Perceptions of Arizonans on Random Drug Screening Related to Obtaining and Maintaining Health Care Benefits

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of the general public in Arizona regarding random drug screening and obtaining and maintaining health care benefits. METHODS: Individuals entering and leaving a grocery store in Chandler, Arizona on one day were invited to voluntarily participate in the study by reviewing a subject disclosure form and completing an 11 item questionnaire. The Likert scale varied from 1 = Strongly Disagree to 6 = Strongly Agree. Individuals were eligible to participate if they were adults and living in Arizona. RESULTS: One hundred adults participated in the study. The results of the study showed general agreement for passing a drug test for illegal substances before being hired (5.0 ± 1.5, mean ± SD), and if testing positive for illegal drugs, being allowed to enroll in a drug treatment program to keep their health care benefits (4.8 ±1.6). Respondents agreed that employers should require random drug testing to maintain employment (4.4 ± 1.8). However, respondents neither agreed or disagreed that people should be required to pass a drug test to be eligible to receive health care benefits (3.9 ± 2.0) or that they should be required to pass a periodic drug test to maintain their health care benefits (3.7 ± 2.0). CONSLUSIONS: Respondents agreed with drug testing to obtain and maintain employment; however, respondents neither agreed or disagreed with the concept of obtaining or maintaining health care benefits with passing a drug test for illegal substances.