2025 Medical Review Officer Online Course with Live Discussion (Includes Digital Syllabus)-Tab 15: Keeping Up to Date

Tab 15: Keeping Up to Date

Pdf Summary

This document provides an overview of recent federal regulatory changes and resources relevant to Medical Review Officers (MROs) and drug testing professionals. Key updates include:<br /><br />1. DHHS Changes (October 2017): Expanded authorized opioid testing to include hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone; discontinued MDEA testing; MROs may optionally report safety concerns but must receive training before implementation.<br /><br />2. DOT Changes (January 2018): Aligned with DHHS updates; MROs must report safety concerns and provide a 5-day pause for healthcare providers to adjust prescriptions before notifying Designated Employer Representatives; DNA testing is prohibited.<br /><br />3. DHHS Oral Fluid Testing Standards (October 2019): Published standards for oral fluid testing as a flexible alternative to urine collection with FDA/HHS-approved devices and certified labs, though full implementation will take years; DOT is developing corresponding regulations.<br /><br />4. DOT Proposed Regulations (February 2022 NPRM): Support oral fluid testing and observation of urine collection by any healthcare professional; MRO staff can verify prescriptions with pharmacies; labs to retain non-negative specimens for 90 days; virtual Substance Abuse Professional interviews allowed.<br /><br />5. DHHS Federal Hair Testing (2020): Mandated by Congress but implementation delayed due to regulatory reviews.<br /><br />Additionally, the document lists valuable MRO resources including the ACOEM MRO Resource Manual, which contains regulatory background, specimen collection procedures, and practical tools. Recommended books include the Swotinsky MRO Manual, SAMHSA guidance, and others focused on toxicology and workplace drug testing.<br /><br />Federal agency websites such as SAMHSA, DOT, and CDC provide authoritative guidelines, with CDC offering opioid prescribing guidelines and checklists. Professional organizations like ACOEM, MROCC, and AAMRO offer certification and educational opportunities, including comprehensive live and online courses and update webinars covering recent regulatory changes.<br /><br />MRO forums and listservs are available to support ongoing professional communication and updates. This summary emphasizes the importance of staying informed on evolving drug testing regulations, utilizing available educational resources, and engaging with professional networks.

Keywords

Medical Review Officers

Drug Testing Regulations

DHHS Opioid Testing

DOT Drug Testing

Oral Fluid Testing

MRO Resources

Federal Drug Testing Updates

Substance Abuse Professional

Regulatory Changes 2017-2022

Workplace Drug Testing