P004: Scientific Laboratory Division
P004: Percent of blood alcohol tests from driving-while-intoxicated cases that are completed and reported to law enforcement within 15 business days
Current Value
83.1%
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
- New Mexico has a high rate of alcohol-related deaths.
- The Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) analyzes blood samples for alcohol and drugs to determine cause of driver impairment, and serve as expert witnesses. The same staff analyze samples from the Office of Medical Investigator (OMI) for alcohol and drugs for cause of death.
- In FY17Q1, the target of 90% of BAC being reported out in 15 days was not met as only 83.1% were reported in 15 business days.
- The duplicate testing requirement for alcohol testing per the American Board of Forensic Toxicology audit doubled testing times which resulted in the target not being met. The Drug Screening Section was also short one staff person and had a new person start at the beginning of the year. NOTE: It takes over a year to become proficient in testing and to become competent for expert witness testimony.
- SLD will continue training and streamlining testing requirements.
Partners
- Courts
- Public safety officials (e.g., law enforcement)
- New Mexico Department of Transportation/Traffic Safety Bureau
What Works
- Training keeps analysts up-to-date on current methods.
- Maintaining and updating equipment allows for samples to be analyzed without interruptions.
Strategy
- Develop cross-training between Drug Screening and Drug Confirmation Sections to expand the pool of staff available for testing.
Action Plan
- Q1: Examine the process to determine feasibility: The process was delayed due to staffing shortage.
- Q2: Select one person to begin cross-training in Drug Screening.
- Q3: Evaluate process and determine if more staff can begin cross-training.
- Q4: Follow-up on Q3 determination.
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