Drug Testing Results and Process Overview
Lab Test Solutions (LTS) is committed to providing accurate, timely, and confidential drug testing services. Below, we outline how results are handled based on the type of testing, along with details on processing times, methodologies, and factors affecting turnaround.
1. For Employers
When an employer arranges for drug testing, results are sent directly to them. LTS adheres strictly to Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Personally Identifiable Information (PII) guidelines, which means LTS will not discuss results with donors or applicants.
2. For Self-Purchased Drug Tests
If you've purchased a drug test for personal reasons, you’ll receive an email with instructions on accessing your results.
Access Instructions: Check your email for a link and login credentials to view your results.
Further Assistance: If you encounter issues accessing your results, you can reply to the email with your barcode information, and our support team will assist you promptly.
3. For Legal Drug Tests
If a drug test was ordered for legal purposes, results will be sent to the designated law office or public agency, provided they have an account with LTS.
Result Delivery: Results are transmitted directly to the authorized legal entity (e.g., law firm or government agency).
Notification: You will receive an email with your barcode information and details on where your results are being sent.
General Processing Times and Factors Influencing Turnaround
The time required for drug test results to be available depends on several factors:
Test Type: Urine, hair, and blood tests vary in processing time.
Volume of Samples: Higher volumes may impact lab efficiency.
Lab Capacity: Workload, staffing levels, and time of sample receipt affect processing speed.
Shipping: Shipping schedules and any delays in transport can affect timing.
Standard Timeline: For most tests, results are available within 24-48 hours of sample receipt by the lab. However, complex tests or higher sample volumes may extend this timeline by a few days to a week. In cases where findings require verification, an additional 5 business days may be necessary.
Analytical Techniques Used: LC-MS and GC-MS
LTS utilizes Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) for confirmatory testing on all samples. These advanced techniques ensure precise identification and quantification of compounds.
General LC-MS and GC-MS Process:
Sample Preparation: Prepares the sample to achieve optimal results.
Separation: Isolates individual compounds.
Ionization: Charges molecules for identification.
Detection: Identifies specific compounds within the sample.
Quantification: Measures the levels of compounds.
These techniques are used across fields such as environmental science, food safety, clinical chemistry, and forensics, providing high sensitivity and accuracy.
Sample Result Details and Interpretation
Below is a sample format for how drug test results may appear:
Donor Details:
Name: John Doe
SSN/ID: XXXXX1111
Specimen Information:
Test Information:
Overall Result: Negative, Positive, Dilute, Cancelled, Invalid Specimen, Fatal Flaw
Panel Tested: 10 Panel + ETG (Low Cutoff)
Reason for Test: [Reason, e.g., pre-employment, random]
Substances Tested: Phencyclidine, Methaqualone, Marijuana, Opiates, Cocaine, etc.
Positive Substances (if any): e.g., Glucose (U) Ql, Alcohol
Additional Notes:
The alcohol result was inconclusive due to glucose levels. Collect a specimen by alternative means if a definitive alcohol result is required.
The non-negative result has not been reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO).
Testing Sites:
Collection Site: [Location]
Laboratory: [Lab Name]
Date Verified/Transmitted: [Date]
MRO Name: [Name if applicable, or "No MRO Used"]
By following these protocols, LTS ensures that test results are handled with the highest standards of privacy, accuracy, and reliability. If you have additional questions or need further assistance, please reach out to our support team. Thank you for trusting Lab Testing Solutions with your drug testing needs.
