Quest Diagnostics Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Quest Diagnostics has announced its agreement to acquire Haystack Oncology for $300 million in cash, with potential for up to $150 million based on future performance milestones. This acquisition aims to enhance patient care through advanced minimal residual disease (MRD) testing technology, focusing on early detection of cancer recurrence. Haystack's expertise in ctDNA technology, developed from research at Johns Hopkins University, is expected to integrate with Quest's existing oncology, genomics, and pathology services. The deal is projected to be modestly dilutive in the short term but accretive by 2026. Quest plans to launch new clinical lab services based on Haystack's technology in 2024, targeting colorectal, breast, and lung cancers.

Quest Diagnostics has prioritized the safety of its workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing various measures to facilitate a safe return to on-site work. The company established a cross-functional taskforce to develop safety protocols, including testing, vaccination events, and PPE requirements. As a result, workplace transmission of the virus has remained low among its nearly 50,000 employees. A phased return-to-office process began in March 2022, continually guided by CDC recommendations. Multiple vaccination events were organized across the country in collaboration with local health services, ensuring that all employees had access to vaccinations. Overall, the company’s proactive measures have allowed it to maintain and expand its services during the pandemic.

On April 17, 2023, Quest Diagnostics (NYSE:DGX) announced the successful completion of its acquisition of select assets from the laboratory services business of NewYork-Presbyterian. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. This collaboration aims to enhance the quality and affordability of diagnostic testing for providers and patients by leveraging the strengths of both organizations. The partnership will provide patients access to nearly 100 patient service centers operated by Quest in New York City, improving healthcare accessibility. Quest Diagnostics continues to empower healthcare improvements through its extensive portfolio, helping to lower costs and enhance patient experiences.

Quest Diagnostics emphasizes its commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace through equitable compensation and talent management strategies. The company designed its compensation programs to attract, retain, and motivate employees while aligning with market benchmarks. Key components include competitive base pay, variable pay, comprehensive benefits, and overtime for nonexempt employees. Quest actively recruits candidates from diverse backgrounds to foster innovation and growth, ensuring performance reviews are fair and unbiased. By prioritizing a culture that respects all contributions, Quest aims to meet and exceed the expectations of customers and communities.

Quest Diagnostics recently unveiled a renewed corporate purpose aimed at driving its business strategy, growth, and culture. According to CEO Jim Davis, this purpose emphasizes the company's commitment to creating a healthier world through collective effort. The new direction reflects on the dedication shown by employees during the pandemic and serves as a guiding principle going forward. The company aims to integrate this purpose into its operations, reinforcing its mission of improving health outcomes and fostering a strong workplace culture.

Quest Diagnostics (NYSE:DGX) has launched a new suite of transplant diagnostics and support services designed to enhance patient access to essential laboratory tests across the United States. This expansion includes access to over 170 specialized tests and personalized patient education packets, enabling faster test results within 8-24 hours.

The services are accessible through Quest's national network of 2,100 patient service centers and 5,000 mobile phlebotomists, addressing the challenges faced by transplant recipients and living donors. This initiative is crucial as organ transplantation presents complex testing requirements to ensure compatibility and safety, and the demand for living donor transplants is increasing, with a reported 14.2% growth in living donations in 2021.

Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) will announce its first quarter 2023 financial results on April 27, 2023, before market opening. A conference call to discuss the results is set for 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day, accessible to U.S. callers at 888-455-0391 and international callers at 773-756-0467 using the passcode 7895081. The earnings release and a live webcast will be available on www.QuestDiagnostics.com/investor. A replay of the call will be accessible online and by phone after 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day.

Quest Diagnostics has announced its commitment to improve healthcare access in underserved communities through several partnerships and initiatives. Notable programs include the New Mexico Diabetes Prevention Action in collaboration with Presbyterian Medical Services, aimed at supporting patients in need. Additionally, the establishment of Puerto Rico's first post-COVID-19 care clinic was made possible by a grant from Quest's Q4HE, focusing on long COVID symptoms. Other initiatives involve partnerships with various organizations to enhance COVID-19 testing and vaccination efforts across multiple states.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, in collaboration with Quest for Health Equity (Q4HE), is launching a free blood lead testing initiative for residents around the closed Exide battery recycling facility in Vernon, California. Residents can schedule tests by calling the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Hotline. Additionally, qualifying low-income families may access the Lead Free Homes LA program for free lead hazard testing and remediation. The initiative aims to combat preventable lead poisoning in under-resourced communities, emphasizing the importance of environmental safety.