Medical Marijuana – OK for Commercial Drivers?
Much of the recent press about marijuana has been regarding recreational use now legal in several states.
Much of the recent press about marijuana has been regarding recreational use now legal in several states.
One of my biggest pet peeves is transferring patients to the ER because of the inability to obtain confirmatory diagnostic testing for potentially serious conditions. We all know the ER cost of admission – 4-5 X what it costs to treat the same condition in the urgent care setting.
The commercial driver is at an increased risk for developing acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to long hours of sitting as part of the profession.
The FMCSA is urging medical examiners to give clear explanations to drivers regarding certification determinations, and to distinguish between what is “required” by regulation and what is recommended as guidelines or best practices.
Obesity is an epidemic among commercial drivers. As a group, they are also getting older, are sedentary, smoke, have poor eating habits, have multiple medical problems including cardiovascular disease and obstructive sleep apnea, and are unhealthier than the general population.
I had a question about the alcohol and drug screens for the DOT: is it mandatory for them to have the alcohol and drug screen test? it was a bit confusing.
I was asked to do an evaluation for an employee returning to work following a CVA. He operates a tow motor and the employer wants to ensure he will be safe. ADA concerns?
For a long time I’ve wanted to share personal and team productivity techniques I and others I work with have found useful. I’ve probably hesitated on this because there are so many excellent tools I use and I always think I should boil it down to just a few and explain all my reasons for using this or that app.
FMCSA Bulletin on Sleep Apnea is not Rule
Finally some guidance to medical examiners from FMCSA in this bulletin on obstructive sleep apnea. Although not a “rule” and therefore no specific details of exactly how to screen, evaluate, certify/disqualify, or manage these cases, the guidance here is consistent with previous recommendations and medical expert panel reports.
FMCSA AND URGENT CARE
Over 90% of urgent care centers provide some type of occupational medicine services. These services typically include drug screens, employee physicals, worker’s compensation injury care and other testing and specialized exams.