In today’s job market, it’s always exciting to get a new employment offer! Finding a new job often involves applying for dozens (or hundreds) of positions, undergoing multiple rounds of interviews, and then impatiently checking your inbox or waiting for the phone to ring. Many employers require pre-employment background checks and drug tests before you begin work, and a tuberculosis (TB) skin test is also required for certain positions.

First Choice is proud to be Arkansas’ most trusted third-party administrator, and we keep a Medical Review Officer (MRO) on staff to ensure the accuracy of all testing results. You never need an appointment to take a TB skin test at our southwest Little Rock testing center, and we’ll have you in and out the door in a matter of minutes! Here are a few frequently asked questions about TB skin testing, and we’re always a phone call away if we didn’t answer your specific question in the section below:

Who Needs a TB Test? Certain professions require TB testing as a standard condition of employment, including healthcare professionals, correctional facility staff members, and teachers and childcare workers who work with very young children. Testing is also recommended for individuals caring for older adults or immunocompromised family members in their home or planning overseas travel.

How does TB Testing work? We offer TB testing every weekday except Thursday, and we provide official documentation of negative results on the spot. During your first visit, a small amount of solution is injected just under your skin, and you’ll return 48–72 hours later to have it read. We also now offer the QFT-Plus Blood Test, which requires only one visit.

What are my options if I test positive? According to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates, approximately ⅓ of the world’s population has latent TB; if you have a Latent TB infection (LTBI), it’s possible to spread the disease even if you’re not sick or symptomatic. TB is treatable, and early detection is crucial for achieving the best outcomes. Contact your doctor immediately if you test positive and minimize contact with others until you receive medical clearance.

If you have any questions about TB skin tests or any of our other testing services, contact us online or at 501-661-9992.