17-Panel Hair Drug Test: Results Timeline | AMH Nationwide
17-Panel Hair Drug Test Results Timeline for Reliable Reporting
The 17-panel hair drug test results timeline typically spans 5 to 7 business days from collection to reporting. Non-negative results undergo confirmation by a certified Medical Review Officer, which may extend the timeline. Factors such as sample condition or lab volume can also cause delays. Call (877) 731-6362 for more information.
What is the typical turnaround time for 17-panel hair drug test results?
The typical turnaround time for 17-panel hair drug test results is 5 to 7 business days from the date of specimen collection. This timeline includes routing the sample to one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox.
The hair drug test involves analyzing a small hair sample for 17 different substances, and processing times reflect the complexity of the panel and the testing methods used.
How does a non-negative 17-panel hair drug test result affect the timeline?
When a 17-panel hair drug test result is non-negative, it triggers a confirmation process that extends the overall timeline. This confirmation is conducted using more specific methods such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
The confirmation procedure is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) who evaluates the result and any medical explanations before releasing the final report. This step typically adds 2 to 3 business days to the timeline.
What factors can delay 17-panel hair drug test results?
Several factors may delay the 17-panel hair drug test results timeline beyond the usual 5 to 7 business days:
• Sample quality issues such as insufficient hair quantity or contamination
• High lab volume or backlog at the national lab networks
• Additional testing requests or disputes requiring reanalysis
• Delays in specimen shipment from collection site to the lab
How is the 17-panel hair drug test sample processed after collection?
After collection at an authorized site, the hair sample is securely packaged and sent to one of the five national lab networks for analysis. The labs follow strict chain-of-custody protocols to ensure sample integrity.
Once received, the sample undergoes initial screening for the 17 drug substances. Negative screens are reported promptly, while non-negative screens proceed to confirmation testing.
Need 17-Panel Hair Drug Test Results Quickly?
Contact AMH Nationwide to schedule your collection and understand the expected timeline. Call (877) 731-6362 to speak with a representative.
When and how are 17-panel hair drug test results reported?
Final 17-panel hair drug test results, including confirmed non-negatives, are typically reported within 5 to 10 business days after collection. Reports are sent to the requesting party as directed by AMH Nationwide.
The certified Medical Review Officer reviews all non-negative results before release to ensure accuracy and provide interpretation if needed.
What is the overall timeline summary for 17-panel hair drug test results?
In summary, the 17-panel hair drug test results timeline generally follows this sequence:
1. Collection at an authorized site
2. Shipment to one of five national labs
3. Initial screening within 3 to 5 business days
4. Confirmation of non-negative results within 2 to 3 additional business days
5. Review by Medical Review Officer and final reporting
Total time from collection to final report is usually 5 to 10 business days, with variables such as confirmation and lab workload influencing exact timing.
Common Questions
The 17-panel hair drug test detects drug use within approximately the past 90 days, as drugs are deposited in hair as it grows. This test is not used for recent use within hours or days.
Confirmation testing uses advanced methods like GC-MS or LC-MS/MS to verify initial positive screens. This process is more detailed and requires review by a Medical Review Officer, extending the timeline.
Standard turnaround times depend on lab processing and cannot be guaranteed faster. Contact AMH Nationwide at (877) 731-6362 to discuss any special timing needs.
If the sample is inadequate, the collection site will be contacted to recollect. This can delay the overall timeline beyond the typical 5 to 7 business days.
No, DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing requires federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair testing is used for non-DOT roles.
A certified Medical Review Officer reviews all non-negative 17-panel hair drug test results as part of standard processing before final reporting.
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.