12-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test: FAQ | AMH Nationwide
12-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test FAQ for Clear Understanding and Guidance
The 12-panel hair follicle drug test FAQ addresses common questions about this method of drug detection using hair samples. This test screens for twelve drug categories with a detection window of up to 90 days. The collection is performed through national lab networks including Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. Call (877) 731-6362 for details or to schedule testing.
What substances does the 12-panel hair follicle drug test detect?
The 12-panel hair follicle drug test detects twelve specific drug classes using a hair sample. It screens for substances including amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), benzodiazepines, barbiturates, methadone, propoxyphene, ecstasy (MDMA), oxycodone, and methamphetamine.
How long after drug use can the 12-panel hair follicle drug test detect substances?
The 12-panel hair follicle drug test can detect drug use typically up to 90 days prior to collection. Hair grows approximately half an inch per month, and the standard 1.5-inch hair sample captures about a three-month history of drug exposure. This makes it effective for identifying long-term patterns rather than recent use.
How is the hair sample collected for the 12-panel hair follicle drug test?
The hair sample is collected at a designated collection site affiliated with one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox. A small sample, typically about 100 strands, is cut close to the scalp from the crown area. AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs the requester to the nearest authorized collection site. There is no online ordering available.
What happens after the hair sample is collected for the 12-panel hair follicle drug test?
After collection, the hair sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis. The lab conducts initial screening followed by confirmation testing if necessary. Every non-negative result is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) as part of the standard processing to ensure accuracy and proper interpretation of results.
Need a 12-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test?
Contact AMH Nationwide to obtain a lab order and locate a collection site near you. Call (877) 731-6362 to speak with a representative.
Who typically orders the 12-panel hair follicle drug test and is it DOT compliant?
The 12-panel hair follicle drug test is commonly ordered by employers, legal entities, and other organizations seeking to evaluate long-term drug use. It is used for non-DOT safety-sensitive roles because the Department of Transportation requires federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40 for DOT-regulated positions. Hair testing is not accepted for DOT compliance.
What is the cost of the 12-panel hair follicle drug test and how can I schedule one?
Pricing for the 12-panel hair follicle drug test varies depending on the specific panel and detection window required. For an accurate quote or to schedule testing, call AMH Nationwide at (877) 731-6362. AMH provides the lab order and directs you to an authorized collection site; online ordering is not available.
Common Questions
Typically, about 100 strands of hair, approximately 1.5 inches in length, are collected from the crown area of the head. This length represents around 90 days of drug history. If head hair is unavailable, body hair may be used but detection windows and interpretation may vary.
Hair treatments such as dyeing, bleaching, or perming can potentially reduce the concentration of drug metabolites in hair samples, but they do not completely prevent detection. Laboratories account for this possibility, and the test remains reliable for identifying drug use within the detection window.
Results typically take 3 to 5 business days after the laboratory receives the hair sample. This timeframe includes initial screening, confirmatory testing if needed, and review by a certified Medical Review Officer.
The hair follicle test offers a longer detection window compared to urine testing, detecting drug use up to 90 days versus a few days for urine. It is less susceptible to adulteration but may not detect very recent drug use. Both tests have specific applications depending on testing needs.
If the initial screen is non-negative, the sample undergoes confirmatory testing and review by a Medical Review Officer who will contact the individual for verification. It’s important to provide any necessary medical or prescription information during this process.
The 12-panel test detects twelve common drug classes but does not cover every possible substance. It focuses on frequently misused drugs relevant to employment and legal screening. For other substances or specialized panels, alternative testing may be necessary.
Ready to get started?
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and arranges collection nationwide. Every non-negative result reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362 or contact us.