19-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test Results Timeline Explained for Accurate Planning

What is the typical turnaround time for 19-panel hair follicle drug test results?

The typical turnaround time for 19-panel hair follicle drug test results is between 3 to 5 business days from the date of sample collection. This timeframe accounts for the initial screening and laboratory analysis performed by one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox.

Hair follicle testing requires specialized analysis to detect drug metabolites embedded in hair strands, which takes longer than urine tests but provides a longer detection window of up to 90 days. The 3 to 5 day window is the standard for routine processing under normal conditions.

What happens after the hair sample is collected?

After the hair sample is collected at a designated collection site, the sample is securely sent to one of the five national lab networks for analysis. The lab technicians prepare the hair, extract drug metabolites, and run the 19-panel screening using validated methods.

Once the initial screening is complete, the lab generates a report which is reviewed internally before being forwarded to a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) for final assessment. This review ensures accuracy and proper interpretation of any non-negative findings.

How does a non-negative result affect the timeline?

If the initial screening produces a non-negative result, the timeline extends due to mandatory confirmation testing. The lab performs more specific confirmatory analysis, typically using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

After confirmation, the results are again reviewed by a certified MRO who evaluates the findings and may consult with the donor if medically necessary. This confirmation and review process can add 2 to 4 additional business days to the overall timeline.

What factors can delay the 19-panel hair follicle drug test results timeline?

Several factors can delay results beyond the typical 3 to 5 business days, including:

– Collection site errors or improper sample handling requiring recollection

– High volume periods at labs causing backlogs

– Additional testing requested by the MRO or client

– Shipping delays between collection site and lab

– Complex cases requiring extended MRO review or donor consultation

Which labs handle the 19-panel hair follicle drug test and how does this affect timing?

The 19-panel hair follicle drug test is processed by one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox. Each lab follows strict protocols but may have slight variations in processing times.

Clients do not select the lab; AMH provides the lab order and directs the requester to a collection site where the sample is collected and sent to the assigned lab. This ensures standardized handling and compliance with regulatory standards.

Regardless of the lab, standard turnaround remains around 3 to 5 business days for negative results, with added time for non-negative confirmations.

How do I initiate the 19-panel hair follicle drug test and what should I expect?

To initiate the 19-panel hair follicle drug test, contact AMH Nationwide at (877) 731-6362. AMH provides the lab order and directs you to a nearby collection site; there is no online ordering available.

At the collection site, a trained technician collects the hair sample following strict chain-of-custody procedures. The sample is then sent to one of the five national labs for analysis.

Expect results in approximately 3 to 5 business days if negative. If the result is non-negative, confirmation and MRO review extend the timeline by several days. Contact AMH for specific timing estimates based on your test panel and circumstances.

Common Questions