Quest Diagnostics is one of the nation's leading clinical laboratories, carrying out more than 50 million tests each year. During the last two years, they've been at the forefront of COVID-19 testing as the pandemic has swept across the globe, meaning they're experts on testing and the virus.
With cases at an all-time high, and the rush to find available testing intensifying, CNECT spoke to Quest Diagnostics on behalf of our members to answer a series of frequently asked questions.
Q: Where can my patients get COVID-19 testing through Quest?
A: Quest accepts provider-collected samples ordered through the same process as other laboratory tests
In some geographies, patients may also be able to go to a Quest Patient Service Center for COVID-19 specimen collection. Please call 1.866.MY.QUEST or contact your local sales representative to inquire further.
Patients can also access testing through QuestDirect, which allows patients to initiate testing on their own. If eligible, patients can also access COVID-19 testing through our 'No Cost Testing Program', which allows patients to get tested at Walmart® and other participating sites.
At-home and in-person collection tests are also available for purchase at QuestDirectTest.com.
Q: What is the current turnaround time for COVID-19 molecular testing?
A: Our current turnaround time (TAT) is 2-3 days (for priority samples, the majority are tested within 1 day). However, this is subject to change as the current surge impacts demand. Please visit our newsroom for the most up-to-date TAT information.
Q: Can your tests detect the Omicron variant?
A: Yes. Our tests are diagnostic of COVID-19 infection including Omicron.
Q: Can your tests determine whether my patient has the Omicron variant?
A: No. Our assays cannot differentiate among the different SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Q: Do you have tests for “Long COVID”?
A: We offer a number of COVID-19 test panels in association with the CDC's guidance on caring for patients with post-COVID-19 conditions (sometimes referred to as “Long COVID”). Please visit our test directory and enter search term “Post COVID” for more information.
Q: Are there other COVID-19 related updates I should be aware of?
A: Health issues have been exacerbated by the pandemic, driven from undiagnosed conditions due to deferred care. It has also brought to light longstanding systemic health inequities impacting people of color.
Further, as with for other industries, the pandemic has had widespread impact on the supply chain for many of the testing and collection supplies that we use. Please know that we are doing what we can — including seeking alternative suppliers and test/collection options — to minimize disruption to our patients’ healthcare needs. We appreciate your understanding and support through this unprecedented time.
At CNECT, we provide more than just exclusive contracts and great savings. Our members receive personal, expert support, as well as helpful information through our webinars, newsletters, and blog posts.
If you have any further questions about COVID-19 testing, healthcare, or how we can support your organization, please don't hesitate to contact us.