Undergoing a pre‑employment or occupational physical exam can feel like a hurdle—but it’s really an opportunity to ensure you’re ready for the job and to take charge of your health. At Hillside Family Medicine, our occupational medicine services support workers in industries ranging from aviation to construction.
What Is a Pre‑Employment Physical?
A pre‑employment physical is a general health assessment employers require to make sure employees can safely perform job tasks—especially in physically demanding or safety‑sensitive roles like commercial driving, industrial work, or airline duties. These exams often include medical history review, vital signs, vision and hearing checks, and sometimes labs or drug screens depending on workplace requirements.
Why It Matters for Employers and Employees
These exams help employers meet safety standards and maintain a healthy workforce. For employees, they offer a baseline snapshot of your health—allowing you to address issues before they become long‑term concerns. Our occupational medicine team also offers follow‑up assessments, medical surveillance, and FAA/DOT certification when needed.
How to Prepare for Your Exam
- Gather your medical history—list chronic conditions, previous injuries, medications, and allergies.
- Bring your driver’s license or photo ID and any paperwork from your employer.
- Dress appropriately—loose clothes for mobility checks and easy access to measurements.
- Be honest about symptoms—accurate information helps ensure safe placement and care.
At Hillside Family Medicine, we aim to make the process efficient and comfortable. You can learn more at our Occupational Medicine service page.
What Happens During the Exam?
Depending on the requirements, you may experience the following:
- Review of your medical history and discussion of your job duties
- Vital signs assessment plus vision and hearing tests
- Blood work or urine samples, if requested
- Strength, flexibility, or lung function testing, if part of your job’s risk profile
Once the exam is complete, our team produces a report that goes to your employer. If there are any concerns, our physicians can help discuss accommodations or next steps.
General Health Tips for Healthy Employment
Maintaining baseline health not only makes your exam go smoothly—it supports performance on the job:
- Stay hydrated, especially if blood testing or fasting is involved.
- Get enough sleep the night before appointments.
- Wear non-restrictive clothing so the exam isn’t uncomfortable.
For a broader understanding, see this guide on what a pre‑employment physical includes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and a clear overview from the clinic context on MedicineNet.
Need Help Scheduling?
Visit our Contact Us page or call the clinic to book your occupational medicine or pre‑employment exam. We also welcome walk‑in visits when applicable.
Pre‑employment exams protect both you and your employer—consider them an important step toward a healthy career.
