Pre-Employment Physicals in NYC
Same-Day & Walk-In Exams
At Manhattan Medical Arts, we make pre-employment physicals simple, fast, and reliable. Whether you’re an employer ensuring compliance or a candidate preparing for a new role, our board-certified physician Dr. Syra Hanif M.D. and team provide same-day and walk-in physical exams at our Manhattan and Forest Hills locations.
insurance accepted, affordable self-pay options available.
What is a Pre-Employment
Physical?
A pre-employment physical is a medical exam required by employers to ensure candidates are healthy, safe, and capable of performing essential job duties. These exams reduce the risk of workplace injuries, protect employees, and help employers meet compliance requirements.
Workplace Safety
According to OSHA, workplace injuries have dropped from 10.9 cases per 100 workers in 1972 to just 2.4 cases per 100 workers in 2023 — thanks in part to better screening and occupational health standards.
New Hire Risk
More than 50% of all workplace injuries occur within the first two years of employment., showing why early health screening is critical.
At Manhattan Medical Arts, we ensure exams are ADA, HIPAA, OSHA, and DOT compliant, protecting both employers and employees.
Why Employers
Require Pre-Employment Exams
Employers request pre-employment physicals to:
Reduce workplace injuries and accidents
Lower workers’ compensation and insurance claims
Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and industry regulations
Improve productivity and workforce readiness
In 2023, private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses, down 8.4% from 2022.
Pre-employment exams play a vital role in driving this decline.
What’s Included in a
Pre-Employment Physical?
Your exam may include:
- Medical history review
- Vital signs (height, weight, blood pressure, temperature)
- General physical examination
- Vision and hearing screening
- Cardiovascular and respiratory evaluation
- Drug & alcohol testing (urine, saliva, hair, or blood panels)
- Vaccination review and updates
- Functional job-specific tests (lifting, carrying, stamina, reflexes)
Research shows rejection rates based on pre-employment exams can range from 2% to 35%, depending on job requirements. This ensures candidates are fit for the specific demands of the role.
How to Prepare for
Your Exam
To make your exam smooth and fast:
- Bring a valid photo ID and any employer paperwork
- List current medications, allergies, past surgeries, medical conditions
- Bring glasses or hearing aids if required
- Wear comfortable clothing for movement or lifting tasks
- Stay hydrated if blood work may be required
Most exams take 30–60 minutes. Results are typically available the same day.
Benefits
for Employers
Our exams are designed to make compliance and hiring easier:
- Lower liability and insurance costs
- Fewer workplace accidents and injuries
- Faster onboarding with same-day reporting
- Bulk scheduling for hiring events or seasonal workforce needs
Studies suggest that job-specific pre-employment exams can reduce musculoskeletal injuries, especially in physically demanding industries.
Compliance
& Confidentiality
We strictly follow:
ADA (Americans with
Disabilities Act)
Exams are non-discriminatory and limited to job-related requirements.
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
Your medical history is private. Employers only receive “fit/unfit” results, not full health records.
OSHA & DOT
Standards
Industry-specific exams available for transportation, healthcare, law enforcement, and construction workers.
GINA (Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act)
Employers cannot request family medical history.
Why Choose
Manhattan Medical Arts?
- Led by Dr. Syra Hanif, Board-Certified Primary Care Physician
- Two convenient NYC locations: Manhattan & Forest Hills
- Same-day & walk-in appointments available
- Most insurances accepted and affordable self-pay options
- Trusted by thousands of patients for preventive and occupational healthcare
We also offer Annual Physical Exams, making us a one-stop solution for all your medical clearance and preventive health needs.
Ready for Your Pre-Employment
Exam in NYC?
Whether you need a job clearance exam or you’re an employer ensuring compliance,
Manhattan Medical Arts makes it simple.
Same-Day
Appointments
Walk-Ins
Welcome
Insurance
accepted
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of drug tests are used in pre-employment exams?
Most pre-employment physicals include a urine drug screen, which tests for common substances like marijuana, cocaine, opioids, PCP, and amphetamines. Some employers request more comprehensive 10-panel tests, which may include prescription drugs. In certain cases, hair, saliva, or blood tests may also be required.
Can I fail a pre-employment physical?
Yes. If you do not meet the minimum health or physical requirements for the role, you may be considered unfit. However, under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), exams must only test for job-related functions, and accommodations may be offered when appropriate.
What are the common reasons someone may fail a pre-employment exam?
Common reasons include:
- Uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g., severe hypertension, heart issues)
- Drug or alcohol test failure
- Inability to meet job-specific physical requirements (e.g., lifting for warehouse jobs, vision for driving roles)
- Missing required vaccinations or documentation for healthcare or public-facing jobs
Do I need a referral for a pre-employment physical?
No referral is required. You can book an appointment directly with Manhattan Medical Arts or simply walk in to either of our NYC locations.
What forms do I need for a pre-employment physical?
Bring the paperwork provided by your employer, a valid photo ID, and any required medical or vaccination records. If your employer requires a specific form (e.g., DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate), bring that document with you.
What is medical clearance for work?
Medical clearance for work is the certification that you are fit to safely perform the duties of a specific job. After your exam, your employer will receive only a “fit” or “unfit” result — never your full medical history — ensuring both compliance and confidentiality.
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