Press Releases
04/21/2020
Governor Lamont Announces Hartford HealthCare and Quest Diagnostics to Significantly Increase COVID-19 Testing Capacity in Connecticut
Expansion Will Increase Hartford HealthCare’s Testing Capacity from 500 to 2,500 Tests Per Day in Locations Across Connecticut
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that a new initiative between Hartford HealthCare and Quest Diagnostics, with support from the State of Connecticut, will significantly increase the capacity of COVID-19 testing in the state from 500 tests per day to 2,500.
Hartford HealthCare also plans to increase capacity at existing testing locations in Norwich, Hartford, Torrington, Bridgeport, and New Britain, and is actively investigating new ways to bring testing to traditionally underserved communities. Governor Lamont said the state is endorsing the plan and will provide support wherever it is needed.
“The health disparities when it comes to COVID-19 are real, and this expansion of testing, particularly in our urban communities, is a way for the state and its hospitals to go into these neighborhoods proactively and make sure our residents have access to the testing they need to help get through this crisis,” Governor Lamont said.
“Across Hartford HealthCare, we have we have been diligently working to enhance access for our community members, while we contain the virus and protect our communities,” Hartford HealthCare President and CEO, Jeffrey Flaks said. “This continues to require incredible focus, determination and creativity. Today, I am proud to announce a significant improvement regarding testing and access. Together with our long-standing outpatient laboratory partner, Quest Diagnostics, we will enhance and build testing capacity. This allows us to do even more to contain the spread of the virus and take care of our communities. It also means we will be better able to protect those who are on the front line and experiencing symptoms; healthcare workers, our first responder colleagues, employees of skilled nursing facilities, group homes and corrections officers.”
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