labcorp10q.htm




UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q

[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended   September 30, 2009
OR
[  ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ______ to  ______

Commission file number   1-11353

LABORATORY CORPORATION OF
AMERICA HOLDINGS
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
 
13-3757370
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

358 South Main Street,
   
Burlington, North Carolina
 
27215
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code) 336-229-1127

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (paragraph 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [X] No [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer [X]
Accelerated Filer [  ]
Non-accelerated filer [  ] (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [  ] No [X].

The number of shares outstanding of the issuer's common stock is 106.2 million shares, net of treasury stock as of October 22, 2009.

 
 


INDEX


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1
Financial Statements:
   
 
 
September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008
   
 
 
Three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008
   
 
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008
   
 
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008
   
 
   
Item 2
 
Condition and Results of Operations
   
Item 3
   
Item 4


PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1
   
Item 1A
   
Item 2
   
Item 6

 
2


PART I                      –           FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.                 –      Financial Statements

LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in millions)
(unaudited)
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
ASSETS
           
Current assets:
           
     Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 126.8     $ 219.7  
     Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
               
        accounts of $178.7 and $161.0 at September 30, 2009
               
        and December 31, 2008, respectively
    636.9       631.6  
     Supplies inventories
    81.6       91.0  
     Prepaid expenses and other
    96.3       83.8  
     Deferred income taxes
    35.9       6.7  
     Total current assets
    977.5       1,032.8  
                 
Property, plant and equipment, net
    493.5       496.4  
Goodwill, net
    1,854.9       1,772.2  
Intangible assets, net
    1,342.1       1,222.6  
Investments in joint venture partnerships
    75.2       72.0  
Other assets, net
    86.9       73.5  
Total assets
  $ 4,830.1     $ 4,669.5  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current liabilities:
               
     Accounts payable
  $ 174.6     $ 159.7  
     Accrued expenses and other
    307.2       266.4  
     Short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt
    120.8       120.8  
     Total current liabilities
    602.6       546.9  
                 
Long-term debt, less current portion
    1,280.0       1,600.5  
Deferred income taxes and other tax liabilities
    578.1       522.9  
Other liabilities
    200.2       189.6  
Total liabilities
    2,660.9       2,859.9  
                 
Commitments and contingent liabilities
    --       --  
Noncontrolling interest
    140.4       121.3  
                 
Shareholders’ equity
               
   Common stock, 106.5 and 108.2 shares outstanding at
               
     September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively
    12.6       12.8  
   Additional paid-in capital
    128.4       237.4  
   Retained earnings
    2,785.2       2,384.6  
   Less common stock held in treasury
    (932.5 )     (929.8 )
   Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
    35.1       (16.7 )
     Total shareholders’ equity
    2,028.8       1,688.3  
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  $ 4,830.1     $ 4,669.5  







The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
3


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in millions, except per share data)
(unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Net sales
  $ 1,185.1     $ 1,135.1     $ 3,529.6     $ 3,386.1  
                                 
Cost of sales
    687.0       673.5       2,034.7       1,962.2  
                                 
Gross profit
    498.1       461.6       1,494.9       1,423.9  
                                 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    247.3       227.1       718.4       708.7  
Amortization of intangibles and other assets
    15.9       14.6       46.2       43.0  
Restructuring and other special charges
    --       17.7       10.2       33.7  
                                 
Operating income
    234.9       202.2       720.1       638.5  
                                 
Other income (expenses):
                               
     Interest expense
    (15.0 )     (16.8 )     (48.2 )     (54.0 )
     Income from joint venture partnerships, net
    4.2       3.7       10.9       11.7  
     Investment income
    0.3       1.0       1.1       2.1  
     Other, net
    (1.3 )     (0.2 )     (2.5 )     (1.5 )
                                 
Earnings before income taxes
    223.1       189.9       681.4       596.8  
                                 
Provision for income taxes
    88.5       75.0       271.6       240.2  
                                 
Net earnings
    134.6       114.9       409.8       356.6  
     Less: Net earnings attributable to the noncontrolling interest
    (3.2 )     (3.0 )     (9.2 )     (10.2 )
                                 
Net earnings attributable to Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings
  $ 131.4     $ 111.9     $ 400.6     $ 346.4  
                                 
Basic earnings per common share
  $ 1.22     $ 1.02     $ 3.71     $ 3.14  
                                 
Diluted earnings per common share
  $ 1.21     $ 1.00     $ 3.67     $ 3.06  











The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
4


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in millions)
(unaudited)

                           
Accumulated
       
         
Additional
               
Other
   
Total
 
   
Common
   
Paid-in
   
Retained
   
Treasury
   
Comprehensive
   
Shareholders’
 
   
Stock
   
Capital
   
Earnings
   
Stock
   
Income (Loss)
   
Equity
 
                                     
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2007
  $ 13.2     $ 460.9     $ 2,028.3     $ (897.1 )   $ 120.0     $ 1,725.3  
Comprehensive earnings:
                                               
   Net earnings attributable to Laboratory
                                               
      Corporation of America Holdings
    --       --       346.4       --       --       346.4  
   Other comprehensive earnings:
                                               
      Foreign currency translation adjustments
    --       --       --       --       (46.6 )     (46.6 )
      Interest rate swap adjustments
    --       --       --       --       6.4       6.4  
      Tax effect of other comprehensive
                                               
         earnings adjustments
    --       --       --       --       15.4       15.4  
   Comprehensive earnings
                                            321.6  
Issuance of common stock under
                                               
   employee stock plans
    0.1       53.2       --       --       --       53.3  
Surrender of restricted stock awards
                                               
   and performance shares
    --       --       --       (32.7 )     --       (32.7 )
Conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt
    --       0.1       --       --       --       0.1  
Stock compensation
    --       27.0       --       --       --       27.0  
Value of noncontrolling interest put
    --       (123.0 )     --       --       --       (123.0 )
Income tax benefit from stock
                                               
   options exercised
    --       19.1       --       --       --       19.1  
Purchase of common stock
    (0.5 )     (221.9 )     (108.2 )     --       --       (330.6 )
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2008
  $ 12.8     $ 215.4     $ 2,266.5     $ (929.8 )   $ 95.2     $ 1,660.1  
                                                 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2008
  $ 12.8     $ 237.4     $ 2,384.6     $ (929.8 )   $ (16.7 )   $ 1,688.3  
Comprehensive earnings:
                                               
   Net earnings attributable to Laboratory
                                               
      Corporation of America Holdings
    --       --       400.6       --       --       400.6  
   Other comprehensive earnings:
                                               
      Foreign currency translation adjustments
    --       --       --       --       83.7       83.7  
      Interest rate swap adjustments
    --       --       --       --       1.1       1.1  
      Tax effect of other comprehensive
                                               
         earnings adjustments
    --       --       --       --       (33.0 )     (33.0 )
   Comprehensive earnings
                                            452.4  
Issuance of common stock under
                                               
   employee stock plans
    --       18.1       --       --       --       18.1  
Surrender of restricted stock awards
    --       --       --       (2.7 )     --       (2.7 )
Conversion of zero-coupon convertible debt
    0.1       11.3       --       --       --       11.4  
Stock compensation
    --       26.1       --       --       --       26.1  
Income tax benefit from stock
                                               
   options exercised
    --       0.3       --       --       --       0.3  
Purchase of common stock
    (0.3 )     (164.8 )     --       --       --       (165.1 )
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER  30, 2009
  $ 12.6     $ 128.4     $ 2,785.2     $ (932.5 )   $ 35.1     $ 2,028.8  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
5


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in millions)
(unaudited)

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net earnings
  $ 409.8     $ 356.6  
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
     Depreciation and amortization
    145.3       133.5  
     Stock compensation
    26.1       27.0  
     Loss on sale of assets
    1.5       0.7  
     Accreted interest on zero-coupon subordinated notes
    6.8       8.5  
     Cumulative earnings in excess of distribution from joint venture partnerships
    (0.2 )     (0.9 )
     Deferred income taxes
    9.9       28.6  
     Change in assets and liabilities (net of effects of acquisitions):
               
        (Increase) decrease in accounts receivable (net)
    14.0       (0.1 )
        (Increase) decrease in inventories
    3.3       (4.8 )
        Decrease in prepaid expenses and other
    11.4       6.4  
        Increase in accounts payable
    14.4       10.6  
        Decrease in accrued expenses and other
    (4.6 )     (0.5 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    637.7       565.6  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Capital expenditures
    (77.1 )     (120.4 )
Proceeds from sale of assets
    0.9       0.4  
Deferred payments on acquisitions
    (1.3 )     (3.7 )
Purchases of short-term investments
    --       (72.8 )
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments
    --       182.7  
Acquisition of licensing technology
    --       (0.8 )
Investment in equity affiliate
    (4.3 )     --  
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
    (168.0 )     (336.6 )
Net cash used for investing activities
    (249.8 )     (351.2 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from revolving credit facilities
    --       135.8  
Payments on revolving credit facilities
    --       (65.0 )
Principal payments on term loan
    (37.5 )     (18.7 )
Payments on zero-coupon subordinated notes
    (289.4 )     --  
Payments on vendor-financed equipment
    (1.5 )     --  
Increase (decrease) in bank overdraft
    (5.0 )     2.5  
Payments on long-term debt
    --       (0.1 )
Noncontrolling interest distributions
    (7.7 )     (10.9 )
Excess tax benefits from stock based compensation
    --       15.7  
Net proceeds from issuance of stock to employees
    18.1       53.3  
Purchase of common stock
    (159.1 )     (333.6 )
Net cash used for financing activities
    (482.1 )     (221.0 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
    1.3       (0.4 )
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (92.9 )     (7.0 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    219.7       56.4  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 126.8     $ 49.4  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
6


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

1.  BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (the “Company”) and its majority-owned subsidiaries over which it exercises control. Long-term investments in affiliated companies in which the Company exercises significant influence, but which it does not control, are accounted for using the equity method. Investments in which the Company does not exercise significant influence (generally, when the Company has an investment of less than 20% and no representation on the investee’s board of directors) are accounted for using the cost method. All significant inter-company transactions and accounts have been eliminated. The Company does not have any variable interest entities or special purpose entities whose financial results are not included in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

     The financial statements of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated at exchange rates as of the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at average monthly exchange rates prevailing during the period. Resulting translation adjustments are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income.”

     The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company are unaudited. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of results of operations, cash flows and financial position have been made. Except as otherwise disclosed, all such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of results for a full year. The year-end condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles. The Company evaluated events occurring subsequent to September 30, 2009 for potential recognition or disclosure in the condensed consolidated financial statements through October 27, 2009.

     The financial statements and notes are presented in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and do not contain certain information included in the Company’s 2008 annual report on Form 10-K. Therefore, the interim statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto contained in the Company’s annual report.
 
2.  EARNINGS PER SHARE

     Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings including the impact of dilutive adjustments by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus potentially dilutive shares, as if they had been issued at the beginning of the period presented. Potentially dilutive common shares result primarily from the Company’s outstanding stock options, restricted stock awards, performance share awards, and shares issuable upon conversion of zero-coupon subordinated notes.

     The following represents a reconciliation of basic earnings per share to diluted earnings per share:

   
Three Months Ended September 30,
   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
         
2009
               
2008
               
2009
               
2008
       
               
Per
               
Per
               
Per
               
Per
 
               
Share
               
Share
               
Share
               
Share
 
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Amount
 
Basic earnings per share:
                                                                       
  Net earnings
  $ 131.4       107.6     $ 1.22     $ 111.9       109.6     $ 1.02     $ 400.6       108.0     $ 3.71     $ 346.4       110.4     $ 3.14  
  Dilutive effect of
                                                                                               
    employee  stock
                                                                                               
    plans and awards
    --       0.7               --       0.7               --       0.6               --       1.1          
  Effect of convertible
                                                                                               
    debt, net of tax
    --       0.5               --       1.7               --       0.5               --       1.7          
Diluted earnings per share:
                                                                                               
  Net earnings
                                                                                               
    including impact of
                                                                                               
    dilutive adjustments
  $ 131.4       108.8     $ 1.21     $ 111.9       112.0     $ 1.00     $ 400.6       109.1     $ 3.67     $ 346.4       113.2     $ 3.06  


 
7


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     The following table summarizes the potential common shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their impact would have been antidilutive:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Stock options
    2.9       3.0       4.6       2.2  

3.  RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER SPECIAL CHARGES

     During the second quarter of 2009, the Company recorded net restructuring charges of $10.2 primarily related to the closing of redundant and underutilized facilities. The majority of these costs related to severance and other employee costs and contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and other facility related costs. Of this amount, $6.6 related to severance and other employee costs for employees primarily in the affected facilities, and $12.3 related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and other facility related costs. The Company also reduced its prior restructuring accruals by $8.7, comprised of $6.5 of previously recorded facility costs and $2.2 of employee severance benefits as a result of incurring less cost than planned on those restructuring initiatives primarily resulting from favorable settlements on lease buyouts and severance payments that were not required to achieve the planned reduction in work force.

     During the second and third quarters of 2008, the Company recorded charges primarily related to work force reductions and the closing of redundant and underutilized facilities. For the third quarter of 2008, the Company recorded net restructuring charges of $12.2. Of this amount, $12.2 related to severance and other employee costs in connection with the general work force reductions and $1.9 related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and equipment. The Company also recorded a credit of $1.9, comprised of $1.2 of previously recorded facility costs and $0.7 of employee severance benefits relating to changes in cost estimates accrued in prior periods.

     For the second quarter of 2008, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $16.0 primarily related to the closing of redundant and underutilized facilities. Of this amount, $6.5 related to severance and other employee costs for employees primarily in branch operations, divisional billing and management functions, and $9.5 related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and equipment.

     During the third quarter of 2008, the Company also recorded a special charge of $5.5 related to estimated uncollectible amounts primarily owed by patients in the areas of the Gulf Coast severely impacted by hurricanes similar to losses incurred during the 2005 hurricane season.

4.  RESTRUCTURING RESERVES

The following represents the Company’s restructuring activities for the period indicated:

   
Severance
   
Lease
       
   
and Other
   
and Other
       
   
Employee
   
Facility
       
   
Costs
   
Costs
   
Total
 
Balance as of December 31, 2008
  $ 11.3     $ 22.4     $ 33.7  
Net restructuring charges
    4.4       5.8       10.2  
Cash payments and other adjustments
    (10.2 )     (6.2 )     (16.4 )
Balance as of September 30, 2009
  $ 5.5     $ 22.0     $ 27.5  
                         
Current
                  $ 15.9  
Non-current
                    11.6  
                    $ 27.5  



 
8


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

5.  BAD DEBT EXPENSE

     During the second quarter of 2008, the Company recorded a $45.0 increase in its provision for doubtful accounts. The Company’s estimate of the allowance for doubtful accounts was increased due to the impact of the economy, higher patient deductibles and co-payments, and acquisitions on the collectibility of accounts receivable balances.

6. BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS
 
     During the nine months ended September 30 2009, the Company acquired various laboratories and related assets for approximately $168.0 in cash (net of cash acquired). The acquisition activity primarily included the acquisition of Monogram Biosciences, Inc. (“Monogram”) effective August 3, 2009 for approximately $160.0 in cash (net of cash acquired). The Monogram acquisition was made to enhance the Company’s scientific differentiation and esoteric testing capabilities and advance the Company’s personalized medicine strategy.

     The Monogram purchase consideration has been allocated to the estimated fair market value of the net assets acquired, including approximately $63.3 in identifiable intangible assets (primarily non-tax deductible customer list, patents and technology, and trade name) with weighted-average useful lives of approximately 15 years;  net operating loss tax assets of approximately $44.8, which are expected to be realized over a period of 18 years; and residual amount of non-tax deductible goodwill of approximately $76.2. The Company will finalize its determination of the fair market value of the net assets acquired during the fourth quarter of 2009.

     Monogram has an active research and development department, which is primarily focused on the development of companion diagnostics technology. As a result of this acquisition, the Company incurred approximately $2.5 of research and development expenses (included in selling, general and administrative expenses) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

     In connection with the Monogram acquisition, the Company incurred approximately $2.7 in transaction fees and expenses (included in selling, general and administrative expenses).
 
7.  NONCONTROLLING INTEREST PUT

     Effective January 1, 2008 the Company acquired additional partnership units in its Ontario, Canada (“Ontario”) joint venture, bringing the Company’s percentage interest owned to 85.6%. Concurrent with this acquisition, the terms of the joint venture’s partnership agreement were amended. The amended joint venture’s partnership agreement enables the holders of the noncontrolling interest to put the remaining partnership units to the Company in defined future periods, at an initial amount equal to the consideration paid by the Company in 2008, and subject to adjustment based on market value formulas contained in the agreement. The contractual value of the put, in excess of the current noncontrolling interest of $24.1, totals $116.3 at September 30, 2009.

     Net sales of the Ontario joint venture for the nine month and three month periods ended September 30, 2009 were $180.5 and $63.4, respectively (CN$210.4 and CN$69.5, respectively), and $190.5 and $59.4 for the nine month and three month periods ended September 30, 2008, respectively (CN$193.5 and CN$61.8, respectively).





 
9


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

8.  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

     The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2009 and for the year ended December 31, 2008 are as follows:

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Balance as of January 1
  $ 1,772.2     $ 1,639.5  
Goodwill acquired during the period
    82.1       135.4  
Adjustments to goodwill
    0.6       (2.7 )
                 
Balance at end of period
  $ 1,854.9     $ 1,772.2  
 
The components of identifiable intangible assets are as follows:

   
September 30, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
   
Gross
         
Gross
       
   
Carrying
   
Accumulated
   
Carrying
   
Accumulated
 
   
Amount
   
Amortization
   
Amount
   
Amortization
 
                         
Customer lists
  $ 836.2     $ (326.1 )   $ 793.2     $ (294.1 )
Patents, licenses and technology
    120.4       (59.8 )     94.7       (54.2 )
Non-compete agreements
    37.4       (30.0 )     37.0       (28.2 )
Trade name
    117.8       (39.7 )     115.3       (33.4 )
Canadian licenses
    685.9       --       592.3       --  
                                 
    $ 1,797.7     $ (455.6 )   $ 1,632.5     $ (409.9 )

     Amortization of intangible assets for the nine month and three month periods ended September 30, 2009 was $46.2 and $15.9, respectively, and $43.0 and $14.6 for the nine month and three month periods ended September 30, 2008, respectively. Amortization expense for the net carrying amount of intangible assets is estimated to be $16.2 for the remainder of fiscal 2009, $65.0 in fiscal 2010, $60.3 in fiscal 2011, $55.8 in fiscal 2012, $52.8 in fiscal 2013 and $406.1 thereafter.

     The Ontario operation had $685.9 and $592.3 of value assigned to the partnership’s indefinite lived Canadian licenses to conduct diagnostic testing services in the province as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.

9.  DEBT

     Short-term borrowings and the current portion of long-term debt at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 consisted of the following:

 
 
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
 
 
2009
   
2008
 
Term loan, current
  $ 50.0     $ 50.0  
Revolving credit facility
    70.8       70.8  
Total short-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt
  $ 120.8     $ 120.8  


 
10


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     Long-term debt at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 consisted of the following:

 
 
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
 
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
Senior notes due 2013
  $ 351.4     $ 351.7  
Senior notes due 2015
    250.0       250.0  
Term loan, non-current
    387.5       425.0  
Zero-coupon convertible subordinated notes
    290.8       573.5  
Other long-term debt
    0.3       0.3  
Total long-term debt
  $ 1,280.0     $ 1,600.5  

Zero-coupon Subordinated Notes

     During the second quarter of 2009, the Company redeemed approximately $369.5 principal amount at maturity of its zero-coupon subordinated notes, equaling approximately fifty percent of the principal amount at maturity outstanding of the zero-coupon subordinated notes. The total cash used for these redemptions was $289.4. As a result of certain holders of the zero-coupon subordinated notes electing to convert their notes, the Company also issued 0.4 additional shares of common stock and reversed approximately $11.3 of deferred tax liability to reflect the tax benefit realized upon issuance of these shares.
 
     The Company’s common stock trading price conversion feature of its zero-coupon subordinated notes was not triggered by third quarter 2009 trading prices. As a result, the zero-coupon subordinated notes may not be converted during the period of October 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009 based on this conversion feature.

     The Company’s common stock trading price contingent cash interest feature of its zero-coupon subordinated notes was not triggered by the average market price of the Company’s common stock for the five trading days ended September 9, 2009. As a result, the zero-coupon subordinated notes will not accrue contingent cash interest for the period of September 12, 2009 to March 11, 2010.

Credit Facilities

    The balances outstanding on the Company’s Term Loan Facility at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 were $437.5 and $475.0, respectively. The balance outstanding on the Company’s Revolving Facility at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 was $70.8. The Term Loan Facility and Revolving Facility bear interest at varying rates based upon LIBOR plus a percentage based on the Company’s credit rating with Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services. The Term Loan Facility and Revolving Facility contain certain debt covenants that require that the Company maintain certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of September 30, 2009.

     On September 15, 2008, Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. (“Lehman”), whose subsidiaries have a $28.0 commitment in the Company’s Revolving Facility, filed for bankruptcy. Accordingly, the Company does not expect Lehman will fulfill its pro rata share of any future borrowing requests under the Revolving Facility. The Company is currently in discussions with another bank regarding the assumption of Lehman’s commitment in the Company’s Revolving Facility.

     As of September 30, 2009, the interest rates on the Term Loan Facility and Revolving Facility were 3.67% and 0.70%, respectively.

10. PREFERRED STOCK AND COMMON SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     The Company is authorized to issue up to 265.0 shares of common stock, par value $0.10 per share. The Company’s treasury shares are recorded at aggregate cost. The Company is authorized to issue up to 30.0 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.10 per share. There were no preferred shares outstanding as of September 30, 2009.




 
11


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     The changes in common shares issued and held in treasury are summarized below:

         
Held in
       
   
Issued
   
Treasury
   
Outstanding
 
Common shares at December 31, 2008
    130.3       (22.1 )     108.2  
Common stock issued under employee stock plans
    0.3       --       0.3  
Common stock issued upon conversion of zero-coupon subordinated notes
    0.4       --       0.4  
Retirement of common stock
    (2.4 )     --       (2.4 )
                         
Common shares at September 30, 2009
    128.6       (22.1 )     106.5  

Share Repurchase Program

     During the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the Company purchased 2.4 shares of its common stock at a total cost of $165.1. As of September 30, 2009, the Company had outstanding authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase approximately $180.2 of Company common stock.
 
11. INCOME TAXES

     The Company does not recognize a tax benefit, unless the Company concludes that it is more likely than not that the benefit will be sustained on audit by the taxing authority based solely on the technical merits of the associated tax position. If the recognition threshold is met, the Company recognizes a tax benefit measured at the largest amount of the tax benefit that the Company believes is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized.

     The gross unrecognized income tax benefits were $81.2 and $72.5 at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. It is reasonably possible the Company will reverse a significant amount of the unrecognized income tax benefits during the fourth quarter of 2009. The reversal relates to certain state income tax matters that are reasonably anticipated to be closed during the fourth quarter. The anticipated decrease in the reserve for gross unrecognized income tax benefits (including interest) is estimated to be approximately $27.7. The anticipated net of tax benefit to flow through the Company’s consolidated statement of operations for the fourth quarter of 2009 is estimated to be approximately $17.3.

     As of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, $84.5 and $70.2, respectively, is the approximate amount of unrecognized income tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the effective income tax rate in future periods.
 
     The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized income tax benefits in income tax expense. Accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions totaled $17.4 and $14.2 as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.

     The Company has substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax matters for years through 2004. Substantially all material state and local income tax matters have been concluded through 2002 and substantially all foreign income tax matters have been concluded through 2001.

     The Company’s 2006 U.S. federal income tax return is currently under examination by the Internal Revenue Service. In addition, the Company has various state income tax examinations ongoing throughout the year. Management believes adequate provisions have been recorded related to all open tax years.

12. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

     In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) established authoritative United States generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), codifying and superseding all pre-existing accounting standards and literature. This newly codified GAAP is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. The Company has adopted the guidance without any impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 
12


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     In December 2007, the FASB issued authoritative guidance requiring all entities to report noncontrolling (minority) interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Company adopted the guidance as of January 1, 2009 and pursuant to the provisions of the literature, the presentation and disclosure requirements have been applied retrospectively for all periods presented. Due to the nature of the noncontrolling interest put, the Company has not included the noncontrolling interest in its Ontario joint venture in the equity section of the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

     In December 2007, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with business combinations which was intended to simplify existing guidance and converge rulemaking under U.S. GAAP with international accounting rules. The guidance applies prospectively to business combinations where the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company adopted the literature as of January 1, 2009, and the Company began recording acquisitions in accordance with the authoritative guidance. As a result, acquisition related costs, primarily legal and other professional services, of $3.5 and $5.0 were included in selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2009.
 
     In April 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with accounting for assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination that arise from contingencies. The guidance addresses application issues regarding the initial recognition and measurement, subsequent measurement and accounting, and disclosure of assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in a business combination. Due to the fact that the literature is applicable to acquisitions completed after January 1, 2009 and the Company did not have any business combinations with assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in the first nine months of 2009, the adoption of the authoritative guidance did not impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

     In March 2008, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities. The guidance requires additional disclosures about the objectives of using derivative instruments, the method by which the derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under this authoritative guidance, and the effect of derivative instruments and related hedged items on financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. The literature also requires disclosure of the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format. The guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company is providing the additional disclosures in accordance with the authoritative guidance (see Note 17 to the notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements).

     In May 2008, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with accounting for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion. The guidance requires that the liability and equity components of convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion (including partial cash settlement) be separately accounted for in a manner that reflects an issuer’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate. The resulting debt discount is amortized over the period the convertible debt is expected to be outstanding as additional non-cash interest expense. The guidance is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Retrospective application to all periods presented is required except for instruments that were not outstanding during any of the periods that will be presented in the annual financial statements for the period of adoption but were outstanding during an earlier period. The literature impacts the Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes, and requires that additional interest expense essentially equivalent to the portion of issuance proceeds retroactively allocated to the instrument’s equity component be recognized over the period from the zero-coupon subordinated notes’ issuance in 2001 through September 2004 (the first date holders of these notes had the ability to put them back to the Company). As anticipated, the adoption of this authoritative guidance and its retrospective application did not have an impact on results of operations for periods following 2004, but it did result in an increase of $215.4 in opening additional paid-in capital and a corresponding decrease in opening retained earnings as of January 1, 2007, net of deferred tax impacts, on post-2004 consolidated balance sheets.








 
13


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     In December 2008, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with employers’ disclosures about postretirement benefit plan assets. The objectives of the disclosures about plan assets in an employers’ defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan are to provide users of financial statements with an understanding of: (1) how investment allocation decisions are made, including the factors that are pertinent to an understanding of investment policies and strategies, (2) the major categories of plan assets, (3) the inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets, (4) the effect of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) on changes in plan assets for the period, and (5) significant concentrations of risk within plan assets. An employer should consider those overall objectives in providing detailed disclosures about plan assets. The guidance is effective for years ending after December 15, 2009. Early application is permitted. Upon initial application, the provisions of the literature are not required for earlier periods that are presented for comparative periods. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of the authoritative guidance could have on its consolidated financial statements.
 
     In April 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with determining fair value when the volume and level of activity for an asset or liability have significantly decreased and identifying transactions that are not orderly. The literature provides authoritative guidance in determining whether a market is active or inactive, and whether a transaction is distressed. The guidance is applicable to all assets and liabilities (i.e. financial and nonfinancial) and requires enhanced disclosures, including interim and annual disclosure of the input and valuation techniques (or changes in techniques) used to measure fair value and the defining of the major security types comprising debt and equity securities held based upon the nature and risk of the security. The literature is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. The adoption of the authoritative guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and related disclosures in the notes thereto.

     In April 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with interim disclosures about fair value of financial instruments. The guidance requires disclosures about fair value of financial instruments in interim financial statements as well as in annual financial statements. These disclosures are effective for interim periods ending after June 15, 2009. Note 16 to the condensed consolidated financial statements reflects these disclosure requirements.

     In May 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with subsequent events. The guidance establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. The literature renames type one and type two subsequent events as “recognized” subsequent events and “non-recognized” subsequent events. For recognized subsequent events, an entity shall recognize in the financial statements the effects of all subsequent events that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet, including the estimates inherent in the process of preparing financial statements. For unrecognized subsequent events, an entity shall not recognize subsequent events about conditions that did not exist at the date of the balance sheet but that arose after the balance sheet date. Adoption of the authoritative guidance had no impact on the consolidated financial statements as of and for the periods ended September 30, 2009.

     In June 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with adding qualified special purpose entities into the scope of guidance for consolidation of variable interest entities. This literature also modifies the analysis by which a controlling interest of a variable interest entity is determined thereby requiring the controlling interest to consolidate the variable interest entity. A controlling interest exists if a party to a variable interest entity has both (i) the power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of or receive benefits from the entity that could be potentially significant to the variable interest entity. The guidance becomes effective as of the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning after November 15, 2009 and should be applied prospectively for interim and annual periods during that period going forward. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of the authoritative guidance could have on its consolidated financial statements.

 
14


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)
 
     In August 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance in connection with measuring liabilities at fair value. The guidance addresses the impact of transfer restrictions on the fair value of a liability and the ability to use the fair value of a liability that is traded as an asset as an input to the valuation of the underlying liability. The literature also clarifies the application of certain valuation techniques. Those clarifications include when to make adjustments to fair value. The guidance will be effective in the Company’s quarter ending December 31, 2009. The Company does not expect the adoption of the authoritative guidance to have an impact on the consolidated financial statements as the literature is broadly consistent with current practice in measuring the fair value of liabilities.
 
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

     The Company was a party in a patent case originally filed by Competitive Technologies, Inc. and Metabolite Laboratories, Inc. in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado. After a jury trial, the district court entered judgment against the Company for patent infringement, with total damages and attorney’s fees payable by the Company of approximately $7.8. The underlying judgment has been paid. The Company vigorously contested the judgment and appealed the case ultimately to the United States Supreme Court. On June 22, 2006, the Supreme Court dismissed the Company’s appeal and the case was remanded to the District Court for further proceedings including resolution of a related declaratory judgment action initiated by the Company addressing the plaintiffs’ claims for post trial damages. On August 15, 2008, the District Court entered judgment in favor of the Company on all of the plaintiffs’ remaining claims. Metabolite Laboratories, Inc. has filed a notice of appeal and the appeal is pending. The Company does not expect the resolution of these issues to have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

     The Company is also involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. Some of these actions involve claims that are substantial in amount. These matters include, but are not limited to, intellectual property disputes, professional liability, employee related matters, and inquiries, including subpoenas and other civil investigative demands, from governmental agencies and Medicare or Medicaid payers and managed care payers reviewing billing practices or requesting comment on allegations of billing irregularities that are brought to their attention through billing audits or third parties. The Company receives civil investigative demands or other inquiries from various governmental bodies in the ordinary course of its business. Such inquiries can relate to the Company or other healthcare providers. The Company works cooperatively to respond to appropriate requests for information.

     As previously reported, on May 22, 2006 the Company received a subpoena from the California Attorney General seeking documents related to billing to the state’s Medicaid program. The Company subsequently reported during the third quarter of 2008 that it received a request from the California Attorney General for additional information. On March 20, 2009, a qui tam lawsuit, California ex rel. Hunter Laboratories, LLC et al. v. Quest Diagnostics Incorporated, et al., which was joined by the California Attorney General and to which the previous subpoena related, was unsealed. The lawsuit was brought against the Company and several other major laboratories operating in California and alleges that the defendants improperly billed the state Medicaid program.
 
     During 2009, the Company received subpoenas from two state agencies requesting documents related to its billing to Medicaid in those states. The Company also responded to subpoenas from the Office of Inspector General's regional offices in New York and Massachusetts regarding certain of its billing practices. The Company is cooperating with the requests.

     The Company is also named from time to time in suits brought under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act and comparable state laws. These suits typically allege that the Company has made false statements and/or certifications in connection with claims for payment from federal or state health care programs. They may remain under seal (hence, unknown to the Company) for some time while the government decides whether to intervene on behalf of the qui tam plaintiff. Such claims are an inevitable part of doing business in the health care field today.

     Several of these matters are in their early stages of development and management cannot predict the outcome of such matters. In the opinion of management, the ultimate disposition of such matters is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company but may be material to the Company’s results of operations or cash flows in the period in which such matters are finally determined or resolved.

 
15


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     The Company believes that it is in compliance in all material respects with all statutes, regulations and other requirements applicable to its clinical laboratory operations. The clinical laboratory testing industry is, however, subject to extensive regulation, and the courts have not interpreted many of these statutes and regulations. There can be no assurance therefore that those applicable statutes and regulations might not be interpreted or applied by a prosecutorial, regulatory or judicial authority in a manner that would adversely affect the Company. Potential sanctions for violation of these statutes and regulations include significant fines and the loss of various licenses, certificates and authorizations.

     During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company recorded a $7.5 cumulative revenue adjustment relating to certain historic overpayments made by Medicare for claims submitted by a subsidiary of the Company. The Company has forwarded a detailed claims file and refund payment to the Medicare carrier. The Company has not received a response from the carrier.
 
     Effective January 1, 2007, the Company commenced its successful implementation of its ten-year agreement with United Healthcare Insurance Company (“UnitedHealthcare”) and became its exclusive national laboratory provider. During the first three years of the ten-year agreement, the Company has committed to reimburse UnitedHealthcare up to $200.0 for transition costs related to developing expanded networks in defined markets. Since the inception of this agreement, approximately $102.0 of such transition payments were billed to the Company by UnitedHealthcare and approximately $98.9 had been remitted by the Company. Based on the trend rates of the transition payment amounts billed by UnitedHealthcare during the nine months of 2009 and for 2008 and 2007, the Company believes that its total reimbursement commitment under this agreement will be approximately $125.6. The Company is amortizing the total estimated transition costs over the life of the contract.

     Under the Company’s present insurance programs, coverage is obtained for catastrophic exposure, as well as those risks required to be insured by law or contract. The Company is responsible for the uninsured portion of losses related primarily to general, professional and vehicle liability, certain medical costs and workers’ compensation. The self-insured retentions are on a per occurrence basis without any aggregate annual limit. Provisions for losses expected under these programs are recorded based upon the Company’s estimates of the aggregated liability of claims incurred. At September 30, 2009, the Company had provided letters of credit aggregating approximately $46.9, primarily in connection with certain insurance programs. The Company’s availability under its Revolving Facility is reduced by the amount of these letters of credit.

  At September 30, 2009, the Company was a guarantor on approximately $4.6 of equipment leases. These leases were entered into by a joint venture in which the Company owns a fifty percent interest and have a remaining term of approximately three years.

14. PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT PLANS

     Substantially all employees of the Company are covered by a defined benefit retirement plan (the “Company Plan”). The benefits to be paid under the Company Plan are based on years of credited service and average final compensation. The Company’s policy is to fund the Company Plan with at least the minimum amount required by applicable regulations.

     The Company has a second non-qualified defined benefit retirement plan (the “PEP”) that covers its senior management group that provides for the payment of the difference, if any, between the amount of any maximum limitation on annual benefit payments under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the annual benefit that would be payable under the Company Plan but for such limitation. This plan is an unfunded plan.

 
16


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)

     The effect on operations for the Company Plan and the PEP is summarized as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Service cost for benefits earned
  $ 5.2     $ 4.9     $ 15.6     $ 15.1  
Interest cost on benefit obligation
    4.6       4.3       13.7       12.9  
Expected return on plan assets
    (4.3 )     (5.5 )     (12.9 )     (16.6 )
Net amortization and deferral
    3.0       0.7       9.0       2.1  
                                 
Defined benefit plan costs
  $ 8.5     $ 4.4     $ 25.4     $ 13.5  

     For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company did not make any contributions to the Company Plan. However, based upon the underlying value of the Company Plan’s assets and the amount of the Company Plan’s benefit obligation as of December 31, 2008, the Company made contributions of $50.2 during the nine months ended September 30, 2009. The Company plans to contribute an additional $4.6 to the Company Plan during 2009.
 
     Due to the stock market’s performance in 2008, the fair value of assets in the Company Plan decreased significantly from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. As a result, the Company’s projected pension expense for the Company Plan and the nonqualified supplemental retirement plan will increase from $19.5 in 2008 to $33.8 in 2009.

     On October 14, 2009, the Company received approval from its Board of Directors to freeze any additional service-based credits for any years of service after December 31, 2009, on the Company Plan and the PEP. Both plans will be closed to new entrants. Current participants in the Company Plan and the PEP will stop earning service-based credits, but will continue to earn interest credits. In addition, effective January 1, 2010, all employees eligible for the Company's 401k plan will receive a 3% non-elective contribution ("NEC"). The NEC replaces the Company match, which will be discontinued. Employees are not required to make a contribution to the 401k plan in order to receive the NEC. The NEC will be non-forfeitable and vests immediately. The 401k plan will also provide discretionary service credits of 1% to 3% of pay for eligible long service employees.
 
     The Company believes these changes to the Company Plan, the PEP and its 401k plan will align the Company's retirement plan strategy with prevailing industry practices and reduce the future impact of market volatility on the Company Plan.
 
     The Company assumed obligations under a subsidiary’s postretirement medical plan. Coverage under this plan is restricted to a limited number of existing employees of the subsidiary. This plan is unfunded and the Company’s policy is to fund benefits as claims are incurred. The effect on operations of the postretirement medical plan is shown in the following table:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Service cost for benefits earned
  $ 0.1     $ 0.1     $ 0.3     $ 0.3  
Interest cost on benefit obligation
    0.5       0.7       1.7       2.0  
Net amortization and deferral
    (0.4 )     (0.4 )     (1.3 )     (1.2 )
                                 
Postretirement benefit expense
  $ 0.2     $ 0.4     $ 0.7     $ 1.1  
 

 
17


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)
 
15. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Supplemental schedule of cash flow information:
           
     Cash paid during period for:
           
        Interest
  $ 39.6     $ 42.9  
        Income taxes, net of refunds
    214.9       153.6  
Disclosure of non-cash financing and investing activities:
               
     Accrued repurchases of common stock
  $ 6.0     $ (3.0 )
     Purchase of equipment in accrued expenses
    2.8       --  
 
16. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
 
     The Company’s population of financial assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 are as follows:

   
Fair value
   
Fair Value Measurements as of
 
   
as of
   
September 30, 2009
 
   
September 30,
   
Using Fair Value Hierarchy
 
   
2009
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
                         
Noncontrolling interest put
  $ 140.4     $ --     $ 140.4     $ --  
                                 
Derivatives
                               
Embedded derivatives related to the zero-coupon subordinated notes
  $ --     $ --     $ --     $ --  
Interest rate swap liability
    12.4       --       12.4       --  
     Total fair value of derivatives
  $ 12.4     $ --     $ 12.4     $ --  
 
   
Fair value
   
Fair Value Measurements as of
 
   
as of
   
December 31, 2008
 
   
December 31,
   
Using Fair Value Hierarchy
 
   
2008
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
 
                         
Noncontrolling interest put
  $ 121.3     $ --     $ 121.3     $ --  
                                 
Derivatives
                               
Embedded derivatives related to the zero-coupon subordinated notes
  $ --     $ --     $ --     $ --  
Interest rate swap liability
    13.5       --       13.5       --  
     Total fair value of derivatives
  $ 13.5     $ --     $ 13.5     $ --  

     The noncontrolling interest put is valued at its contractually determined value, which approximates fair value. The fair values for the embedded derivatives and interest rate swap are based on observable inputs or quoted market prices from various banks for similar instruments.

     During 2009, the Company implemented authoritative guidance for its nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are remeasured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. The adoption of the guidance did not impact the Company’s financial position or results of operations; however, it could have an impact in future periods. In addition, the Company may have additional disclosure requirements in the event the Company completes a significant acquisition or incurs impairment of the Company’s assets in future periods.

 

 
18


LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)
 
     The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, income taxes receivable, and accounts payable are considered to be representative of their respective fair values due to their short-term nature. The fair market value of the zero-coupon subordinated notes, based on market pricing, was approximately $335.0 and $650.7 as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. The fair market value of the senior notes, based on market pricing, was approximately $618.2 and $539.7 as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. As of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the estimated fair market value of the Company’s variable rate debt of $493.1 and $491.1, respectively, was estimated by calculating the net present value of related cash flows, discounted at current market rates.
 
17. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

     The Company addresses its exposure to market risks, principally the market risk associated with changes in interest rates, through a controlled program of risk management that includes, from time to time, the use of derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swap agreements (see Interest Rate Swap section below). Although the Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes contain features that are considered to be embedded derivative instruments (see Embedded Derivative section below), the Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. The Company does not believe that its exposure to market risk is material to the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

Interest Rate Swap

     The Company has an interest rate swap agreement with a remaining term of approximately two years to hedge variable interest rate risk on the Company’s variable interest rate term loan. On a quarterly basis under the swap, the Company pays a fixed rate of interest (2.92%) and receives a variable rate of interest based on the three-month LIBOR rate on an amortizing notional amount of indebtedness equivalent to the term loan balance outstanding. The swap has been designated as a cash flow hedge. Accordingly, the Company recognizes the fair value of the swap in the condensed consolidated balance sheets and any changes in the fair value are recorded as adjustments to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. The fair value of the interest rate swap agreement is the estimated amount that the Company would pay or receive to terminate the swap agreement at the reporting date. The fair value of the swap was a liability of $12.4 and $13.5 at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and is included in other liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty to the swap agreement. Management does not expect the counterparty to fail to meet its obligation.
 
Embedded Derivatives Related to the Zero-Coupon Subordinated Notes

     The Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes contain the following two features that are considered to be embedded derivative instruments under authoritative guidance in connection with accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities:

1)  
The Company will pay contingent cash interest on the zero-coupon subordinated notes after September 11, 2006, if the average market price of the notes equals 120% or more of the sum of the issue price, accrued original issue discount and contingent additional principal, if any, for a specified measurement period.

2)  
Holders may surrender zero-coupon subordinated notes for conversion during any period in which the rating assigned to the zero-coupon subordinated notes by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services is BB- or lower.

     The Company believes these embedded derivatives had no fair value at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008. These embedded derivatives also had no impact on the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008.
 
 
 
19

 
LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(dollars and shares in millions, except per share data)
 
     The following table summarizes the fair value and presentation in the consolidated balance sheets for derivatives designated as hedging instruments as of September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively:

 
Interest Rate Swap
 
 
Liability Derivative
 
Period
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
September 30, 2009
Other liabilities
  $ 12.4  
December 31, 2008
Other liabilities
  $ 13.5  
 
     The following table summarizes the effect of the interest rate swap on other comprehensive income for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008:

   
Effective
 
   
Portion of
 
   
Derivative
 
Period
 
Gain
 
Nine Months ended September 30, 2009
  $ 1.1  
Nine Months ended September 30, 2008
  $ 6.4  

 
 
 
 
 

 
20


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     The Company has made in this report, and from time to time may otherwise make in its public filings, press releases and discussions by Company management, forward-looking statements concerning the Company’s operations, performance and financial condition, as well as its strategic objectives. Some of these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believes”, “expects”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “seeks”, “approximately”, “intends”, “plans”, “estimates”, or “anticipates” or the negative of those words or other comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties and the Company claims the protection afforded by the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors in addition to those discussed elsewhere herein and in the Company’s other public filings, press releases and discussions with Company management, including:

1.
changes in federal, state, local and third party payer regulations or policies (or in the interpretation of current regulations), new insurance or payment systems, including state or regional insurance cooperatives, new public insurance programs or a single-payer system, affecting governmental and third-party coverage or reimbursement for clinical laboratory testing;
   
2.
adverse results from investigations or audits of clinical laboratories by the government, which may include significant monetary damages, refunds and/or exclusion from the Medicare and Medicaid programs;
   
3.
loss or suspension of a license or imposition of a fine or penalties under, or future changes in, or interpretations of, the law or regulations of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1967, and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988, or those of Medicare, Medicaid, the False Claims Act or other federal, state or local agencies;
   
4.
failure to comply with the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirements and the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, which may result in penalties and loss of licensure;
   
5.
failure to comply with HIPAA, including changes to federal and state privacy and security obligations and changes to HIPAA, including those changes included within the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (“HITECH”), which could result in increased costs, denial of claims and/or significant penalties;
   
6.
failure of the Company, third party payors or physicians to comply with Version 5010 Transactions or the ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS Code Sets issued by the Department of Health and Human Services and effective for claims submitted as of October 1, 2013;
   
7.
increased competition, including competition from companies that do not comply with existing laws or regulations or otherwise disregard compliance standards in the industry;
   
8.
increased price competition, competitive bidding for laboratory tests and/or changes or reductions to fee schedules;
   
9.
changes in payer mix, including an increase in capitated managed-cost health care or the impact of a shift to consumer-driven health plans;
   
10.
failure to obtain and retain new customers and alliance partners, or a reduction in tests ordered or specimens submitted by existing customers;
   
11.
failure to retain or attract managed care business as a result of changes in business models, including new risk based or network approaches, or other changes in strategy or business models by managed care companies;
   
12.
failure to effectively integrate and/or manage newly acquired businesses and the cost related to such integration;
   
13.
adverse results in litigation matters;

 
21



14.
inability to attract and retain experienced and qualified personnel;
   
15.
failure to maintain the Company’s days sales outstanding and/or bad debt expense levels;
   
16.
decrease in the Company’s credit ratings by Standard & Poor’s and/or Moody’s;
   
17.
discontinuation or recalls of existing testing products;
   
18.
failure to develop or acquire licenses for new or improved technologies, or if customers use new technologies to perform their own tests;
   
19.
inability to commercialize newly licensed tests or technologies or to obtain appropriate coverage or reimbursement for such tests, which could result in impairment in the value of certain capitalized licensing costs;
   
20.
changes in government regulations or policies affecting the approval, availability of, and the selling and marketing of diagnostic tests;
   
21.
inability to obtain and maintain adequate patent and other proprietary rights for protection of the Company’s products and services and successfully enforce the Company’s proprietary rights;
   
22.
the scope, validity and enforceability of patents and other proprietary rights held by third parties which might have an impact on the Company’s ability to develop, perform, or market the Company’s tests or operate its business;
   
23.
failure in the Company’s information technology systems resulting in an increase in testing turnaround time or billing processes or the failure to meet future regulatory or customer information technology, data security and connectivity requirements;
   
24.
failure of the Company’s financial information systems resulting in failure to meet required financial reporting deadlines;
   
25.
failure of the Company’s disaster recovery plans to provide adequate protection against the interruption of business and/or to permit the recovery of business operations;
   
26.
business interruption or other impact on the business due to adverse weather (including hurricanes), fires and/or other natural disasters, terrorism or other criminal acts, and widespread outbreak of influenza or other pandemic;
   
27.
liabilities that result from the inability to comply with corporate governance requirements;
   
28.
significant deterioration in the economy or financial markets which could negatively impact the Company’s testing volumes, cash collections and the availability of credit for general liquidity or other financing needs; and
   
29.
changes in reimbursement by foreign governments and foreign currency fluctuations.
 
 















 
22


GENERAL

     During the first nine months of 2009, the Company continued to strengthen its financial performance through pricing discipline, continued growth of its esoteric testing, outcome improvement and companion diagnostics offerings, and expense control.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (amounts in millions except Revenue Per Accession info)

Three months ended September 30, 2009 compared with three months ended September 30, 2008

Net Sales

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Net sales
                 
   Routine Testing
  $ 718.4     $ 697.4       3.0 %
   Genomic and Esoteric Testing
    403.3       378.3       6.6 %
   Ontario, Canada
    63.4       59.4       6.7 %
   Total
  $ 1,185.1     $ 1,135.1       4.4 %

   
Number of Accessions
       
   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Volume
                 
   Routine Testing
    21.3       21.8       (2.5 )%
   Genomic and Esoteric Testing
    6.5       6.0       9.2 %
   Ontario, Canada
    2.2       2.0       9.9 %
   Total
    30.0       29.8       0.7 %

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Revenue Per Accession
                 
   Routine Testing
  $ 33.77     $ 31.97       5.6 %
   Genomic and Esoteric Testing
    61.55       63.06       (2.4 )%
   Ontario, Canada
    28.51       29.36       (2.9 )%
   Total
  $ 39.44     $ 38.04       3.7 %

     The increase in net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2009 as compared with the corresponding 2008 period was driven primarily by growth in the Company’s Managed Care business, increased revenue from third parties (Medicare and Medicaid) and the Company’s continued shift in test mix to higher priced genomic and esoteric tests. Managed Care and third party revenue as a percentage of net sales for routine, genomic and esoteric testing increased from 62.9% in 2008 to 65.1% in 2009. Genomic and esoteric testing volume as a percentage of volume for routine, genomic and esoteric testing increased from 21.6% in 2008 to 23.6% in 2009. Net sales of the Ontario joint venture were $63.4 for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to $59.4 in the corresponding 2008 period, an increase of $4.0, or 6.7%. Net sales of the Ontario joint venture were impacted by a stronger U.S. dollar in 2009 as compared with 2008. In Canadian dollars, net sales of the Ontario joint venture increased by CN$7.7, or 12.5%.

Cost of Sales

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Cost of sales
  $ 687.0     $ 673.5       2.0 %
Cost of sales as a % of sales
    58.0 %     59.3 %        

     Cost of sales, which includes primarily laboratory and distribution costs, increased 2.0% in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to the continued shift in test mix to higher cost genomic and esoteric testing. As a percentage of net sales, cost of sales decreased to 58.0% in 2009 from 59.3% in 2008. The decrease in cost of sales as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to effective expense control coupled with the growth of revenue per accession. Cost of sales as a percentage of net sales in 2008 was also higher due to the loss of revenue as a result of the severe weather experienced during the quarter.

 
23


Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
  $ 247.3     $ 227.1       8.9 %
SG&A as a % of sales
    20.9 %     20.0 %        

     Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased 8.9% in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to Monogram’s incremental SG&A expenses (primarily personnel costs and research and development expenses) of $7.9 and acquisition related costs (primarily legal and other professional services) of $3.5, of which $2.7 related directly to the Monogram acquisition.

Amortization of Intangibles and Other Assets

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Amortization of intangibles and other assets
  $ 15.9     $ 14.6       8.9 %

     The increase in amortization of intangibles and other assets primarily reflects certain acquisitions closed during 2009 and 2008.

Restructuring and Other Special Charges

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Restructuring and other special charges
  $ --     $ 17.7       (100.0 )%

     During 2008, the Company recorded net restructuring charges of $12.2 primarily related to work force reductions and the closing of redundant and underutilized facilities. The majority of these costs related to severance and other employee costs and contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and equipment. Of this amount, $12.2 related to severance and other employee costs in connection with the general work force reductions and $1.9 related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and equipment. The Company also recorded a credit of $1.9, comprised of $1.2 of previously recorded facility costs and $0.7 of employee severance benefits.

     During 2008, the Company also recorded a special charge of $5.5 related to estimated uncollectible amounts primarily owed by patients in the areas of the Gulf Coast severely impacted by hurricanes similar to losses incurred during the 2005 hurricane season.

Interest Expense

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Interest expense
  $ 15.0     $ 16.8       (10.7 )%

     The decrease in interest expense was primarily driven by lower average borrowings outstanding in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to principal payments on the Term Loan Facility and the redemption of approximately fifty percent of the zero-coupon subordinated notes in the second quarter of 2009. Also, the Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes did not accrue contingent cash interest in the third quarter of 2009.

Income from Joint Venture Partnerships

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Income from joint venture partnerships
  $ 4.2     $ 3.7       13.5 %

     Income from investments in joint venture partnerships represents the Company’s ownership share in joint venture partnerships. A significant portion of this income is derived from the investment in Alberta, Canada, and is earned in Canadian dollars.


 
24

Income Tax Expense

   
Quarter ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Income tax expense
  $ 88.5     $ 75.0       18.0 %
Income tax expense as a % of income before tax
    39.7 %     39.5 %        

     The increase in the effective tax rate for 2009 as compared to 2008 was primarily the result of the non deductibility of certain fees and expenses, primarily associated with the acquisition of Monogram.

Nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared with nine months ended September 30, 2008

Net Sales

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Net sales
                 
   Routine Testing
  $ 2,158.0     $ 2,088.5       3.3 %
   Genomic and Esoteric Testing
    1,191.1       1,107.1       7.6 %
   Ontario, Canada
    180.5       190.5       (5.2 )%
   Total
  $ 3,529.6     $ 3,386.1       4.2 %

   
Number of Accessions
       
   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Volume
                 
   Routine Testing
    64.5       65.0       (0.8 )%
   Genomic and Esoteric Testing
    19.2       17.6       9.7 %
   Ontario, Canada
    6.8       5.9       15.1 %
   Total
    90.5       88.5       2.3 %

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Revenue Per Accession
                 
   Routine Testing
  $ 33.48     $ 32.14       4.2 %
   Genomic and Esoteric Testing
    61.90       63.10       (1.9 )%
   Ontario, Canada
    26.33       31.97       (17.6 )%
   Total
  $ 38.98     $ 38.26       1.9 %

     The increase in net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 as compared with the corresponding 2008 period was driven primarily by growth in the Company’s Managed Care business, increased revenue from third parties (Medicare and Medicaid) and the Company’s continued shift in test mix to higher priced genomic and esoteric tests. Managed Care and third party revenue as a percentage of net sales for routine, genomic and esoteric testing increased from 63.2% in 2008 to 65.1% in 2009. Genomic and esoteric testing volume as a percentage of volume for routine, genomic and esoteric testing increased from 21.3% in 2008 to 23.0% in 2009. Net sales of the Ontario joint venture were $180.5 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to $190.5 in the corresponding 2008 period, a decrease of $10.0, or 5.2%. The decrease in net sales for the Ontario joint venture was due to the exchange rate impact of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2009 as compared with 2008. In Canadian dollars, net sales of the Ontario joint venture increased by CN$16.9, or 8.7%.

Cost of Sales

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Cost of sales
  $ 2,034.7     $ 1,962.2       3.7 %
Cost of sales as a % of sales
    57.6 %     57.9 %        

     Cost of sales, which includes primarily laboratory and distribution costs, increased 3.7% in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to the continued shift in test mix to higher cost genomic and esoteric testing. As a percentage of net sales, cost of sales decreased to 57.6% in 2009 from 57.9% in 2008. The
 
25


decrease in cost of sales as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to effective expense control coupled with the growth of revenue per accession.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
  $ 718.4     $ 708.7       1.4 %
SG&A as a % of sales
    20.4 %     20.9 %        

     Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased 1.4% in 2009 as compared with 2008. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses decreased to 20.4% in 2009 from 20.9% in 2008. The decrease in SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales is primarily due to a decrease in bad debt expense. Bad debt expense decreased to 5.3% of net sales as compared with 6.4% in the comparable 2008 period due to the increase in the second quarter of 2008 of $45.0 in the Company’s provision for doubtful accounts. The Company’s estimate of the allowance for doubtful accounts was increased in 2008 due to the impact of the economy, higher patient deductibles and co-payments, and acquisitions on the collectibility of accounts receivable balances.

Amortization of Intangibles and Other Assets

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Amortization of intangibles and other assets
  $ 46.2     $ 43.0       7.4 %

     The increase in amortization of intangibles and other assets primarily reflects certain acquisitions closed during 2009 and 2008.

Restructuring and Other Special Charges

   
Nine Months ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Restructuring and other special charges
  $ 10.2     $ 33.7       (69.7 )%

     During 2009, the Company recorded net restructuring charges of $10.2 primarily related to the closing of redundant and underutilized facilities. The majority of these costs related to severance and other employee costs and contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and other facility related costs. Of this amount, $6.6 related to severance and other employee costs for employees primarily in the affected facilities, and $12.3 related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and other facility related costs. The Company also reduced its prior restructuring accruals by $8.7, comprised of $6.5 of previously recorded facility costs and $2.2 of employee severance benefits as a result of incurring less cost than planned on those restructuring initiatives primarily resulting from favorable settlements on lease buyouts and severance payments that were not required to achieve the planned reduction in work force. These restructuring initiatives are expected to provide annualized cost savings of approximately $18.3.

     During 2008, the Company recorded net restructuring charges of $28.2 primarily related to work force reductions and the closing of redundant and underutilized facilities. The majority of these costs related to severance and other employee costs and contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and equipment. Of this amount, $18.7 related to severance and other employee costs in connection with the general work force reductions and $11.4 related to contractual obligations associated with leased facilities and equipment. The Company also recorded a credit of $1.9, comprised of $1.2 of previously recorded facility costs and $0.7 of employee severance benefits.

     During 2008, the Company also recorded a special charge of $5.5 related to estimated uncollectible amounts primarily owed by patients in the areas of the Gulf Coast severely impacted by hurricanes similar to losses incurred during the 2005 hurricane season.





 
26


Interest Expense

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Interest expense
  $ 48.2     $ 54.0       (10.7 )%

     The decrease in interest expense was primarily driven by lower average borrowings outstanding in 2009 as compared with 2008 primarily due to principal payments on the Term Loan Facility and the redemption of approximately fifty percent of the zero-coupon subordinated notes in the second quarter of 2009. Also, the Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes did not accrue contingent cash interest for the period March 12, 2009 through September 30, 2009. Lower interest rates in connection with the Term Loan Facility also contributed to the decrease in interest expense as a result of the three-year interest rate swap agreement the Company entered into on March 31, 2008 to hedge variable interest rate risk on the Term Loan Facility.

Income from Joint Venture Partnerships

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Income from joint venture partnerships
  $ 10.9     $ 11.7       (6.8 )%

     Income from investments in joint venture partnerships represents the Company’s ownership share in joint venture partnerships. A significant portion of this income is derived from the investment in Alberta, Canada, and is earned in Canadian dollars. As a result, the decrease in income from joint venture partnerships was primarily due to the exchange rate impact of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2009 as compared with 2008.

Income Tax Expense

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
       
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Income tax expense
  $ 271.6     $ 240.2       13.1 %
Income tax expense as a % of income before tax
    39.9 %     40.2 %        

     The decrease in the effective tax rate for 2009 as compared to 2008 was primarily the result of a lower rate of taxes on foreign related earnings due to a change in an existing tax treaty with Canada.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES (dollars and shares in millions)

     The Company’s operations provided $637.7 and $565.6 of cash, net of $24.5 and $29.9 in transition payments to UnitedHealthcare, for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and net of the $50.2 contribution to the Company’s defined benefit retirement plan (“Company Plan”) during the nine months ended September 30, 2009. The increase in cash flows primarily resulted from improved cash collections and general working capital management.

     For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company did not make any contributions to the Company Plan. However, based upon the underlying value of the Company Plan’s assets and the amount of the Company Plan’s benefit obligation as of December 31, 2008, the Company made contributions of $50.2 during the nine months ended September 30, 2009. The Company plans to contribute an additional $4.6 to the Company Plan during 2009.

     Due to the stock market’s performance in 2008, the fair value of assets in the Company Plan decreased significantly from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. As a result, the Company’s projected pension expense for the Company Plan and the nonqualified supplemental retirement plan will increase from $19.5 in 2008 to $33.8 in 2009.

     Capital expenditures were $77.1 and $120.4 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The Company expects capital expenditures of approximately $115.0 in 2009. The Company will continue to make important investments in its business, including information technology. Such expenditures are expected to be funded by cash flow from operations, as well as borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facilities as needed.

 
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     On September 15, 2008, Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc. (“Lehman”), whose subsidiaries have a $28.0 commitment in the Company’s Revolving Facility, filed for bankruptcy. Accordingly, the Company does not expect Lehman will fulfill its pro rata share of any future borrowing requests under the Revolving Facility. The Company is currently in discussions with another bank regarding the assumption of Lehman’s commitment in the Company’s Revolving Facility.

     The Company has an interest rate swap agreement with a remaining term of approximately two years to hedge variable interest rate risk on the Company’s variable interest rate term loan. On a quarterly basis under the swap, the Company pays a fixed rate of interest (2.92%) and receives a variable rate of interest based on the three-month LIBOR rate on an amortizing notional amount of indebtedness equivalent to the term loan balance outstanding. The swap has been designated as a cash flow hedge. Accordingly, the Company recognizes the fair value of the swap in the condensed consolidated balance sheets and any changes in the fair value are recorded as adjustments to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. The fair value of the interest rate swap agreement is the estimated amount that the Company would pay or receive to terminate the swap agreement at the reporting date. The fair value of the swap was a liability of $12.4 and $13.5 at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and is included in other liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty to the swap agreement. Management does not expect the counterparty to fail to meet its obligation.

     At September 30, 2009, the Company provided letters of credit aggregating approximately $46.9, primarily in connection with certain insurance programs. Letters of credit provided by the Company are secured by the Company’s senior credit facilities and are renewed annually, around mid-year.

     During the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the Company purchased 2.4 shares of its common stock at a total cost of $165.1. As of September 30, 2009, the Company had outstanding authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase approximately $180.2 of Company common stock.

     The Company had a $98.6 and $86.7 reserve for unrecognized income tax benefits, including interest and penalties, at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively. Substantially all of these tax reserves are classified in other long-term liabilities in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.

     The Term Loan Facility and Revolving Facility contain certain debt covenants that require that the Company maintain certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of September 30, 2009. Based on current and projected levels of operations, coupled with availability under its senior credit facilities, the Company believes it has sufficient liquidity to meet both its anticipated short-term and long-term cash needs; however, the Company continually reassesses its liquidity position in light of market conditions and other relevant factors.

Zero-coupon Subordinated Notes

     During the second quarter of 2009, the Company redeemed approximately $369.5 principal amount at maturity of its zero-coupon subordinated notes, equaling approximately fifty percent of the principal amount at maturity outstanding of the zero-coupon subordinated notes. The total cash used for these redemptions was $289.4. As a result of certain holders of the zero-coupon subordinated notes electing to convert their notes, the Company also issued 0.4 additional shares of common stock and reversed approximately $11.3 of deferred tax liability to reflect the tax benefit realized upon issuance of these shares.

     The Company’s common stock trading price conversion feature of its zero-coupon subordinated notes was not triggered by third quarter 2009 trading prices. As a result, the zero-coupon subordinated notes may not be converted during the period of October 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009 based on this conversion feature.

     The Company’s common stock trading price contingent cash interest feature of its zero-coupon subordinated notes was not triggered by the average market price of the Company’s common stock for the five trading days ended September 9, 2009. As a result, the zero-coupon subordinated notes will not accrue contingent cash interest for the period of September 12, 2009 to March 11, 2010.

 
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Noncontrolling Interest Put

     Effective January 1, 2008 the Company acquired additional partnership units in its Ontario, Canada (“Ontario”) joint venture, bringing the Company’s percentage interest owned to 85.6%. Concurrent with this acquisition, the terms of the joint venture’s partnership agreement were amended. The amended joint venture’s partnership agreement enables the holders of the noncontrolling interest to put the remaining partnership units to the Company in defined future periods, at an initial amount equal to the consideration paid by the Company in 2008, and subject to adjustment based on market value formulas contained in the agreement. The contractual value of the put, in excess of the current noncontrolling interest of $24.1, totals $116.3 at September 30, 2009.

ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

     The Company addresses its exposure to market risks, principally the market risk associated with changes in interest rates, through a controlled program of risk management that includes, from time to time, the use of derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swap agreements. Although, as set forth below, the Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes contain features that are considered to be embedded derivative instruments, the Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. The Company does not believe that its exposure to market risk is material to the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

     The Company’s zero-coupon subordinated notes contain the following two features that are considered to be embedded derivative instruments under authoritative guidance in connection with accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities:

1)
The Company will pay contingent cash interest on the zero-coupon subordinated notes after September 11, 2006, if the average market price of the notes equals 120% or more of the sum of the issue price, accrued original issue discount and contingent additional principal, if any, for a specified measurement period.

2)
Holders may surrender zero-coupon subordinated notes for conversion during any period in which the rating assigned to the zero-coupon subordinated notes by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services is BB- or lower.

ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

     As of the end of the period covered by the Form 10-Q, the Company carried out, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on the foregoing, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2009.

     There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 
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LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS AND SUBSIDIARIES

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.         Legal Proceedings

See Note 13 to the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, which is incorporated by reference.

Item 1A      Risk Factors

Information regarding risk factors appears in Part I-Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.

The following risk factor is provided to supplement and update the risk factors contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K:

Failure of the Company, third party payors or physicians to comply with Version 5010 Transactions or the ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS Code Sets could adversely impact the Company’s reimbursement.

The Company is within the assessment and inventory phase to adopt Version 5010 Transactions and to adopt the ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS Code Sets issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) on January 16, 2009. The compliance date for Version 5010 is January 1, 2012; the compliance date for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS Code Sets is October 1, 2013. The Company will continue its assessment of information systems, applications and processes for compliance with these requirements. Clinical laboratories are typically required to submit health care claims with diagnosis codes to third party payors. The diagnosis codes must be obtained from the ordering physician. The failure of the Company, third party payors or physicians to transition within the required timeframe could have an adverse impact on reimbursement, days sales outstanding and cash collections.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds (Shares and dollars in millions, except per share data)
 
     The following table sets forth information with respect to purchases of shares of the Company’s common stock made during the three months ended September 30, 2009, by or on behalf of the Company:

               
 
   
Maximum
 
         
 
   
Total Number
   
Dollar Value
 
   
 
   
Average
   
of Shares
   
of Shares
 
   
Total
   
Price
   
Repurchased as
   
that May Yet Be
 
     Number      Paid      Part of Publicly     Repurchased  
   
of Shares
   
Per
   
Announced
   
Under
 
   
Repurchased
   
Share
   
Program
   
the Program
 
July 1 – July 31
    0.7     $ 68.01       0.7     $ 45.4  
August 1 – August 31
    1.1       68.07       1.1       222.0  
September 1 - September 30
    0.6       67.03       0.6       180.2  
      2.4     $ 67.78       2.4          

     At January 1, 2007, the Company had authorization to repurchase up to $350.0 of shares of the Company’s common stock ($100.0 authorized on April 21, 2005 and $250.0 authorized on October 20, 2006). On March 9, 2007, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of $500.0 of additional shares of the Company’s common stock. On November 2, 2007, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of $500.0 of additional shares of the Company’s common stock. On August 10, 2009, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of $250.0 of additional shares of the Company’s common stock. As of September 30, 2009, the Company had outstanding authorization from the Board of Directors to purchase approximately $180.2 of Company common stock. 






 
30

 
Item 6. Exhibits  
     
(a)
Exhibits
 

12.1*
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges
31.1*
Certification by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
31.2*
Certification by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a)
32*
Written Statement of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 1350)
101.INS*
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL*
XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase
101.DEF*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LAB*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101.PRE*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

*
 
filed herewith

 
31

 
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

LABORATORY CORPORATION OF AMERICA HOLDINGS
Registrant


 
By:
/s/ DAVID P. KING
   
David P. King
   
President and Chief Executive Officer


 
By:
/s/ WILLIAM B. HAYES
   
William B. Hayes
   
Executive Vice President,
   
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer


October 27, 2009

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