Some employers require an employee to pass a physical exam as a condition of employment. While state laws often grant several different types of health care professionals the authority to conduct physical exams, employers set their own guidelines regarding who can perform a pre-employment physical.
Physicians
Medical doctors and osteopaths are licensed to perform physical examinations in every state. Employers or their insurers are most likely to accept a physical performed by a physician, as physicians have the most training and medical authority of any health care profession.
Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who have completed additional education in providing primary health care services. State laws typically allow them to perform physical exams and order diagnostic testing.
Physician Assistants
Physician assistants are trained to provide medical care under the supervision of physicians. Like both physicians and nurse practitioners, they can perform physical exams and order lab tests.
Naturopaths
Naturopaths are alternative medical practitioners who specialize in prescribing natural therapies and treatments, such as herbs and bodywork, to their patients. In some states, such as Oregon, naturopaths are licensed as primary care physicians and can perform physical exams and order testing.
Chiropractors
Chiropractors specialize in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. While chiropractors are best known for performing spinal manipulation, they can also perform physical exams and other diagnostic testing in many states.
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