Quest Diagnostics Incorporated , 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

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