Quest Diagnostics Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) announced it will release its third quarter 2021 financial results on October 21, 2021, before the market opens. A conference call is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. ET on the same day, accessible via phone and webcast. Participants are encouraged to dial in 10 minutes early. A replay will be available until November 4, 2021. The company emphasizes its role in improving health outcomes through diagnostic insights, serving one in three adult Americans and half of U.S. physicians and hospitals.

According to a Quest Diagnostics study published in JAMA Pediatrics, over half (50.5%) of American children under six tested have detectable lead levels in their blood. The study analyzed data from 1,141,441 children and found that children in high-poverty areas and older housing are at greater risk. Although elevated blood lead levels (≥5.0 µg/dL) have declined to 1.9%, the persistent lead exposure remains a significant public health concern. Experts emphasize the need to eliminate all lead sources, given that no safe level of lead exposure in children has been identified.

Quest Diagnostics (DGX) updated its financial outlook for 2021 amid stronger-than-expected COVID-19 molecular testing volumes, driven by the Delta variant's surge. The company now anticipates net revenues between $9.84 billion and $10.09 billion, reflecting a 4.3% increase from prior expectations. Adjusted diluted EPS is projected to range from $11.65 to $12.35. The company also expects to generate at least $2 billion in cash from operations and maintain capital expenditures around $400 million. Factors affecting future results include the pandemic's duration and reimbursement rates.

The Quest Diagnostics Health Trends study reveals a significant decline in new cancer diagnoses during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. Analyzing data from 799,496 patients, the study indicates that from March 2020 to March 2021, cancer diagnoses fell by 29.8% during early pandemic months and continued to decline by 19.1% by March 2021. This decline raises concerns over undiagnosed cancers and emphasizes the need for regular preventive care. Medical professionals warn that delayed diagnoses could lead to more advanced cancers, necessitating aggressive treatment and resulting in poorer outcomes.

Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) will present at the Morgan Stanley 19th Annual Global Healthcare Conference on September 9, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. ET. CEO Steve Rusckowski and EVP Jim Davis will discuss the company's growth strategy and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact. The presentation will be available for live streaming on the company's investor relations page and will remain archived for later viewing until October 9, 2021.

Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) has elected Ms. Tracey C. Doi to its Board of Directors, increasing the board's membership to 10. As CFO of Toyota Motor North America, Ms. Doi brings extensive experience in finance and strategic planning. Company leadership expressed confidence that her expertise will enhance Quest's capabilities in the healthcare sector. Alongside her role at Quest, Ms. Doi is involved with various organizations, contributing to risk management and corporate governance initiatives.

Quest Diagnostics (DGX) has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.62 per share, to be paid on October 20, 2021. Shareholders of record as of October 5, 2021 will receive this dividend. The company, a leader in diagnostic information services, highlights its commitment to improving health outcomes through diagnostic insights. Quest services about one in three adult Americans and supports numerous healthcare providers across the U.S., employing nearly 50,000 staff dedicated to transforming lives through health management.

Quest Diagnostics (DGX) reported strong Q2 2021 results, with net revenues soaring to $2,550 million, a 39.5% increase year-over-year. This marks the first time since 2019 that organic base testing revenues grew, propelled by new hospital lab contracts and increased healthcare engagement. Operating income rose 88.4% to $533 million, resulting in a diluted EPS of $4.96, a 264.2% increase. The company anticipates 2021 net revenues between $9.54 billion and $9.79 billion and adjusted diluted EPS of $10.65 to $11.35.

CLX Health has partnered with Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) to enhance COVID-19 testing access for individuals attending live events or traveling internationally. This collaboration allows users to schedule PCR/NAAT tests at Quest's patient service centers and over 750 retail pharmacy locations across the U.S., with results available within 48 hours. Quest is the first national provider to join the TrustAssure™ Global Testing Platform, which coordinates testing locations for major airlines and event venues. This initiative aims to facilitate safer travel experiences as pandemic restrictions ease.