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SECAUCUS, N.J. - Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX), a prominent player in the Healthcare Providers & Services industry with a market capitalization of $18.79 billion, has introduced a new FDA-cleared human papillomavirus (HPV) self-collection service, aimed at improving access to cervical cancer screening. The service allows patients to collect their own specimens in healthcare settings under a physician’s guidance. Additionally, Quest plans to make this option available at its 2,000 patient service centers across the United States early next month. According to InvestingPro data, Quest maintains strong financial health with steady revenue growth of 6.7% over the last twelve months, supporting its expansion initiatives.
The self-collection solution, developed in collaboration with Roche and approved for use with Roche’s cobas® HPV test, is designed to provide a discreet and accessible screening option for women, addressing concerns that may cause them to delay or skip vital preventive tests. This service follows Quest’s successful introduction of self-collection for various sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in October 2024. The company’s innovative approach aligns with its strong market position, trading near its 52-week high of $178.87, though current valuations suggest the stock may be trading above its Fair Value.
Kathleen Valentine, Vice President and General Manager of Women’s and Reproductive Health Services at Quest Diagnostics, highlighted the importance of early detection in preventing cervical cancer deaths and the company’s commitment to empowering patients with accessible healthcare solutions.
The self-collection process involves patients using a simple guide to collect a specimen from their vagina in a private room at a physician’s office. The sample is then sent to a Quest Diagnostics laboratory for testing, with results shared electronically with both the physician and patient. While the service is not intended to replace pelvic examinations, it provides an alternative for those who may be uncomfortable with traditional methods of specimen collection.
Quest Diagnostics emphasizes that the most reliable cervical cancer screening method remains co-testing with HPV and Pap tests collected by a skilled physician. However, the company acknowledges that providing options is crucial for addressing individual patient needs and preferences.
Data indicates a decline in routine cervical cancer screenings in recent years, with a corresponding increase in the incidence of the disease among women aged 30-44. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recognized the accuracy of self-collection for HPV screening and its potential to increase screening rates, especially among underscreened populations.
The introduction of this self-collection service is part of Quest Diagnostics’ broader efforts in women’s and reproductive health, as the company continues to provide diagnostic insights to improve health outcomes. This news is based on a press release statement from Quest Diagnostics.
In other recent news, Quest Diagnostics has announced a partnership with Google Cloud to enhance data management and personalize patient experiences using advanced data analytics and generative AI technologies. This collaboration aims to improve the quality and security of data, providing personalized insights to patients and healthcare providers. In financial news, Quest Diagnostics has reaffirmed its full-year 2025 guidance, projecting net revenues between $10.70 billion and $10.85 billion, with adjusted diluted EPS expected to range from $9.55 to $9.80. Despite this, the company anticipates a $25 million revenue headwind and a $0.10 EPS impact in the first quarter due to adverse weather conditions.
Analyst firms have shown mixed reactions to Quest Diagnostics’ long-term guidance. Redburn-Atlantic has initiated a Buy rating with a price target of $195, projecting a revenue CAGR of 3-4% from 2025 to 2028 and highlighting the company’s strategic acquisitions. Meanwhile, Truist Securities maintains a Hold rating with a $182 price target, emphasizing the company’s investments in AI and technology for efficiency and margin expansion. The company plans to allocate approximately $450 million annually to acquisitions starting in 2026 and repurchase $500-600 million in shares each year.
Quest Diagnostics also outlined strategic initiatives during its 2025 Investor Day, aiming for a 4-5% revenue CAGR and a 7-9% adjusted EPS CAGR beyond 2025. These initiatives include investments in automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence to drive sustainable growth. The company is committed to returning the majority of free cash flow to shareholders while pursuing growth through strategic investments and acquisitions. Additionally, Quest Diagnostics expects double-digit growth in advanced diagnostics across key clinical areas such as oncology and brain health.
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