Medical

The medical exam outlined in the Wellness/Fitness Program is different from what most people may regard as a "check up". Information collected on this exam is much more comprehensive and specific to fire department uniformed personnel. The exam is designed to help identify health problems affecting the individual, his/her department, and the professional fire service. Information to be collected includes history, lab results, physician exam, exposure information, occupational hazards, early detection, and prevention. Data collected is used to track the natural history and health status of firefighters and EMS providers.

Medical exams are currently provided to promote and maintain the highest possible level of wellness and fitness to Tempe Fire Department members through a coordinated program designed to accomplish the following:

• To determine through the fire department physician, whether an individual is physically and mentally able to perform essential job duties without undue risk of harm to self or others.
• To monitor the effects of exposure to specific biological, physical, or chemical agents.
• To detect changes in an individual’s health that may be related to the working environment.
• To detect any patterns of disease in the work force that might indicate underlying work related issues that can be addressed.
• To provide members information about occupational hazards and current health.
• To provide a cost-effective investment in the early detection, disease prevention, and health promotion of the Fire Department member.
• To comply with federal, state, and local requirements.

Confidentiality! All medical information obtained through the Medical Evaluation will be maintained according to physician - patient confidentiality standards.

In accordance with NFPA 1500 and OSHA 1910.134, all members certified to wear SCBA’s shall receive a periodic comprehensive medical exam. The periodic exam is a mandatory physical to be received every 12 to 18 months. All other members may receive a voluntary medical once every 2 years.