Our Medical Review Officer is locally contracted with years of DOT experience, is AAMRO and DOT Certified, and reviews all DOT drug screens in accordance with CFR 49 Part 40.
What is an Medical Review Officer (MRO), and why do I need one? Will I need an Expert Witness?
Although not always required, an MRO can be an important part of an effective DOT drug testing program. An MRO is a licensed medical doctor who has special training in substance abuse testing. Using a DOT certified MRO helps to protect both the employer and the employees.
When a DOT lab test is ordered, the MRO reviews the lab results to makes sure the correct test panel was performed and that the correct procedures were followed by the collector. When a drug test is reported positive by the lab, the MRO also contacts the employee to determine if there is a legitimate medical explanation for the positive lab result. Some prescription medications or medical treatments can cause a positive test result. In these cases, the MRO will obtain verification of a valid prescription or recent medical treatment. The test result is then reported to the employer as negative because there is a legitimate, verified medical reason for the positive lab test result. However, if the employee is unable to provide a valid medical explanation for a positive lab test result, the MRO reports the test result as positive to the employer.
Using an MRO to review and interpret the laboratory test results protects the employer from having to make decisions regarding an employee’s claims that his or her drug test result was caused by a medication or medical treatment. It also keeps the employer from having to deal with the complicated issues related to the release or disclosure of private employee medical information. MRO review is required for every Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test. Non-DOT employers may utilize the services of an MRO for all drug testing, even if it is not required by state law.
We are proud to locally serve the complete needs for all DOT programs! (We also offer out of state drug screen collections and post accident assistance) Private testing options are available for individuals for legal, domestic and other court matters. Expert Witness may be required depending on your situation and the results of a particular test.
Individuals are welcome to hire Expert Witness services of their choice. Dr. Austin Tinsley MD is a nationally DOT Certified Medical Review Officer DOT has specific regulations that only apply to drug testing for commercial drivers.