Question
Curious about the physical. I have an annual physical which covers everything imaginable and then some. The cost is over $300.00 but is paid for by my insurance. Why won't DOT accept this physical ? I have to take one by a doctor on DOT's approved list, and the cost is $25.00. What do they check at $25.00 compared to a $300.00 + physical. Thanks
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Mike
Answer
First of all, I know of no DOT approved list for Doctors. If there is one, could you please tell me where to find it?
But here is why you must take a separate physical exam.
Not all physician's are familiar with the Regulations that apply to a DOT physical.
Here is an example. Let's say you go to your physician for a physical and your blood pressure is 150/94. Most physician's don't start treating high blood pressure until that bottom number gets closer to the 100 mark. But under DOT regs, if the bottom number is over 90 you must be evaluated and treated for hypertension. You may get a 3 month card to start with, then you are re-evaluated for a 1 year card after that.
If your vision in one eye is 20/50 but the other is 20/20 and together your vision is 20/20. Your doctor isn't going to think twice about it, but under Dot regs, that is an issue requiring an examination by an eye doctor.
That's the reason for an exam by a physician familiar with the DOT regs.
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