New federal regulations for truck drivers' health exams
New federal regulations will require truck drivers to undergo medical exams from health professionals with special training and certifications by 2014, MPR News reports.
The stereotype that truck drivers are overweight, drink too many soft drinks and eat lots of fast food is becoming more and more true according to a study by the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The 2007 study found that 86 percent of truckers were overweight and 66 percent were obese.
MPR says health problems stemming from a poor diet and lack of physical activity can contribute to accidents on the road.
Currently, commercial drivers can basically go to any provider, medical doctor or chiropractor to get a DOT physical to renew their license every two years, according to the Republican Eagle.
Doctors say if drivers are denied their medical cards due to a health reason, there are many opportunities to "shop around" for other providers. The new training for physicians aims to avoid the discrepancy.
