Toxicology screens play a pivotal role in helping healthcare specialists regularly monitor their patients. While toxicology laboratories can offer testing services of all types, one of their primary functions is to test for the presence of illicit substances.
As a premier independent provider of laboratory testing services, LifeBrite Laboratories specializes in toxicology screens, and can test unique sample types using state-of-the-art technology. With illegal drug use and prescription drug abuse an ongoing epidemic in our country, here’s a closer look at our toxicology services, and why they’re so important to our communities.
The Importance of Toxicology in Your Community
Toxicology labs support communities in many important ways.
Employers rely on toxicology labs to screen personnel for drug use, which is especially important in high-risk roles. For instance, commercial vehicle drivers could put countless people on the roads at risk if they’re using illicit substances. Through either routine or event-based screening, employers can do their part to keep their workforce and community members safe.
Labs also work closely with rehabilitation facilities to ensure individuals who are in addiction counseling programs are refraining from use as they work toward sobriety and better health. The prevalence of drug addiction has become an overwhelming problem across the U.S. in recent years. Nearly 20 million U.S. adults face a substance abuse problem each year, with a staggering 38% experiencing an illicit drug use disorder. By monitoring patients and supporting them through treatment, rehab facilities can encourage sustained recovery.
Finally, toxicology can support the best possible outcomes for physicians and their patients in a number of ways. For instance, healthcare facilities can use toxicology screens for medication reconciliation. An estimated 20% of medication errors are believed to be harmful to patients. The process of medication reconciliation compares a patient’s medication orders to the medication they’ve actually taken, revealed through drug screenings. This helps to prevent any gaps or oversights, and ensures proper medication protocols are being followed to promote optimal outcomes.
Types of Toxicology Screens
LifeBrite Labs offers two primary forms of toxicology testing: urine and oral fluid drug testing. Urine testing has the greatest range of options, and can test for any or all of the following types of substances:
- Amphetamines or stimulants
- Illicit drugs, such as MDA and kratom
- Barbiturates
- Opiates and opioids
- SSRIs and other antidepressants
- Sedatives and hypnotics
- Benzodiazepines
- And many more…
Urine drug testing is the most common method for drug testing, and LifeBrite Laboratories uses a reliable testing technique with established cutoff levels to ensure accurate results.
LifeBrite will also be releasing its CBD assay in early summer 2021.
For settings and situations in which urine testing is impractical, oral testing also offers a wide range of screening options, with the ability to detect stimulants, illicit drugs, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opiates, and some sedatives.
Why Trust LifeBrite Labs for Your Toxicology Testing?
LifeBrite Labs supports healthcare facilities, employers, and rehabilitative centers throughout our communities by offering flexible screening options, quick turnaround times, EMR integration, and an extensive test menu. Our award-winning team of medical laboratory scientists and technicians use state-of-the-art technology to give you accurate, actionable, timely toxicology analysis and cost-effective monitoring solutions.
LifeBrite has been providing toxicology test services for nearly a decade, and our staff has dozens of years of combined healthcare experience. Our laboratory maintains Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certification, and is accredited by CAP.
If your facility is seeking accurate, dependable toxicology screening services — including quality control and efficient turnaround times — contact LifeBrite Labs by calling (678) 433-0607.
Learn More About LifeBrite Labs
Atlanta-based LifeBrite, led by CEO Christian Fletcher, operates LifeBrite Community Hospital of Early, LifeBrite Community Hospital of Stokes, and Lifebrite Laboratories. To learn more about our services and facilities, visit our website or call 678-433-0607.