Quest Diagnostics Incorporated , the nation's leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services, announced today that Surya N. Mohapatra, Ph.D., who currently is President and Chief Executive Officer, will assume the additional role of Chairman on December 14, 2004. As part of an orderly leadership succession process, Kenneth W. Freeman will step down as Chairman of the Board on that date.

"Surya Mohapatra has clearly demonstrated his strong leadership capabilities and has contributed significantly to Quest Diagnostics' growth and overall success," said Dan C. Stanzione, Ph.D., Lead Independent Director and Governance Committee Chairman, "We look forward to a bright future under his leadership as Chairman and CEO."

Dr. Mohapatra joined Quest Diagnostics in February, 1999, as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and was appointed President in June, 1999. He was elected to the Board of Directors in October, 2002, and became Chief Executive Officer on May 4, 2004.

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated is the nation's leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services, providing insights that enable healthcare professionals to make decisions that improve health. 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 the leading provider of esoteric testing, including gene-based medical testing, and provides advanced information technology solutions to improve patient care. Additional company information is available at: http://www.questdiagnostics.com/

The statements in this press release which are not historical facts or information may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and outcomes to be materially different. Certain of these risks and uncertainties may include, but are not limited to, competitive environment, changes in government regulations, changing relationships with customers, payers, suppliers and strategic partners and other factors described in the Quest Diagnostics Incorporated 2003 Form 10-K and subsequent filings.

SOURCE: Quest Diagnostics Incorporated

CONTACT: Laure Park, Investors, +1-201-393-5030, or Gary Samuels, Media,
+1-201-393-5700, both of Quest Diagnostics Incorporated

Web site: http://www.questdiagnostics.com/