4 Questions to Ask About Pre-Employment Physical Exam

A pre-employment work physical is a medical exam that is conducted on prospective employees before they’re hired to ensure that they’re physically fit to perform the duties of their job. This type of physical examination can also be referred to as a pre-employment medical examination or a pre-employment health screening.

The tests conducted during a pre-employment work physical can vary depending on the job requirements, but they typically include a review of the individual’s medical history, a physical exam, vision and hearing tests, drug and alcohol screenings, and a series of tests to assess the individual’s strength, endurance, and cardiovascular health.

Several reasons can cause a person to fail a pre-employment physical exam, including: 

Drug or alcohol use: Many employers require drug tests as part of their pre-employment physical exams. If the candidate tests positive for drug or alcohol use, they may be disqualified from the job. 

Infections or contagious diseases: Many jobs require employees to work closely with others. If a candidate has any contagious disease, they may fail the pre-employment physical. 

Medical conditions: For example, if a candidate has uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, or any other chronic condition that can get in the way of their work, the employer may choose not to hire them. 

Physical limitations: If a candidate cannot meet the physical demands of the job, they may fail the pre-employment physical. For example, individuals who have back problems, knee issues, or other mobility constraints may not be considered for jobs that require heavy lifting, lengthy standing, or walking. 

Poor vision or hearing: Good vision and hearing are crucial for many jobs, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. If a candidate fails the vision or hearing tests during the pre-employment physical, they may not be considered for a job where these senses are critical. 

Preparing for a physical examination is essential to ensure the assessment is thorough and accurate, so here are some steps you can take to make sure you’re ready:

Review your medical history: Take time to review your medical history, including past surgeries, illnesses, and medications. Write down any concerns you may have, such as persistent pains or symptoms that need to be addressed. 

Make a list of medications: Make a complete list of all medications, including vitamins and supplements, and bring it along to your appointment. This is important to ensure that your healthcare provider is aware of all medications you are taking to avoid any potential drug interactions. 

Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable and loose clothing that can be easily removed for a physical examination. Leave any jewelry at home and avoid wearing perfumes or lotions.

Fast if necessary: If you’re scheduled for a blood test or other lab work, you may be asked to fast for several hours before your appointment. Make sure to follow the fasting instructions given by your healthcare provider. 

Bring the necessary documents: If you’re a new patient, bring along any required documents, such as your health insurance card or a photo ID. 

Be honest: During your appointment, be honest with your healthcare provider about any health concerns or questions you may have. Don’t be shy or embarrassed to discuss any personal or sensitive health issues as they may have a significant impact on your overall health.

Ultimately, the choice of where to go for pre-employment physicals depends on personal preference, convenience, and budget. However, choosing a reputable and licensed facility with qualified medical professionals is imperative to ensure a smooth and successful pre-employment screening process. 

Some examples of places where one can get pre-employment physicals include urgent care clinics, occupational health centers, and in-house medical providers. It’s advisable to conduct research and compare the services, fees, locations, and providers of various facilities before settling on one.

If you need a professional pre-employment physical, you can feel free to visit us at Express Healthcare. Our medical team would be happy to provide the top-level care that you need to successfully move forward in the hiring process. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 4701 Melbourne Place College Park, MD 20740. We serve patients from College Park MD, Berwyn Heights MD, White Oak MD, Seabrook MD, Laurel MD, Springdale MD, New Carrollton MD, Mitchellville MD and surrounding areas.