and 6.4% are classified as being in the pre-diabetic range. These individuals should be closely monitored. If the level is above 6.4%, then the person is diabetic. The HBA1C correlates very well with end organ (blood vessels, nerves, kidneys, heart, or eyes) damage and therefore is a popular marker for disease control. Red blood cells have a lifespan of about 90 days before they are removed by the spleen. Glucose sticks to the hemoglobin in red blood cells. Therefore, the glycosylated hemoglobin can be a good estimate of the average blood sugar and is much more accurate in assessing diabetic control than a fasting blood sugar that varies from day to day. Obviously, it takes about 3 months for the HBA1C to drop, generally by 1 percentage point.

  • The driver must not have a history of the following:

(a) One or more hypoglycemic episodes in the past 12 months, or 2 or more occurrences in the past 5 years resulting in:

1. Seizure

2. Loss of Consciousness

3. Need for Assistance from another person

4. Period of Confusion

(b) Signs of End Organ Damage: 1. Retinopathy 2. Macular Degeneration 3. Peripheral Neuropathy 4. Congestive Heart Disease 5. Stroke 6. Peripheral Vascular Disease 7. Kidney Failure

Diabetic individuals seeking DOT certification must provide current (within six months) diabetic control information to the examining physician. This information should be available as part of routine diabetes care through the individual’s primary care physician. To avoid delays in certification, SameDayDOT Physical Drug & Alcohol Testing recommends individuals meet with their primary care physician in advance of the examination to obtain copies of the required laboratory information, then bring that information to the DOT appointment. Diabetics who require insulin for control cannot be approved for DOT certification unless they have a waiver. The diabetic waiver application and program details can be found on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website. The process for obtaining a waiver is cumbersome and only a small number of drivers have received this exemption since the waiver program was instituted in 1996. “These medical guidelines can be quite complex,” says Michael Tigges, DC, Nationally Registered Certifed Medical Examiner. “The DOT team at Same Day DOT Physical Drug & Alcohol Testing understands the DOT regulations and their importance in promoting driver health, wellness and public safety. We are always available to answer any questions

All drivers diagnosed with diabetes must bring a printed copy of their most recent hemoglobin A1C from his or her primary care physician. This lab value must be 10% percent or less and be done within the last 3 months. The driver will receive a one year certificate if cleared. If the A1C levels are between 10-12% then the driver will receive a 3 month certificate. If, after 3 months, the new AIC levels are 10% or less at the end of the 3 months, the driver will receive a 9 month certificate based on the previous physical exam.

If the driver does not have the lab results available or his or her urine is positive for sugar, a random blood test (RBT) will be done. If this is 250 or less the driver will receive a 3 month certificate in which he should see his primary care physician and obtain an AIC lab. Once he or she returns with the report and it is less than 10% then 9 months will be added to your medical certification expiration date.

INSULIN

Insulin is used to treat high blood sugar in diabetes. Insulin has the potential to cause very low blood sugars which can cause drivers to black out or go into a coma; therefore diabetic drivers who require insulin for treatment cannot be approved for DOT certification. However, some drivers may qualify for a waiver which is a special process requiring additional clearance from your primary care physician and endocrinologist as well as more frequent assessments to maintain the driver’s medical certification.

More information is available through the FMCSA through the Federal Diabetes Exemption Program at:

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/safetyprograms/Diabetes/diabetes-exemption-package0706.pdf.

Tips for managing your blood sugar:

  • Eat healthy food portions at least three times a day.
  • Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods. Keep healthy snacks with you.
  • Do a moderate activity for 30 minutes 3-4 times a day. Doing laps along a rest stop is a good way to stay active during long hauls.
  • Carry you glucose meter with you during trips to check your levels. If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar, be sure to carry glucose tablets with you.
  • Maintain good blood pressure and have a yearly eye exam with an eye professional to avoid diabetic complications that reduce your ability to drive.

Contact us for any questions you may have: https://samedaydot.com/contact-us/

 

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’.

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

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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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DOT Physical Doctors Driver Friendly™ DOT Physical Locations

Same Day DOT Physicals
Drug & Alcohol Testing
Gallatin, TN

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

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

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

6

$75 DOT Physical Exams in Gallatin, TN

Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing

Dr. Michael Tigges, National Registry Certified Medical Examiner

picture to post on webpage

529 Hartsville Pike
Gallatin, Tennessee 37066
615-452-1575

Hours of Operation: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday thru Friday

Services Offered by Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing

  • • $75.00 DOT Physical Exam for Commercial Truck Drivers (CDL Physical Exam)
    • Walk In’s Welcome Same Day Service Same day appointments!
    • DOT Breath Alcohol Testing
    • DOT Drug Testing
    • School Bus Driver Physicals
    • Pre-employment Physicals
    • DOT Random Drug Testing Programs
    • Easy Access Parking
    • Chiropractic treatment
    • Physiotherapy
    • Digital X-ray Department
    • Rehabilitative exercises
    • Workers’ Comp and Personal Injury Auto Accident Whiplash Treatment
    • Truck Parking Available

DOT Physical Exam in Gallatin, Tennessee

We are a TeamCME Clinic!

Nationally Recognized as a Provider of Fair, Ethical DOT Physical Exams!

Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing

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

 

Get a $75 Fair, Ethical DOT Physical Exam at our convenient, driver friendly clinic located at 529 Hartsville Pike in Gallatin, TN. We also serve Portland, TN, Hendersonville, TN and the surrounding cities in Sumner County.

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.

Need your CDL Physical Exam Today?  Our prices are the lowest in the area. $75. We offer same day appointments and while appointments are preferred, walk-ins are welcome. We have plenty of free parking and parking for your Big Rig next door at Food Lion. No Waiting! We are committed to getting you back on the road in no time. Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing.

Free! Never Forget to Renew your Certificate! Get “Expiration Alerts” before your Certificate Expires by downloading the Free TeamCME Mobile Driver App!  Save your expiration date and you’ll get “Expiration Alert” emails sent to your mobile device & alert emails starting 2 months before your current certificate expires.

We are right at your fingertip! Save us as your medical examiner using the Free Driver Mobile App, and calling our office or getting driving instructions are at your fingertip!

The TeamCME Free Driver Mobile App is available at the Apple App Store and Google Play!

Looking for a DOT Physical Exam or CDL Physical Exam in Gallatin, TN?  You’ve come to the right place!

Want to save time? Download the DOT Physical Exam report form by clicking the link below.  Filling out the form before your appointment will help us get your DOT Physical Exam completed quickly.

Please see the important driver links below for more information.

Want to know more about the DOT Physical Exam? (Click Here) to access the FMCSA CMV Driver Fact Sheet regarding the DOT Physical Exam.

Be better prepared and save time! Fill out your DOT physical exam form before your appointment.

(Click Here) To Download the DOT Physical Exam Report Form.

(Click Here) To Download the Medical Examiner’s Certificate

(Click Here) For Frequently Asked Medical Questions

Driving Directions

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

Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing
529 Hartsville Pike
Gallatin, TN 37066
https://samedaydot.com/contact-u


Biography

Dr Michael TiggesDr. Tigges is a Certified Medical Examiner in the National Registry with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in the capacity of performing annual DOT (Department of Transportation) physicals to school bus, ambulance and truck drivers. He is very active in practice with the addition of Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing to the practice and enjoys taking care of all the drivers and their needs. https://samedaydot.com/

Dr. Michael Tigges, located in Gallatin, Tennessee, is a husband, father, and Doctor of Chiropractic in practice for approximately 29 years. He became interested in Chiropractic as a profession after he suffered a neck injury while wrestling in high school and his father took him to a Doctor of Chiropractic. He was impressed by how quickly he got better. He went on to visit Palmer College of Chiropractic and graduated in 1988 Cum Laude from Palmer Chiropractic College.

He began his Chiropractic Practice in Gallatin, TN with emphasis on injuries/treatment and rehabilitation and has hospital privileges as an Allied health provider at Sumner Regional Medical Center. Dr. Tigges is an active writer in regards to Certified DOT Physicals and his posts can be seen at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michael-tigges-496a558b

In 1994, Dr. Tigges was certified by Dr. Arthur Croft and the San Diego Spine Research Institute in brain traumatology with regard to high velocity/high speed impact injuries such as those found in motor vehicle collisions. Cervical Spine Acceleration/Deceleration or CAD type injuries can be quite complex and often present with multiple symptoms and injuries that require a thorough understanding of diagnosis of treatment. This is the primary reason why Dr. Tigges became interested and ultimately certified in the examination, diagnosis and treatment of these rather complex injuries.

Dr. Tigges and his support staff are located at 529 Hartsville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066 in Sumner County Tennessee. His practice offers Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol testing and injury treatment and rehabilitation of a multitude of musculoskeletal injuries. His office provides Radiology-X-ray-DOT-Department of Transportation physicals-BAT-Breath alcohol testing-Drug testing-Sports physicals-Chiropractic treatment-Spinal Therapeutic Traction-Therapeutic ultrasound-Ten’s EMS/Interferential current-DME-Durable medical equipment-Prescription and/or referral for additional testing if needed i.e. NCS/EMG studies-MRI’s-Bone Scans-Video Fluoroscopy, etc. to help properly diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries. http://gallatinchiropractic.com/dot-physicals/

Dr. Michael Tigges and Same Day DOT Physicals Drug & Alcohol Testing can be reached @ Phone (615)-452-1575 fax# (615) 230-6041 or email: [email protected] or go to https://samedaydot.com/contact-us/

NRCME Number: 9693225035

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TEAM CME CERTIFIED MEDICAL EXAMINER DOT PHYSICAL $75.00

DOT PHYSICAL CARD SAME DAY DOT

DOT PHYSICAL CARD SAME DAY DOT

 

If you are looking for a DOT Physical Exam for Commercial Drivers, you are in the right place. We are also Certified for DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.

Choose from over 600 Certified CDL Physical Exam Locations and over 5000 DOT Physical Exam Locations! Great Prices and Same Day Appointments. Don’t get stuck in the waiting room!

CDL Physical Exam locations CDL Physical Exam DOT Drug and Alcohol testing

 Worried about passing your CDL Medical Exam? Our certified medical examiners are dedicated to helping Drivers! With their extensive knowledge of the DOT Medical Exam guidelines, let a TeamCME provider steer you through the CDL Physical Exam process to let you Keep on Truckin’.  TeamCME providers will guide you thru the medical standards so you can maintain your DOT Medical Exam Certification for years to come.

Two heads are always better than one and when you get your CDL physical exam from a TeamCME provider, your Certified Medical Examiner has two heads!  Well, not really, but they do have direct access to Dr. Mike Megehee, President of TeamCME and a member of the FMCSA Team that developed the physician training to become a National Registry Certified Medical Examiner.  Between your Certified Medical Examiner and Dr. Megehee, there’s no DOT physical exam too complicated.

Same day appointments are routine in most locations. Many of our offices have online scheduling or accept walk-ins.  Don’t get stuck in a waiting room!  And If 600 CDL Physical Exam locations aren’t enough, try our ”Flight Physical” Map with over 5000 DOT Physical Exam Locations that may also perform the CDL physical exam.  Great Pricing, No Waiting, Same Day Appointments, Innovative Services and Certified Medical Examiners that know their stuff!  Let TeamCME be your source for your next DOT Physical exam for Commercial Drivers.

Free Commercial Driver Mobile App!

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Save time during you Exam!  Download and complete the DOT Medical Exam Report Form before your appointment.

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Preparing for a DOT Medical Exam

 [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] Preparing for a DOT Medical Exam (again)

Dr Michael Tigges

Dr. Michael Tigges

It’s time to revisit preparing for your DOT Physical since many of the drivers are now getting  their one year follow-up DOT Exam and this information is important to make sure your DOT Physical goes smoothly. (Helpful Tips)

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the purpose of the DOT exam is to detect the presence of physical or mental conditions which affect the ability of the driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safely.  The exam balances the driver’s right to work versus the right of the public to drive on safe roads.  In that regard, the DOT Certified Medical Examiner will focus on health issues that increase the risk of gradual or sudden incapacitation while driving a CMV.  As a DOT driver, your role is to assist the medical examiner by providing accurate and comprehensive information about your general state of health.

Since much hinges on the outcome of your DOT exam, it is in your best interest to prepare for your exam ahead of time.  Below is a list of DOs and DON’Ts that should help you:

  1. At least a week before your DOT exam, if you have certain medical conditions, you should gather documentation for the examiner to review.  Here are some examples: If there are any questions CALL your medical examiner. (CONTACT US)

Diabetes: You should bring along a copy of your most recent (within six months) hemoglobin A1c blood test.  It is also helpful to bring a note from the healthcare provider who treats your diabetes.  The note should include:

  1.   List of medications;
  2.   Any severe hypoglycemic reactions in the last year;

iii.  Any complications from your diabetes (heart, kidney, vision, nerves);

  1. An assessment of whether your diabetes will interfere with your ability to drive a CMV safely.

Note: diabetics using insulin are disqualified, however, you may be eligible for a Federal Exemption or a State Waiver (a State Waiver allows you to drive a CMV only within the borders of that state).

Sleep apnea:  With mild sleep apnea, treatment is optional; however, you should bring a copy of the sleep study that shows you have mild sleep apnea. With moderate or severe sleep apnea, treatment is mandatory.  The most common  treatment is CPAP.  If you use a CPAP machine, the machine’s computer records CPAP usage.  You should contact the company that services your machine and get a printout of your CPAP usage.  The data should cover a period of at least three months.  FMCSA Medical Guidelines require the following minimal CPAP usage: 70% of the nights for at least 4 hours per night.  If you treat your sleep  apnea with something other than CPAP, you will need to bring documentation (usually a sleep study) showing that your treatment is effective.

Heart:  If you have a history of heart attack, angina, angioplasty, or cardiac bypass surgery, you will need a note from your cardiologist stating that your cardiac condition will not interfere with your ability to operate a CMV safely. You will also need to provide exercise stress test results as follows:

  1. Drivers with a history of heart attack, angina, or angioplasty must have an exercise stress test every two years.
  2. Drivers who have undergone cardiac bypass surgery, beginning five years after the surgery, will have to undergo exercise stress testing every year.

Hypertension (high blood pressure): FMCSA Regulations require your    blood pressure to be 140/90 or less to receive a one-year DOT card.  Many drivers are anxious while undergoing a DOT exam in an unfamiliar medical  office.  As a result, their blood pressures tend to be higher than normal.  If you fall into this category, it may be helpful to bring in recent blood pressure readings from your personal healthcare provider.

Blood thinners: If you take the blood thinner Coumadin (warfarin), you should provide a copy of your most recent INR blood test results.  The medical examiner may also require a note from your healthcare provider regarding the condition for which you are prescribed the blood thinner (for example, atrial fibrillation, blood clot).

Psychiatric conditions: Psychiatric disorders are often treated with potent medications which have significant side effects such as drowsiness.  If you are  under treatment for a psychiatric condition with medication, it would be useful to provide a note from your treating healthcare provider.  The note should state that  neither your psychiatric condition nor your medication will interfere with your ability to drive a CMV safely.

  1. Make a list of all your medications, prescription and over-the-counter.  Be sure to include the dosages.
  2. Make a list of all the healthcare providers involved in your physical and mental health.  In addition to physicians, you should include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, chiropractors, therapists, social workers, etc.  Don’t forget to include their phone numbers.  You or the examiner may need to contact one or more of these individuals.
  3. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep.  If you arrive for your DOT exam in a fatigued state, it may affect your health, especially your blood pressure.
  4. The morning of your DOT exam, take all your medications as usual.  This is particularly important for individuals with diabetes and hypertension.  Missing even one dose of your blood pressure medicine may result in significantly elevated blood pressure during your DOT exam.
  5. Do not eat a big meal before your DOT exam.  This is especially important for diabetics.  A urine test (urinalysis) is part of the DOT exam.  A large meal may lead to the spilling of sugar into your urine resulting in an abnormal urinalysis.
  6. Avoid stimulants.  These include coffee, tea, caffeinated soda, energy drinks, and certain cold and allergy medications.  Stimulants often have the undesirable side effects of raising your blood pressure and speeding up your heart rate.
  7. Avoid salty foods.  Excess sodium tends to elevate one’s blood pressure.
  8. As part of your DOT exam, you will have to pass an eye test.  FMCSA Regulations require your distance vision to be 20/40 or better in each eye separately.  If you wear eyeglasses for distance, be sure to bring them to your appointment.  Similarly, contact lens wearers should arrive with their lenses in.
  9. Drink plenty of cold water.  As part of your DOT exam, you will need to provide a urine specimen.  Arrive at the medical examiner’s office well hydrated.  You don’t want to have to hang around waiting to produce an adequate quantity of urine.  Cold water has the added benefit of lowering your blood pressure.
  10. Allow plenty of time to get to your DOT exam appointment.  If you rush around and get stressed out, your blood pressure and heart rate may go up.
  11. Upon arrival for your DOT exam appointment, you will be required to complete page one of the Medical Examination Report which includes Driver’s Information and Health History.  Fill out this paperwork as completely and truthfully as possible.  Omitting important medical information has negative consequences.  In these days of electronic medical records, you would be surprised how much medical data can be cross-referenced.  Any fraud in completing your DOT paperwork may be reported directly to FMCSA and may result in a fine and loss of DOT driving privileges.
  12. Many medical offices get backed up during the course of a busy day.  If you want your wait, if any, to be minimal, schedule the first appointment of the day.  Otherwise, expect delays and don’t let it stress you out.  Relax, take deep breaths, think happy thoughts, read a book or magazine, and drink cold water.  Letting stress get to you will serve no useful purpose; it may only raise your blood pressure and heart rate.

The purpose of the DOT exam is not to punish but to promote safety.  Following the common sense steps listed above and maintaining a positive attitude will go a long way toward making your DOT exam a more pleasant experience.

By Dr. Michael Tigges

DOT Physical Form

DOT Physical Form

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires that interstate commercial motor vehicle drivers maintain a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate to drive. As part of the physical, you are required to fill out the medical history portion of the Medical Examination Report of Commercial Driver Fitness Determination.

All of the forms necessary for your exam should be provided by your TeamCME Physician at the time of your appointment. However, if you would like to speed up the process, you can print and fill in the driver’s information and health history of your own copy of the DOT Physical Form by visiting the following link:

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/safetyprograms/Medical-Report.pdf

At the conclusion of your physical exam, you will be given the motor carrier copy of the Medical Examiner’s Certificate to send to your employer. If your employer also requires a copy of the examination form, we suggest that you sign a release of medical information to allow a copy of the Medical Examination Report of Commercial Driver Fitness Determination to be sent to your employer.

DOT PHYSICAL SAME DAY AT TIGGES CHIROPRACTIC

DOT PHYSICAL SAME DAY AT TIGGES CHIROPRACTIC