UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Quest Diagnostics is Penn State’s preferred laboratory for nonurgent tests because of its quality and lower overall cost for both employees and the University.
Below is an example of the cost for lab tests done at a doctor’s office or hospital versus a Quest facility, which shows the significant cost savings available to employees.
| Lab Test | Average cost for test drawn at a hospital lab or doctor's office | Cost for test if completed at Quest Diagnostics | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assay Thyroid Stimulating Hormone | $96.99 | $16.02 | $80.97 |
| Comprehensive Metabolic Panel | $61.82 | $9.99 | $51.82 |
| Lipid Panel (Cholesterol) | $73.64 | $12.90 | $60.74 |
*Assumes deductible hasn't been met
How can you use Quest Diagnostics and save money?
When your medical provider orders lab work:
1. Ask your medical provider for a requisition (paper copy) for your lab work. Take the requisition to a Quest Diagnostics site for your lab work. Employees and families are able to take advantage of the nationwide Quest Diagnostics network. Quest Diagnostics sites or entities that draw for Quest can be accessed at www.questdiagnostics.com. In State College, Quest Diagnostics will be opening a patient service center at 235 Northland Center on North Atherton Street. The scheduled opening date is Monday, Aug. 27. Additionally, Penn State Health at Benner Pike and Penn State Health Park Avenue both draw for Quest Diagnostics.
2. In addition, request that your lab testing, such as cultures, pap smears and biopsies, that are collected during your office visit also be sent to Quest. If your physician’s practice does not work with Quest today, Quest will be happy to set up an account for them. Please let the practice know that the University prefers Quest Diagnostics, which saves money for both you and the University.
Look for more information during 2019 Benefits Open Enrollment regarding additional options to help you save money for lab tests.