Henry Schein (HSIC) 10-Q 6 Nov 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Oct. 29, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	27-Sep-14	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-27	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001000228	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Entity Registrant Name	'HENRY SCHEIN INC	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	84,214,715

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$76,542	$188,616
Accounts receivable, net of reserves of $78,779 and $78,298	1,179,171	1,055,216
Inventories, net	1,283,698	1,250,403
Deferred income taxes	69,472	63,865
Prepaid expenses and other	319,354	276,565
Total current assets	2,928,237	2,834,665
Property and equipment, net	303,157	275,888
Goodwill	1,886,281	1,635,005
Other intangibles, net	654,070	417,133
Investments and other	358,886	461,945
Total assets	6,130,631	5,624,636
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	822,068	824,495
Bank credit lines	188,815	29,508
Current maturities of long-term debt	5,782	5,441
Accrued expenses:	'	'
Payroll and related	204,776	216,629
Taxes	171,870	145,161
Other	312,523	329,429
Total current liabilities	1,705,834	1,550,663
Long-term debt	630,806	450,233
Deferred income taxes	264,684	198,674
Other liabilities	158,736	139,526
Total liabilities	2,760,060	2,339,096
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	549,432	497,539
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $.01 par value, 240,000,000 shares authorized, 84,459,689 outstanding on September 27, 2014 and 85,622,452 outstanding on December 28, 2013	845	856
Additional paid-in capital	269,918	318,225
Retained earnings	2,564,882	2,398,267
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-17,291	67,849
Total Henry Schein, Inc. stockholders' equity	2,818,354	2,785,197
Noncontrolling interests	2,785	2,804
Total stockholders' equity	2,821,139	2,788,001
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and stockholders' equity	$6,130,631	$5,624,636

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Accounts receivable, reserves	$78,779	$78,298
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	240,000,000	240,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	84,459,689	85,622,452

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$2,623,729	$2,348,956	$7,669,294	$7,034,277
Cost of sales	1,902,063	1,709,309	5,522,443	5,077,783
Gross profit	721,666	639,647	2,146,851	1,956,494
Operating expenses:	'	'	'	'
Selling, general and administrative	547,578	479,170	1,634,651	1,466,323
Operating income	174,088	160,477	512,200	490,171
Other income (expense):	'	'	'	'
Interest income	3,452	3,236	10,323	9,744
Interest expense	-6,280	-5,051	-17,208	-22,668
Other, net	-484	1,263	4,128	859
Income before taxes and equity in earnings of affiliates	170,776	159,925	509,443	478,106
Income taxes	-51,302	-34,660	-156,247	-135,287
Equity in earnings of affiliates	4,762	3,642	8,285	6,209
Loss on sale of equity investment	0	-12,535	0	-12,535
Net income	124,236	116,372	361,481	336,493
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-9,460	-8,994	-28,370	-29,207
Net income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.	$114,776	$107,378	$333,111	$307,286
Earnings per share attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in dollars per share)	$1.36	$1.25	$3.94	$3.56
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$1.34	$1.23	$3.88	$3.49
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in shares)	84,095	85,646	84,506	86,208
Diluted (in shares)	85,450	87,404	85,918	87,967

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$124,236	$116,372	$361,481	$336,493
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	-99,445	53,820	-84,825	-1,882
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	-138	-1,172	-1,858	-538
Unrealized investment gain (loss)	142	-10	180	-93
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	973	-517	1,490	490
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-98,468	52,121	-85,013	-2,023
Comprehensive income	25,768	168,493	276,468	334,470
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests:	'	'	'	'
Net income	-9,460	-8,994	-28,370	-29,207
Foreign currency translation (gain) loss	2,474	-2,235	-127	319
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-6,986	-11,229	-28,497	-28,888
Comprehensive income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.	$18,782	$157,264	$247,971	$305,582

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data
Beginning Balance at Dec. 28, 2013	$2,788,001	$856	$318,225	$2,398,267	$67,849	$2,804
Beginning Balance, shares (in shares) at Dec. 28, 2013	85,622,452	85,622,452	'	'	'	'
Net income (excluding amounts attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests)	333,535	0	0	333,111	0	424
Foreign currency translation gain (loss) (excluding amounts attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests)	-84,962	0	0	0	-84,952	-10
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities, net of tax impact	-1,858	0	0	0	-1,858	0
Unrealized investment gain (loss), net of tax impact	180	0	0	0	180	0
Pension adjustment gain (loss), net of tax impact	1,490	0	0	0	1,490	0
Dividends paid	-443	0	0	0	0	-443
Initial noncontrolling interests and adjustments related to business acquisitions	-1,064	0	-1,074	0	0	10
Change in fair value of redeemable securities	-30,253	0	-30,253	0	0	0
Repurchase and retirement of common stock - Value	-226,282	-19	-59,767	-166,496	0	0
Repurchase and retirement of common stock - Shares	'	-1,933,779	'	'	'	'
Stock issued upon exercise of stock options, including tax benefit - Value	32,505	5	32,500	0	0	0
Stock issued upon exercise of stock options, including tax benefit - Shares	'	498,820	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense - Value	33,252	5	33,247	0	0	0
Stock-based compensation expense - Shares	'	458,924	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for payroll taxes - Value	-22,559	-2	-22,557	0	0	0
Shares withheld for payroll taxes - Shares	'	-186,728	'	'	'	'
Liability for cash settlement stock-based compensation awards	-403	0	-403	0	0	0
Ending Balance at Sep. 27, 2014	$2,821,139	$845	$269,918	$2,564,882	($17,291)	$2,785
Ending Balance, shares (in shares) at Sep. 27, 2014	84,459,689	84,459,689	'	'	'	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	$27,946
Foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests	137
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities, tax benefit (tax)	215
Unrealized investment gain (loss), tax benefit (tax)	-115
Pension adjustment gain (loss), tax benefit (tax)	-370
Stock issued upon exercise of stock options, tax benefit	$8,390

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Net income	$361,481	$336,493
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	112,668	96,081
Accelerated amortization of deferred financing costs	0	6,203
Loss on sale of equity investment	0	12,535
Stock-based compensation expense	33,252	24,695
Provision for losses on trade and other accounts receivable	2,689	3,477
Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes	-2,840	-12,799
Equity in earnings of affiliates	-8,285	-6,209
Distributions from equity affiliates	10,304	9,286
Other	22,204	14,156
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:	'	'
Accounts receivable	-108,338	-93,451
Inventories	2,447	76,877
Other current assets	-41,928	11,123
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-65,169	-88,920
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	318,485	389,547
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Purchases of fixed assets	-60,782	-38,733
Payments for equity investments and business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-364,110	-34,514
Payments related to sale of equity investment	0	-13,364
Proceeds from maturities of available-for-sale securities	2,000	0
Other	-10,668	-7,147
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-433,560	-93,758
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Proceeds from (repayments of) bank borrowings	158,284	-11,550
Proceeds from issuance of debt	314,787	678,781
Debt issuance costs	-562	-1,327
Principal payments for long-term debt	-136,044	-793,863
Proceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options	24,115	22,636
Payments for repurchases of common stock	-226,282	-226,478
Excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation	5,375	6,496
Distributions to noncontrolling shareholders	-22,800	-18,049
Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries	-105,383	-5,886
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	11,490	-349,240
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-8,489	1,286
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-112,074	-52,165
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	188,616	122,080
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$76,542	$69,915

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Note 1 – Basis of Presentation
	Our consolidated financial statements include our accounts, as well as those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
	Our accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnote disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements.
	The consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated results of operations and financial position for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 28, 2013.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The results of operations for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any other interim period or for the year ending December 27, 2014.

Segment_Data

Segment Data	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Data	'
	Note 2 – Segment Data
	We conduct our business through two reportable segments: health care distribution and technology and value-added services. These segments offer different products and services to the same customer base. The health care distribution reportable segment aggregates our global dental, animal health and medical operating segments. This segment consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.
	Our global dental group serves office-based dental practitioners, dental laboratories, schools and other institutions. Our global animal health group serves animal health practices and clinics. Our global medical group serves office-based medical practitioners, ambulatory surgery centers, other alternate-care settings and other institutions. Our global dental, animal health and medical groups serve practitioners in 28 countries worldwide.
	Our global technology and value-added services group provides software, technology and other value-added services to health care practitioners. Our technology group offerings include practice management software systems for dental and medical practitioners and animal health clinics. Our value-added practice solutions include financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners and other services.
	The following tables present information about our reportable and operating segments:
					Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
					September 27,		September 28,		September 27,		September 28,
					2014		2013		2014		2013
	Net Sales:
		Health care distribution (1):
			Dental		$	1,298,352	$	1,183,201	$	3,963,761	$	3,633,577
			Animal health			757,952		642,289		2,166,989		1,947,728
			Medical			480,302		444,533		1,280,973		1,221,282
				Total health care distribution		2,536,606		2,270,023		7,411,723		6,802,587
		Technology and value-added services (2)				87,123		78,933		257,571		231,690
			Total		$	2,623,729	$	2,348,956	$	7,669,294	$	7,034,277
	-1	Consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and
		generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.
	-2	Consists of practice management software and other value-added products, which are distributed primarily to health care providers, and
		financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners and other services.
					Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
					September 27,		September 28,		September 27,		September 28,
					2014		2013		2014		2013
	Operating Income:
		Health care distribution			$	148,773	$	139,949	$	436,170	$	429,091
		Technology and value-added services				25,315		20,528		76,030		61,080
			Total		$	174,088	$	160,477	$	512,200	$	490,171

Debt

Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt	'
	Note 3 – Debt
	Bank Credit Lines
	On September 12, 2012, we entered into a new $500 million revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with a $200 million expansion feature, which originally expired on September 12, 2017. On September 22, 2014, we extended the expiration date of the Credit Agreement to September 22, 2019. The interest rate is based on USD LIBOR plus a spread based on our leverage ratio at the end of each financial reporting quarter. The Credit Agreement provides, among other things, that we are required to maintain maximum leverage ratios, and contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. The Credit Agreement also contains customary negative covenants, subject to negotiated exceptions on liens, indebtedness, significant corporate changes (including mergers), dispositions and certain restrictive agreements. There was no balance outstanding under this revolving credit facility as of September 27, 2014. As of September 27, 2014, there were $10.1 million of letters of credit provided to third parties under the credit facility.
	As of September 27, 2014, we had various other short-term bank credit lines available, of which $188.8 million was outstanding. At September 27, 2014, borrowings under all of our credit lines had a weighted average interest rate of 1.21%. In July 2014, we extended credit lines with various financial institutions for an additional year.
	Private Placement Facilities
	On August 10, 2010, we entered into $400 million private placement facilities with two insurance companies. On April 30, 2012, we increased our available credit facilities by $375 million by entering into a new agreement with one insurance company and amending our existing agreements with two insurance companies. On September 22, 2014, we increased our available private placement facilities by $200 million to a total facility amount of $975 million, and extended the expiration date to September 22, 2017. These facilities are available on an uncommitted basis at fixed rate economic terms to be agreed upon at the time of issuance, from time to time during a three year issuance period. The facilities allow us to issue senior promissory notes to the lenders at a fixed rate based on an agreed upon spread over applicable treasury notes at the time of issuance. The term of each possible issuance will be selected by us and can range from five to 15 years (with an average life no longer than 12 years). The proceeds of any issuances under the facilities will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and capital expenditures, to refinance existing indebtedness and/or to fund potential acquisitions. The agreements provide, among other things, that we maintain certain maximum leverage ratios, and contain restrictions relating to subsidiary indebtedness, liens, affiliate transactions, disposal of assets and certain changes in ownership. These facilities contain make-whole provisions in the event that we pay off the facilities prior to the applicable due dates.
	The components of our private placement facility borrowings as of September 27, 2014 are presented in the following table:
			Amount of
			Borrowing			Borrowing
	Date of Borrowing		Outstanding			Rate			Due Date
	2-Sep-10		$	100,000		3.79	%		2-Sep-20
	20-Jan-12			50,000		3.45			20-Jan-24
	January 20, 2012 (1)			50,000		3.09			20-Jan-22
	24-Dec-12			50,000		3			24-Dec-24
	2-Jun-14			100,000		3.19			2-Jun-21
			$	350,000
	(1) Annual repayments of approximately $7.1 million for this borrowing will commence on January 20, 2016.
	U.S. Trade Accounts Receivable Securitization
	On April 17, 2013, we entered into a facility agreement of up to $300 million with a bank, as agent, based on the securitization of our U.S. trade accounts receivable. The new facility allowed us to replace public debt (approximately $220 million), which had a higher interest rate at Henry Schein Animal Health (“HSAH”) during February 2013 and provided funding for working capital and general corporate purposes. The financing was structured as an asset-backed securitization program with pricing committed for up to three years. On September 22, 2014, we extended the expiration date of this facility agreement to April 15, 2017. The borrowings outstanding under this securitization facility were $240.0 million as of September 27, 2014. At September 27, 2014, the interest rate on borrowings under this facility was based on the average asset-backed commercial paper rate of 19 basis points plus 75 basis points, for a combined rate of 0.94%.
	We are required to pay a commitment fee of 30 basis points on the daily balance of the unused portion of the facility if our usage is greater than or equal to 50% of the facility limit or a commitment fee of 35 basis points on the daily balance of the unused portion of the facility if our usage is less than 50% of the facility limit.
	Borrowings under this facility are presented as a component of Long-term debt within our consolidated balance sheet.
	Henry Schein Animal Health
	During February 2013, we repaid the then outstanding debt related to the HSAH (formerly Butler Schein Animal Health) transaction using our existing Credit Agreement. As part of this transaction, we recorded a one-time interest expense charge of $6.2 million related to the accelerated amortization of deferred financing costs.
	Long-term debt
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
				September 27,			December 28,
				2014			2013
	Private placement facilities			$	350,000		$	250,000
	U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization				240,000			160,000
	Notes payable to banks at a weighted-average interest rate of 8.38%				41			73
	Various collateralized and uncollateralized loans payable with interest,
		in varying installments through 2018 at interest rates ranging
		from 2.15% to 5.41%			43,701			44,091
	Capital lease obligations payable through 2018 with interest rates
		ranging from 2.00% to 13.00%			2,846			1,510
	Total				636,588			455,674
	Less current maturities				-5,782			-5,441
		Total long-term debt		$	630,806		$	450,233

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Temporary Equity Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	'
	Note 4 – Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
	Some minority shareholders in certain of our subsidiaries have the right, at certain times, to require us to acquire their ownership interest in those entities at fair value. Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 480-10 is applicable for noncontrolling interests where we are or may be required to purchase all or a portion of the outstanding interest in a consolidated subsidiary from the noncontrolling interest holder under the terms of a put option contained in contractual agreements. The components of the change in the Redeemable noncontrolling interests for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and the year ended December 28, 2013 are presented in the following table:
			September 27,		December 28,
			2014		2013
	Balance, beginning of period		$	497,539	$	435,175
	Decrease in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to
		redemptions		-105,383		-9,028
	Increase in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to business
		acquisitions		120,874		11,542
	Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests			27,946		39,430
	Dividends declared			-21,934		-19,965
	Effect of foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to
		redeemable noncontrolling interests		137		-654
	Change in fair value of redeemable securities			30,253		41,039
	Balance, end of period		$	549,432	$	497,539
	Changes in the estimated redemption amounts of the noncontrolling interests subject to put options are adjusted at each reporting period with a corresponding adjustment to Additional paid-in capital. Future reductions in the carrying amounts are subject to a “floor” amount that is equal to the fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests at the time they were originally recorded. The recorded value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests cannot go below the floor level. These adjustments do not impact the calculation of earnings per share.

Comprehensive_Income

Comprehensive Income	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'
Comprehensive Income	'
	Note 5 – Comprehensive Income
	Comprehensive income includes certain gains and losses that, under U.S. GAAP, are excluded from net income as such amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to stockholders' equity. Our comprehensive income is primarily comprised of net income, foreign currency translation gain (loss), unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency hedging activities, unrealized investment gain (loss) and pension adjustment gain (loss).
	The following table summarizes our Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes as of:
					September 27,			December 28,
					2014			2013
	Attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests:
			Foreign currency translation adjustment		$	-1,366		$	-1,503
	Attributable to noncontrolling interests:
			Foreign currency translation adjustment		$	-10		$	-
	Attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:
		Foreign currency translation gain (loss)			$	-2,664		$	82,288
		Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities				-576			1,282
		Unrealized investment loss				-335			-515
		Pension adjustment loss				-13,716			-15,206
			Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		$	-17,291		$	67,849
	Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)				$	-18,667		$	66,346
	The following table summarizes the components of comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes as follows:
			Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
			September 27,			September 28,			September 27,			September 28,
			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net income		$	124,236		$	116,372		$	361,481		$	336,493
	Foreign currency translation gain (loss)			-99,445			53,820			-84,825			-1,882
	Tax effect			-			-			-			-
	Foreign currency translation gain (loss)			-99,445			53,820			-84,825			-1,882
	Unrealized loss from foreign currency hedging
	activities			-52			-1,550			-2,073			-694
	Tax effect			-86			378			215			156
	Unrealized loss from foreign currency hedging
	activities			-138			-1,172			-1,858			-538
	Unrealized investment gain (loss)			233			-17			295			-155
	Tax effect			-91			7			-115			62
	Unrealized investment gain (loss)			142			-10			180			-93
	Pension adjustment gain (loss)			1,279			-696			1,860			567
	Tax effect			-306			179			-370			-77
	Pension adjustment gain (loss)			973			-517			1,490			490
	Comprehensive income		$	25,768		$	168,493		$	276,468		$	334,470
	The following table summarizes our total comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes as follows:
				Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
				September 27,			September 28,			September 27,			September 28,
				2014			2013			2014			2013
	Comprehensive income attributable to
		Henry Schein, Inc.		$	18,782		$	157,264		$	247,971		$	305,582
	Comprehensive income attributable to
		noncontrolling interests			155			146			414			335
	Comprehensive income attributable to
		Redeemable noncontrolling interests			6,831			11,083			28,083			28,553
	Comprehensive income			$	25,768		$	168,493		$	276,468		$	334,470

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Note 6 – Fair Value Measurements
	ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” (“ASC Topic 820”) provides a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles.
	ASC Topic 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. ASC Topic 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs).
	The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy under ASC Topic 820 are described as follows:
	• Level 1— Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that are accessible at the measurement date.
	• Level 2— Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
	• Level 3— Inputs that are unobservable for the asset or liability.
	The following section describes the valuation methodologies that we used to measure different financial instruments at fair value.
	Investments and notes receivable
	There are no quoted market prices available for investments in unconsolidated affiliates and notes receivable; however, we believe the carrying amounts are a reasonable estimate of fair value.
	Debt
	The fair value of our debt as of September 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013 was estimated at $825.4 million and $485.2 million, respectively. Factors that we considered when estimating the fair value of our debt include market conditions, prepayment and make-whole provisions, liquidity levels in the private placement market, variability in pricing from multiple lenders and term of debt.
	Derivative contracts
	Derivative contracts are valued using quoted market prices and significant other observable and unobservable inputs. We use derivative instruments to minimize our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Our derivative instruments primarily include foreign currency forward agreements related to intercompany loans and certain forecasted inventory purchase commitments with suppliers.
	The fair values for the majority of our foreign currency derivative contracts are obtained by comparing our contract rate to a published forward price of the underlying market rates, which is based on market rates for comparable transactions and are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests
	Some minority shareholders in certain of our subsidiaries have the right, at certain times, to require us to acquire their ownership interest in those entities at fair value based on third-party valuations. The primary factor affecting the future value of redeemable noncontrolling interests is expected earnings and, if such earnings are not achieved, the value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests might be impacted. The noncontrolling interests subject to put options are adjusted to their estimated redemption amounts each reporting period with a corresponding adjustment to Additional paid-in capital. Future reductions in the carrying amounts are subject to a “floor” amount that is equal to the fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests at the time they were originally recorded. The recorded value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests cannot go below the floor level. These adjustments do not impact the calculation of earnings per share. The values for Redeemable noncontrolling interests are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The details of the changes in Redeemable noncontrolling interests are presented in Note 4.
	The following table presents our assets and liabilities that are measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis classified under the appropriate level of the fair value hierarchy as of September 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013:
				27-Sep-14
					Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	2,527	$	-	$	2,527
			Total assets	$	-	$	2,527	$	-	$	2,527
	Liabilities:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	968	$	-	$	968
			Total liabilities	$	-	$	968	$	-	$	968
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	549,432	$	549,432
				28-Dec-13
					Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	1,235	$	-	$	1,235
			Total assets	$	-	$	1,235	$	-	$	1,235
	Liabilities:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	1,142	$	-	$	1,142
			Total liabilities	$	-	$	1,142	$	-	$	1,142
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	497,539	$	497,539

Business_Acquisitions_and_Dive

Business Acquisitions and Divestiture	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Business Combinations and Divestitures [Abstract]	'
Business Acquisitions and Divestiture	'
	Note 7 – Business Acquisitions
	Acquisitions
	The operating results of all acquisitions are reflected in our financial statements from their respective acquisition dates.
	On June 30, 2014, we completed our previously announced acquisition by our U.S. Animal Health business, Butler Animal Health Supply LLC, together with our wholly-owned subsidiary, W.A. Butler Company, of a 60% ownership position in SmartPak Equine, LLC (“SmartPak”), a privately held provider of equine supplements and horse supplies in the United States.  SmartPak had sales of approximately $105 million in 2013.
	We completed certain other acquisitions during the nine months ended September 27, 2014. Such acquisitions were immaterial to our financial statements individually and in the aggregate.
	Some prior owners of acquired subsidiaries are eligible to receive additional purchase price cash consideration if certain financial targets are met. We have accrued liabilities for the estimated fair value of additional purchase price consideration at the time of the acquisition. Any adjustments to these accrual amounts are recorded in our consolidated statements of income. For the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, there were no material adjustments recorded in our consolidated statements of income relating to changes in estimated contingent purchase price liabilities.
	Divestiture of an Equity Affiliate
	On July 10, 2013, we divested our investment in a dental wholesale distributor in the Middle East that had primarily served as an importer that distributed products largely to other distributors. The divestiture resulted in a one-time loss, which is recorded in a separate line item, “Loss on sale of equity investment” within our consolidated statements of income and within the cash flows from operating activities section of our consolidated statements of cash flows, of $12.5 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2013. Pursuant to the terms of this divestiture, we made cash payments, which are recorded in a separate line item, “Payments related to sale of equity investment”, within the cash flows from investing activities section of our consolidated statements of cash flows, to this distributor in the aggregate amount of $13.4 million, which it was required to use to reduce its debt, pay certain trade payables and provide working capital.  The investment in this distributor had been fully impaired as of the end of 2012.  There was no tax benefit related to the loss on this divestiture.

Plans_of_Restructuring

Plans of Restructuring	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Plan of Restructuring	'
	Note 8 – Plans of Restructuring
	During the year ended December 29, 2012, we incurred restructuring costs of $15.2 million pre-tax ($0.12 per diluted share) consisting of employee severance pay and benefits related to the elimination of approximately 200 positions; facility closing costs, representing primarily lease terminations and property and equipment write-off costs; and outside professional and consulting fees directly related to the restructuring plan. This restructuring program is complete and we do not expect any additional costs from this program.
	On October 31, 2014, we decided to implement a planned corporate initiative to rationalize our operations and provide expense efficiencies, which will occur throughout fiscal 2015. This initiative is expected to include the elimination of approximately 2% to 3% of our workforce and the closing of certain facilities. The costs associated with all actions to complete this restructuring are expected to be in the range of $35 million to $40 million pre-tax (approximately $0.29 to $0.33 per diluted share). We plan to reduce our cost structure to fund new initiatives to drive future growth as our 2015 – 2017 strategic planning cycle begins. At this time, we are unable to make a determination of the estimated amount or range of amounts to be included for each major type of cost associated with this restructuring (including associated cash expenditures). We will provide further details in a future Securities and Exchange Commission filing at such time as we are able to determine the costs we expect to incur in connection with this restructuring.
	The costs associated with these restructurings have been and will be included in a separate line item, “Restructuring costs” within our consolidated statements of income.
	The following table shows the amounts expensed and paid for restructuring costs that were incurred during the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and during our 2013 fiscal year and the remaining accrued balance of restructuring costs as of September 27, 2014, which is included in Accrued expenses: Other and Other liabilities within our consolidated balance sheet:
				Facility
		Severance		Closing
		Costs		Costs		Total
	Balance, December 29, 2012	$	1,826	$	1,231	$	3,057
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-1,599		-747		-2,346
	Balance, December 28, 2013	$	227	$	484	$	711
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-102		-139		-241
	Balance, September 27, 2014	$	125	$	345	$	470
	The following table shows, by reportable segment, the amounts expensed and paid for restructuring costs that were incurred during the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and the 2013 fiscal year and the remaining accrued balance of restructuring costs as of September 27, 2014:
				Technology and
		Health Care		Value-Added
		Distribution		Services		Total
	Balance, December 29, 2012	$	3,043	$	14	$	3,057
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-2,332		-14		-2,346
	Balance, December 28, 2013	$	711	$	-	$	711
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-241		-		-241
	Balance, September 27, 2014	$	470	$	-	$	470

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Note 9 – Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc. by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Our diluted earnings per share is computed similarly to basic earnings per share, except that it reflects the effect of common shares issuable for presently unvested restricted stock and restricted stock units and upon exercise of stock options, using the treasury stock method in periods in which they have a dilutive effect.
	A reconciliation of shares used in calculating earnings per basic and diluted share follows:
			Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
			September 27,	September 28,	September 27,	September 28,
			2014	2013	2014	2013
	Basic		84,095	85,646	84,506	86,208
	Effect of dilutive securities:
		Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units	1,355	1,758	1,412	1,759
		Diluted	85,450	87,404	85,918	87,967

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Note 10 – Income Taxes
	For the nine months ended September 27, 2014, our effective tax rate was 30.7% compared to 28.3% for the prior year period. During the third quarter of 2013, we concluded that it was more likely than not that certain deferred tax assets related to tax loss carryforwards originating outside the United States, which had been previously reserved, would be realized.  As a result, our provision for income taxes for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2013 included a $13.4 million reduction of the valuation allowance which was based on an estimate of future taxable income available to be offset by the tax loss carryforwards.
	Absent the effects of the reduction of this valuation allowance in the third quarter of 2013, our effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 28, 2013 would have been 31.1% as compared to our actual effective tax rate of 28.3%.  The remaining difference between our effective tax rates and the federal statutory tax rates for both periods primarily relates to state and foreign income taxes and interest expense.
	The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of September 27, 2014 was approximately $70.9 million, of which $57.9 million would affect the effective tax rate if recognized.  It is expected that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change in the next 12 months; however, we do not expect the change to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	The total amounts of interest and penalties, which are classified as a component of the provision for income taxes, were approximately $13.7 million and $0, respectively, for the nine months ended September 27, 2014.
	The tax years subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions include the years 2009 and forward by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, as well as the years 2005 and forward for certain states and certain foreign jurisdictions.

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Activi

Derivatives and Hedging Activities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	'
	Note 11 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities
	We are exposed to market risks as well as changes in foreign currency exchange rates as measured against the U.S. dollar and each other, and changes to the credit markets. We attempt to minimize these risks by primarily using foreign currency forward contracts and by maintaining counter-party credit limits. These hedging activities provide only limited protection against currency exchange and credit risks. Factors that could influence the effectiveness of our hedging programs include currency markets and availability of hedging instruments and liquidity of the credit markets. All foreign currency forward contracts that we enter into are components of hedging programs and are entered into for the sole purpose of hedging an existing or anticipated currency exposure. We do not enter into such contracts for speculative purposes and we manage our credit risks by diversifying our investments, maintaining a strong balance sheet and having multiple sources of capital.
	Fluctuations in the value of certain foreign currencies as compared to the U.S. dollar may positively or negatively affect our revenues, gross margins, operating expenses and retained earnings, all of which are expressed in U.S. dollars. Where we deem it prudent, we engage in hedging programs using primarily foreign currency forward contracts aimed at limiting the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on earnings. We purchase short-term (i.e., 18 months or less) foreign currency forward contracts to protect against currency exchange risks associated with intercompany loans due from our international subsidiaries and the payment of merchandise purchases to our foreign suppliers. We do not hedge the translation of foreign currency profits into U.S. dollars, as we regard this as an accounting exposure, not an economic exposure. Our hedging activities have historically not had a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, additional disclosures related to derivatives and hedging activities required by ASC Topic 815 have been omitted.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Note 12 – Stock-Based Compensation
	Our accompanying consolidated statements of income reflect pre-tax share-based compensation expense of $13.8 million ($9.6 million after-tax) and $33.3 million ($23.1 million after-tax) for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2014, respectively, and $8.0 million ($5.6 million after-tax) and $24.7 million ($17.0 million after-tax) for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2013, respectively.
	Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to employees and non-employee directors. We measure stock-based compensation at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award, and recognize the cost (net of estimated forfeitures) as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Our stock-based compensation expense is reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income.
	Stock-based awards are provided to certain employees and non-employee directors under the terms of our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, and our 1996 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan, as amended (together, the “Plans”). The Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Prior to March 2009, awards under the Plans principally included a combination of at-the-money stock options and restricted stock/units. Since March 2009, equity-based awards have been granted solely in the form of restricted stock/units, with the exception of providing stock options to employees for certain pre-existing contractual obligations.
	Grants of restricted stock/units are stock-based awards granted to recipients with specified vesting provisions. In the case of restricted stock, common stock is delivered on the date of grant, subject to vesting conditions. In the case of restricted stock units, common stock is generally delivered on or following satisfaction of vesting conditions. Prior to 2014, we issued restricted stock/units that vest solely based on the recipient's continued service over time (primarily four-year cliff) and restricted stock/units that vest based on our achieving specified performance measurements and the recipient's continued service over time (primarily three-year cliff vesting). Since February 2014, we issue restricted stock/units that vest solely based on the recipient's continued service over time (primarily four-year cliff vesting under our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan and primarily 13-month cliff vesting under our 1996 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan) and restricted stock/units that vest based on our achieving specified performance measurements and the recipient's continued service over time (primarily three-year cliff vesting under our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan).
	With respect to time-based restricted stock/units, we estimate the fair value on the date of grant based on our closing stock price. With respect to performance-based restricted stock/units, the number of shares that ultimately vest and are received by the recipient is based upon our performance as measured against specified targets over a three-year period as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Although there is no guarantee that performance targets will be achieved, we estimate the fair value of performance-based restricted stock/units based on our closing stock price at time of grant.
	The Plans provide for adjustments to the performance-based restricted stock/units targets for significant events such as acquisitions, divestitures, new business ventures and share repurchases. Over the performance period, the number of shares of common stock that will ultimately vest and be issued and the related compensation expense is adjusted upward or downward based upon our estimation of achieving such performance targets. The ultimate number of shares delivered to recipients and the related compensation cost recognized as an expense will be based on our actual performance metrics as defined under the Plans.
	Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards as of September 27, 2014 was $94.4 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.2 years.
	The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Plans during the nine months ended September 27, 2014:
					Weighted
					Average
			Weighted		Remaining
			Average		Contractual		Aggregate
			Exercise		Life in		Intrinsic
		Shares	Price		Years		Value
	Outstanding at beginning of period	1,323	$	51.53
	Granted	-		-
	Exercised	-501		48.45
	Forfeited	-		-
	Outstanding at end of period	822	$	53.4	2.5		$	52,379
	Options exercisable at end of period	822	$	53.4	2.5		$	52,379
	The following tables summarize the activity of our non-vested restricted stock/units for the nine months ended September 27, 2014:
		Time-Based Restricted Stock/Units
			Weighted Average
			Grant Date Fair			Intrinsic Value
		Shares/Units	Value Per Share			Per Share
	Outstanding at beginning of period	926	$	70.7
	Granted	172		118.67
	Vested	-229		57.66
	Forfeited	-29		84.62
	Outstanding at end of period	840	$	83.62		$	117.13
		Performance-Based Restricted Stock/Units
			Weighted Average
			Grant Date Fair			Intrinsic Value
		Shares/Units	Value Per Share			Per Share
	Outstanding at beginning of period	1,078	$	59.85
	Granted	326		113.69
	Vested	-264		69.89
	Forfeited	-23		89.47
	Outstanding at end of period	1,117	$	76.11		$	117.13

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	'
	Note 13 – Supplemental Cash Flow Information
	Cash paid for interest and income taxes was:
		Nine Months Ended
		September 27,		September 28,
		2014		2013
	Interest	$	15,718	$	16,969
	Income taxes		141,233		82,869
	During the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, we had a $2.1 million non-cash net unrealized loss and a $0.7 million of non-cash net unrealized loss related to foreign currency hedging activities, respectively.

Segment_Data_Tables

Segment Data (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Business segment information	'
					Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
					September 27,		September 28,		September 27,		September 28,
					2014		2013		2014		2013
	Net Sales:
		Health care distribution (1):
			Dental		$	1,298,352	$	1,183,201	$	3,963,761	$	3,633,577
			Animal health			757,952		642,289		2,166,989		1,947,728
			Medical			480,302		444,533		1,280,973		1,221,282
				Total health care distribution		2,536,606		2,270,023		7,411,723		6,802,587
		Technology and value-added services (2)				87,123		78,933		257,571		231,690
			Total		$	2,623,729	$	2,348,956	$	7,669,294	$	7,034,277
	-1	Consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and
		generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.
	-2	Consists of practice management software and other value-added products, which are distributed primarily to health care providers, and
		financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners and other services.
					Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
					September 27,		September 28,		September 27,		September 28,
					2014		2013		2014		2013
	Operating Income:
		Health care distribution			$	148,773	$	139,949	$	436,170	$	429,091
		Technology and value-added services				25,315		20,528		76,030		61,080
			Total		$	174,088	$	160,477	$	512,200	$	490,171

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Private Placement Facilities	'
			Amount of
			Borrowing			Borrowing
	Date of Borrowing		Outstanding			Rate			Due Date
	2-Sep-10		$	100,000		3.79	%		2-Sep-20
	20-Jan-12			50,000		3.45			20-Jan-24
	January 20, 2012 (1)			50,000		3.09			20-Jan-22
	24-Dec-12			50,000		3			24-Dec-24
	2-Jun-14			100,000		3.19			2-Jun-21
			$	350,000
	(1) Annual repayments of approximately $7.1 million for this borrowing will commence on January 20, 2016.
Schedule of long-term debt	'
				September 27,			December 28,
				2014			2013
	Private placement facilities			$	350,000		$	250,000
	U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization				240,000			160,000
	Notes payable to banks at a weighted-average interest rate of 8.38%				41			73
	Various collateralized and uncollateralized loans payable with interest,
		in varying installments through 2018 at interest rates ranging
		from 2.15% to 5.41%			43,701			44,091
	Capital lease obligations payable through 2018 with interest rates
		ranging from 2.00% to 13.00%			2,846			1,510
	Total				636,588			455,674
	Less current maturities				-5,782			-5,441
		Total long-term debt		$	630,806		$	450,233

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte1

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Temporary Equity Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Change in fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interests	'
			September 27,		December 28,
			2014		2013
	Balance, beginning of period		$	497,539	$	435,175
	Decrease in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to
		redemptions		-105,383		-9,028
	Increase in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to business
		acquisitions		120,874		11,542
	Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests			27,946		39,430
	Dividends declared			-21,934		-19,965
	Effect of foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to
		redeemable noncontrolling interests		137		-654
	Change in fair value of redeemable securities			30,253		41,039
	Balance, end of period		$	549,432	$	497,539

Comprehensive_Income_Tables

Comprehensive Income (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes	'
					September 27,			December 28,
					2014			2013
	Attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests:
			Foreign currency translation adjustment		$	-1,366		$	-1,503
	Attributable to noncontrolling interests:
			Foreign currency translation adjustment		$	-10		$	-
	Attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:
		Foreign currency translation gain (loss)			$	-2,664		$	82,288
		Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities				-576			1,282
		Unrealized investment loss				-335			-515
		Pension adjustment loss				-13,716			-15,206
			Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		$	-17,291		$	67,849
	Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)				$	-18,667		$	66,346
Components of comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes	'
			Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
			September 27,			September 28,			September 27,			September 28,
			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net income		$	124,236		$	116,372		$	361,481		$	336,493
	Foreign currency translation gain (loss)			-99,445			53,820			-84,825			-1,882
	Tax effect			-			-			-			-
	Foreign currency translation gain (loss)			-99,445			53,820			-84,825			-1,882
	Unrealized loss from foreign currency hedging
	activities			-52			-1,550			-2,073			-694
	Tax effect			-86			378			215			156
	Unrealized loss from foreign currency hedging
	activities			-138			-1,172			-1,858			-538
	Unrealized investment gain (loss)			233			-17			295			-155
	Tax effect			-91			7			-115			62
	Unrealized investment gain (loss)			142			-10			180			-93
	Pension adjustment gain (loss)			1,279			-696			1,860			567
	Tax effect			-306			179			-370			-77
	Pension adjustment gain (loss)			973			-517			1,490			490
	Comprehensive income		$	25,768		$	168,493		$	276,468		$	334,470
Total comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes	'
				Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
				September 27,			September 28,			September 27,			September 28,
				2014			2013			2014			2013
	Comprehensive income attributable to
		Henry Schein, Inc.		$	18,782		$	157,264		$	247,971		$	305,582
	Comprehensive income attributable to
		noncontrolling interests			155			146			414			335
	Comprehensive income attributable to
		Redeemable noncontrolling interests			6,831			11,083			28,083			28,553
	Comprehensive income			$	25,768		$	168,493		$	276,468		$	334,470

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair value - assets and liabilities measured and recognized on a recurring basis	'
				27-Sep-14
					Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	2,527	$	-	$	2,527
			Total assets	$	-	$	2,527	$	-	$	2,527
	Liabilities:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	968	$	-	$	968
			Total liabilities	$	-	$	968	$	-	$	968
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	549,432	$	549,432
				28-Dec-13
					Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	1,235	$	-	$	1,235
			Total assets	$	-	$	1,235	$	-	$	1,235
	Liabilities:
		Derivative contracts		$	-	$	1,142	$	-	$	1,142
			Total liabilities	$	-	$	1,142	$	-	$	1,142
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	497,539	$	497,539

Plans_of_Restructuring_Tables

Plans of Restructuring (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of restructuring reserve by type of cost	'
				Facility
		Severance		Closing
		Costs		Costs		Total
	Balance, December 29, 2012	$	1,826	$	1,231	$	3,057
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-1,599		-747		-2,346
	Balance, December 28, 2013	$	227	$	484	$	711
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-102		-139		-241
	Balance, September 27, 2014	$	125	$	345	$	470
Schedule of restructuring reserve by segment	'
				Technology and
		Health Care		Value-Added
		Distribution		Services		Total
	Balance, December 29, 2012	$	3,043	$	14	$	3,057
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-2,332		-14		-2,346
	Balance, December 28, 2013	$	711	$	-	$	711
	Provision		-		-		-
	Payments and other adjustments		-241		-		-241
	Balance, September 27, 2014	$	470	$	-	$	470

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation of basic and diluted shares used to calculate earnings per share	'
			Three Months Ended		Nine Months Ended
			September 27,	September 28,	September 27,	September 28,
			2014	2013	2014	2013
	Basic		84,095	85,646	84,506	86,208
	Effect of dilutive securities:
		Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units	1,355	1,758	1,412	1,759
		Diluted	85,450	87,404	85,918	87,967

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Summary of the stock option activity under the plans	'
					Weighted
					Average
			Weighted		Remaining
			Average		Contractual		Aggregate
			Exercise		Life in		Intrinsic
		Shares	Price		Years		Value
	Outstanding at beginning of period	1,323	$	51.53
	Granted	-		-
	Exercised	-501		48.45
	Forfeited	-		-
	Outstanding at end of period	822	$	53.4	2.5		$	52,379
	Options exercisable at end of period	822	$	53.4	2.5		$	52,379
Status of non-vested restricted shares/units	'
		Time-Based Restricted Stock/Units
			Weighted Average
			Grant Date Fair			Intrinsic Value
		Shares/Units	Value Per Share			Per Share
	Outstanding at beginning of period	926	$	70.7
	Granted	172		118.67
	Vested	-229		57.66
	Forfeited	-29		84.62
	Outstanding at end of period	840	$	83.62		$	117.13
		Performance-Based Restricted Stock/Units
			Weighted Average
			Grant Date Fair			Intrinsic Value
		Shares/Units	Value Per Share			Per Share
	Outstanding at beginning of period	1,078	$	59.85
	Granted	326		113.69
	Vested	-264		69.89
	Forfeited	-23		89.47
	Outstanding at end of period	1,117	$	76.11		$	117.13

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa1

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Cash paid for interest and income taxes	'
		Nine Months Ended
		September 27,		September 28,
		2014		2013
	Interest	$	15,718	$	16,969
	Income taxes		141,233		82,869

Segment_Data_Details

Segment Data (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
	number		number
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Number of reportable segments	'	'	2	'
Number of countries served globally	28	'	28	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$2,623,729	$2,348,956	$7,669,294	$7,034,277
Operating income	174,088	160,477	512,200	490,171
Health Care Distribution [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	2,536,606	2,270,023	7,411,723	6,802,587
Operating income	148,773	139,949	436,170	429,091
Health Care Distribution [Member] | Dental [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	1,298,352	1,183,201	3,963,761	3,633,577
Health Care Distribution [Member] | Animal Health [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	757,952	642,289	2,166,989	1,947,728
Health Care Distribution [Member] | Medical [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	480,302	444,533	1,280,973	1,221,282
Technology and Value-Added Services [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	87,123	78,933	257,571	231,690
Operating income	$25,315	$20,528	$76,030	$61,080

Debt_Bank_Credit_Lines_Details

Debt - Bank Credit Lines (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'
Weighted average interest rate on borrowings under credit lines at period end (in hundredths)	1.21%
Revolving credit facility [Member]	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'
Revolving credit facility borrowing capacity	$500,000,000
Additional credit available under expansion feature of revolving credit facility	200,000,000
Revolving credit facility expiration date	22-Sep-19
Outstanding letters of credit provided to third parties	10,100,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	0
Various other short-term bank credit lines [Member]	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	$188,800,000

Debt_Longterm_Details

Debt - Long-term (Details) (USD $)

9 Months Ended

2 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Feb. 21, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 22, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Apr. 30, 2012

Aug. 10, 2010

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Apr. 17, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Henry Schein Animal Health debt [Member]

Henry Schein Animal Health debt [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

Private placement facilities [Member]

U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization [Member]

U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization [Member]

U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization [Member]

U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization [Member]

Notes payable to banks [Member]

Notes payable to banks [Member]

Various collateralized and uncollateralized long-term loans payable with interest, in varying installments [Member]

Various collateralized and uncollateralized long-term loans payable with interest, in varying installments [Member]

Capital lease obligations [Member]

Capital lease obligations [Member]

company

company

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum Average [Member]

Private placement facilities maturing in September 2020 [Member]

Private placement facilities maturing in January 2024 [Member]

Private placement facilities maturing in January 2022 [Member]

Private placement facilities maturing in December 2024 [Member]

Private placement facilities maturing in June 2021 [Member]

Average Asset Backed Commercial Paper Rate [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, amount repaid

$136,044,000

$793,863,000

'

$220,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, maximum borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

975,000,000

'

'

'

400,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Private placement facility additional borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000,000

'

375,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of insurance companies providing private placement facilities (in number of insurance companies)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Term of issuances under private placement facilities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'15 years

'12 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issuance period (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Date of borrowing

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2-Sep-10

20-Jan-12

20-Jan-12

24-Dec-12

2-Jun-14

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Due date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2-Sep-20

20-Jan-24

20-Jan-22

24-Dec-24

2-Jun-21

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Private placement facility annual payment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Private placement facility annual payment commencement date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20-Jan-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities

636,588,000

'

455,674,000

'

'

350,000,000

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

100,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

100,000,000

240,000,000

160,000,000

'

'

41,000

73,000

43,701,000

44,091,000

2,846,000

1,510,000

Less current maturities

-5,782,000

'

-5,441,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total long-term debt

630,806,000

'

450,233,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.79%

3.45%

3.09%

3.00%

3.19%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, interest rate, weighted-average percentage (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8.38%

'

'

'

'

'

Accelerated amortization of deferred financing costs

$0

$6,203,000

'

'

$6,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pricing commitment period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, interest rate at period end

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.94%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument interest rate, stated percentage rate range minimum (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.15%

'

2.00%

'

Debt instrument interest rate, stated percentage rate range maximum (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.41%

'

13.00%

'

Debt instrument, variable rate basis at period end

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.19%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commitment fee for facility usage - facility limit greater than or equal to fifty percent usage (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.30%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commitment fee for facility usage - facility limit less than fifty percent usage (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.35%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument borrowing perentage of facility used for calculating commitment fee (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte2

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Components of the change in the redeemable noncontrolling interests [Abstract]	'	'
Balance, beginning of period	$497,539	$435,175
Decrease in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to redemptions	-105,383	-9,028
Increase in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to business acquisitions	120,874	11,542
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	27,946	39,430
Dividends declared	-21,934	-19,965
Effect of foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	137	-654
Change in fair value of redeemable securities	30,253	41,039
Balance, end of period	$549,432	$497,539

Comprehensive_Income_Accumulat

Comprehensive Income - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Comprehensive Income Components (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
Attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests:	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustment	($1,366)	'	($1,366)	'	($1,503)
Attributable to noncontrolling interests:	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-10	'	-10	'	0
Attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:	'	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	-2,664	'	-2,664	'	82,288
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	-576	'	-576	'	1,282
Unrealized investment gain (loss)	-335	'	-335	'	-515
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	-13,716	'	-13,716	'	-15,206
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-17,291	'	-17,291	'	67,849
Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-18,667	'	-18,667	'	66,346
Components of comprehensive income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	124,236	116,372	361,481	336,493	'
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	-99,445	53,820	-84,825	-1,882	'
Tax effect	0	0	0	0	'
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	-99,445	53,820	-84,825	-1,882	'
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	-52	-1,550	-2,073	-694	'
Tax effect	-86	378	215	156	'
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	-138	-1,172	-1,858	-538	'
Unrealized investment gain (loss)	233	-17	295	-155	'
Tax effect	-91	7	-115	62	'
Unrealized investment gain (loss)	142	-10	180	-93	'
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	1,279	-696	1,860	567	'
Tax effect	-306	179	-370	-77	'
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	973	-517	1,490	490	'
Comprehensive income	$25,768	$168,493	$276,468	$334,470	'

Comprehensive_Income_Total_Com

Comprehensive Income - Total Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Comprehensive Income Net Of Applicable Taxes [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.	$18,782	$157,264	$247,971	$305,582
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	155	146	414	335
Comprehensive income attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests	6,831	11,083	28,083	28,553
Comprehensive income	$25,768	$168,493	$276,468	$334,470

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Fair value of debt	$825,400,000	$485,200,000	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]	'	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	549,432,000	497,539,000	435,175,000
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member]	'	'	'
Assets [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - assets	2,527,000	1,235,000	'
Total assets	2,527,000	1,235,000	'
Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - liabilities	968,000	1,142,000	'
Total liabilities	968,000	1,142,000	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]	'	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	549,432,000	497,539,000	'
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Assets [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - assets	0	0	'
Total assets	0	0	'
Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - liabilities	0	0	'
Total liabilities	0	0	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]	'	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0	'
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Assets [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - assets	2,527,000	1,235,000	'
Total assets	2,527,000	1,235,000	'
Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - liabilities	968,000	1,142,000	'
Total liabilities	968,000	1,142,000	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]	'	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0	'
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Assets [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - assets	0	0	'
Total assets	0	0	'
Liabilities [Abstract]	'	'	'
Derivative contracts - liabilities	0	0	'
Total liabilities	0	0	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]	'	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	$549,432,000	$497,539,000	'

Business_Acquisitions_and_Dive1

Business Acquisitions and Divestiture (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014
					Middle East equity affiliate [Member]	SmartPak Equine, LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Acquired equity interest (in hundredths)	'	'	'	'	'	60.00%
Business acquisition, revenue reported by acquired entity for last annual period	'	'	'	'	'	$105,000,000
Business combination, contingent consideration arrangements, change in amount of contingent consideration, liability	'	'	0	0	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss on sale of equity investment	0	-12,535,000	0	-12,535,000	12,500,000	'
Loss on sale of equity investment per diluted share	'	'	'	'	$0.14	'
Payments related to sale of equity investment	'	'	$0	$13,364,000	$13,400,000	'

Plans_of_Restructuring_Details

Plans of Restructuring (Details) (USD $)

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Health Care Distribution [Member]

Health Care Distribution [Member]

Technology and Value-Added Services [Member]

Technology and Value-Added Services [Member]

Severance costs [Member]

Severance costs [Member]

Facility closing costs [Member]

Facility closing costs [Member]

2012 Restructuring

2015 Restructuring

2015 Restructuring

number

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Positions eliminated from operations (in positions)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200

'

'

Restructuring costs

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$0

$15,200,000

'

'

Restructuring costs, per diluted share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.12

'

'

Expected percentage of workforce eliminated (in hundredths)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.00%

3.00%

Restructuring costs, expected costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

35,000,000

40,000,000

Restructuring costs, expected costs per diluted share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.29

$0.33

Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance

711,000

3,057,000

711,000

3,043,000

0

14,000

227,000

1,826,000

484,000

1,231,000

'

'

'

Provision

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

15,200,000

'

'

Payments and other adjustments

-241,000

-2,346,000

-241,000

-2,332,000

0

-14,000

-102,000

-1,599,000

-139,000

-747,000

'

'

'

Restructuring Reserve, ending balance

$470,000

$711,000

$470,000

$711,000

$0

$0

$125,000

$227,000

$345,000

$484,000

'

'

'

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in shares)	84,095	85,646	84,506	86,208
Effect of dilutive securities:	'	'	'	'
Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units (in shares)	1,355	1,758	1,412	1,759
Diluted (in shares)	85,450	87,404	85,918	87,967

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Effective tax rate (in hundredths)	30.70%	28.30%
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in amount	'	$13,400,000
Effective tax rate without effect of reduction in valuation allowance (in hundredths)	'	31.10%
Unrecognized tax benefits	70,900,000	'
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect the effective tax rate if recognized	57,900,000	'
Total interest	13,700,000	'
Total penalites	$0	'

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

96 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

96 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Sep. 27, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 27, 2014

Employee and director stock options [Member]

Time-based restricted stock/units [Member]

Time-based restricted stock/units [Member]

Time-based restricted stock/units [Member]

Time-based restricted stock/units [Member]

Performance-based restricted stock/units [Member]

Performance-based restricted stock/units [Member]

Performance-based restricted stock/units [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended [Member]

1996 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan, as amended [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended [Member]

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pre-tax share-based compensation expense

$13,800,000

$8,000,000

$33,300,000

$24,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

After-tax share-based compensation expense

9,600,000

5,600,000

23,100,000

17,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards

94,400,000

'

94,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted-average period of recognition for unrecognized compensation costs on nonvested awards (in years)

'

'

'2 years 1 month 29 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of years for full vesting (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'4 years

'4 years

'1 year 1 month

'

'3 years

'3 years

Period over which earnings per share performance is measured against specified targets (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)

'

'

'

'

1,323,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Granted (in shares)

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercised (in shares)

'

'

'

'

-501,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Forfeited (in shares)

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Outstanding at end of period (in shares)

'

'

'

'

822,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ending balance, options exercisable (in shares)

'

'

'

'

822,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$51.53

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Granted (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercised (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$48.45

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Forfeited (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$53.40

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ending balance, options exercisable (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$53.40

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock option oustanding aggregate intrinsic value as of period end

'

'

'

'

52,379,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock option exercisable aggregate intrinsic value as of period end

'

'

'

'

$52,379,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average remaining contractual life, options outstanding (in years)

'

'

'

'

'2 years 6 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average remaining contractual life, options exercisable (in years)

'

'

'

'

'2 years 6 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Beginning balance outstanding (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

926,000

'

'

'

1,078,000

'

'

Granted (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

172,000

'

'

'

326,000

'

'

Vested (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

-229,000

'

'

'

-264,000

'

'

Forfeited (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

-29,000

'

'

'

-23,000

'

'

Ending balance outstanding (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

840,000

926,000

'

'

1,117,000

1,078,000

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Beginning balance outstanding (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

$70.70

'

'

'

$59.85

'

'

Granted (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

$118.67

'

'

'

$113.69

'

'

Vested (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

$57.66

'

'

'

$69.89

'

'

Forfeited (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

$84.62

'

'

'

$89.47

'

'

Ending balance outstanding (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

$83.62

$70.70

'

'

$76.11

$59.85

'

Intrinsic value (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

$117.13

'

'

'

$117.13

'

'

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Interest	'	'	$15,718	$16,969
Income taxes	'	'	141,233	82,869
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	($52)	($1,550)	($2,073)	($694)