Preventive Health Examination
A comprehensive medical examination focused on early detection and prevention of health conditions, rather than evaluation of a specific complaint.
Key Facts
- Components: vitals, vision, hearing, labs (CBC, metabolic), urinalysis
- Broader scope than DOT or OSHA-specific physicals
- Used for new hire evaluation, periodic monitoring, executive wellness
- Helps identify health risks early, reducing WC claims
In occupational health, preventive health examinations are used for new hire evaluation, periodic health monitoring, and executive wellness programs. Typical components include: medical history review, vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, BMI), vision and hearing screening, basic lab work (CBC, metabolic panel), urinalysis, and physician assessment. Unlike DOT or OSHA-specific physicals, preventive exams are broader in scope and customized to the employer's program requirements. They help identify health risks early, reducing future workers' comp claims and absenteeism.
Occupational Medical Exams Compared
Comparison of common workplace medical evaluations and their purposes.
| Type | Purpose | Regulation | Frequency | Ordered By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DOT Physical | CMV driver clearance | FMCSA (49 CFR 391) | Every 1–2 years | Employer / FMCSA |
| Preventive Exam | General wellness screening | Employer policy | Annual or periodic | Employer |
| Fitness for Duty | Safe to perform job duties | ADA-guided | As needed | Employer |
| FCE | Measure functional capacity | None specific | After injury/claim | Insurance / employer |
| IME | Independent medical opinion | Workers' comp / legal | As needed | Insurance / legal |
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