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Pre employment drug testing is a common practice in many workplaces, especially for safety-sensitive positions or regulated industries. Employers use drug tests to screen applicants and employees for substance abuse, which can impair their performance, productivity, and safety. However, not all drug tests are the same. Different types of drug tests can detect different substances, have different detection windows, and have different advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, we will compare two of the most widely used drug tests: the 4 panel drug (no THC) screen and the 5 panel drug screen. We will explain what each test screens for, how they work, how long they can detect drugs, and what factors to consider when choosing between them.
What is a 4 Panel Drug (No THC) Screen?
A 4 panel drug (no THC) screen is a urine-based test that screens for four commonly abused drugs: cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP). This test does not screen for marijuana (THC), which is the most prevalent illicit drug in the United States1. A 4 panel drug (no THC) screen is also known as a 4 panel drug test without THC or a 4 panel drug test PCP.
A 4 panel drug (no THC) screen works by detecting the presence of metabolites, which are the byproducts of drug use that remain in the body after the drug has been metabolized. The test uses a urine sample from the individual being tested, which is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses an immunoassay method to identify the metabolites of the four drugs. If any of these drugs are detected, the test will come back positive.
A 4 panel drug (no THC) screen can detect drugs for different periods of time, depending on the type of drug, the amount and frequency of use, the individual’s metabolism, and other factors. Generally speaking, a 4 panel drug (no THC) screen can detect drugs for the following time frames2:
- Cocaine: 2 to 4 days
- Opiates: 2 to 4 days
- Amphetamines: 2 to 5 days
- PCP: 3 to 7 days
A 4 panel drug (no THC) screen is often used by employers who want to test for four major illicit drugs but do not want to test for marijuana. This may be because marijuana is legal for medical or recreational use in their state, or because they do not consider marijuana use as a serious issue for their workplace. A 4 panel drug (no THC) screen is also cheaper and faster than a 5 panel drug screen.
What is a 5 Panel Drug Screen?
A 5 panel drug screen is a urine-based test that screens for five commonly abused drugs: cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, phencyclidine (PCP), and marijuana (THC). This test is also known as a standard 5 panel drug test or a SAMHSA-5 test.
A 5 panel drug screen works in the same way as a 4 panel drug (no THC) screen, except that it also screens for marijuana. The test uses a urine sample from the individual being tested, which is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses an immunoassay method to identify the metabolites of the five drugs. If any of these drugs are detected, the test will come back positive.
A 5 panel drug screen can also detect drugs for different periods of time, depending on the type of drug, the amount and frequency of use, the individual’s metabolism, and other factors. Generally speaking, a 5 panel drug screen can detect drugs for the following time frames2:
- Cocaine: 2 to 4 days
- Opiates: 2 to 4 days
- Amphetamines: 2 to 5 days
- PCP: 3 to 7 days
- Marijuana: up to 30 days
A 5 panel drug screen is often used by employers who want to test for five major illicit drugs, including marijuana. This may be because marijuana is illegal in their state or under federal law, or because they consider marijuana use as a serious issue for their workplace. A 5 panel drug screen is also required by some regulated industries, such as transportation or law enforcement.
How to Choose Between a 4 Panel Drug (No THC) Screen and a 5 Panel Drug Screen?
There is no definitive answer to which type of drug test is better or more suitable for your needs. It depends on various factors, such as your industry, your state laws, your company policy, your budget, your testing objectives, and your preferences. However, here are some general guidelines to help you make an informed decision:
- If you are required by law or regulation to test for marijuana, you should use a 5 panel drug screen.
- If you are not required by law or regulation to test for marijuana, but you want to test for it anyway, you should use a 5 panel drug screen.
- If you are not required by law or regulation to test for marijuana, and you do not want to test for it, you should use a 4 panel drug (no THC) screen.
- If you want to save money and time, you should use a 4 panel drug (no THC) screen.
- If you want to be more comprehensive and thorough, you should use a 5 panel drug screen.
Regardless of which type of drug test you choose, you should always consult with a qualified background check provider, like GoodHire, for background checks. A background check provider can help you with the following:
- Ensure that your drug testing program is compliant with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
- Provide you with reliable and accurate drug testing results from certified laboratories and medical review officers.
- Protect the privacy and rights of your applicants and employees throughout the drug testing process.
- Support you with customer service and technical assistance whenever you need it.
Conclusion
Drug testing is an important tool for employers to maintain a safe, productive, and drug-free workplace. However, not all drug tests are the same. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may choose between a 4 panel drug (no THC) screen and a 5 panel drug screen. Both types of tests have their pros and cons, and you should weigh them carefully before making a decision.
I hope this article is helpful for you. Please let me know if you have any feedback or questions. 😊 eric@integratedcarellc.com

Pre-Employment Physical Exams: Building a Safer, Smarter Workforce
At Integrated Care, we understand the importance of protecting both your employees and your bottom line. Whether you're hiring for construction, warehousing, transportation, or administrative roles, it’s critical to ensure that new hires can safely and effectively perform the physical demands of their job.
Pre-employment physical exams do more than just meet hiring requirements—they answer three vital questions:
✅ Does your new hire have the strength and fitness required to do their job?
✅ Does your new employee have a pre-existing injury that might affect their performance or risk future claims?
✅ Is your employee truly ready to return to their job after recovering from an injury?
By identifying these factors early, you reduce the risk of injuries, improve productivity, and create a safer, more resilient workforce.
🔹 Types of Pre-Employment Exams Offered at Integrated Care
We offer a full range of testing solutions designed to fit the unique demands of your workplace. Below is an overview of the most common evaluations we provide:
General Pre-Employment Physicals
These exams assess overall health and are ideal for new hires or job transfers.
- Pre-Employment Physical Exam
A comprehensive medical screen that includes vitals, medical history, and a physical exam to ensure readiness for general job functions. - Non-DOT Physical Exam
Tailored for positions that are not regulated by the Department of Transportation. Often used for warehouse workers, manufacturers, and healthcare roles. - DOT Physical Exam
A federally mandated exam for commercial drivers that includes vision, hearing, urinalysis, and a review of medical qualifications. (Performed by certified examiners at Integrated Care.) - Return to Work / Fit for Duty Exam
Conducted post-injury or illness to determine whether an employee is medically and physically ready to resume duties. Helps employers manage risk and comply with safety standards. - Post-Offer Employment Test (POET)
A functional physical assessment performed after a conditional job offer is made. These tests simulate actual job tasks like lifting, carrying, or climbing to confirm the candidate can safely meet physical demands.
Functional and Capacity-Based Assessments
These tests go beyond basic exams to measure strength, endurance, and task-specific ability.
- Physical Capacity Profile® (PCP) Test
An advanced isokinetic test that provides a numeric score aligned to the physical demands of the job. It evaluates lifting capacity, flexibility, and muscular endurance with scientific precision. - Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
A comprehensive, multi-hour assessment that evaluates a person’s capacity to perform work-related tasks. Frequently used in return-to-work scenarios or when defining work restrictions. - Human Performance Evaluation (HPE)
A focused physical ability test to evaluate strength, movement, balance, and stamina for job-specific demands. Often used during onboarding or reassignment. - WorkSTEPS Testing
A standardized functional testing system that includes baseline measurements and physical tasks. Trusted by national employers for reducing workplace injury rates.
Targeted Physical Function Screens
Often included as part of a broader exam or used independently based on the role.
- Lift Test
Assesses lifting ability at various levels (e.g., floor to waist, waist to shoulder), ensuring safe handling of workplace materials. - Agility Test
Evaluates mobility, balance, and coordination—useful for physically active roles or confined-space environments. - Back Screen
Identifies prior back injuries or physical limitations through range-of-motion and flexibility tests. - Push-Pull Test
Measures the upper body and core strength required to move equipment or materials in industrial settings. - Grip Strength Test
A fast, effective way to assess hand and forearm strength for tasks requiring tool use or assembly work. - Postural Tolerance Testing
Assesses an individual's ability to tolerate work postures such as standing, squatting, reaching, or kneeling for extended periods.
🔸 Why Employers Choose Integrated Care
We design physical testing protocols that are legally defensible, job-specific, and medically sound. Our clinicians use objective measurements, validated tools, and real-time data to help employers:
- Reduce recordable injuries
- Lower workers’ compensation claims
- Match candidates to appropriate job demands
- Make informed return-to-work decisions
- Stay in compliance with HR best practices
📍 Locations:
- West Omaha – 14450 Meadows Blvd, Omaha, NE 68138
- South Omaha – 4832 S. 24th Street, Omaha, NE 68107
📞 Call Us Today: (402) 502-1819
🌐 Visit: www.integratedcarellc.com
📩 Email: info@integratedcarellc.com
Build a stronger team from the start—with physical exams and job-matching tests from Integrated Care.

Staying Ahead: How Integrated Care Detects and Prevents Drug Screening Cheaters
Drug screening is an essential component of workplace safety and employee wellness. At Integrated Care, maintaining integrity in drug testing procedures is paramount. Unfortunately, attempts to cheat or manipulate drug screens occasionally occur, but modern methods and vigilant practices allow us to identify and deter these actions effectively.
Common Methods of Cheating
Individuals trying to cheat drug screens may use a variety of methods, including:
- Dilution: Drinking excessive amounts of water or fluids to dilute the urine, thereby reducing detectable drug levels.
- Adulteration: Adding chemicals such as bleach, soap, vinegar, or commercial products to alter test results.
- Substitution: Providing synthetic or someone else's urine sample instead of their own.
- Physical Tampering: Attempting to alter or disrupt the test equipment or samples directly.
How Integrated Care Detects Cheating
1. Temperature Checks
Urine samples are checked immediately after collection for appropriate temperature, typically between 90°F and 100°F. Samples outside this range are flagged, suggesting possible substitution or adulteration.
2. Observation Protocols
In certain testing scenarios, such as DOT-regulated tests, observed collections are mandatory. Trained staff members supervise the sample collection process closely, reducing the opportunity for substitution or adulteration.
3. Specimen Validity Testing
Integrated Care employs advanced specimen validity tests (SVT) that detect the presence of adulterants, unusual pH levels, and abnormal creatinine levels, indicating dilution or tampering.
4. Laboratory Confirmation
Any suspicious or abnormal rapid screening results are confirmed through laboratory analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), which accurately identifies drugs and adulterants.
5. Strict Chain of Custody
A meticulously documented chain of custody is maintained from sample collection through laboratory analysis, ensuring samples remain uncompromised and traceable at every step.
Consequences of Cheating
Attempting to cheat a drug test has significant consequences, including potential job loss, legal action, and loss of eligibility for employment. Employers who partner with Integrated Care can rest assured knowing that their drug testing protocols are rigorous and effective, safeguarding the integrity of the workplace.
Promoting Integrity and Awareness
Educating employees about the risks associated with drug use and the futility of attempting to cheat drug screens fosters a culture of transparency and integrity. Integrated Care emphasizes preventive education alongside robust detection methods, enhancing workplace safety and employee trust.
At Integrated Care, our comprehensive approach ensures accurate, reliable, and fair drug screening, making workplaces safer and healthier environments for everyone.

Can You Go Directly to Physical Therapy
Can You Go Directly to Physical Therapy in Nebraska? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re dealing with pain or recovering from an injury in Nebraska, you may be wondering: Can I go straight to a physical therapist, or do I need a referral from a physician?
The good news is Nebraska allows Direct Access to Physical Therapy, meaning you can start treatment without needing a doctor’s referral in most cases. That means faster relief, fewer delays, and a quicker return to work or daily activities.
Why Choose Integrated Care for Physical Therapy?
At Integrated Care, we provide high-quality, patient-focused physical therapy services designed to help you recover quickly and effectively. Our experienced team of licensed physical therapists creates personalized treatment plans tailored to your injury, mobility needs, and recovery goals.
Benefits of Choosing Integrated Care for Physical Therapy
✅ No Referral Needed – Skip the hassle of waiting for a doctor’s appointment. Get treatment right away!
✅ Expert Therapists – Our skilled professionals use the latest techniques to help you recover faster.
✅ Convenient Locations – Visit us at our South Omaha or West Omaha clinics for easy access to care.
✅ Affordable & Transparent Pricing – We offer fair pricing with flexible payment options.
✅ Fast Scheduling & Low Wait Times – Your recovery shouldn’t have to wait—we make it easy to get in and get better.
When Might a Referral Be Required?
Although Nebraska allows direct access to physical therapy, some insurance providers or specific medical cases may still require a physician’s referral:
- Medicare & Some Private Insurances – Always check your plan to see if a referral is required for coverage.
- Workers’ Compensation Injuries – If your injury happened on the job, your employer’s insurance may require a doctor’s authorization.
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation – After surgery, your surgeon may have a specific recovery plan that requires a referral.
- Complex Conditions – If your therapist identifies a more serious medical issue, they will refer you to a physician for further evaluation.
How to Get Started with Physical Therapy at Integrated Care
1️⃣ Call Us or Walk In – No referral? No problem! Book an appointment today at 402-502-1819 or visit us at:
📍 South Omaha: 4832 S. 24th Street, Omaha, NE 68107
📍 West Omaha: 14450 Meadows Blvd, Omaha, NE 68138
2️⃣ Check Your Insurance – Not sure if you need a referral? We can help verify your benefits.
3️⃣ Start Feeling Better – Our physical therapy team will create a custom treatment plan to help you recover quickly.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today!
If you’re struggling with pain, mobility issues, or a recent injury, don’t wait! Integrated Care is your go-to physical therapy provider in Omaha, helping you get back to work, sports, and daily activities—faster and stronger.
📞 Call 402-502-1819 or visit www.integratedcarellc.com to schedule your physical therapy appointment today! 🚀