What Are the Differences Between a Drug Test and a Drug Screening?

Drug Screening New Caney, TX

A drug test and a drug screening are often used interchangeably, but there are notable differences between the two terms. In general, a drug test is more extensive and accurate than a drug screening, whereas a drug screening provides faster results and is a more cost-effective approach. 

Drug test vs. drug screening: What is the difference?

There are pros and cons to both a drug test and drug screening. It is helpful to understand the differences between the two terms and determine how to prepare for both. Whether you are an employer considering drug testing employees, an athlete who wants to ensure they are not taking any illegal substances, or are considering a drug test or screening for a different reason, understanding the differences is important. 

What is a drug test?

Both a drug test and a drug screening involve testing for certain drugs (often illegal drugs). A drug test, however, is often more preferable among businesses and other organizations. This is because it is often more accurate. The downsides to a drug test, however, are that they cost more and the results take longer than a drug screening.

Also, there are different types of drug tests. Most notably, there are urine drug tests, blood tests, hair tests, and saliva tests. One may be performed instead of another depending on what drug is being tested for. 

What is a drug screening?

On the other hand, a drug screening typically providers faster results when testing for a particular substance. However, the results of a drug screening are known to be less reliable. For example, a drug screening is much more likely to show a false positive than a drug test. 

How to choose between a drug test and drug screening

A drug test may be ideal when the most accurate results possible are required. For example, an employer who wants to test their employees for illegal substances may prefer a drug test to reduce the risk of wrongful termination related to a false positive. On the other hand, someone who simply wants to test themselves and is on a budget and needs quick results may prefer a drug screening. 

How to prepare for a drug test

One can prepare for a drug test by informing the clinic of all medications that are currently taken. This is important to ensure that any positive results will be documented beforehand, thus reducing any potential conflict. It is also important not to drink too much water before a urine test. Otherwise, the results may be denied until the urine is not as diluted, resulting in a need to repeat the entire process. 

Schedule a drug test or drug screening today

Here at our urgent care center, we offer both drug tests and screenings, regardless of the need. To get started, reach out via phone or message. We can answer questions, go over concerns, or get you scheduled for an appointment. 

Request an appointment here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894 for an appointment in our New Caney office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Drug Screening in New Caney, TX.

Recent Posts

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy Tests: Accuracy, Timing, And Options

A pregnancy testing is one of the most effective ways to confirm pregnancy by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or blood. In order to produce reliable results, it is important to understand the accuracy, timing, and different options of tests. While many people rely on over-the-counter pregnancy tests, it is important…

The Importance Of Regular Health Checkups: Staying Proactive About Your Well-Being

Though they play an important role in wellness, regular health checkup are often overlooked. If you only go to the doctor when you get sick or something goes wrong, you could be missing out on key opportunities to avoid health problems and support your overall wellness. If you want to be proactive about protecting your…

Why Immunization Matters: Protecting Your Health And Preventing Disease

Immunizations, or vaccines, protect public health and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. By helping the body develop immunity to harmful pathogens, immunization reduces the risk of illness, hospitalization, and, in some cases, death. Still, some may not know the true significance of immunizations. Therefore, understanding the importance of immunization and keeping up with recommended…

Visit Your Primary Care Physician For Diabetes Treatment

Contrary to what some may believe, diabetes requires professional treatment since it is a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar. With treatment, patients can manage their diabetes and reduce its impact on their lives. A primary care physician, or PCP, will guide patients through diabetes treatment, connecting them with specialists and using treatment strategies…

Recent Posts

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy Tests: Accuracy, Timing, And Options

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy Tests: Accuracy, Timing, And Options

A pregnancy testing is one of the most effective ways to confirm pregnancy by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or blood. In order to produce reliable results, it is important to understand the accuracy, timing, and different options of tests. While many people rely on over-the-counter pregnancy tests, it is important…

The Importance Of Regular Health Checkups: Staying Proactive About Your Well Being

The Importance Of Regular Health Checkups: Staying Proactive About Your Well-Being

Though they play an important role in wellness, regular health checkup are often overlooked. If you only go to the doctor when you get sick or something goes wrong, you could be missing out on key opportunities to avoid health problems and support your overall wellness. If you want to be proactive about protecting your…