The expense associated with a hair drug screening, a laboratory analysis examining strands of hair to identify substance use, varies depending on several factors. These factors include the testing laboratory utilized, the number of substances screened for, and any additional services included in the testing package. For example, a basic panel testing for five commonly abused substances will generally cost less than an expanded panel screening for a wider range of drugs or including confirmation testing.
Understanding the price range of such tests is important for employers considering drug screening programs, individuals undergoing legal proceedings, or those seeking personal testing. The historical context of hair follicle testing highlights its development as a reliable method for detecting long-term drug use, offering a wider window of detection compared to urine or blood tests. Benefits include a non-invasive sample collection method and the ability to reveal patterns of drug use over an extended period.