What to confirm before a pre-employment exam or drug screen

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A new employer may tell you to get a job physical, a drug screen, or both. Those instructions can leave important details unanswered. Before visiting Warren Urgent Care, get the written request from your employer and confirm that the clinic can provide the exact services listed. This is especially useful when a start date depends on completing paperwork.

Start with the employer’s request

Ask whether you need a general employment exam, a job-specific assessment, a DOT exam, or a particular screening protocol. An instruction that only says “physical” may not explain the form, job duties, or additional tests. Have the employer clarify any missing details rather than guessing which service to request at reception.

• Obtain the employer’s completed authorization and any required examination form.
• Ask for the exact test or screening requested and whether it follows DOT or company requirements.
• Confirm who pays for the visit and whether the employer has arranged billing with the clinic.
• Identify the person or department that should receive completed documentation.
• Ask about the deadline and what happens if additional information is required.

Check the collection arrangements

Drug and alcohol testing requirements vary by the employer and the applicable program. The U.S. Department of Transportation publishes separate information for employees in covered transportation roles. Do not assume that a test arranged under a company policy is interchangeable with a DOT test, or that a physical includes every screening your employer needs.

Read any collection instructions and ask the clinic whether it needs an electronic order, a paper authorization, or other documentation. Confirm the requested collection can be arranged at Warren before traveling. Ask about identification requirements and preparation; do not guess about fasting, fluid intake, medication changes, or which test panel will be used.

Bring information that supports the exam

Have a current medication list and relevant health information ready for the medical assessment. Bring glasses or other equipment you ordinarily use if the employer’s examination instructions call for them. If the job request mentions lifting, hearing, vision, or another specialized assessment, ask about the specific protocol and availability rather than assuming it is part of a standard physical.

Keep track of the paperwork after the visit

Ask how documents and test results will be delivered, who handles follow-up questions, and whether anything remains outstanding. Keep the contact details for your employer’s coordinator. A completed clinic visit does not by itself confirm that an employer has received or accepted everything. Testing turnaround and hiring decisions should be confirmed with the responsible clinic, testing program, and employer.