Blood Drug Screen: How It Works | AMH Nationwide
Understanding Blood Drug Screen How It Works for Reliable Results
Blood drug screen how it works involves collecting a blood sample that is analyzed in certified labs for the presence of drugs. The process includes initial screening, confirmation testing, and a Medical Review Officer review of non-negative results. Call (877) 731-6362 to arrange testing through AMH Nationwide.
How is the blood sample collected for a blood drug screen?
The blood sample for a blood drug screen is collected by a trained phlebotomist at an authorized collection site. AMH Nationwide directs the requester to one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox for collection.
The collection procedure involves drawing blood using sterile techniques, typically from a vein in the arm. The sample is then securely labeled and prepared for transport to the testing laboratory.
What happens to the blood sample at the lab during a blood drug screen?
Upon arrival at the lab, the blood sample undergoes an initial drug screening using immunoassay techniques to detect the presence of drugs or their metabolites. This screening is sensitive and designed to identify a broad range of substances.
If the initial screen is non-negative, the lab performs a confirmation test using more precise methods such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to verify the findings.
How does the screening and confirmation process work in a blood drug screen?
The screening phase uses immunoassays that quickly detect drug markers but can produce false positives. To ensure accuracy, any non-negative result triggers a confirmation test.
The confirmation test uses highly specific analytical methods to identify the exact drugs and their concentrations in the blood, eliminating false positives and providing definitive results.
What role does the Medical Review Officer play in a blood drug screen?
Every non-negative blood drug screen result is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). The MRO evaluates the laboratory findings and reviews the individual’s medical history to determine if there is a legitimate medical explanation for the result.
This review ensures the accuracy and fairness of the test results before final reporting to the requester.
Ready to Schedule Your Blood Drug Screen?
Contact AMH Nationwide to get directed to an authorized collection site and begin the testing process. Call (877) 731-6362.
Which labs analyze blood drug screen samples for AMH Nationwide?
AMH Nationwide routes blood drug screen samples through five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. Each lab follows strict protocols for sample handling, analysis, and reporting.
This multi-network approach ensures wide geographic coverage and access to specialized testing technologies.
How do you arrange a blood drug screen with AMH Nationwide?
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs the requester to a nearby collection site within the authorized lab networks. There is no option for online ordering; all arrangements must be made by phone.
To schedule a blood drug screen or for more information about the process, call (877) 731-6362.
Common Questions
Blood drug screens typically detect drugs consumed within the past few hours to a couple of days, depending on the substance. Blood testing shows recent use more accurately than urine or hair.
No, DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing requires federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Blood drug screens are used primarily for non-DOT roles.
No, blood samples must be collected by trained professionals at authorized collection sites to ensure proper handling and chain of custody.
If the initial blood drug screen is negative, no further confirmation testing is performed, and the negative result is reported.
Turnaround times vary by lab and test panel but typically range from 1 to 3 business days after sample collection.
A certified Medical Review Officer reviews all non-negative blood drug screen results to verify accuracy and consider medical explanations before 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.