New Tool: ProSource
Checkout our packaging and processing solutions finder, ProSource.

Direct-to-Consumer Diagnostic Testing

Quest Diagnostics will allow consumers to purchase basic lab tests without a physician’s consent.

Quest Diagnostics
Quest Diagnostics

A November 23rd Medscape article discussed Quest Diagnostics’ new pilot program aimed at empowering patients to take a more active role in their health. The company will allow residents of Missouri and Colorado to order complete blood counts, comprehensive metabolic panels, hepatitis C screenings, and other basic lab tests directly from them without the consent of a physician.

Some tests, such as pregnancy, total cholesterol and urinalysis, can be ordered a la carte, while others come in groups that can outline a basic health profile. To order tests, consumers download a form from Quest’s website, fill it out, and bring a hard copy to a testing center. Test results are available online, but the company recommends sharing test results with a physician for proper interpretation. Because the tests are ordered by a physician, Quest is unable to bill insurance carriers, and patients must pay out of pocket.

Test Your Supply Chain Smarts
Take Healthcare Packaging's supply chain quiz to prove your knowledge!
Read More
Test Your Supply Chain Smarts
Discover Our Content Hub
Access Healthcare Packaging's free educational content library!
Read More
Discover Our Content Hub