Recertification today

Nice. It's amazing what info or process people will allow without first asking questions. From giving their phone # and/or zip code at the checkout to consenting to a search of ones vehicle.
Good for you, Shark. Good for you.

 

How is it that many OTR truck drivers are required to use CPAP machines for sleep apnea if it is NOT required on the federal form?

 

I work as a retail clerk. Since rules and regulations have been tightened concerning asking for ones date of birth and address, it has been replaced with the use of telephone numbers and zip codes to qualify for and use reward cards along with the accrued points. Truthfully, it is still an evasion of ones privacy.

 

I wouldnt sweat if you had to take a sleep study, it might be helpful. Yes its bs that its nit federaly required yet but im sure it soon will be. Most companies want it checked anyhow. I know its expensive test but ya never know.

 

The concentra folks may actually have been doing you a HUGE favor screening you for sleep apnea.

If you do have sleep apnea (I do and there a a LOT of other drivers who post on this forum that will tell you the same thing) getting tested and treated will change your life for the better.

The sleep apnea screening as part of the DOT physical is only a reccomendation to DOT medical examiners. It is not a rule unless you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Then the current rule on respiratory conditions applies and you HAVE to be on CPAP and compliant to have a DOT medical card.

There is a support group for drivers with sleep apnea.. awake.truckersforacause.com

There is a sleep apnea self-checker on the site. It is confidential it asks for no personal information. Go take it and see what you think. Talk to your own doctor after taking the self-checker. If you actually have sleep apnea (and a lot more drivers than you might think do) you're better off getting tested and treated before you get mandated to get a sleep study when you go for a DOT physical.

 

From the FMCSA medical form .

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/safetyprograms/medical-report.pdf

 

the smokers are in trouble now