Question regarding medical exam for dot physical

Discussion in 'Trucking Industry Regulations' started by BRATSMAN2009, May 8, 2013.

  1. BRATSMAN2009

    BRATSMAN2009 Bobtail Member

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    I have tried twice now to go through a trucking school, and some of there doctors say for being bi-polar and on meds is that I need to be on the meds at least six months and stable with a doctors release saying I can drive a semi-truck but other doctors with the school say no. I've called around and asked other schools and doctors that do dot physical where I live and they all say yes I can be on the meds as long as I've been on them 6 month with a doctors release....I want to know for real what the truth is...I drove flatbed from 2003-2004 before I was diagnosed with bi-polar and I was fine enjoyed driving and would love to get back to it....but can afford any schools to do my license where I live...
     
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  3. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    It should'nt matter 1 month or 6 months.It does'nt take 6 months to know if the medicine is stable does it?If they'll accept you at 6 months,no reason why not now.Keep on looking you'll find something.Are you willing to relocate to go to a school?What about a trucking company that sponsers training,have you tried that avenue?
     
  4. BRATSMAN2009

    BRATSMAN2009 Bobtail Member

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  5. GasHauler

    GasHauler Master FMCSA Interpreter

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    You can read all about it in the little greenbook FMCSR 382.213.
     
  6. BRATSMAN2009

    BRATSMAN2009 Bobtail Member

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    yeah well I got my dot physical done. thanks all!!!
     
  7. flood

    flood Road Train Member

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    good but that was the EZ part now you will need to find a company that will hire you with you taking the meds
     
  8. BRATSMAN2009

    BRATSMAN2009 Bobtail Member

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    right now it look's like crst going to be it. i'm going to there driving school tomorrow
     
  9. CDL1968

    CDL1968 Medium Load Member

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    49 CFR sub-section 391.41(b)(9) Mental Disorders; Bipolar Disorder; guidance

    Certification/Recertification ' Bipolar Mood Disorder
    Determination is not based on diagnosis alone. The actual ability to drive safely and effectively should not be determined solely by diagnosis but instead by an evaluation focused on function and relevant history.

    Waiting period

    Minimum ' 6 months symptom free following a nonpsychotic major depression unaccompanied by suicidal behavior

    Minimum ' 1 year symptom free following a severe depressive episode, a suicide attempt, or a manic episode.

    NOTE: If more than one waiting period applies (because of multiple conditions or other comorbid diseases), examine the driver for certification after the completion of the longest waiting period.

    Decision

    Maximum certification ' 1 year Recommend to certify if:

    The driver:

    • Completes an appropriate symptom-free waiting period.
    • Complies with treatment program.
    • Tolerates treatment without disqualifying side effects (e.g., sedation or impaired coordination).
    • Has a comprehensive evaluation from an appropriate mental health professional who understands the functions and demands of commercial driving.

    Recommend not to certify if:

    The driver has:

    • Active psychosis.
    • Prominent negative symptoms, including:
      • Substantially compromised judgment.
      • Attentional difficulties.
      • Suicidal behavior or ideation.
      • Personality disorder that is repeatedly manifested by overt inappropriate acts.
    • Treatment side effects that interfere with safe driving.

    Monitoring/Testing

    At least every 2 years the driver with a history of a major mood disorder should have evaluation and clearance from a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, who understands the functions and demands of commercial driving.

    Advise the certified driver with a major mood disorder to report any manic or severe major depressive episode within 30 days of onset to the driver's employer, medical examiner, or appropriate health care professional and to seek medical intervention.

    Follow-up
    The driver should have annual medical examinations.

    I hope you the best at your new career and the best of health!
     
  10. BRATSMAN2009

    BRATSMAN2009 Bobtail Member

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    i got my one year medical and started my training this week been really challenging for my mind
     
  11. V8-MACK

    V8-MACK Light Load Member

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    Congratulations Truck Driver, the training period might be a little intense. Just hang in there and get a current year of exp and doors will open for you. Best of Luck and Stay safe.
     
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