LYNDHURST, N.J., Sept. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Quest Diagnostics
Incorporated (NYSE: DGX), the nation's leading provider of diagnostic testing,
information and services, announced efforts to assist victims of Hurricane
Katrina.
The company has pledged $50,000 to the American Red Cross Hurricane 2005
Relief Fund. In addition, Quest Diagnostics employees have established a
special relief fund to aid their fellow employees along the Gulf Coast who
have been impacted by Hurricane Katrina. The company has also pledged to match
employee contributions to the special relief fund, as well as to the American
Red Cross, up to $200,000.
In the greater New Orleans area alone, Quest Diagnostics has more than 300
employees and a laboratory in Metairie, La., which currently is not operating.
All New Orleans and Mississippi employees are being urged to contact the human
resources department at the Houston laboratory as soon as possible at (713)
877-6114. Additional information for employees is available on the Quest
Diagnostics website.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this devastating
disaster, who include many of our own employees, customers and their
families," said Surya N. Mohapatra, Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of Quest Diagnostics. "In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, we are
continuing to provide assistance to the relief effort. Our immediate focus has
been to locate all employees in the region and provide direct financial
assistance and help find housing options for those who have been displaced by
the crisis."
How You Can Help
You can help those affected by this crisis by making a financial gift to
the American Red Cross Hurricane 2005 Relief Fund. Call (800) HELP NOW or
(800) 257-7575 (Spanish). Donations can also be mailed to your local Red Cross
chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.
Internet users can make secure online credit card donations by visiting
www.redcross.org .
About Quest Diagnostics
Quest Diagnostics is the leading provider of diagnostic testing,
information and services that patients and doctors need to make better
healthcare decisions. The company offers the broadest access to diagnostic
testing services through its national network of laboratories and patient
service centers, and provides interpretive consultation through its extensive
medical and scientific staff. Quest Diagnostics is a pioneer in developing
innovative new diagnostic tests and advanced healthcare information technology
solutions that help improve patient care. Additional company information is
available at: www.questdiagnostics.com.
SOURCE Quest Diagnostics Incorporated
CONTACT:
Investors - Laure Park, +1-201-393-5030,
Media - Gary Samuels, +1-201-393-5700,
both of Quest Diagnostics Incorporated