Hospital Partners with Psychemedics to Offer Unique Service in Bermuda

Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) is pleased to announce a partnership with Psychemedics Corporation to provide a new service in Bermuda. Using a patented hair analysis method for drug detection, this process is less invasive and more reliable than urine testing.

As the sole agent for this service, BHB is pleased to offer the community a reliable tool that will accurately detect drug use, as well as help deter substance abuse. Uses for this method are broad. In addition to the workplace, accurate drug testing can be applied to athletics, criminal investigations and parents concerned about the safety of their children.

Hair testing identifies the presence of illegal drugs for a period of the previous three months, as opposed to urine and saliva tests that only reflect 2 to 3 days. When compared to urine testing, hair analysis identifies 5 to 10 times as many drug abusers.

A workshop for a “Drug Free Work Place” is being offered to the public on Thursday and Friday, June 1 and June 2, from 8:30am to 11:30am at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel. Representatives from the Psychemedics Corporations, a Californian based laboratory that began offering this service in 1987, will present the seminar, which is being officially opened by Minister for Health and Family Services, the Hon. Patrice Minors.

Scott Pearman, Director for Human Resources at BHB, is responsible for collaborating with Psychemedics in bringing hair analysis detection to Bermuda. “We are excited about offering this vital service as one step in combating substance abuse on our island,” he said.

While accurate drug testing is crucial for addressing the issue of drug use in our community, Mr. Pearman also pointed out the need for additional support. “Hair follicle testing is an excellent tool for assessing drug use. It must also be followed up with prevention education programmes, rehabilitative services and community support networks.”

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