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Industry News

4 Startling Marijuana Statistics You Need to Know

New Drug Treatment Court in Virginia Beach

Accredited Drug Testing Providing FREE Drug Testing to First Responders in Texas and Florida

ADT Statistics

(September)

2,147 Tests

Schedule/Performed

Proud to Serve Over

783 Employers

Nationwide

20 New Clients

Welcome!

Our thoughts and prayers are with those victims and families affected by the Hurricanes and the Las Vegas shootings.

episode 5

Interview with Jo McGuire

In the newest American Drug Talk Episode, we speak with the Chairman-elect of the National Drug and Alcohol Testing Industry Association, Ms. Jo McGuire about Marijuana use and its’ expansion across the United States and her personal story.

Watch Now
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ADT Attends NAPBS 2017

In September, Accredited Drug Testing staff exhibited at and attended the National Association of Professional Background Screeners Conference, great information was provided relating to the FCRA and more.

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ADT Receives Highest National Accreditation!

The Drug & Alcohol Testing Industry Association (DATIA) has awarded Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. the National Accreditation For The Administration of Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs.

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Music Festival to Provide Drug Testing... On Drugs?

music festival drug testing

Many times music festivals can be the breeding grounf of unsafe, tampered drugs and the people that sell them. Over the years several drug overdoses and death have happened at music festivals because of synthetic drug use.

Read More

Steps to Schedule a Test

The process to schedule a drug, alcohol, or any service at any testing center nationwide is fast and easy. There are three different methods which you may utilize depending on the method you prefer. 

Method 1: Call Our National Scheduling Office at 800-221-4291

Method 2: Email orders@accrediteddrugtesting.net

Method 3: Receive Log In to Scheduling System (Brief Training Required)

Order Test Now

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Accredited Drug Testing, Inc.
Testing Centers Nationwide
“Need A Test, Choose The Best”
www.accrediteddrugtesting.net
(800) 221-4291

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As the leader in the Drug and Alcohol Testing Industry, Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. recently attended the International Forum for Drugs and Alcohol Testing.

The President and CEO of Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. James Greer, and Vice President John Burgos visited the two-day conference to discuss industry topics such as alternate testing methods, legal challenges in testing, new technology, contractor compliance in the oil and gas industry, testing in the aviation industry and more.

What is IFDAT?

The International Forum for Drugs and Alcohol Testing (IFDAT) is an annual event where drug testing and related industry professionals come together. Experts from all over the world unite to share their knowledge with the rest of the international community.

Great efforts are made by the IFDAT organizers to create an event that is worthwhile, inspiring and educational for all participants. IFDAT sponsors are also key in making these conferences possible and effective.

The IFDAT conference is held annually and is hosted at a variety of venues throughout the United States and internationally.

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The effects of Veteran substance abuse are substantial in the United States. Veterans often have to cope with stress after returning from multiple deployments. They may also suffer from mental illnesses and injuries that can contribute to a substance use disorder.

Veteran Substance Abuse Related To Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Veteran PTSD

PTSD or Post-traumatic stress disorder is an extremely common mental illness that is seen among United States Veterans. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — by experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts. These symptoms may be provoked by obsessive thoughts leading to memories, or anything that is relatable to the trama. Many Veterans turn to substance abuse to self-medicate and numb their pain. More than 20 percent of Veterans with PTSD suffer from a drug or alcohol addiction.

Veteran Substance Abuse Related To Pain Managment

Along with mental illnesses, many of our Military become seriously injured and tend to be treated with extremely strong pain medication. Once exposed to these medications, many find it hard to stop. Perscription pain medication is one of the leading factors in drug abuse today.From 2001 to 2009, the rate of opioids prescribed to military members has quadrupled, mainly because of combat-related injuries and muscle strains.

Veteran Substance Abuse

War today, like the War On Terror, is extremely different then it has been in the past. This new kind of war has increased the emotional and traumatic experiences suffered by United States Service Members.

Veteran Substance Abuse Statistics

A number of studies have shown that there are links between Veteran substance abuse, depression, and suicide. In one study that involved around 600 Veterans who were deployed to either Afghanistan or Iraq, 39% of the vets were screened and showed positive for alcohol abuse.

Veteran Substance Abuse

A larger study that involved more than 675,000 active duty personnel determined that the rate of both substance use disorders and depression has increased among active members of the military. This rounds to about 1 in 15 Veterans having a substance abuse problem.  Another study determined that the rate of suicide across all military services in the USA increased between 2005 and 2007.

 

 

 

Prevention Not Punishment

The declaration of President Trumps Opioid Epidemic, a public health emergency, has heightened the awareness of the effects drug addiction is having on American citizens. With the United States Military battling the War On Terror, the rest of America will be battling the War On Drugs. Prevention, not punishment is key in changing the statistics.

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A study from Quest Diagnostics revealed that 4.2 percent of the U.S. workforce tested positive for illicit drugs in 2016, the highest rate since 2004. Substance Abuse in America is on the rise.

Today more then ever, people are aware of the negative impact substance abuse has on the economy.

Some say this trend is due to the opioid epidemic President Donald Trump has declared as a public health emergency. Blaming large pharmaceutical companies for pushing these products upon doctors and patients.

 

It is not just opioids that have been on the rise as the culprit of a positive drug test. A study done by Quest Diagnostics revealed that positive urine tests for cocaine increased for the fourth consecutive year, reaching a 12% increase in 2016.

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Drugs are negatively affecting the economy.

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You do not have to use drugs to feel the negative effects of a drug user.

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There are ways to stop this epidemic.

Substance Abuse and The Economy

Productivity losses are calculated as work that would be reasonably expected to have been done if not for drug use (a loss of potential income and output and therefore GDP) as a result of a reduction in the supply or effectiveness of the workforce. Lost productivity in the United States as a result of labor non-participation is a significant $120 billion dollars.

 

Drugs in the workplace have an extremely high cost for the employer. It is often the cause of workplace injuries and accidents. Drug abuse costs employers 81 billion dollars per year.

Effects of Substance Abuse

One of the main reasons why a potential employee is not able to become hired is the fact that they can not pass a drug test. This reason has lead employers to hire refugees that have come to America, to take the place of U.S citizens. Most refugees that come to America don’t even know what drugs are. In the United States, drug use is often talked about and almost glorified through music, social media, and other aspects of life. The percentage of American workers testing positive for illegal drugs has climbed steadily over the last three years to its highest level in a decade.

refugee workplace

Pictured above is Talib Alzamel, a 45-year-old Syrian refugee who works at Sterling Technologies, a plastic molding company based near the shores of Lake Erie.

This is just one of the major effects substance abuse has brought to America.

Preventing Substance Abuse

“We can be the generation that ends the opioid epidemic.”. words that were spoken by President Donald Trump when he declared the Opioid Epidemic a public health emergency.

There are many ways to prevent drug abuse.

Stay up to date with your workplace substance abuse policies.
workplace substance abuse policy

As an employer, you can create a drug-free workplace program, that in most cases will benefit not only you as an employer but your employees as well.

Prevention not punishment

The key to ending this epidemic may just be to prevent further drug use. Knowledge of addiction and substance abuse help plays a key factor.

Drug Test Employees Regularly

The largest, most well-known companies in America all do one thing in common. Pre-employment drug screenings. As well as pre-employment screenings, most companies do random drug testing and reasonable suspicion drug testing.

Drug abuse in America is on a rise. What ways do you think you can help?

 

 

 

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Drug Free Workplace

10 Reasons to Implement a Drug-Free Workplace Policy

Many employers, clients and individuals often ask us “what are the benefits of a drug free workplace?”

Often times employers are hesitant on implementing a Drug Free Workplace Program because they believe that if an employee tests positive the employee, must be terminated.  This may not be the case, consequences for a positive test result must reflect the companies Drug Free Workplace Policy.  One option is termination; however, employers may offer a second chance provision rather than termination if it is specified in their Drug Free Workplace Policy.

Why should I implement a Drug Free Workplace Program?

Employers often as what are the benefits of a drug free workplace program.  Below are the top 10 reasons or steps to implement a drug free workplace policy.

1. Create a written drug free workplace policy

Create and implement a written drug free workplace policy.  To create a drug-free policy at work, a business has several options. All policies should be in writing, effectively communicated and documented that is was delivered to all employees.

2.  Reduce Workplace Injuries

Implementing a drug free workplace will assist you in creating and maintaining clear rules and consequences of using drugs or alcohol during work.  This would help create a safe environment which would help reduce drug or alcohol related accidents and/or liability issues.

3.  Increase Productivity

Typical side effects of drug or alcohol use include absenteeism, tardiness or lack of productivity.  Furthermore, employees who use drugs are more likely to job hop three or more times in a year than non-users. Help prevent these behaviors by instituting a drug-free workplace policy, setting the company standard and holding workers accountable.

4.  Promote A Safe & Healthy Work Environment

By implementing a drug-free workplace program, employers will demonstrate a commitment to having a safe, healthy work environment.

5.  Lower Workers’ Compensation Claims

Studies have shown that drug users cost employers twice as much in workers’ compensation claims and medical expenses as non-users. By reducing drug use among employees, you can help lower workers’ compensation claims and save money.

6.  Lower Workers’ Compensation Premiums

Many states have instituted Laws that provide a discount on workman’s’ compensation premiums to encourage businesses to implement drug-free workplace programs.  States with such laws include Florida, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, and Washington.  Employers in these States have the ability to receive anywhere from 5% and in some cases as much as 10% credit if they qualify as a State Drug-Free Workplace Program under the statute.

7.  Employee Education

A proper drug-free workplace program should contain an educational component that notifies employees on the health and safety risks drug use imposes.  This education should be ongoing and documented.

8.  Demonstrate To Your Employees Your Vested In Them

A drug-free workplace program demonstrates to employees that you have a vested interest in their health and safety. By providing helpful resources, such as education, training, confidential hotline numbers or names of treatment centers, you demonstrate your commitment to seeing your employees get help and improve their quality of life.

9.  Overall Cost Savings Improve The Bottom Line

Benefits from implementing a drug-free workplace program include lower absenteeism, increased productivity, reduced workers’ compensation filings, and fewer accidents. Additional savings include improved employee morale, creativity and emotional stability.

10.  Potential for Federal Government Contracts

If your business wants to be eligible to qualify for a Government contract, you must have a drug-free policy in place. Under the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1998, companies seeking contracts with the government must maintain a drug-free workplace. Additionally, the Department of Transportation requires anyone working in a “Safety Sensitive” position be actively enrolled in a random testing program and in many cases have a drug-free workplace policy

For more information on the benefits of implementing a Drug Free Workplace, call us today! (800)-221-4291 or click here to submit your request.

Visit our YouTube Channel For More Information!

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As 2016 comes to an end, we would like to take a look back on the year in drugs and drug policy. Some might say that It is a mixed bag, with some major victories for drug reform but also some major challenges, specifically around heroin and prescription opioids, and the threat of things taking a turn for the worse in the coming years.

Here are some of the biggest stories from the year on drugs.

1. Accredited Drug Testing Acquires American Drug Testing

Logo-final-1Accredited Drug Testing is pleased to announce the acquisition of American Drug Testing, Inc., a national drug and alcohol testing company, specializing in employment related testing and individuals needing a drug, alcohol or DNA test. Mr. James A. Greer will serve as President/CEO of American Drug Testing, Inc, in addition to continuing as President of Accredited Drug Testing. The company motto
of “Above The Rest, When You Need A Test” will be the companies nationwide branding focus. Check out the company video.

2. NBC news interviews Accredited Drug Testing President

Jim Greer NBC InterviewNBC news interviews Accredited Drug Testing President / CEO James Greer regarding Federal Drug Testing Regulations. I-Team: Popular Drug Test Used for Drivers, Pilots Doesn’t Screen for Abused Prescriptions. See the interview.

3. Company President Interviewed By National Enquirer On JonBenét Ramsey Case

Our Company President and DNA Expert James A Greer was interviewed by the National Enquirer Magazine which includes comments and a photograph regarding the JonBenét Ramsey murder case. Stay tuned for an update on this story in 2017

4. Marijuana Legalization Wins Big

The legalization of marijuana had some victories in California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Nevada, losing only in Arizona. The first states to do so were Colorado and Washington which led the way in 2012, and Alaska, Oregon and Washington, D.C., following in 2014. The question is, where does marijuana win next? We won’t see state legalization initiatives until 2018

5. Medical Marijuana Wins Big

Florida Voters Legalize Medical MarijuanaMedical marijuana is even more popular than legal weed, and it went four-for-four at the ballot box in November, adding Arkansas, Florida, Montana and North Dakota to the list of full-blown medical marijuana states. That makes 28 states—more than half the country—that allow medical marijuana, along with another dozen or so red states that have passed limited CBD-only medical marijuana laws as a sop to public opinion.

The increasing acceptance of medical marijuana is going to make it that much harder for the DEA or the Trump administration to balk at reclassifying marijuana away from Schedule I, which is supposedly reserved for dangerous substances with no medical uses. It may also, along with the growing number of legal pot states, provide the necessary impetus to changing federal banking laws to allow pot businesses to behave like normal businesses.

6. The Opioid Epidemic Continues

Just as the year comes to an end, the CDC announced that opioid overdose deaths last year had topped 33,000, and with 12,000 heroin overdoses, junk had overtaken gunplay as a leading cause of death.

Furthermore, prosecutors in states across the country have taken to charging those who sell opioids (prescription or otherwise) to people who die of overdose with murder, more intrusive and privacy-invading prescription monitoring programs have been established, and the tightening of the screws on opioid prescriptions is leaving some chronic pain sufferers in the lurch and leading others to seek out opioids on the black market. Read more on this story.

7. DEA Held Prescription Take Back Day

OCT 17 – (Washington, DC) – DEA set to repeat on one of its most popular community programs this weekend, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.  On Saturday October 22 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. the public can dispose of their unused, unwanted prescription medications at one of 4,700 collection sites nationwide, operated by 3,800 local law enforcement agencies and other community partners.  The service is free of charge, no questions asked. Read more.

8. DEA Say’s “NO” To Marijuana

dea-says-no-to-marijuanaMarijuana activists who hoped the number of US states progressing towards the legalization of medical marijuana would soften the federal stance on the drug faced a setback Thursday as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced that itwill keep marijuana illegal for any purpose. Read more.

9. Drug Testing Positive Results by Classification

Let’s take a more in-depth look at the statistics, facts, data, and outputs that have an impact workplace drug testing programs. Utilizing Quest Diagnostics as a resource, we will take a deeper dive into positivity by drug type. Read more.

10. FMCSA Establishes National Drug & Alcohol Testing Clearinghouse for Commercial Truck and Bus Drivers.

cdl-clearinghouseOn December 2, 2016, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a final rule that would establish a National Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for commercial truck and bus drivers. Read more.

 

 

For information regarding the effects of drug abuse – Click Here
For  information on a drug free work place – Click Here
For  information on substance abuse programs – Click Here
For information on DOT Drug / Alcohol Testing requirements – Click Here

John Burgos, CPC
Business Development Manager
https://accrediteddrugtesting.net
(855)919-3784
Accredited Drug Testing

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5 Panel Drug Test

5 Panel Drug Test

When determining which type of drug test to take, the most common used by a Drug Free Work Place or for individuals needing a pre-employment, random or post accident test is the 5 panel drug test. This drug screen detects Cocaine, Amphetamine, Methamphetamine. Opiate and Marijuana (THC). The 5 panel drug test is also the test required by the Department of transportation (DOT) and other Federal Government Agencies. Court ordered drug tests in most case’s also use the 5 panel test with alcohol added as an additional screen when required. While 5 panel drug tests are available which will provide immediate results. DOT, court ordered or tests for employment positions that are designated as Safety Sensitive are required  to be sent to a HHS-Certified laboratory and reviewed by a Medical Review Officer . Accredited Drug Testing Inc provides a full range of drug testing services including the 5 panel drug test. For more information or to schedule a drug test today call–1–800-221-4291.

5 Panel Drug Test

The 5 panel urine drug test should be scheduled by employers, courts, or individuals seeking a professional laboratory test to find out if someone used street drugs in the recent past. The following drugs are included in this screening:

  • Cocaine, Crack
  • Marijuana, THC, cannabinoids, pot, weed
  • Phencyclidine, PCP, angel dust
  • Amphetamines, methamphetamines, meth, crystal meth
  • Heroin, codeine, morphine

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Drug Free Workplace Programs

Drug Free Workplace Programs

Businesses that utilize a employee drug testing program are commonly referred to as a Drug Free Workplace. However, many times companies do not fully qualify as a Drug Free Workplace because the drug testing program which they use does not have all of the components in place which make up a true Drug Free Workplace.

The benefits of being a true Drug Free Workplace can include but are not limited to
• Enhanced Employee Performance • Lower Workers Compensation Rates
• Reduced Job Related Accidents • Improved Employee Moral
• Reduced Employee Absenteeism • Customer Satisfaction

In addition, many companies regardless of size report that being a Drug Free Workplace has increased the quality of job applicants and improved the overall workplace environment.

Also, many states such as Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, Virginia, Wyoming, Ohio, Alabama, Arkansas and Washington provide by law a discount on workers compensation insurance rates provided a business qualifies in accordance with state law.

Any company can benefit by being a Drug Free Workplace regardless of the number of employees, but it is crucially important that any business  maintains the program properly and continuously meets all the requirements.

A properly maintained Drug Free Workplace should include the following:
• A written Drug Free Workplace Policy • Supervisor Training
• Employee Drug Testing • Employee Assistance Program(EAP)
• Employee Education • Drug Free Workplace Signage

Some employers resist implementing a Program because they believe that in the event an employee tests positive, the employee must be terminated, this is not always the case. The consequences for a positive test result must reflect the companies Policy. Options other than termination are available, provided those options comply with the Drug Free Workplace Policy.

Many times companies are confused, have been provided inaccurate information or simply hesitant to implement a Program because of unfounded concerns.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc specializes in providing cost affective and comprehensive Drug Free Workplace Programs which include policy development, drug testing and on-going consultation to ensure that a company is truly a Drug Free Workplace.

For more information regarding Drug Free Workplace Programs, please contact Accredited Drug Testing Inc at (800)221-4291 or info@accrediteddrugtesting.net

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Drug Testing Policy

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE POLICY, THE POLICY, THE POLICY!

Drug Testing Policy

Employers regardless of company size who conduct drug testing for pre- employment or current employees must have a written drug policy which specifically describes when drug tests will be conducted, what type of test will be utilized (urine, hair, blood) and what the consequences will be should a employee test positive.

Many times employers will schedule random drug tests, even though the company policy is silent regarding performing random drug tests on existing employees, other times employers will schedule a “sweep” for all employees to be drug tested due to reasonable suspicion. Both of these scenarios if not properly authorized in the written drug testing policy can cause potential liability if any adverse action is taken against an employee. Any time an unemployment hearing, workers compensation hearing or even wrongful termination litigation arises, if the cause of the adverse action against an employee was due to the results of a drug test, it is absolutely crucial that all aspects surrounding the drug test be covered in the written drug testing policy.

In addition, all applicants for employment must be notified that the company is a drug free workplace and drug testing will be a condition when offering employment. Current employees must also be provided a copy of the drug policy and acknowledge in writing that they have received such policy.

Employers who fail to have a comprehensive written drug and alcohol policy but are conducting employee drug testing, maybe subjecting the company to potential consequences relating to the company’s business practices.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc specializes in developing drug testing policies for employers, for more information contact ADT at (800)221-4291.

MORE STATES DRUG TESTING WELFARE RECIPIENTS

Recently the State of Maine joined several other States in requiring individuals using public assistance to take a drug test. While Maine moves forward with this program other States such as Georgia and Florida have had their efforts to drug test welfare recipients restricted by the Federal Courts. Maine’s Governor Paul Lepage stated “we must ensure that our tax dollars do not enable the continuation of a drug addiction.”An interesting fact is that most welfare recipients who are drug tested have a negative drug test result.”

Stay tuned for more information regarding individual States testing welfare recipients

“WHEN YOU NEED A TEST, CHOOSE THE BEST!”

“One Stop Shopping” for all of your National Drug Testing Needs

If you are a HR/Office manager needing employee drug testing, a school, government agency or simply an individual in need of a drug or alcohol test, Accredited Drug Testing Inc provides drug testing for pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, return to duty, post accident, court ordered or any other drug testing need, Call Accredited Drug Testing Today, (800)221-4291

5 PANEL VS. 10 PANEL – WHICH TO — USE?

The two common types of drug test screens are a 5 and 10 panel drug test. While the Department of Transportation (DOT) only recognizes a 5 panel urine test, many companies are now utilizing a 10 panel test because the screen detects several drugs beyond the 5 common street drugs.

5 Panel Drug Screen Includes

  • Amphetamines
  • Cocaine
  • Marijuana
  • Opiates
  • Phencyclidine (PCP)
 10 Panel Drug Screen Includes

  • Amphetamines
  • Barbiturates
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Cocaine
  • Marijuana
  • MDA-Analogues
  • Methadone
  • Methaqualone
  • Opiates
  • Phencyclidine
  • Propoxyphene

CONGRATULATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

Stephanie Calderon has been promoted to Operations Manager and has successfully passed the DATIA Specimen Collector Certification Exam.

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Press Release:

Accredited Drug Testing Inc. Acquires Scheduleadrugtest.com

Accredited Drug Testing Inc, one of the Nation’s leading providers of drug, alcohol, DNA testing and background check screenings announced that it has acquired full ownership of Scheduleadrugtest.com, Scheduleadrugtest.com is a drug and alcohol testing online scheduling resource for employers and individuals in need of a drug or alcohol test.

Orlando, FL, March 24, 2015 –(PR.com)– Accredited Drug Testing Inc, one of the nation’s leading providers of drug, alcohol, DNA testing and background check screenings announced that it has acquired full ownership of Scheduleadrugtest.com, Scheduleadrugtest.com is a drug and alcohol testing online scheduling resource for employers and individuals in need of a drug or alcohol test.James A. Greer, President and CEO of Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. stated “With the addition of Scheduleadrugtest.com to our existing DOT and non DOT drug testing services, our customers throughout the Nation will have greater convenience when needing to schedule a drug or alcohol test. Companies or individuals in need of a drug test for pre-employment, random, court ordered, reasonable suspicion or post-accident can visit the Scheduleadrugtest.com website and schedule a drug or alcohol test online from the convenience of their own home or office.”

Accredited Drug Testing Inc offers five, seven, ten and twelve panel drug tests, drug testing screens can also be customized for K2, spice or other types of drug testing requirements along with various alcohol screenings, including ETG testing. In addition, Accredited Drug Testing Inc. also provides DNA testing for paternity and immigration DNA testing needs. Background checks are also offered in conjunction with drug testing or as a standalone service. In most cases, testing centers are within minutes of your home or office. Accredited Drug Testing, Inc offers DOT and non DOT testing in all States and most cities.

Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. also provides web based (paperless) chain of custody forms for non DOT drug and alcohol tests and in the event a DOT drug test is needed, Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. provides the Federal chain of custody form which is required by the Department of Transportation.Drug test results are emailed after analysis by our certified laboratories and verification by our in house medical review officers.

For more information about Accredited Drug Testing, Inc. or Scheduleadrugtest.com, please visit our website at www.accrediteddrugtesting.net . You may also contact their corporate office at 800-221-4291.

 

 

Accredited Drug Testing Inc. Acquires Scheduleadrugtest.com