Summers in Michigan are highly enjoyable, but they can also be demanding, particularly for those preparing for their Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. At WellCare Urgent Care, we offer a full suite of services to cater to your urgent care needs, including everything you need to ensure you pass your DOT physical. With that in mind, let’s dive into some vital tips to ensure you sail through your DOT physical this summer.
What is a DOT Physical?
A DOT Physical, or a Department of Transportation Physical, is a thorough medical exam that is required to ensure individuals are safe to drive commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). It’s primarily required for drivers crossing state lines. Individual states have different regulations, but Michigan does require a DOT physical.
At WellCare Urgent Care, your provider will go over your medical history, including immunizations and medications, to ensure you’re not at risk of any medical emergencies that could affect your driving and safety when on the road.
The basic DOT Physical includes:
- Check your pulse and blood pressure
- Height and weight
- Urinalysis
- Check your vision and hearing
- Listen to your lungs, heart, and stomach to check for cardiovascular, pulmonary, or digestive abnormalities.
- Observe your walk/gait
- Check your reflexes
- Check for psychiatric disorders
The exam should take no longer than an hour. To remain qualified to drive a CMV, you’ll need a DOT physical every two years.
Dealing with Occupational Injuries
Summer is often the peak time for occupational injuries in construction, landscaping, and delivery services. An injury, if not addressed promptly, can adversely impact your DOT Physical results, risking your certification. Our urgent care services can help you recover swiftly from occupational injuries and prepare you for your physical.
Utilizing X-Ray Services
Sometimes, a DOT Physical may require an X-ray to diagnose and treat underlying issues that a general examination may not detect. In such instances, our comprehensive urgent care services at Wellcare include on-site digital X-rays. We strive to provide fast, accurate diagnosis and care to ensure you pass your DOT Physicals without any hassle.
Staying Hydrated
Drinking enough water is important all year round, but it’s especially important during the summer when temperatures can be nearing 100 degrees in Michigan. Staying hydrated ensures you don’t become dehydrated or have to deal with any of the complications that come with that. Drinking plenty of water also helps all your body’s functions work properly, further ensuring you can pass your DOT Physical with flying colors. You’ll also want to have plenty to drink before your DOT Physical so you can easily give a urine sample.
Tips for Preparing for Your DOT Physicals
Passing your DOT Physical requires you to be in good physical health. Take a look at these tips to help you easily pass your physical and be safely on the road:
- Stay Active: Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, boost metabolism, and enhance overall well-being, significantly helping you ace your DOT Physical.
- Eat Healthy: Cut down on processed foods and sugary drinks. Embrace a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to make sure you’re in optimal health.
- Rest Well: Sufficient sleep is imperative for physical and mental health. Aim to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night.
- Regular Checkups: Regular medical checkups can help detect and rectify health issues in a timely manner before they ever come up in a DOT Physical.
Schedule An Appointment Today
At WellCare Urgent Care, we offer a comprehensive range of medical services to take care of you and ensure you stay in great health. Visit us at any of our locations across Grand Rapids for your healthcare needs, call us to schedule an appointment, or fill out our online contact form.
For all your urgent care and DOT Physical needs, trust the healthcare experts at Wellcare Urgent Care. We happily serve the Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Cascade, and Grandville, MI areas!
