Accounting Policies [Abstract] Stock Options (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Provision for Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits from Uncertain Tax Positions Summary of Positions for which Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Machinery and equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Buildings and building improvements [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Software [Member] Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member] Furniture and fixtures [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Estimated useful life, minimum (years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Covance Drug Development [Member] Covance Drug Development [Member] Covance Drug Development [Member] Clinical diagnostics laboratory [Member] Clinical diagnostics laboratory [Member] Clinical diagnostics laboratory [Member] LabCorp Diagnostics [Member] LabCorp Diagnostics [Member] LabCorp Diagnostics [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Covance [Member] Covance [Member] Covance [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Net restructuring charges Net Restructuring Charges Amount charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated costs, excluding asset retirement obligations, associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructurings pursuant to a program that is planned and controlled by management, and changes either scope of business by an entity, or manner business is conducted. May include amount of reversals and other adjustments during the period to amounts of previously accrued liabilities for specified types of restructuring costs. Restructuring charges related to severance and other employee costs Severance Costs Restructuring charges related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and other facility related costs Business Exit Costs Reduction in prior employee severance benefits related restructuring accruals Employee Severance Benefits Related Restructuring Reserve Accrual Adjustment Amount of any reversal and other adjustment made during the period to the amount of a previously accrued liability for employee severance benefits related restructuring costs, excluding adjustments for costs incurred during the period, costs settled during the period, and foreign currency translation adjustments. Reduction in prior facility related restructuring accruals Facility Related Restructuring Reserve Accrual Adjustment Amount of any reversal and other adjustment made during the period to the amount of a previously accrued liability for facility related restructuring costs, excluding adjustments for costs incurred during the period, costs settled during the period, and foreign currency translation adjustments. Asset Impairment Charges Asset Impairment Charges Reduction in total prior restructuring accruals Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Special charge related to write-off of certain assets and liabilities related to an investment Other Special Charges Amounts charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated special costs (i.e., expense for the write-off of the carrying amount on the books of the entity of the asset to be abandoned, charge against operations for the uncollectible accounts receivable balances, etc.). Special charge, ST equity retention arrangement Special charge, ST equity retention arrangement Special charge, ST equity retention arrangement Special charge, accelerated equity compensation Special charge, accelerated equity compensation Special charge, accelerated equity compensation Special charge, wind-down of min volume contract Special charge, wind-down of min volume contract Special charge, wind-down of min volume contract Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Other special charge, dissolution of equity investment Other special charge, dissolution of equity investment Other special charge, dissolution of equity investment Payment of legal settlement Payments for Legal Settlements Other special charges, non-capitalized costs Other special charges, non-capitalized costs Other expenses, non-capitalized costs Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Patents, Licenses And Technology [Member] Patents, Licenses And Technology [Member] Patents are the exclusive legal right granted by the government to the owner of the patent to exploit an invention or a process for a period of time specified by law. Licenses are rights, generally of limited duration, under a license arrangement (for example, to sell or otherwise utilize specified products or processes in a specified territory). Technology-based intangible assets are innovations or scientific advances that have not been patented. Non-compete agreements [Member] Noncompete Agreements [Member] Trade Names [Member] Trade Names [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Useful life of finite-lived intangible assets, minimum (years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior notes due 2015 [Member] Senior Long Term Notes Due2015 Member A senior note is a bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for [must receive] repayment [prior] relative to junior and unsecured (general) creditors. Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Zero-coupon convertible subordinated notes [Member] Convertible Subordinated Debt [Member] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Bridge Term Credit Facility Agreement, Maximum Borrowing Amount Bridge Term Credit Facility Agreement, Maximum Borrowing Amount Bridge Term Credit Facility Agreement, Maximum Borrowing Amount Total short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt Debt, Current Convertible Subordinated Debt, Current Convertible Subordinated Debt, Current Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Senior Notes Current 2014 Senior Notes Current 2014 Senior Notes Current 2014 Senior Notes current 2015 Senior Notes current 2015 Senior Notes current 2015 Capital Lease Obligations, Current Capital Lease Obligations, Current Receivables [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net [Abstract] Accounts Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Gross accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Less allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Other Pension Plan [Member] Other Pension Plan [Member] Other Pension Plan, Postretirement or Supplemental Plans [Member] Other Pension Plan, Postretirement or Supplemental Plans [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Funded status of plan Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Quarterly data summary: Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt to EBITDA (leverage) ratio Debt to EBITDA (Leverage) Ratio Debt to EBITDA (Leverage) Ratio Debt, Current Principal amount at maturity of zero-coupon subordinated notes outstanding Principal amount at maturity of zero-coupon subordinated notes outstanding The principal amount at maturity of zero-coupon subordinated notes outstanding at the balance sheet date. Issued price per principal amount at maturity Issued Price From Issuance Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes The issuance price for each zero-coupon subordinated note. Principal amount of zero-coupon subordinated notes Principal Amount Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes Principal amount of zero-coupon subordinated notes. Annual yield to maturity Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Stock conversion rate for zero-coupon subordinated notes (per thousand) Stock Conversion Rate For Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes The number of shares of common stock issued for each unit of principal at maturity of zero coupon subordinated notes converted. Minimum number of trading days in a period the common stock sale price must meet a specified threshold to trigger conversion price (in days) Minimum Number Of Trading Days To Trigger Conversion Price The minimum number of trading days within a number of consecutive trading days in a quarter that the common stock price must meet a specified threshold to trigger conversion price. Number of consecutive trading days ending on the last trading day of the preceding quarter for the common stock sale price to reach a specified threshold to trigger conversion price (in days) Number Of Consecutive Trading Days In Quarter To Trigger Conversion Price The number of consecutive trading days in a quarter that the minimum number of trading days must fall within that the common stock price has met a specified threshold to trigger conversion price. Common stock sales price threshold, beginning Common Stock Sales Price Threshold Beginning The beginning common stock price threshold (common stock price as compared with the accreted conversion price per share of common stock), adjusted quarterly with the declining threshold percentage, that must be met within a quarter in a specified consecutive trading period to trigger conversion price. Common stock sales price threshold, declining per quarter Common Stock Declining Sale Price Threshold The declining common stock sales price quarterly threshold adjustment/percentage, which thereby reduces the threshold for triggering the common stock conversion price. Common stock sales price threshold, ending Common Stock Sales Price Threshold Ending The ending common stock price threshold (common stock price as compared with the accreted conversion price per share of common stock), adjusted quarterly with the declining threshold percentage, that must be met within a quarter in a specified consecutive trading period to trigger conversion price. Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Notes Conversion Trigger Price Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Notes Conversion Trigger Price The zero-coupon subordinated notes conversion trigger price per share for the current period. Principal Amount At Maturity Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes Converted Principal Amount At Maturity Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes Converted The principal amount at maturity of zero-coupon subordinated notes that were converted during the period. Value Of Cash And Common Stock In Connection With Conversions Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes Settled In Current Period Value Of Cash And Common Stock In Connection With Conversions Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes Settled In Current Period The value of cash and common stock in connection with conversions of zero-coupon subordinated notes that were settled by the Company in the current period. Payments On Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes Payments On Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes The cash outflow (payments) on the zero-coupon subordinated notes. Common stock issued upon conversion of zero-coupon subordinated notes (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Tax Benefit Realized Upon Conversion Of Zero Coupon Convertible Debt Tax Benefit Realized Upon Conversion Of Zero Coupon Convertible Debt Reversal of deferred tax liability to reflect the tax benefit realized in connection with common stock issued upon conversion of zero-coupon subordinated notes. Contingent cash interest accrual rate period Contingent cash interest accrual rate period Contingent cash interest accrual rate period Contingent cash interest accrual rate description Contingent cash interest accrual rate description Contingent cash interest accrual rate description Contingent cash interest accrual rate Contingent cash interest accrual rate Contingent cash interest accrual rate Number of days used to establish average market price of zero coupon subordinated notes Number Of Days Used To Establish Average Market Price Of Zero Coupon Subordinated Notes The number of trading days used to determine the average market price of zero-coupon subordinated notes used to calculate the contingent cash interest rate. Debt Conversion Date Of Subordinated Notes And Indenture Debt Conversion Date Of Subordinated Notes And Indenture Date of the terms for the zero-coupon subordinated notes and the Indenture. Postemployment Benefits [Abstract] Assumed Benefit Payments By Year [Text Block] Assumed Benefit Payments By Year [Text Block] A schedule of assumed benefit payments for future periods by year. This element may be used for defined benefit, nonqualified supplemental retirement, and post-retirement benefit plans. Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value Of Plan Assets By Category [Table Text Block] Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value Of Plan Assets By Category [Table Text Block] A schedule of plan assets at fair value by asset category. Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] RESTRUCTURING RESERVES Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Senior notes due 2020 [Member] Senior notes due 2020 [Member] A senior note is a bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for [must receive] repayment [prior] relative to junior and unsecured (general) creditors. Senior notes due 2020 [Member] Senior Long Term Notes Due2020 Member A senior note is a bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for [must receive] repayment [prior] relative to junior and unsecured (general) creditors. Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Long-term debt, less current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Fair Value Hedges, Net Fair Value Hedges, Net Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position at Fair Value Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract] Minimum percentage of market price to calculated value of zero-coupon subordinated debt at which the entity is subject to contingent cash interest Minimum Percentage Market To Calculated Price At Which Contingent Cash Interest Is Due The percentage by which average market price exceeds the sum of the issue price, accrued original issue discount and contingent additional principal on the zero-coupon subordinated notes at which contingent cash interest becomes payable. Valuation Allowance [Table] Valuation Allowance [Table] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Pre-tax income [Abstract] Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Minority Interest [Abstract] Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Total pre-tax income Income Loss from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Minority Interest Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest. Income tax provision [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current income taxes Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax benefit associated with option exercises from stock plans Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Tax Effect Associated With Option Exercises From Stock Plans Tax benefit associated with share-based compensation plans other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). The tax benefit results from the deduction by the entity on its tax return for an award of stock that exceeds the cumulative compensation cost for common stock recognized for financial reporting. Includes any resulting tax benefit that exceeds the previously recognized deferred tax asset (excess tax benefits). Federal statutory tax rate reconciliation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Statutory federal rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax effect Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Restructuring Charges, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Restructuring Charges, Percent Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Abstract] Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Accounts receivable Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Employee compensation and benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Other Self insurance reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Self Insurance Postretirement benefit obligation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Acquisition and restructuring reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Restructuring Charges Tax loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Less: valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Deferred earnings Deferred Tax Liabilities, Tax Deferred Income Intangible assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Property, plant and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Zero-coupon subordinated notes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Zero Coupon Notes Currency translation adjustment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Comprehensive Income Total gross deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Foreign tax loss carryovers Foreign Tax Loss Carryovers The foreign loss carryovers, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Foreign Tax Loss Carryover with Valuation Allowance Foreign Tax Loss Carryover with Valuation Allowance Foreign Tax Loss Carryover with Valuation Allowance Federal tax loss carryovers Federal Tax Loss Carryovers The federal loss carryovers, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Federal tax loss carryovers, expiration dates Federal Tax Loss Carryovers Expiration Dates The expiration dates of the federal tax loss carryovers, or the applicable range of such expiration dates. Capital loss carryover Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Gross unrecognized income tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized income tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Interest and penalties expense related to unrecognized income tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Interest and penalties benefit related to unrecognized income tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Tax Penalties And Interest Expense Benefit The total offset of interest expense recognized for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and the amount of statutory penalties in the period in which the entity claims or expects to claim a tax position, in its tax return, that does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid penalties. Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance as of January 1 Increase in reserve for tax positions taken in the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Increase in reserve as a result of acquisition Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increases Decreases Resulting From Prior Period Tax Positions The net change in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions taken in prior period tax returns, excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Decrease in reserve as a result of settlements reached with tax authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Decrease in reserve as a result of lapses in the statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Balance as of December 31 Unrecognized income tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment, net [Table] Property, plant and equipment, net [Axis] Property, plant and equipment, net [Domain] Land [Member] Land [Member] Buildings and building improvements [Member] Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Leasehold improvements [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Construction in progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Equipment under capital leases [Member] Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type [Abstract] Gross property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation and amortization of capital lease assets Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Depreciation expense and amortization of capital lease assets Depreciation And Amortization Of Leased Assets The amount of depreciation recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of tangible assets over the assets' useful lives. Includes production and non-production related depreciation. Also, may include amortization charged against earnings for the periodic recognition of capitalized leases. Software depreciation Software Depreciation The amount of depreciation recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of software related assets over the assets' useful lives. Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Interest expense Interest Expense Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Net sales Revenue, Net Reimbursement Revenue Reimbursement Revenue Revenues Revenues Cost of sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold Cost of Reimbursable Expense Cost of Reimbursable Expense Cost of Revenue Cost of Revenue Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Amortization of intangibles and other assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Restructuring and other special charges Net restructuring and other special charges Amount charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated costs, excluding asset retirement obligations, associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructurings pursuant to a program planned and controlled by management, and materially changes either the scope or manner of conduct of a business undertaken. Also, may include reversals and other adjustments to accrued liabilities and special charges, if any, for asset abandonment, uncollectible balances, etc. Equity method income, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Investment income Investment Income, Net Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Earnings before income taxes Provision for income taxes Net earnings Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net earnings attributable to the noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings attributable to Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Schedule to Financial Statments [Abstract] Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Genomic and Esoteric Testing [Member] Genomic and Esoteric Testing [Member] Genomic and Esoteric Testing [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Public Float Entity Public Float ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investments in unconsolidated joint venture partnerships and equity method investment Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Sales Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Basic earnings per Share to Diluted Earnings per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Potential common shares not included in computation of diluted earnings per share Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Table Text Block] Describes the periods of time over which an entity anticipates to receive utility from its property, plant and equipment (that is, the periods of time over which an entity allocates the initial cost of its property, plant and equipment). Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Licensing Agreements [Member] Licensing Agreements [Member] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Amortization of intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Estimated amortization expense, 2013 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Estimated amortization expense, 2014 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Estimated amortization expense, 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Estimated amortization expense, 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Estimated amortization expense, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Estimated amortization expense, Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Amount paid for diagnostic testing technology licensing rights Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Debt Covenant Requirement [Member] Debt Covenant Requirement [Member] Debt Covenant Requirement [Member] Debt Covenant Actual [Member] Debt Covenant Actual [Member] Debt Covenant Actual [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Debt covenant, requirement for number of consecutive fiscal quarters Debt Covenant Requirement for Number of Consecutive Fiscal Quarters Debt Covenant Requirement for Number of Consecutive Fiscal Quarters Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Revolving credit facility [Member] Senior notes due 2015 [Member] Senior notes due 2016 [Member] Senior notes due 2016 [Member] A senior note is a bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for [must receive] repayment [prior] relative to junior and unsecured (general) creditors. Senior notes due 2017 [Member] Senior notes due 2017 [Member] Senior notes due 2017 [Member] Senior notes due 2018 [Member] Senior notes due 2018 [Member] Senior notes due 2018 [Member] Senior notes due 2022 [Member] Senior notes due 2022 [Member] Senior notes due 2022 [Member] Senior notes due 2023 [Member] Senior notes due 2023 [Member] Senior notes due 2023 [Member] Senior notes due 2025 [Member] [Member] Senior notes due 2025 [Member] [Member] Senior notes due 2025 [Member] [Member] Senior notes due 2045 [Member] Senior notes due 2045 [Member] Senior notes due 2045 [Member] Credit Facility Option to Increase Credit Facility Option to Increase Credit Facility Option to Increase Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Other Long-term Debt Other Long-term Debt Senior Notes, Noncurrent Senior Notes, Noncurrent Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Capital lease obligations, net of interest, current Capital lease obligations, net of interest, current Capital lease obligations, net of interest, current Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest, current Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest, current Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest, current Capital Lease Obligations, Current Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Total long-term debt Notes payable and other, excluding current maturities Notes payable and other, excluding current maturities Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Capital lease obligations, net of interest Capital lease obligations, net of interest Capital lease obligations, net of interest Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Capital Lease Obligations Capital Lease Obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long term debt, future minimum payments, interest included in payments Long term debt, future minimum payments, interest included in payments Long term debt, future minimum payments, interest included in payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Long term and capital lease future minimum payments, interest included in payments Long term and capital lease future minimum payments, interest included in payments Long term and capital lease future minimum payments, interest included in payments Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest, noncurrent Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest, noncurrent Long term and capital lease obligations, net of interest, noncurrent RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER SPECIAL CHARGES Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net earnings Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Net benefit plan adjustments Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Other comprehensive loss before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Provision for income tax related to items of comprehensive earnings Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive earnings Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net earnings attributable to the noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net comprehensive earnings attributable to Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid during period for: Cash Paid During Period For [Abstract] Interest Interest Paid In Cash The amount of cash paid during the current period for interest owed on money borrowed Income taxes, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Disclosure of non-cash financing and investing activities Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Surrender of restricted stock awards and performance shares Restricted Stock Awards And Performance Shares Surrendered The value of stock related to restricted stock awards and performance shares forfeited during the period in noncash investing or financing transactions. Noncash conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt Noncash conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt Noncash conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt Fair Value of Assets Acquired Fair Value of Assets Acquired Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Reduction for Plaintiff Negligence Reduction for Plaintiff Negligence Reduction for Plaintiff Negligence Loss related to litigation settlement Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Previously recorded litigation reserve in connection with false claims act lawsuit Previously Recorded Litigation Reserve In Connection With False Claims Act Lawsuit The amount of the litigation reserve previously recorded in connection with the California False Claims Act lawsuit. Loss contingency reduced damages awarded net Loss contingency reduced damages awarded net Loss contingency reduced damages awarded net Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table Text Block] Long-term debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Tri State Clinical Laboratory Services LLC [Member] Tri State Clinical Laboratory Services LLC [Member] Tri State Clinical Laboratory Services LLC [Member] Percent of lowest maximum (cap on payments) Percent of lowest maximum (cap on payments) Percent of lowest maximum (cap on payments) established under federal Medicare program Payment reduction by Assembly Bill No. 1494 Payment reduction by Assembly Bill No. 1494 Payment reduction by Assembly Bill No. 1494 Payment reduction by Assembly Bill No. 97 Payment reduction by Assembly Bill No. 97 Payment reduction by Assembly Bill No. 97 Other Inventory, Supplies, Gross Other Inventory, Supplies, Gross Number of putative class actions Number Of Putative Class Actions Number Of Putative Class Actions Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Company's apportioned responsibility Company's apportioned responsibility Company's responsibility Co-defendant's apportioned responsibility Co-defendant's apportioned responsibility Co-defendant's apportioned responsibility Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Gross Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Gross Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Gross Total acquisition consideration (cash and non-cash) Total acquisition consideration (cash and non-cash) Total acquisition consideration (cash and non-cash) Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Net Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Net Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Net Loss contingency reduced damages awarded gross Loss contingency reduced damages awarded gross Loss contingency reduced damages awarded gross Ownership interest percentage, parent Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Number of recipients Number of Recipients Number of Recipients Proposed damages per violation Proposed Damages per Violation Proposed Damages per Violation Letters of credit Amount Outstanding Letters Of Credit An irrevocable undertaking (typically by a financial institution) to guarantee payment of a specified financial obligation. Element is primarily used for the aggregate amount issued in connection with certain insurance programs. Future minimum rental commitments [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less: amounts included in restructuring and acquisition related accruals Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Included In Restructuring And Acquisition Accruals Future contractually required payments on leases defined as operating, which are included in restructuring and acquisition related accruals. Less: non-cancelable sub-lease income Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals Total minimum operating lease payments Operating Leases Future Minimum Payments Due Less Restructuring Acquisition Accruals And Future Minimum Sublease Rentals Rental expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Litigation Settlement, Amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract] OTHER LIABILITIES Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Routine Testing [Member] Routine Testing [Member] Routine Testing [Member] Other Segments [Member] Other Segments [Member] Percent of Revenue Contributed Percent of Revenue Contributed Percent of Revenue Contributed Schedule of investments in unconsolidated joint venture partnerships [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of investments in unconsolidated joint venture partnerships [Axis] Schedule of investments in unconsolidated joint venture partnerships [Domain] Alberta, Canada [Member] Alberta Canada Member Investee, or group of investees for which combined disclosure is appropriate, in which the Entity has an investment in common stock accounted for under the equity method of accounting and for which certain information is required or determined to be disclosed. Specific investee associated with the Alberta, Canada location. Charlotte, North Carolina [Member] Charlotte North Carolina Member Investee, or group of investees for which combined disclosure is appropriate, in which the Entity has an investment in common stock accounted for under the equity method of accounting and for which certain information is required or determined to be disclosed. Florence, South Carolina [Member] Florence, South Carolina [Member] Florence, South Carolina [Member] Schedule of investments in unconsolidated joint venture partnerships [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Investments in unconsolidated joint venture partnerships and equity method investments Financial Statement, Reported Amounts Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract] Net Investment Equity Method Investments Interest Owned Joint venture partnerships and equity method investments, condensed unconsolidated financial information Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract] Current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets Other assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Current liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities Other liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities Total liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities Partners' equity Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Equity Excluding Noncontrolling Interests Total liabilities and partners’ equity Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity Joint venture partnerships and equity method investments, condensed unconsolidated financial information, Income Statement Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract] Net revenues Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Gross profit Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) Net earnings Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) The value of the Company's recorded investment in the Alberta partnership assigned to Canadian licenses Canadian Licenses Alberta Canada Rights, generally of limited duration, under a license arrangement (for example, to sell or otherwise utilize specified products or processes in a specified territory). Specified territory is the Alberta, Canada province. Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Excluding Term Loan Commitment [Member] Excluding Term Loan Commitment [Member] Excluding Term Loan Commitment [Member] Prime Rate [Member] Prime Rate [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] 60-Day Debt Bridge Traunche [Domain] 60-Day Debt Bridge Traunche [Domain] 60-Day Debt Bridge Traunche [Domain] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] 364-Day Debt Bridge Traunche [Member] 364-Day Debt Bridge Traunche [Member] 364-Day Debt Bridge Traunche [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Bridge Loan Bridge Loan Credit Facility, Maximum Letters of Credit Credit Facility, Maximum Letters of Credit Credit Facility, Maximum Letters of Credit Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Short-term Debt, Terms Short-term Debt, Terms Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Description Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Description Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Credit Facility, Maximum Swing Line Borrowings Credit Facility, Maximum Swing Line Borrowings Credit Facility, Maximum Swing Line Borrowings Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayment Terms Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayment Terms INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Excluding Underwriting Discounts & Other Fees [Member] Excluding Underwriting Discounts & Other Fees [Member] Excluding Underwriting Discounts & Other Fees [Member] Covance senior notes due 2020 [Domain] Covance senior notes due 2020 [Domain] Covance senior notes due 2020 [Domain] Senior notes due 2025 [Member] Senior notes due 2025 [Member] Senior notes due 2025 [Member] Interest rate (in hundredths) Periodic payments, frequency Debt Instrument, Frequency of Periodic Payment Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Derivative, Fair Value, Net Derivative, Fair Value, Net Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Carrying Value of Asset Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Carrying Value of Asset Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Inventory, Finished Goods, Gross Unbilled Receivables, Current Unbilled Receivables, Current Ownership percentage below which investments are generally accounted for on the cost method (in hundredths) Cost Method Investments Maximum Ownership Percentage This element represents the maximum ownership percentage of cost-method investments held by the Company. Generally, such investments do not have readily determinable fair values and are not required to be accounted for by the equity method. The carrying amount of such securities equates to cost, adjusted for other-than-temporary impairment. Revenue from Medicare and Medicaid programs, percentage (in hundredths) Medicare Medicaid Revenue Percentage The percentage of revenue recognized in the period derived directly from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Revenue from capitated agreements with certain managed care customers, percentage (in hundredths) Capitation Revenue Percentage The percentage of revenue recognized in the period based on fees charged on a per capita basis with certain managed care customers. Cash balances on deposit that exceed the balances insured by the F.D.I.C. Cash, Uninsured Amount Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable balances (gross) from Medicare and Medicaid Concentration Risk Accounts Receivable Medicare And Medicaid Gross receivable balance due from Medicare and Medicaid programs. Estimated useful life of capitalized software costs (in years) Property plant and equipment useful life software average Capitalized software costs are amortized over the estimated useful life of the underlying system. Minimum threshold percentage required to recognize income tax benefit (in hundredths) Income Tax Benefit Minimum Certainty Percentage For tax positions that are more likely than not to be sustained on audit by the taxing authority, the entity recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that it believes exceeds a minimum likelihood of being recognized. This element represents the minimum percentage of likelihood that a tax benefit will be realized that the entity uses to assess if a benefit should be recognized. Accounts receivable from Ontario government sponsored healthcare plan Accounts receivable from Ontario government sponsored healthcare plan Accounts receivable from Ontario government sponsored healthcare plan Percent of gross accounts receivable due from patients Percent of gross accounts receivable due from patients Percent of gross accounts receivable due from patients Assets Held-for-sale, Not Part of Disposal Group, Current, Other Assets Held-for-sale, Not Part of Disposal Group, Current, Other Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Major Class [Domain] Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Major Class [Domain] Use Rights [Member] Use Rights [Member] Patents, licenses and technology [Member] Trade names [Member] Canadian licenses [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Gross Carrying Amount Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Restricted Stock and Performance Shares [Member] Restricted Stock And Performance Shares [Member] Restricted stock and performance shares in the entity's stock incentive plan. Stock Options [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Employee stock purchase plan in the entity's stock incentive plan. Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Summary of Changes in Options Outstanding Under the Stock Incentive Plans [Rollforward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Shares authorized for issuance under the 2008 and 2000 Stock Incentive Plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Shares available for grant under the Company's stock option plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Additional Shares Authorized with Acquisition Additional Shares Authorized with Acquisition Additional Shares Authorized with Acquisition Award vesting period (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Changes in Options Outstanding Under the Stock Incentive Plans, Additional Disclosures Changes In Options Outstanding Under Stock Incentive Plans Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Number of options outstanding, beginning balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Number of options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Number of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Number of options cancelled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Number of options outstanding, ending balance Weighted-average exercise price per option, outstanding, beginning balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price per option granted Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price per option exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price per option cancelled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price per option, outstanding, ending balance Weighted-average remaining contractual term of options outstanding (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Stock Options Vested and Expected to Vest at December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest [Abstract] Number of options vested and expected to vest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Weighted-average exercise price per option, vested and expected to vest options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price per exercisable option Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average remaining contractual term, vested and expected to vest options (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value, vested and expected to vest options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Number of options exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Number Weighted-average remaining contractual term, exercisable options (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Stock Options Exercised, Impact Disclosures Disclosure Of Share Based Compensation Arrangements Stock Options Exercised [Abstract] Cash received by the Company Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Tax benefits realized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Aggregate intrinsic value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Assumptions the Company Used to Develop Fair Value Estimates Assumptions Used To Develop Fair Value Estimates [Abstract] Fair value of the employee's purchase right Employee Stock Purchase Plan Fair Value Employee Purchase Right The fair value of the employee's purchase right calculated using the Black-Scholes model. Risk free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Summary of Nonvested Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Nonvested, beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Number of options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Number of options vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Nonvested, end of period Weighted-average grant date fair value, nonvested, beginning of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value, granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value, vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Weighted-average grant date fair value, nonvested, end of period Fair Values of Options Granted and the Employee's Purchase Right in the Stock Purchase Plan Fair Values Options And Purchase Right [Abstract] Stock option plan expense Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense Restricted Stock and Performance Shares Restricted Stock And Performance Shares [Abstract] Restricted stock, vesting increment Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights Performance share awards, vesting conditions Share Based Compensation Arrangement Performance Share Awards Vesting Conditions Description of performance share award terms as to how many shares or portion of an award are no longer contingent on satisfaction of certain performance conditions, thereby giving the employee the legal right to convert the award to shares, to sell the shares, and be entitled to the cash proceeds of such sale. Restricted stock and performance share compensation expense Restricted Stock Performance Shares Expense The noncash expense that represents the cost of restricted stock and performance shares distributed to employees as compensation. Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested restricted stock and performance share-based compensation arrangements Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Unrecognized compensation cost weighted average expected future recognition period (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Employee Stock Purchase Plan Disclosure Employee Stock Purchase Plan Disclosure [Abstract] Shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the employee stock purchase plan Employee Stock Purchase Plan Number Of Authorized Shares The maximum number of shares originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors), net of any subsequent amendments and adjustments, for purchase under the employee stock purchase plan. The employee stock purchase plan permits employees to purchase shares of common stock at a certain percentage of the market price (in hundredths) Employee Stock Purchase Plan Percent Of Market Price The percentage of the market price of common stock participating employees are able to purchase company stock. Number of shares purchased by eligible employees Employee Stock Purchase Plan Number Of Shares Purchased The number of shares under the employee stock purchase plan purchased by eligible employees during the period. Expense related to the Company's employee stock purchase plan Employee Stock Purchase Plan Expense The expense amount recognized during the period related to the Company's employee stock purchase plan. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Category [Axis] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Mutual Funds [Member] Mutual Funds [Member] Mutual Funds [Member] Life and Annuity Insurance Product Line [Member] Life and Annuity Insurance Product Line [Member] Real Estate Funds [Member] Real Estate Funds [Member] Variable Annuity [Member] Variable Annuity [Member] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Foreign Pension Plan [Member] Foreign Pension Plan [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan [Member] Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Benefit Payments [Line items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure Estimated Future Benefits Payments [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Defined Benefit Plan Amortization And Deferral Defined Benefit Plan Amortization And Deferral An amount calculated as a basis for determining the effects of amortization expenses and other deferrals. Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss) Participants contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Asset Allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Asset Allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Asset Allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax Tax effect of adjustments, Net Benefit Plan Adjustments Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Support, Methodology and Source Data Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Support, Methodology and Source Data Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan Expected Salary Increase Defined Benefit Plan Expected Salary Increase Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Ultimate health care cost trend rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Net Defined Benefit Plan Amortization And Deferral Net Defined Benefit Plan Amortization And Deferral Net Defined Benefit Plan Amortization And Deferral Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Contributions in Current Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Contributions in Current Fiscal Year Actuarial (gain)/loss Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Benefits paid for an unfunded benefit plan Benefits paid for an unfunded benefit plan Benefits paid for an unfunded benefit plan Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Gain (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Gain (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Defined benefit plan costs Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected long term rate of return Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used Expected Long Term Return On Assets An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation. Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Acquisitions [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member] Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Assets, Total [Member] Assets, Total [Member] Goodwill [Member] Goodwill [Member] Other Assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Accounts Payable [Member] Accounts Payable [Member] Deferred tax liability [Domain] Deferred tax liability [Domain] Deferred tax liability [Domain] Liabilities, Total [Member] Liabilities, Total [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Excluding Covance [Member] Excluding Covance [Member] Excluding Covance [Member] Covance, Inc. [Member] Covance, Inc. [Member] Covance, Inc. [Member] LipoScience [Member] LipoScience [Member] LipoScience [Member] Acquisitions excluding LipoScience [Member] Acquisitions excluding LipoScience [Member] Acquisitions excluding LipoScience [Member] Laboratories and Related Assets [Member] Laboratories and Related Assets [Member] Laboratories and Related Assets [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions Cash on Hand Used for Acquisition Cash on Hand Used for Acquisition Cash on Hand Used for Acquisition Legal Fees Legal Fees Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Cash paid for acquisition Cash paid for acquisition Cash paid for acquisition Non-cash consideration Non-cash consideration Non-cash consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Employee Severance Benefits Related Restructuring Reserve Accrual Adjustment Facility Related Restructuring Reserve Accrual Adjustment Other Special Charges Business Acquisition, Share Price Business Acquisition, Share Price Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Noncash Financial or Equity Instrument Consideration, Rate Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Noncash Financial or Equity Instrument Consideration, Rate Acquisition Financing Acquisition Financing Acquisition Financing Post combination acceleration of stock compensation expense Post combination acceleration of stock compensation expense Post combination acceleration of stock compensation expense Employer taxes on accelerated equity Employer taxes on accelerated equity Employer taxes on accelerated equity Entity Acquired and Reason for Acquisition [Abstract] Business Combination, Description [Abstract] Date of Acquisition [Abstract] Business Acquisition, Date of Acquisition [Abstract] Cost of Acquired Entity [Abstract] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred [Abstract] Business combination, recognized identifiable intangible assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business combination, recognized identifiable deferred tax liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Goodwill, net Goodwill Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Weighted-average useful lives of identifiable intangible assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Cash payments to acquire laboratory-related assets Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Net Proceeds from Debt Net Proceeds from Debt Net Proceeds from Debt Noncontrolling Interest Put [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Change in control and severance payments Change in control and severance payments Change in control and severance payments Proforma consolidated net revenue Proforma consolidated net revenue Proforma consolidated net revenue Proforma consolidated net income Proforma consolidated net income Proforma consolidated net income Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Items Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Items Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Assets Noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Assets Noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Operating Income (Loss) Net earnings attributable to Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings Transaction costs Transaction costs Transaction costs Write off of bridge and other deferred financing costs Write off of bridge and other deferred financing costs Write off of bridge and other deferred financing costs Make-whole payment Make-whole payment Make-whole payment Basic Earnings Per Share, Pro Forma Basic Earnings Per Share, Pro Forma Proforma consolidated diluted earnings per share Proforma consolidated diluted earnings per share Proforma consolidated diluted earnings per share Schedule of Restructuring Reserves Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Accounts receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Share Based Compensation Arrangements by Share Based Payment Awards Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the Impact of Stock Options Exercised Disclosure Of Share Based Compensation Arrangements Stock Options Exercised [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the financial impact of select activity related to the exercise of stock options. This activity includes cash received from option exercises, the corresponding tax benefits realized, and the aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised. Schedule of Options Outstanding and Exercisable at December 31, 2013, by Range of Exercise Prices Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $217.0 and $211.6 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively Unbilled Contracts Receivable Unbilled Contracts Receivable Supplies inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net Goodwill, net Intangible assets, net Joint venture partnerships and equity method investments Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Other assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued expenses and other Accrued Liabilities, Current Deferred Revenue, Current Deferred Revenue, Current Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred income taxes and other tax liabilities Deferred income taxes and other tax liabilities Represents the noncurrent portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax, combined with the noncurrent portion of the amount recognized for uncertain tax positions as of the balance sheet date. A noncurrent taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a noncurrent asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise shall separate deferred tax liabilities and assets into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities and assets shall be classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, shall be classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingent liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest Mezzanine Equity Represents contractual value of a noncontrolling interest put (includes underlying noncontrolling interest). In February 2010, the Company completed a transaction to sell the partnership units acquired from the previous noncontrolling interest holder to a new Canadian partner. As a result of this transaction, the Company recorded a component of noncontrolling interest in liabilities and a component in mezzanine equity. This item represents the mezzanine equity component. Shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, 101.3 and 84.6 shares outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Less common stock held in treasury Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive income Total shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Population of Financial Assets and Liabilities Subject to Fair Value Measurements [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Increase Decrease in Noncontrolling Interest Put [Axis] Increase Decrease in Noncontrolling Interest Put [Axis] Increase Decrease in Noncontrolling Interest Put [Axis] Increase Decrease in Noncontrolling Interest Put [Domain] Increase Decrease in Noncontrolling Interest Put [Domain] [Domain] for Increase Decrease in Noncontrolling Interest Put [Axis] Contractually Determined Value [Member] Contractually Determined Value [Member] Contractually Determined Value [Member] Foreign Currency Translation [Member] Foreign Currency Translation [Member] Foreign Currency Translation [Member] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Noncontrolling Interest Put Increase (Decrease) in Noncontrolling Interest Put Increase (Decrease) in Noncontrolling Interest Put Noncontrolling interest puts Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Noncontrolling Interest Puts This element represents a certain statement of financial position liability caption which represents a class of liabilities, or which may include an individual liability, measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair market value of zero-coupon subordinated notes Zero Coupon Notes Fair Value Estimated fair value of the debt instrument (zero-coupon subordinated notes) at the balance-sheet date Fair market value of senior notes Senior Notes Fair Value Estimated fair value of the debt instrument (senior notes) at the balance-sheet date Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Asset at Fair Value Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Asset at Fair Value Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net Cash Surrender Value, Fair Value Disclosure Cash Surrender Value, Fair Value Disclosure Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Deferred Compensation Liability Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Deferred Compensation Liability Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Deferred Compensation Liability Supplemental Cash Flow Information Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Options Outstanding and Exercisable at December 31, 2013, by Range of Exercise Prices [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Options Outstanding and Exercisable at December 31, 2013, by Range of Exercise Prices [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Options Outstanding and Exercisable at December 31, 2013, by Range of Exercise Prices [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Exercise Price Range 1 [Member] Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans Exercise Price Range01 [Member] Exercise price range 1 for shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock option award plans. Exercise Price Range 2 [Member] Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans Exercise Price Range02 [Member] Exercise price range 2 for shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock option award plans. Exercise Price Range 3 [Member] Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans Exercise Price Range03 [Member] Exercise price range 3 for shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock option award plans. Exercise Price Range 4 [Member] Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans Exercise Price Range04 [Member] Exercise price range 4 for shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock option award plans. Exercise Price Range 5 [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range 05 [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range 05 [Member] Options Outstanding and Exercisable at December 31, 2013, by Range of Exercise Prices Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Exercise price range, lower range limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Exercise price range, upper range limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Number Outstanding Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options Options outstanding, weighted-average remaining contractual life (in years) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options outstanding, weighted-average exercise price Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options exercisable Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options Options exercisable, weighted-average exercise price Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Post-retirement benefit obligation Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Defined benefit plan obligation Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Restructuring reserves Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Self-insurance reserves Self Insurance Reserve, Noncurrent Acquisition related reserves Acquisition Reserve Noncurrent Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for acquisition related expenses (due beyond one year or operating cycle if longer). Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Workers' Compensation Liability, Noncurrent Workers' Compensation Liability, Noncurrent Other Other Liabilities Noncurrent, Other Other Liabilities Noncurrent, Other Total other liabilities Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] PREFERRED STOCK AND COMMON SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Other Liabilities [Member] Fixed Income Securities [Member] Fixed Income Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Maximum deferral percentage of annual base salary Maximum deferral percentage of annual base salary Maximum deferral percentage of annual base salary Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Minimum non-elective contribution (NEC) % for the 401(K) plan (in hundredths) Non Elective Contribution The minimum non-elective contribution % by the company to all employees eligible for the defined contribution retirement plan. Contributions are concurrent with each payroll period and are non-forfeitable and vest immediately. Discretionary contribution % for the 401(K) plan, range minimum (in hundredths) Discretionary Contribution Percentage Minimum Discretionary contribution percentage by the company for eligible employees based on service, range minimum. Discretionary contribution % for the 401(K) plan, range maximum (in hundredths) Discretionary Contribution Percentage Maximum The maximum discretionary contribution % by the company for eligible employees based on service. Defined contribution retirement plan cost Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Company contributions to the defined benefit retirement plan Pension Contributions Projected defined benefit plan costs in fiscal 2012 Projected Defined Benefit Plan Net Periodic Benefit Cost The projected amount of net periodic benefit cost for defined benefit plans for the fiscal year. Periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain or loss, prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain or loss due to settlements or curtailments). Effect on operations for both the Company Plan and the PEP [Abstract] Effect on operations for both the Company Plan and the PEP [Abstract] Effect on operations for both the Company Plan and the PEP [Abstract] Service cost Interest cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Net amortization and deferral Unamortized net gain included in accumulated other comprehensive earnings Defined Benefit Plans, Changes in Benefit Obligations [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Benefits and administrative expenses paid Ending balance Defined Benefit Plans, Changes in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets at end of year Defined Benefit Plans, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligations [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract] Weighted average expected long-term rate of return for equity securities (in hundredths) Defined Benefit Plan Expected Rate Of Return On Assets Equity Securities An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested in equity securities. Weighted average expected long-term rate of return for fixed income securities (in hundredths) Defined Benefit Plan Expected Rate Of Return On Assets Fixed Income Securities An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested in fixed income securities. Weighted average expected long-term rate of return for other assets (in hundredths) Defined Benefit Plan Expected Rate Of Return On Assets Other Assets An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested in other assets. Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Maximum deferral percentage of annual cash incentive pay Maximum deferral percentage of annual cash incentive pay Maximum deferral percentage of annual cash incentive pay Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for doubtful accounts [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Valuation allowance-deferred tax assets [Member] Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of year Additions Charged to Costs and Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Other (Deductions) Additions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Balance at end of year Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation And Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Encompasses the schedule of allowance and reserve accounts. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Common shares issued and outstanding [Abstract] Common Shares Issued And Outstanding [Abstract] Common shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued In treasury Treasury Stock, Number of Shares Held Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, par value per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, par value per share (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Rollforward of common shares issued [Abstract] Common Shares Issued Rollforward [Abstract] Common shares issued, beginning balance (in shares) Common stock issued under employee stock plans (in shares) Commons Stock Issued During Period Shares Employee Stock Plans Number of common shares issued during the period as a result of an employee stock purchase plan and/or stock option plan. Common stock shares issued for Acquisition Common stock shares issued for Acquisition Common stock shares issued for Acquisition Common shares repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Common shares issued, ending balance (in shares) Rollforward of common shares held in treasury [Abstract] Common Shares Held In Treasury Rollforward [Abstract] Common shares held in treasury, beginning balance Surrender of restricted stock and performance share awards Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeited Common shares held in treasury, ending balance Share repurchase program [Abstract] Outstanding Stock Repurchase Authorization [Abstract] Purchase of common stock Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Outstanding common stock repurchase authorization Common Stock Repurchase Authorization Outstanding The dollar amount of share (common shares) repurchase authorization approved by the Board of Directors which remains available to the Company. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings [Abstract] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments, balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Current year adjustments, Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Tax effect of adjustments, Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments, balance Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Net Benefit Plan Adjustments Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Net Benefit Plan Adjustments, balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Net Benefit Plan Adjustments, balance Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax Interest Rate Swap Adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings, balance Tax effect of adjustments, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, before Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Payables and Accruals [Abstract] ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Population of Financial Assets and Liabilities Subject to Fair Value Measurements Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Reimbursable Out of Pocket Expenses Policy [Policy Text Block] Reimbursable Out of Pocket Expenses Policy [Policy Text Block] Reimbursable Out of Pocket Expenses Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Financial Statement Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Of Credit Risk [Policy Text Block] A description of the company's credit risk accounting policy with respect to financial instruments. An entity shall disclose its policy for including whether the entity's cash and cash equivalents are insured or expose the entity to credit risk. Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock Compensation Plans Share Based Compensation Option And Incentive Plans [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for stock option and stock incentive plans. This disclosure may include (1) the types of stock option or incentive plans sponsored by the entity (2) the groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) significant plan provisions and (4) how stock compensation is measured, and the methodologies and significant assumptions used to determine that measurement. Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalized Software Costs Internal Use Software [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for costs incurred when both (1) the software is acquired, internally developed, or modified solely to meet the entity's internal needs, and (2) during the software's development or modification, no substantive plan exists or is being developed to market the software externally. Long-Lived Assets Long Lived Assets [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's impairment evaluation policy for long-lived assets. This policy addresses impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets. Intangible Assets Intangible Assets Finite Lived [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for finite-lived intangible assets. This accounting policy also may address: (1) the amortization method used (2) the useful lives of such assets (3) how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets. Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Professional Liability Professional Liability [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for self-insurance of professional liability claims, which may include policies for calculating a liability amount. Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Disclosure [Text Block] Foreign Currency Disclosure [Text Block] JOINT VENTURE PARTNERSHIPS AND EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Company's Restructuring Activities [Table] Restructuring Reserve, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Severance and Other Employee Costs [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Lease and Other Facility Costs [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Number of years restructuring liabilities expected to be paid out over Number of years restructuring liabilities expected to be paid out over Number of years restructuring liabilities expected to be paid out over Balance, beginning of period Restructuring Reserve Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Reduction of prior restructuring accruals Cash payments and other adjustments Restructuring Reserve Settled With Cash And Other Adjustment Amount of cash paid and/or consideration other than cash paid in the period to fully or partially settle a specified, previously accrued type of restructuring cost. Balance, end of period Current Restructuring Reserve, Current Non-current GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Adjustments to goodwill Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance as of January 1 Goodwill, net Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Common Stock, Value, Outstanding BALANCE Other comprehensive earnings, net of tax Issuance of common stock for acquisition consideration Issuance of common stock for acquisition consideration Issuance of common stock for acquisition consideration Issuance of common stock under employee stock plans Issuance of common stock under employee stock plans Aggregate change in value for stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock purchase plan, combined the value of stock issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options. Surrender of restricted stock and performance share awards Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeitures Conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt Conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt Value of stock issued during the period upon the conversion of convertible securities (zero-coupon subordinated notes) and/or reversal of deferred tax liability to reflect the tax benefit realized upon issuance of the stock. Stock compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Income tax benefit from stock options exercised Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Purchase of common stock BALANCE Additional Paid in Capital Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury Stock, Value Accrued expenses and other Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Accrued expenses and other [Abstract] Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Employee compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Self-insurance reserves Self Insurance Reserve, Current Accrued taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Royalty and license fees payable Accrued Royalties, Current Restructuring reserves Acquisition related reserves Acquisition Reserve Current Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for acquisition related expense (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Interest payable Interest Payable, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued expenses and other Common shares issued and outstanding [Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Changes in common shares issued and held in treasury [Text Block] Changes In Common Shares Issued And Held In Treasury [Table Text Block] Schedule is used to show the changes in common shares issued and held in treasury by the entity. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings Components [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] DEBT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Proceeds from bridge loan Proceeds from bridge loan Proceeds from bridge loan Repayments of Senior Debt Repayments of Senior Debt Payments on bridge loan Payments on bridge loan Payments on bridge loan CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Stock compensation Share-based Compensation Loss (gain) on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Accrued interest on zero-coupon subordinated notes Accreted interest on zero-coupon subordinated notes This element represents the accreted interest on zero-coupon subordinated notes. Cumulative earnings less than (in excess of) distributions from equity method investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Deferred income taxes Change in assets and liabilities (net of effects of acquisitions): Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Increase in accounts receivable (net) Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Increase (Decrease) in Unbilled Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Unbilled Receivables Increase in inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Increase (decrease) in accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities and Other Operating Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities and Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Acquisition of licensing technology Investments in equity affiliates Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Net cash used for investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from Senior Notes offerings Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Other Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Other Long-term Debt Line of Credit Facility Payment Line of Credit Facility Payment Line of Credit Facility Payment Proceeds from revolving credit facilities Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit Payments on revolving credit facilities Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit Payments on zero-coupon subordinated notes Payments on long-term debt Repayments of Other Long-term Debt Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Noncontrolling interest distributions Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Excess tax benefits from stock based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Net proceeds from issuance of stock to employees Net proceeds from issuance of stock to employees The cash inflow associated with the amount received from holders exercising their stock options and employees related to shares purchased under the employee stock purchase plan. Purchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Net cash used for financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Deferred payments on acquisitions Deferred payments on acquisitions This element represents deferred payments (payments on accrued acquisition related liabilities) on acquisitions. Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Other liabilities Schedule of Other Assets and Other Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Patents, licenses and technology [Member] Trade names [Member] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Weighted average amortization period (in years) Summary of unaudited quarterly data Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract] Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross profit Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Components of identifiable intangible assets Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Acquired amortizable intangible assets and their respective weighted average amortization periods Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Note 14 - Stock Compensation Plan [Abstract] Note 14 - Stock Compensation Plan [Abstract] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Income [Abstract] Income [Abstract] Net earnings, basic Net earnings, diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Shares [Abstract] Shares [Abstract] Outstanding shares, basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of stock options (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable To Stock Options Aggregate awards of stock options and nonvested options to be issued to an employee under a stock option arrangement. Such stock options shall be considered to be outstanding as of the grant date for purposes of computing diluted earnings per share even though their exercise may be contingent upon vesting. Those options are included in the diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) computation even if the employee may not receive (or be able to sell) the stock until some future date. Dilutive effect of restricted stock awards and other (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable To Restricted Stock Awards And Other Aggregate awards of restricted stock units and other share based awards to be issued to an employee under a share based arrangement. Such awards shall be considered to be outstanding as of the grant date for purposes of computing diluted earnings per share even though their exercise may be contingent upon vesting. Those awards are included in the diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS) computation even if the employee may not receive (or be able to sell) the stock until some future date. Dilutive effect of convertible debt, net of tax (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities Outstanding shares, diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Per Share Amount [Abstract] Per Share Amount [Abstract] Basic earnings per common share Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) Future minimum rental commitments Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding (in shares) Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographic Distribution [Domain] Geographical [Domain] UNITED STATES UNITED STATES CANADA CANADA UNITED KINGDOM UNITED KINGDOM SWITZERLAND SWITZERLAND Other countries [Member] Other countries [Member] Other countries [Member] Corporate Segment [Member] Corporate Segment [Member] Depreciation and amortization: Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization [Abstract] Depreciation and Amortization of Intangible Assets Depreciation and Amortization of Intangible Assets Depreciation and Amortization of Intangible Assets Net revenues: Revenue, Net [Abstract] Nonoperating Income (Expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plans, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Category [Table] Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] U.S. large cap - blend [Member] Us Large Cap Blend [Member] Benefit plan assets invested in the U.S. large capitalization equity securities - blend category. U.S. mid cap - blend [Member] Us Mid Cap Blend [Member] Benefit plan assets invested in the U.S. medium capitalization equity securities - blend category. U.S. small cap - blend [Member] Us Small Cap Blend [Member] Benefit plan assets invested in the U.S. small capitalization equity securities - blend category. International - developed [Member] International Developed [Member] Benefit plan assets invested in the international capitalization equity securities- developed category. Commodities index [Member] Commodities index [Member] U.S. fixed income [Member] Us Fixed Income [Member] Benefit plan assets invested in the U.S. fixed income securities category. Defined Benefit Plans, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Category [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value By Asset Category Disclosure [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Expected Participant Contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]