Walmart, Quest Diagnostics launch consumer-initiated laboratory testing solution
Quest Diagnostics has announced that it will now offer consumer-initiated laboratory testing powered by QuestDirect in collaboration with Walmart.
The new solution allows people to take control of their health care and purchase the same high quality laboratory tests ordered by healthcare providers through a consumer-friendly website.
"Now more than ever, people seek healthcare that is convenient, individualized and meets them where they are," Steve Rusckowski, Quest Diagnostics chairman, president and CEO said. "While many are too busy or face barriers to engage in in-person doctors' appointments, others choose to proactively arm themselves with diagnostic insights before engaging with one. Our close relationship with Walmart has allowed us to create a solution that is high quality and accessible."
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This collaboration builds upon a long-standing relationship between Walmart and Quest Diagnostics to broaden access to high quality health services, the company says. With the new testing solution, an individual can purchase more than 50 different tests, including general health, digestive health, allergy, heart health, women's health, and infectious disease. Tests can be purchased at WalmartQuestdirect.QuestDiagnostics.com.
According to a recent Quest Diagnostics Health Trends report, the majority of U.S. adults (60%) admitted to skipping or delaying some in-person medical treatments or appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company believes that by allowing people to purchase their laboratory testing 24 hours a day from any connected computer or mobile device, they can access high quality healthcare at their convenience.
"Walmart is committed to providing its customers broad access to healthcare services," Julie Barber, senior vice president of health and wellness merchandising said. "This new testing solution, which is powered by QuestDirect, from Quest Diagnostics, allows us to build upon this commitment by empowering customers with a new way to take control of their own health and obtain high quality lab services with the click of the mouse."
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To purchase a test, consumers can visit Walmart.com to conveniently shop online and select their own lab tests. Each purchase is reviewed and, if appropriate, ordered by a licensed physician. Depending on the test, people will be prompted to schedule an appointment at one of Quest's 2,220 Patient Service Centers across the country, including locations at select Walmart stores. At-home collection kits with detailed sample collection instructions will be sent to people for certain tests.
The company says test results are typically available within days and can be accessed through MyQuest, a free, secure patient portal that can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, or desktop, where consumers may also choose to share their results with their doctor, family, or friends. Access to a healthcare professional for an explanation of test results and prescription treatments, if appropriate, are also included as part of the service.
Tests ordered through QuestDirect via Walmart.com are typically considered eligible expenses for flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA), so customers considering ways to use funds can take advantage of the eligibility.
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