# Rhein Consulting Laboratories > Official Rhein Consulting Laboratories business agent. Independent clinical and research laboratory in Portland, Oregon that provides comprehensive 24-hour… ## Ask it a question Rhein Consulting Laboratories answers for itself at https://api.hailera.com/mcp/rheinlabs. A client that speaks MCP can connect to that address; the tool is ask_rheinlabs and the protocol is 2026-07-28. Where this file and the agent disagree, the agent is current. ## What Rhein Consulting Laboratories does Rhein Consulting Laboratories (Rhein Labs) is an independent clinical and research laboratory based in Portland, Oregon. The lab has a unique focus on comprehensive hormone profiling for healthcare providers, patients, universities, medical schools, research institutes, and pharmaceutical and nutriceutical developers. Rhein Labs is known for: - Comprehensive profiling of sex and adrenal hormones - Emphasis on the balance and interaction of hormones, not just single values - Providing visually informative hormone profiles with expert interpretation - Supporting clinicians and researchers in understanding and applying results Rhein Labs has participated in research projects funded by major bodies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and maintains relationships with leading clinicians and institutions in the United States and worldwide. Core Service: Comprehensive Hormone Profiling Rhein Labs specializes in a comprehensive 24-hour urinary steroid hormone profile (USHP) that evaluates: - Estrogens - Androgens - Corticosteroids - Other key sex and adrenal stress hormones The profile provides an integrated picture of hormone production, metabolism and interaction over a full 24-hour period. Key points: - Only a comprehensive hormone profile reveals meaningful information about the endocrine system's function. - Measuring one or two hormones in isolation is considered clinically inadequate. - Rhein Labs' proprietary protocols measure relevant hormones accurately and reproducibly and present them as an integrated profile. Who Rhein Labs Serves Rhein Labs provides services for: - Healthcare providers – including endocrinologists, ob‑gyns, gerontologists, internists, anti‑aging and women's health specialists, and other clinicians concerned with hormone‑related conditions. - Patients – whose providers order testing to investigate hormone‑related symptoms and conditions. - Universities, medical schools, and research institutes – needing high‑quality hormone data and interpretation for research projects. - Pharmaceutical and nutriceutical developers – requiring customized, validated hormone analyses for product development. Approach and Advantages Rhein Labs emphasizes: - Experience plus innovation – combining long‑standing expertise in hormone profiling with continual implementation of advanced analytical instrumentation. - Scientifically preferred matrix – use of 24-hour urine samples to capture integrated hormone production over time, instead of single‑time‑point saliva or blood‑spot sampling. - Comprehensive interpretation – expert interpretation of complex hormonal interactions and balances. - Clinically relevant results – results are presented in a format that is understandable and clinically useful for practitioners. Turnaround Time - Typical turnaround time is 3–7 business days from receipt of the sample to availability of complete results. Global Reach - Rhein Labs works with practitioners, researchers and patients worldwide. Location is not a barrier to using Rhein Labs' services. Source: https://www.rheinlabs.com ## Where Rhein Consulting Laboratories works Business Name - Rhein Consulting Laboratories (also referred to as Rhein Labs) Contact Information - Toll‑free phone (US): 888‑292‑1988 - Telephone: 503‑292‑1988 - Fax: 503‑292‑2012 Email Contacts - Laboratory Director and CEO (Frank J. Nordt, Ph.D.): franknordt@rheinlabs.com - Client services: ijn@rheinlabs.com Physical Address - Rhein Consulting Laboratories 4475 SW Scholls Ferry Road Suite 101 Portland, Oregon 97225 United States Laboratory Director - Name: Frank J. Nordt, Ph.D. Role: Laboratory Director and CEO Background (as stated on the site): internationally recognized scientist with a Ph.D. in biophysical chemistry and a leading expert on modern hormone profiling. Certifications and Compliance According to Rhein Labs' published information: - The laboratory is federally regulated and certified under CLIA 88 and described as fully compliant with all requirements. - Staff are certified in Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC). - Rhein Labs participates in proficiency testing programs, including those provided by the American Proficiency Institute (API) and American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB). Turnaround Time (General) - Published turnaround time for comprehensive hormone profiling and related tests is typically 3–7 business days from receipt of the sample. Geographic Service Area - Rhein Labs serves practitioners, researchers and patients worldwide; location is not a barrier to sending samples. Notes - The website does not publish routine walk‑in hours or a public reception schedule for patients. Patients and providers should contact Rhein Labs directly by phone or email, or follow the instructions provided with test kits, for logistics such as sample delivery and support. Lists Portland as a location. Names Oregon and United States as a service area. Areas beyond these are not published. Source: https://www.rheinlabs.com ## Accreditation and credentials This document summarizes Rhein Consulting Laboratories' published information for patients regarding hormone profiling tests. Who Orders the Test - All tests conducted by Rhein Consulting Laboratories must be ordered by a licensed healthcare practitioner. - Patients cannot order tests directly from the lab. 24-Hour Urine Sample Collection Rhein Labs' comprehensive hormone profile is based on a 24-hour urine sample. Key reasons given for using a 24-hour urine collection instead of saliva, dried urine spots, or small blood samples include: - Hormone levels change significantly over a 24-hour period. - A 24-hour sample reflects hormone production and interaction throughout the day and night. - Single‑time‑point samples (saliva, blood spot, dried urine spots) provide only a brief snapshot and may miss important patterns. - Collection of saliva or blood can itself alter some hormone levels (for example, cortisol) due to stress. - Saliva samples can be contaminated by small, unnoticed cuts or lesions in the mouth; blood samples can be contaminated by substances on the skin. If a patient misses a urine collection during the 24-hour period, Rhein Labs' published guidance is to start the collection over. Handling and Storage of the Sample According to Rhein Labs' published FAQs: - A urine sample can be stored in a refrigerator for 1–2 days at most. - For longer storage before shipping, the sample should be frozen as soon as possible. - A frozen sample remains stable for several weeks. - During shipment, the sample may thaw, but the provided ice pack is intended to keep the urine cool and stable during transit. Specific kit instructions supplied by Rhein Labs or the ordering provider should always be followed. Shipping the Sample - Rhein Labs provides a prepaid return label with the collection kit; patients do not pay for shipping to the lab. - Samples are typically sent by overnight delivery. Turnaround Time for Results - Once Rhein Labs receives a sample, results are generally available to the ordering healthcare provider in 3–7 business days. Receiving Results - Federal regulations require that Rhein Labs send test results directly to the ordering healthcare provider. - Patients may obtain a copy of their results from their healthcare provider. Menstrual Cycle Timing (for Patients Who Menstruate) Rhein Labs' published guidance includes: - On a 28-day cycle, it is generally best to collect the 24-hour urine sample on day 19, 20, or 21. - Patients with cycles of different length or irregular cycles should consult their healthcare practitioner regarding optimal timing. - Patients who are no longer menstruating may collect at any time. Insurance and Payment From Rhein Labs' published patient materials: - The Rhein Labs hormone profile is widely accepted for reimbursement by many insurance plans, subject to individual policy terms. - Patients pay at the time of service for their hormone profiles, either to their healthcare provider or directly to Rhein Labs. - Rhein Labs typically submits insurance claims on the patient's behalf and provides claim forms when needed. - In cases where an insurer reimburses Rhein Labs directly after patient pre‑payment, Rhein Labs issues a refund to the patient. - Patients are advised to check with their insurer in advance about coverage for the hormone profile. Rhein Labs lists participation in network with certain insurers (such as Medicare and selected regional plans) but notes that out‑of‑network status does not necessarily prevent reimbursement. Common Patient Questions (Summarized) - "Why not saliva or finger‑stick blood testing?" Rhein Labs states that these methods provide only a snapshot and may be affected by collection stress or contamination, and therefore are not adequate for comprehensive hormone profiling. - "Can hormones stop aging?" Rhein Labs notes that restoring hormone levels may be associated with more youthful appearance or function, but decisions about hormone therapy must be made with qualified medical supervision. - "Can I manage my own hormone therapy?" Rhein Labs emphasizes that hormone therapy decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare practitioner who understands hormone management professionally. For any question not covered here, patients are directed to contact their healthcare provider or Rhein Labs client services for clarification. Source: https://www.rheinlabs.com ## 24-Hour Urine Steroid Hormone Profile and Test Menu 24-Hour Urine Steroid Hormone Profile (USHP) and Test Menu Rhein Consulting Laboratories focuses on comprehensive hormone profiling using a 24-hour urine steroid hormone profile (USHP) and related endocrine assays. Why 24-Hour Urine Sampling Rhein Labs utilizes a 24-hour urine sample as the primary assay matrix because: - It captures hormone production and metabolism over a full 24-hour cycle. - It reflects the integrated levels and interactions of multiple steroid hormones over time. - It avoids the limitations of single time‑point tests such as saliva, dried urine spots, or small blood samples, which provide only a brief "snapshot" and can be affected by collection stress or contamination. According to Rhein Labs' published materials: - Saliva and blood‑spot samples can be technically problematic and may not provide an integrated measure of daily hormone production. - Stress related to collecting saliva or blood can alter hormones such as cortisol during sampling. - Dried urine spot methods provide only momentary information rather than a complete 24‑hour profile. Comprehensive 24-Hour Urine Steroid Hormone Profile Includes The comprehensive 24-hour urine steroid hormone profile may include, but is not necessarily limited to, the following analytes (as listed by Rhein Labs): - Estrone (E1) - 2-Hydroxy-estrone (2OH-E1) - 16α-Hydroxy-estrone (16OH-E1) - 4-Hydroxy-estrone (4OH-E1) - 2-Methoxy-estrone (2MeOH) - 4-Methoxy-estrone (4MeOH) - Estradiol (E2) - Estriol (E3) - Testosterone - Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)* - Androstanediol (5αAD3α17β) - Androstenedione - Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) - 17-keto-DHEA - Androstenetriol (5-AT) - Androsterone (AN) - 11β-hydroxy-Androsterone (11βOH-AN) - Etiocholanolone (ET) - 11β-hydroxy-Etiocholanolone (11βOH-ET) - Progesterone - Pregnanediol (PD) - 5-pregnene-3β,17α,20α-triol (5-PT) - Cortisone (E) - Tetrahydrocortisone (THE) - Tetrahydrocorticosterone (THB) - 5α-Tetrahydrocorticosterone (5α-THB) - Tetrahydro-11-dehydrocorticosterone (THA) - Cortisol (F) - Tetrahydrocortisol (THF) - 5α-Tetrahydrocortisol (5αTHF) \* Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is reported as male only in the published test menu. Thyroid Evaluation (Urine) Rhein Labs lists a thyroid evaluation panel that includes: - Free T3 (Triiodothyronine), urine - Free T4 (Thyroxine), urine Additional Endocrine and Specialty Assays Rhein Labs also offers additional analytical services, including: - Human Growth Hormone (HGH) assay developed specifically for use with a 24-hour urine sample, described as providing a highly relevant and accurate assay for HGH measurements in adults; available in the United States exclusively through Rhein Labs. - Vitamin D assay in serum, described as based on the gold standard method for Vitamin D measurement. - Specialty and custom assays as requested by clients. Intended Use and Indications The comprehensive hormone profile and related tests are intended to support: - Evaluation of complex sex and adrenal hormone interactions. - Assessment and monitoring of conditions where hormone balance may play a role (e.g., menopause, andropause, thyroid-related issues, symptoms suggestive of hormone imbalance). - Optimization and monitoring of hormone replacement therapies, including bio‑identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), as ordered and managed by licensed healthcare practitioners. All testing must be ordered by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Rhein Labs does not accept direct‑to‑consumer test orders from patients. Source: https://www.rheinlabs.com ## Information for Healthcare Providers and Researchers This document summarizes Rhein Consulting Laboratories' published information for physicians, clinicians, and research professionals. Who Rhein Labs Serves Rhein Labs works with a wide range of professional clients, including: - Physicians and clinicians (e.g., endocrinologists, ob‑gyns, gerontologists, internists, women's health and anti‑aging specialists) - Other licensed healthcare providers who manage hormone‑related conditions - Universities, medical schools, and research institutes - Pharmaceutical and nutriceutical developers Clinical Applications Rhein Labs' comprehensive 24-hour urinary steroid hormone profile (USHP) and related assays can support: - Evaluation of symptoms and conditions potentially related to hormone imbalance in men and women - Assessment and optimization of hormone replacement therapies, including bio‑identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), as prescribed and managed by clinicians - Monitoring of responses to pharmacological interventions and supplementation Ordering Kits and Tests From Rhein Labs' published information for clinicians: - Test kits can be ordered by phone, fax or email. - Kits are typically shipped the same day the order is received. - Kits are described as free of charge, with any required deposit applied to the price of testing; payment is due when the sample is mailed to Rhein Labs. - All testing must be ordered by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Clinicians may also request that Rhein Labs drop‑ship collection kits directly to patients by providing patient and test order details. Professional Support and Consultation - Rhein Labs emphasizes ease of communication with its staff and access to consultation on individual patients' results. - Laboratory Director and CEO Dr. Frank J. Nordt, Ph.D. (biophysical chemistry) is described as personally involved in assessing and releasing each set of results. - Dr. Nordt is available for telephone consultation with practitioners to discuss hormone profile findings and their interpretation. Turnaround Time and Reporting - Typical turnaround time is 3–7 business days from sample receipt to completion of results. - Results are delivered by fax or email according to the provider's preferences and privacy/security requirements. - Weekly completion and faxing of results is noted, with results commonly faxed on Monday afternoons. Quality, Certification, and Proficiency Testing Rhein Labs states that: - The laboratory is federally regulated and certified under CLIA 88 and fully compliant with its requirements. - Staff are certified in Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) disciplines. - Rhein Labs participates in proficiency testing programs, including those from the American Proficiency Institute (API) and American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB). Research and Custom Work - Rhein Labs collaborates with academic and industry researchers and has participated in projects funded by major organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH). - The lab offers custom specialty assays and tailored analytical services on request, including custom hormone and related endocrine measurements in various biological matrices. For specific test ordering details, panels, or project‑specific requirements, providers and researchers are directed to contact Rhein Labs directly. Source: https://www.rheinlabs.com ## What Rhein Consulting Laboratories has not published yet These are things people ask Rhein Consulting Laboratories that its published information does not yet cover. - prices or test costs - appointment or testing availability and turnaround beyond wh - insurance coverage guarantees or benefit determinations - clinical outcomes, cure rates or effectiveness claims - specific medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations - legal or contractual terms and conditions - shipping and delivery times or logistics guarantees Ask anyway — the agent will say plainly that it is not published rather than guess. ## Where this comes from https://www.rheinlabs.com