Quest Diagnostics working to reduce health disparities across US

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Secaucus-based Quest Diagnostics, along with the Quest Diagnostics Foundation, is working with Americares to reduce health disparities in underserved communities. 

The organizations have teamed up to offer no-cost diagnostic services to 10 free and charitable clinics across the U.S. for one year, Stamford, Conn.-based Americares announced Sept. 13. 

“Diagnostic screening services are critical for understanding the full picture of a person’s health,” Quest for Health Equity Senior Director and Leader Michael Floyd said in a statement. “Through our work with Americares, we are able to provide more access to testing services for people who need them, which we hope will provide better health outcomes.” 

Quest for Health Equity is an initiative of Quest and its foundation focused on providing resources, funding, testing services and education to address health disparities across the U.S. 

Additionally, four clinics will receive grants through the Quest Diagnostics Foundation to support telehealth services. The clinics can use the funding to buy equipment or subscriptions to telehealth platforms, as well as for technical support with implementation, policies and best practices, according to the organizations. 

Americares estimated that more than 11,000 patients across these four clinics are expected to benefit from the collaboration. The organizations did not disclose the amount of the grants, which also are part of the Quest for Health Equity initiative. 

Clinics that provide services to non-English speaking populations and marginalized communities were given priority, according to Americares. Although none of the clinics are located in the Garden State, residents from as far as San Francisco to Baltimore will benefit from the programs. 

Founded in 1979, Americares provides its network health facilities with resources such as medicine and medical supplies, education, operational support, funding, training and innovations in health care delivery. Quest Diagnostics has been working with the organization since 1994.

Virtual care

Cooper University Health Care also is leaning on technology to serve patients who may find it difficult to make in-person visits. Click here to read more about the Tablets for Veterans program.