A study of substance abuse testing in patient care facilities

Abstract

Drug testing, once practically ignored as a health care management strategy in curbing legal liability potential, is now the norm rather than exception. Most hospitals today conduct drug tests involving employment considerations and "for cause" (e.g., accidents) involving most employees but excluding physicians. Random drug testing is recommended for health care institutions to consider as a strategy designed to reduce illicit drug abuse in such facilities. This recommendation is based on the nature and sensitivity of the health care institution's mission and purpose relative to patient care and safety.