Quest recently hosted a visit at our Lenexa, Kansas lab for a group from the Bluford Healthcare Leadership Institute (BHLI), a Kansas City-based organization whose mission is to eliminate health disparities among minority and vulnerable populations.
16 Scholars from the 2022 BHLI Cohort and several BHLI leaders including Mr. John W. Bluford, Founder and President of BHLI, participated in an educational presentation followed by an interactive, in-depth tour of the lab.
The Quest Diagnostics Foundation, as part of our Quest for Health Equity (Q4HE) initiative, provided a grant to BHLI to support their dynamic program where scholars participate in a 2-week intensive learning environment, engaging with healthcare leaders from various health-related companies and organizations. Q4HE, an over $100-million initiative of Quest Diagnostics (NYSE: DGX) and the Quest Diagnostics Foundation, provides donated testing services, education programs, partnerships, and funding to support initiatives aimed at eliminating healthcare disparities that impact underserved communities across the US.
The Scholars engaged with Quest leaders throughout the tour, eager to learn more about the world of Quest, lab specifics, and diagnostic testing insights.
“The Quest Diagnostics Laboratory tour was a great experience,” said Isaiah Cox, 2022 BHLI Cohort, Florida A&M University. “I learned about the many diseases Quest tests for including cancer, diabetes, and the infamous COVID-19. I also learned about the varying facilities and operations within Quest and how one can ascend to increased responsibilities and leadership positions in the organization through hard work.”
Mr. Bluford reflected on the meeting, “Our scholars received exceptional exposure to how Quest makes a difference in the lives of millions every single day, from specimen collection to employment of the latest technology to its role in management and conquering of the COVID-19 crisis. The Quest team delivered a tailored presentation to our scholars, which was appreciated by all in attendance. This visit greatly enhanced our scholars’ 2-week experience in Kansas City. We look forward to returning to Quest in the years ahead.”
“This visit was impactful for our Quest leaders, the BHLI leaders, and more importantly for the Scholars who have dreamed of becoming leaders in healthcare,” said Mandell Jackson, General Manager and Vice President of Q4HE. “In the end, no matter their final chosen paths, these Scholars will not forget the commitment, encouragement, and support given to them by our Quest team. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help innovators like BHLI address healthcare equity in lasting, meaningful ways.”
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