We are all familiar with the run-of-the-mill urine tests that business make potential employee take as part of the hiring process. Perhaps you have been forced to undergo this procedure multiple times, even if you have been working at a company for years. However, did you know that the urine test (a type of toxicology test) is actually considered a lifesaving tactic for addiction treatment patients? In fact, members of the Boston Medical Center (BMC) and faculty members of the Boston University School of Medicine conducted a study that proves urine tests are beneficial to opioid addicts in rehab centers. For the same reason a workplace would require one of these assessments, rehabilitation centers are requiring patients to undergo urine tests to assess if these men and women have (indeed) quit using these drugs. Let’s take a closer look and find out more information.
Fighting the Opioid Epidemic
Ultimately, office-based drug testing has been utilized as a first-response protocol to prevent the spread of the Opioid Crisis and has now become a key element in rehabilitation treatment facilities, as well. However, health professionals have still asked one question: how can we keep an eye on patients and make sure they are not using opioids? This perspective stems from a common problem with patients failing to report their problems with substance use disorders. According to Dr. Sarah M. Bagley (an internist, pediatrician and member of the Boston study), providers must compare lab results with patient testimonies to determine the health of these addicts and abusers.
Correlations between UDTs and Patient Reports
Ultimately, the Boston team compared and contrasted patients’ self-reported documentation of substance use disorders and the preliminary results of their drug tests. Based on the report, 76% of UDTs (urine drug tests) tested positive for cocaine, while 57% of UDTs revealed quantities of opioids (completely contrasting with the patients’ testimonies). Likewise, positive UDTs contrasted with patient reports at a much greater level during the treatment process, which may revel that these men and women are exhibiting more trust towards their primary caregivers in the rehab center.
Reading these results, Dr. Bagley believes the numbers demonstrate that patients are nervous about sharing their experiences with caregivers, hence the high ratio of UDTs and failed self-reports.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
