FAQ | Colorado Health Services

General Questions

Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are often welcome, but we recommend calling ahead or scheduling an appointment to minimize wait times—especially during peak hours. For employer or DOT testing, scheduling in advance is preferred.

What should I bring?

Please bring:

A valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
Any paperwork from your probation officer, court, or employer
Payment (cash, credit/debit card accepted)

Do you accept insurance?

No. We do not bill insurance. Payment is due at the time of service.

Can I schedule a test for someone else?

Yes. Employers, probation officers, attorneys, or family members can schedule tests on behalf of another person. We’ll need basic information about the individual and the type of test required.

How long does a visit take?

Most visits take 10-20 minutes, depending on the type of test and whether you have an appointment. Some tests (like instant screens or breath alcohol) may be even faster. Clients should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment. No more tests will be administered within 5 minutes of closing.

Probation & Court Testing

Can I choose Colorado Health Services for my court-ordered testing?

In many cases, yes—but check with your probation officer or court to confirm. Some jurisdictions allow clients to select their own testing facility; others have specific requirements.

What if I'm late for my scheduled test?

We understand that life happens. If you’re running late, please call us. We’ll do our best to accommodate you, but repeated late arrivals or no-shows may be reported to your supervising authority.

Are tests observed?

It depends on your court or probation requirements. Some clients are required to submit to observed testing; others are not. We follow the instructions provided by your supervising authority. All court and Probation/DOC tests are observed by default. Some companies require the test to be observed for pre-employment, but that is up to the Company scheduling the test.

Employment & DOT Testing

What's the difference between pre-employment and random testing?

Pre-employment testing is a one-time screen conducted before a candidate is hired. Random testing is an ongoing program where current employees are selected unpredictably for testing to maintain a drug-free workplace.

How do I know if I need DOT testing?

If you work in a DOT-regulated industry (commercial driving, aviation, railroads, pipelines, etc.), your employer is required to follow federal drug and alcohol testing rules. DOT testing uses specific panels, collection procedures, and reporting protocols. If you’re unsure, ask your employer or contact us for guidance.

Testing Types

What's the difference between urine, oral fluid, and hair testing?

Each test type has different detection windows and uses:

Urine (UA): Most common. Detects drug use within the past 2–4 days (varies by substance).
Oral Fluid (Mouth Swab): Non-invasive. Detects very recent use (within 24–48 hours).
Hair Follicle: Longer detection window (up to 90 days). Used to identify patterns of use over time.

How far back does each test detect drug use?

Detection windows vary:

Urine: 2–4 days (sometimes longer for heavy use)
Oral Fluid: 24–48 hours
Hair: Up to 90 days or more
Breath Alcohol: Detects current intoxication only (alcohol leaves the system quickly)

Can I request a breath alcohol test instead of urine?

Only if your court, probation officer, or employer allows it. Breath alcohol testing only detects current alcohol intoxication—it won’t show drug use or past alcohol consumption. Check with the requesting party before scheduling.

Logistics & Payment

Where do I park?

Metered parking is available along Pikes Peak Avenue and nearby lots. Please allow a few extra minutes when you visit.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Payment is due at the time of service.

Frequently Asked Questions