10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2011

QUEST DIAGNOSTICS INC Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2011

Filed July 27, 2011For Securities:DGX

Summary

Quest Diagnostics Inc. (DGX) reported its second-quarter 2011 financial results, which were impacted by significant acquisition activity and a substantial legal settlement. Net revenues saw a modest increase of 1.5% to $1.9 billion compared to the prior year, largely driven by the acquisitions of Athena Diagnostics and Celera Corporation. However, income from continuing operations declined by 16.1% to $163.6 million, or $1.02 per diluted share, compared to $194.9 million, or $1.07 per diluted share, in the prior year. The significant factors influencing the decline in profitability include a $236 million pre-tax charge related to the settlement of the California Lawsuit concerning Medi-Cal billing practices, and integration costs associated with the recent acquisitions. Despite these headwinds, the company's core clinical testing business continues to generate revenue, though volumes experienced a slight decrease due to market softness. Management is focusing on cost reduction initiatives and strategic investments to navigate current market conditions and improve future profitability.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$1.87B
Cost of Revenue$1.10B
Gross Profit$777.29M
SG&A Expenses$462.79M
Operating Expenses$1.59B
Operating Income$316.85M
Interest Expense$47.23M
Net Income$163.14M
EPS (Basic)$1.03
EPS (Diluted)$1.02
Shares Outstanding (Basic)157.61M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)159.35M

Key Highlights

  • 1Net revenues increased 1.5% year-over-year to $1.9 billion, driven by acquisitions.
  • 2Income from continuing operations decreased 16.1% year-over-year to $163.6 million, impacting diluted EPS to $1.02.
  • 3A significant $236 million pre-tax charge was recorded in Q1 2011 for the settlement of the California Lawsuit related to Medi-Cal billing.
  • 4The company completed two significant acquisitions: Athena Diagnostics for $740 million and Celera Corporation for approximately $341 million (net of cash acquired).
  • 5Operating income decreased by $49 million to $316.9 million, with operating margin declining to 16.6% from 19.5% year-over-year.
  • 6Cash flows from operating activities were $220 million for the six months ended June 30, 2011, down from $448 million in the prior year, partly due to the Medi-Cal settlement payment.
  • 7The company announced a multi-year program to reduce its cost structure by $500 million over the next three years and a restructuring plan expected to incur a $20 million charge in Q3 2011.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary drivers for the revenue increase were the acquisitions of Athena Diagnostics and Celera Corporation, which contributed approximately 2.5% to overall revenue growth. The core clinical testing business saw a modest increase, while pre-employment drug testing also showed recovery.

Net income was significantly impacted by a $236 million pre-tax charge related to the settlement of a lawsuit concerning Medi-Cal billing practices. Additionally, costs associated with integrating the recently acquired Athena and Celera businesses also contributed to lower profitability.

Quest Diagnostics announced a multi-year program aimed at reducing its cost structure by $500 million over the next three years. This initiative is designed to combat reimbursement pressures and rising labor costs, and free up resources for investment. Additionally, a restructuring plan with an estimated $20 million charge in Q3 2011 is being implemented.

The company significantly increased its debt levels, with total long-term debt rising to $4.2 billion from $3.0 billion at the end of 2010. This increase was largely due to borrowings to fund the acquisitions of Athena and Celera, and share repurchases.