Minnetonka Chiropractor provides DOT physicals & drug testing

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all commercial drivers whose vehicles and/or trailers exceed 10,000 lbs. to pass a physical exam and receive certification that they are in good enough health to safely operate a commercial vehicle. A standard certification is good for up to two years, but people with certain health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure may be required to have a DOT physical more often. CDL Drivers are also required to take random drug screens to maintain their license. The required procedure tests for the following: Marijuana, Cocaine, PCP, Opiates, and Amphetamines. These two procedures can be done separately or on the same visit.

As of May 21, 2014, health care providers must be specially licensed to give DOT physicals. “A growing number of primary care clinics have declined to have their staff certified, thus increasing the demand for convenient and affordable options for drivers in the Twin Cities metro area,” explains Jesse Ploessl, D.C., chiropractor at Rejuva Medical and Wellness Center in Minnetonka.

Dr. Ploessl is a licensed medical examiner able to perform DOT physicals and drug testing under the new federal guidelines and offers this service at his clinic to drivers in the metro area. He has performed over 500 exams since 2013. He describes the exam: “It is very thorough similar to a routine annual physical exam. We check for major health concerns, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, vision issues, and physical limitations. There’s no blood draw, but we do administer a urine test to make sure there’s no glucose, blood, or protein in the urine.”

How to get a DOT physical

Health insurance does not cover DOT physicals. Dr. Ploessl and his Minnetonka clinic offers DOT physicals for a flat fee of $50. When you pass, you will receive a certificate at the end of the exam.

You can schedule an appointment by phone or email. Call 952-236-7610 or email rejuvamwc@gmail.com to schedule your DOT physical.