Frequently Asked Questions

• --How can I prepare for drug testing?

  • Please ensure that you bring the proper documentation
    • A government issued form of photo identification such as a driver’s license or passport is required.
    • If you are sent for drug testing by an employer, please bring any paperwork that was provided to you. This can include an email that has a barcode on it. You do not have to print the barcode or barcode number if it is easily accessible on your mobile device.
  • If you take prescription medication, please do not bring them with you. We will not note any prescription drugs you might be taking on the chain of custody form. The MRO, medical review officer, will contact you regarding any result that may be because of medication.

  URINE – Stay Hydrated (but don’t overdo it). Drinking plenty of water will ensure that you are able to provide an adequate sample for testing. However, excessive fluid intake right before the test can dilute your urine and lead to inconclusive results.

  ORAL Fluid – The donor should avoid eating, drinking, chewing gum, chewing tobacco, taking breath mints, etc. for at least 15-30 minutes prior to the collection.

  HAIR – A small sample of hair is going to be cut from your head right at the scalp. If you have very little or no hair on your head, the collector might use body hair for the test instead.

  NAIL – The length of nail required to test must be approximately the same as the thickness of a US quarter on each nail. Either fingernail or toenail will be collected, they cannot be mixed. The nails must be clean from any paint, polish, gel, acrylic, stains, etc.

• --How do I get a copy of my drug testing results?

  We will not provide any test results over the phone.

  • I paid for the test myself:
    • You will be asked at the time of collection where you would like your results sent to and sign a medical release form when applicable. Generally, we will ask for an email to send your results.
    • If you need a hard copy of your results, you can walk in during business hours with your photo ID, and we will provide you with a copy of the results.
  • My test was authorized by my employer:
    • The results of your testing will be sent directly back to your employer. We will not have access to the results.
  • My test was ordered through a state agency, such as Children’s Division:
    • The results of your test will be sent directly to the worker who ordered it. You may also come into our office during business hours with your photo ID, and we will provide you with a copy of your results.

• --What is a Medical Review Officer and why would they call me?

  A medical review officer (MRO) is a licensed physician who reviews and verifies drug test results. The MRO determines if a legally prescribed drug affects your test result. You might be called when you have a positive drug test. The MRO will verify your prescription and once verified, your results will be reported as negative.

• --What type of drug test is better, hair or urine?

  Neither type of testing is better than the other. It depends on what you are trying to accomplish and why you need to take a drug test. Urine will detect most drugs for 3-4 days and is less expensive. Hair will detect drugs for up to 90 days and is more expensive.

• --What is the difference between DOT and Non-DOT drug testing?

  DOT drug testing is specifically mandated by the Department of Transportation for safety-sensitive positions and is federally regulated. These positions include commercial drivers, pilots, railroad workers, and other transportation-related personnel.

  Non-DOT drug testing refers to testing that is NOT mandated by federal regulations. The scope and guidelines for non-DOT drug testing are based on factors such as company policies, industry standards, and legal requirements.

• --Will I be tested for marijuana (THC) on a DOT drug test?

  Yes, DOT drug testing does test for marijuana (THC metabolites). Although medical and recreational marijuana use may be legal in the state of Missouri, federal regulations override state laws. The DOT mandates that all drug tests for safety-sensitive employees, including those in Missouri, include testing for marijuana (THC). This is part of a standard 5-panel drug test that also screens for cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP.  The DOT explicitly states that state medical marijuana laws do not provide a valid medical explanation for a positive DOT drug test result.