Quest Diagnostics (DGX) Leerink Global Healthcare Conference 2026 summary

Volume and market share trends

• Achieved 92% national coverage, gaining access in four new states and increasing market share, especially through in-network agreements with major payers.

• Share gains driven by increased access, acquisitions, and expanded screening options, including early cancer and brain health tests.

• Physician testing market share grew due to comprehensive test menu, competitive pricing, and acquisitions of outreach business from hospitals.

• Hospital market share increased via Collaborative Lab Solutions (Co-Lab), with health systems outsourcing lab management for cost efficiency.

• Co-Lab partnership with Corewell Health to manage labs across 20+ hospitals, expected to add $250 million in 2026 revenue.

Test mix, innovation, and specialty growth

• Tests per requisition rose from 3.5 pre-2015 to 4.5, driven by advanced diagnostics and expanded screening guidelines.

• Five high-growth specialty areas—oncology, brain health, autoimmune, women's health, and cardiometabolic—now represent $1 billion in high-growth tests, growing at high teens rates.

• Key specialty tests include AD-Detect for brain health, ANAlyzeR for autoimmune disorders, and Haystack MRD for oncology, with strong adoption and reimbursement progress.

• Haystack MRD launched commercially in April 2025, with 40+ dedicated reps and Medicare reimbursement; market expected to grow from $1 billion to $5 billion in five years.

• Continued commercial ramp and Medicare Advantage coverage are next milestones for Haystack profitability.

Technology, AI, and operational initiatives

• AI and automation deployed in three end-to-end automated labs, improving sample sorting, accessioning, and diagnostic workflows.

• AI algorithms assist in cytology, microbiology, and pathology, highlighting regions of interest for faster, more accurate diagnoses.

• Patient-facing AI chatbot in MyQuest app enables interactive result interpretation and guidance.

• AI-driven dynamic route optimization enhances logistics efficiency for both air and ground transport.

• Project Nova, a large-scale Epic lab information system rollout, is on track with staggered implementation through 2027, expected to improve integration, reduce denials, and leverage AI for operational benefits.