An Analysis of the Effectiveness of the Air Force Drug Testing Program and Four Potential Modifications
Abstract
This study evaluated the 1992 USAF Drug Testing Program and potential improvements, based on the number of drug users detected, cost, and legal issues. Four potential improvements were examined: (1) increasing the annual amount of random urinalysis; (2) increasing the proportion of commander-directed testing; (3) using a weighted selection technique, and (4) replacing urinalysis with hair testing. For each improvement, the researchers used test and survey results to estimate the number of drug users detected, a cost formula to estimate any changes in cost, and interviews with legal experts to identify any legal issues associated with implementing the modification. Researchers found the proportion of drug users detected by the testing program was significantly less than the proportion estimated by a 1992 survey of military personnel. In addition, the researchers found the potential modifications should each increase the number of drug users detected. However, the percentage of drug users detected would remain small and implementation of each modification would result in increased costs or legal challenges or decreased deterrence. Researchers found hair testing has the greatest potential for significantly increasing the number of drug users detected. However, widespread use is not recommended because of technical issues and higher costs. Urinalysis, Drug users, Drug abuse, Drugs, Hair, Test.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA275790
Entities
People
- Hubert A. Ross
- Thomas R. Doster
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology