Why Your Yearly Physical Exam is Important

We rely on our senses to do a lot for us. Sight is essential to see where we’re going or avoiding, smell for sniffing out what may be good or bad for the body, hearing to understand the language of everyone and everything around us, taste to distinguish between the nutritional and the poisonous, and touch to ensure our general safety. They not only protect, but also allow us to enjoy life as we feel our way around.

Given their importance, isn’t it even more crucial that we make sure they are all working properly? The answer: annual physical exam. Understandably, some of us get queasy when hearing the word “exam” and others run the other direction to anything physical, believe me when I say that your annual physical exam is fairly painless. Your internist will do most of the manual labor and all you have to do is follow his/her directions.

You’ll be tested for signs of vitality, from blood pressure (average is 120 over 80), heart rate (you want between 60 to 100), respiration rate (generally around 16 without lung or heart issues), and/or temperature (classic 98.6 degrees F). After that comes the exam for your general appearance. How is your heartbeat, breathing, immunity, dental work, abdomen, nerves, strength, reaction ability, balance, pulse, etc.? If you’ve done any smoking, drank alcohol in excess, or had poor diet, exercise, or sexual health, your walk in doctor will figure it out pretty quickly. It’s for the best, so stop worrying.

Depending on your doctor, you may also need to give a blood or urine sample to test for other potential afflictions. Of course, based on your gender you’ll be tested for different diseases or illnesses as well. Males generally are examined for hernia, any STIs, prostate, or testicular issues while women may receive breast or pelvic examinations, in case of cancer or other hazards. The fact remains though, in spite of how many tests there are, you’ll be glad to be safe than sorry. Not to mention, it’ll go by a lot faster than you’re expecting and it’s only once a year.

Annual physical exams are defenders of good health, because for all you know, your body may have long been giving off signals to being unwell before you felt them. Say that one of your five senses were out of tune or no longer the same as when you were young. Why do you think people wear glasses or contacts? Brilliant as a composer Beethoven considering he was deaf, I’ll bet he wished he could’ve had a hearing aid earlier in life. Those suffering from Alzheimer’s may often be a hazard to themselves because their bodies forget how to sense hot or cold.

That aside, as soon as your sense of smell goes, your sense of taste goes along with it. Our senses interact with one another, and oftentimes as one depreciates, another follows in suit. Why take the risk? Annual physical exams will provide that sense of safety you’ve been lacking.

Stop by the office today. We’ll make sure that your yearly physical exam NYC stays just that: once a year. Quick and painless, if you don’t trust us, you can find more information at urgent care clinic.

Driver’s Physical Exam—What, When, Where?

It’s been over a century since the first cars hit the streets across the Europe and the United States, and technology has undeniably come a long way from those first automobiles.  Now cars, trucks and buses are an integral part of our transportation system and economy, delivering people and goods across continents with greater comfort and speed than ever before. Still, with such great volume comes danger; in 2010, 32,885 people died in traffic crashes in the United States. It is obvious then, that the Department of Transportation would want to prevent as many accidents as possible, and one of the best ways to do it is to make sure that drivers, particularly of large vehicles, are in tip-top shape before hitting the road.  Enter the DOT physical exam, a prerequisite for certification of commercial drivers. Here’s what’s required:

A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination is required to obtain certain types of commercial driver’s licenses.  People who operate a commercial vehicle with a combination weight rating over 10,000 pounds, drivers operating a vehicle transporting sixteen or more passengers, and drivers operating vehicles for the transportation of hazardous materials all need to have a physical as a component of their DOT certification.

The Department of Transportation uses standardized forms to be filled out by a physician as proof of a physical exam, so it’s important that you print out the paperwork and bring it with you to your exam appointment. Additionally, the DOT form has a medical history section to be filled out by the patient prior to examination.  The medical history questionnaire addresses health issues like past injuries and diseases, psychological disorders, hearing or vision problems, and other undiagnosed symptoms like dizziness or lower back pain, that could affect your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Be prepared to discuss the information with your walk in clinic doctor NYC during the exam.

After you discuss your medical history with the doctor, he or she will perform vision and hearing tests. If you wear glasses or hearing aids you should use them during the tests. You must still be able to fulfill the requirements of the examination with your aids, though, so don’t forget to bring your glasses to your appointment! For the vision exam, a driver must have vision in both eyes, must be able to read traffic signs, and must not be colorblind.  For the hearing test, a driver must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance of five feet or greater. If you pass the vision and hearing tests, the doctor will continue the examination with a routine physical, listening to the heart and lungs, and checking your blood pressure.  The results of your blood pressure test can directly affect the length of your certification, as blood pressure is an important indicator of heart and vascular health.  Patients with a blood pressure level over 140 mmHg can only be certified for one year; those with a pressure level greater than 160 can only be issued a three or six-month certification.  A urine test to check for illicit substances and kidney health is also a routine part of the DOT physical examination.

Assuming everything goes well, a DOT physical examination certification lasts for two years before it must be renewed. But the doctor can also issue a shorter certification with reservations.  The doctor can determine how long the certification is good for (usually three months, six months, or a year) before the driver must return to be evaluated due to a medical condition that must be monitored; the doctor must specify the specific condition on the certification form.

If you’re in New York City and need to DOT physical exam NYC, you can get same-day certification at the Physical Exam Center of New York.  At Physical Exam Center NYC, you can get your driver’s physical exam at an appointment time convenient for you, right in midtown Manhattan, with affordable rates, even if you don’t have insurance. Get cleared for safety, log onto Urgent Care NYC and get in the driver’s seat by calling (212) 686-5900 today! 

What You Need to Know Before Your Appointment for Annual Physical check up

Did you know that many serious health issues might not show any symptoms until it’s too late?  A person with high blood pressure, for example, might feel completely normal, but is running a very high risk of developing cardiovascular disease and having a heart attack. A person could be on the brink of developing or already have a potentially deadly illness like heart attack, stroke, or even certain types of cancers or sexually transmitted infections but still feel totally fine.  That’s why health specialists recommend an annual physical examination whether you feel sick or not.

Annual physicals may vary from doctor to doctor, but most physicians try to check all the body’s systems during an exam.  This means examining the skin, listening to the heart and lungs, feeling for abnormalities in abdominal organs and lymph nodes, and testing vision, reflexes and neurological response time.  Often times the examination of these systems by a doctor is supplemented with laboratory work in the form of blood and urine tests.  Common blood work can measure blood count, electrolyte, blood glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and thyroid function.  Routine sexually transmitted disease tests, check for HIV, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes and hepatitis B and C.  A urine test might also be used to measure kidney function.  The doctor will also go over your immunization record and may update you on any necessary vaccines. Results of blood work and urine tests may take 3-5 business days, and a doctor or nurse will call you with those results once they are processed.  Depending on the office, blood work and immunizations may cost additional fees, so talk to your receptionist or doctor beforehand if you have concerns.

One of the most important things to remember before going to your physical exam is that an accurate medical history is a critical component of an effective physical.  Before your appointment, be sure you know the facts about your own and your family’s medical history, as certain illnesses like high blood pressure and cholesterol, heart attack and breast cancer can be genetically predisposed.  Your personal surgical history, as well as knowledge of any medications, supplements, or herbs you are taking, is important as well, so write them down and bring the list with you if you’re afraid you’ll forget.  If you’re going to a new doctor, try to get a copy of your old medical and immunization records to make the process easier.  Most importantly, remember to be honest with your internist.  Questions about mental health, sexual activity, smoking and drinking habits, and use of illicit substances all provide important information to your health care provider about how to best  take care of you, so tell the truth, even if you feel embarrassed.    

Most insurance companies cover annual exams, as preventative medicine is easier and less expensive for them, too!  But even if you don’t have health insurance, you should still try and get a physical annually or screening for HIV, as it can save you a lot of medical bills in the long run! Many walk in clinics around the country have affordable preventative healthcare even for people without insurance, so check out clinics in your area for possible options.

If you’re in New York City and it’s time for your annual physical exam, stop by the Physical Exam Center of New York, and be on your way to better health.  Annual Physical Exam is affordable and convenient.  Even if you don’t have insurance, you can make a same-day, evening, or Saturday appointment, or just walk in to our Midtown Manhattan location.  You can even book online through the web check-in at primary care doctor.

Two Facts You Have to Know about the CDL Physical Exam

In today’s economy the job market can be tough, but one job that’s not suffering from the effects of the economic downturn is that of the commercial driver. Commercial drivers, including truckers and bus drivers, enjoy job security even during recessions. Commercial drivers also earn a good living wage with relatively little training or experience, and have the chance to travel across the country. If the life of a commercial driver sounds like something of interest to you, the first step is getting your commercial CDL license. But before you can even do that, you need to pass the Department of Transportation’s physical exam, which makes you eligible for certification. Here’s some important information about the requirements of the exam.

Firstly, you may be interested in what kind of questions and health conditions a CDL physical exam will address. The Department of Transportation issues a standardized form to be completed by an internist during a commercial CDL license physical, and the patient is required to print out this form and bring it to his or her exam, so you can probably get a good idea of what to expect just by looking over the paperwork. First the driver completes a medical history section of the form which asks questions about past injuries, diseases, psychological disorders, hearing and vision problems, and other undiagnosed symptoms like dizziness or lower back pain that could be detrimental to a patient’s performance as the operator of a commercial vehicle.  It is important that the patient discusses this part of the form with the walk in clinic doctor, even though the doctor does not need to sign off on this part of the paperwork.  Next a doctor will perform a vision exam, arguably the most important part of the test for any driver. The driver must have vision in both eyes, and be able to read traffic signs as well as differentiate between colors.  A hearing test is also given, for which a driver must be able to hear a forced whisper at a distance greater than or equal to 5 feet. The doctor then tests the patient’s blood pressure. If the patient has high blood pressure (greater than 140 mmHG) he or she can only be certified for one year. If it’s higher than 160, the doctor may only issue a three or six month certification. A urine test is required to test for the health of the kidneys and be sure there are no illegal substances in the system. The doctor than performs a routine physical exam, visually inspecting all the body parts and listening to the prospective CDL heart and lungs.

Secondly, there are four possible outcomes of your CDL physical exam. The doctor can approve you for the ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle; the approval certification generally lasts for two years. If the doctor has some reservations as to the patient’s ability to operate a motor vehicle, he can approve the applicant, but under the condition of periodic medical monitoring for a specific condition. These certifications with reservations can be issued for three months, six months, a year, or another unit of time as specified by the physician on the certification form. Thirdly, the doctor can temporarily disqualify a driver for a period of time due to a specific medical condition or medication being used.  In this case, the doctor will suggest a time when the patient can return for another medical examination. Finally, the doctor can disqualify the patient, offering a specific medical reason why he or she does not meet the standards of health required for obtaining a commercial CDL license.

If you’re in the New York City area and need to get your Department of Transportation CDL physical exam in NYC, stop into the Physical Exam Center NYC, right in midtown Manhattan.  The New York City Physical Exam Center offers same day certification for Department of Transportation physical exams, with convenient appointment times and discounts for people without health insurance. Make an appointment today online at doctor NYC and get on the road to getting your commercial CDL license!

Schedule your physical examination before you need one

As people we’re fond of routines. That pattern of continuity brings ease and security because we know what will happen the next day, week, etc. We always know at a certain time to wake up, get dressed, brush teeth, eat, commute to and from work, shop for groceries, sleep.

            Of course, when it comes to repeated habits, it takes some planning to make sure they function. Meetings need to be pushed back, events pushed forward, errand sacrificed for emergencies. Because we’re so deadlocked to those habitual tendencies, interruptions and surprises easily become the scourge in our schedules.

            When it comes to preparing, how many appointments have you sacrificed? How many are you prepping to give up right now? The laundry desperately in need of a wash, the apartment demanding a sanitized cleansing, the fridge screaming for food, or the physical examination waiting to be noticed. How long before you push it off again?

            When it comes to our bodies, we’re told to have regular checkups every year based on age and family history. Yet the issue isn’t actually getting to physical examination: it’s getting to one. Amidst our regular routine we forget to schedule in the long-term events. And by the time we get to test high blood pressure, heartbeat, weight, height, etc., it becomes a nuisance to even go to the doctor’s office. We can just assume we’re healthy and not bother with this year’s exam.

            The fact remains though that internist suggest routine physical examinations for a reason: to make sure you actually are healthy. Though we may favor other engagements above seeing the doctor, we may eventually face illness for not going.

            Don’t make that mistake and schedule your physical examination now. I promise you physical examination NYC will be able to answer your initial questions and you’ll come out of the office for the better. 

Everything You Need To Know About a DOT Physical Exam

What is a DOT physical exam? Is it anything like the STRIPE physical exam or the PLAID physical exam? Uh, no. DOT stands for the Department Of Transportation and whether you realize it or not, drivers of certain vehicles, whether they’re buses or heavy trucks, need to receive a special license. Each and every vehicle comes with its own set of specific responsibilities and the Powers That Be have deemed buses and heavy trucks (and one or two other things) need a special license to lawfully drive. So be it.

                          

If you are in the market for a special DOT license, than you probably have a ton of questions. How much does it cost? What will they test for during the physical exam? Does it hurt? Etc. This article attempts to answer all these questions for you in a brief, detailed and light-hearted way.

First let’s talk about the cost. In today’s economy this is on the forefront of everyone’s mind so it should be addressed first and foremost. Is a DOT physical exam covered by your existing medical insurance? The answer is a resounding…yes! Do not fret if you are already covered. If you are not currently covered by medical insurance, chances are that this job that demands the physical examination will provide it for you, so the cost should be of minor concern. Thankfully, however, the cost is affordable. No one’s gouging when it comes to the DOT physical exam.

Next, let’s discuss who it is that actually needs to undergo the painless procedure of a DOT physical exam. If you are trying to receive a driver’s license for the following vehicles you will need to receive the exam:

·       A license for a vehicle that is used for commercial (business) purposes and that has a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating (or combined weight rating) of over ten thousand pounds—you will need to undergo a DOT physical exam.

·       A license for a bus or bus-like vehicle that carries more than sixteen passengers (including the driver)—you will need to undergo a DOT physical exam.

·       A license for a vehicle that is used for the removal or the transport of any and all hazardous materials—you will need to undergo a DOT physical exam. This does NOT include a McDonalds delivery truck, regardless of what you may think personally.

Finally, let’s take a look at the physical exam itself. What can you expect to experience while undergoing a DOT physical exam done by an internist? The following list contains all relevant information:

·       General health information and a history of past ailments and major health issues. This is followed by a test of your vital signs (pulse, respiratory system, blood pressure, etc.).

·       If you wear glasses for vision correction please bring your glasses with you. You will be given a visual exam. This test will include color.

·       A hearing test will also be administered to you during a DOT physical exam.

·       You will be tested for diabetes via a urine test.

This test is painless and very accurate, and after you pass it your license can be issued.  Good luck… and hit the road, Jack!

If you currently live in the NYC area and need to undergo or get DOT physical exam NYC (or any other physical exam), please log onto Doctor NYC for more information on this board-certified exam clinic. Located just blocks from Grand Central Station, this center is a breeze to get to from anywhere in the five boroughs (and upstate, too!). Please call 1-212-696-5900 to make an appointment. Be aware that late night and weekend appointments are available for your convenience.

Work Safety for You and the Company: Get Your Pre employment Physical Examination

Blue collar, white collar, cubicle, medical office, manual labor, service work, financial markets, freelance traveling. No matter what field, industry, market etc. we’re in, most of us need a profession to sustain our lifestyles. For a fair number of us out in the field, at one time or another, we may be asked to take a pre employment physical examination.

            Also called post offer physical exams, these tests are conducted to ensure the well-being of the potential employee and also to confirm that the applicant’s physical abilities match the job. These assessments are confidential, and have proven be effective in preventing accidents, lowering costs, and harmonizing employees with the right occupation.

            Physical examinations start with medical history (of both the hired hand and his/her family), and follow up with a musculoskeletal test, respiratory evaluation, gastrointestinal examination, a look at the head, eyes, nose, ears, and throat, skin and immunity assessment, neurological exam, and a cardiovascular probe. Oh and just to warn you there may also be a drug test as well. Using a urine sample, you may be check for anything from Marijuana to Cocaine to Opiates to alcohol depending on the employer. After that, you’re done!

            While these may seem like a lot, not all of them may be tested, based on position you hold in the company. If you’re working at heights (on a ladder for instance) or doing heavy lifting though, these tests will help assess whether you’ll be alright working there. Essentially it helps both the company to see if you’re the right employee and you so that you won’t get into an accident at work.

            No worries, it’ll take just a bit of time out of your day. If your company is asking for a pre employment physical examinationin NYC, stop by our office or schedule an appointment on our website, NYC Walk in Clinic.