IQVIA (IQV) 10-K 12 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 05, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	Q
Entity Registrant Name	Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1478242
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		124,315,113
Entity Public Float			$3,275,274,595

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]
Service revenues	$4,165,822	$3,808,340	$3,692,298
Reimbursed expenses	1,294,176	1,291,205	1,173,215
Total revenues	5,459,998	5,099,545	4,865,513
Costs of revenue, service costs	2,684,106	2,471,426	2,459,367
Costs of revenue, reimbursed expenses	1,294,176	1,291,205	1,173,215
Selling, general and administrative	882,338	860,510	817,755
Restructuring costs	8,988	14,071	18,741
Income from operations	590,390	462,333	396,435
Interest income	-3,410	-3,937	-3,067
Interest expense	100,589	123,508	134,371
Loss on extinguishment of debt		19,831	1,275
Other (income) expense, net	-8,978	-185	-3,572
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates	502,189	323,116	267,428
Income tax expense	150,056	95,965	93,364
Income before equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates	352,133	227,151	174,064
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates	4,368	-1,124	2,567
Net income	356,501	226,027	176,631
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	-118	564	915
Net income	$356,383	$226,591	$177,546
Earnings per share attributable to common shareholders:
Basic	$2.78	$1.83	$1.53
Diluted	$2.72	$1.77	$1.51
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic	127,994	124,147	115,710
Diluted	131,083	127,862	117,796

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$356,501	$226,027	$176,631
Unrealized (losses) gains on marketable securities, net of income taxes of ($376), $2,016 and $258	-600	3,225	400
Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of ($1,767), ($751) and ($4,392)	-5,067	358	-6,306
Foreign currency translation, net of income taxes of ($2,101), ($2,465) and $2,964	-47,807	-22,663	-8,983
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of income taxes of ($2,981), ($131) and ($1,444)	-7,237	2,278	-3,172
Reclassification adjustments:
Gains on marketable securities included in net income, net of income taxes of ($1,927)	-3,077
Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, net of income taxes of $4,022, $4,991 and $1,313	4,608	8,089	2,188
Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, net of income taxes of $275, $389 and $446	468	655	723
Comprehensive income	297,789	217,969	161,481
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	-121	551	889
Comprehensive income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.	$297,668	$218,520	$162,370

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Unrealized (losses) gains on marketable securities, income taxes	($376)	$2,016	$258
Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, income taxes	-1,767	-751	-4,392
Foreign currency translation, income taxes	-2,101	-2,465	2,964
Defined benefit plan adjustment, income taxes	-2,981	-131	-1,444
Gains on marketable securities included in net income, income taxes	-1,927
Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, income taxes	4,022	4,991	1,313
Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, income taxes	$275	$389	$446

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$867,358	$778,143
Restricted cash	2,882	2,712
Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net	975,255	924,205
Prepaid expenses	44,628	42,801
Deferred income taxes	118,515	92,115
Income taxes receivable	45,357	16,171
Other current assets and receivables	92,088	89,541
Total current assets	2,146,083	1,945,688
Property and equipment, net	190,297	199,578
Investments in debt, equity and other securities	34,503	40,349
Investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates	31,508	22,927
Goodwill	464,434	409,626
Other identifiable intangibles, net	280,243	298,054
Deferred income taxes	35,972	32,864
Deposits and other assets	122,792	117,711
Total assets	3,305,832	3,066,797
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	108,743	100,616
Accrued expenses	733,644	761,189
Unearned income	543,305	538,585
Income taxes payable	55,694	35,778
Current portion of long-term debt and obligations held under capital leases	826	10,433
Other current liabilities	29,688	35,646
Total current liabilities	1,471,900	1,482,247
Long-term debt and obligations held under capital leases, less current portion	2,292,491	2,035,586
Deferred income taxes	61,797	37,541
Other liabilities	183,656	178,908
Total liabilities	4,009,844	3,734,282
Commitments and contingencies (Note 1)
Shareholders' deficit:
Common stock and additional paid-in capital, 300,000 shares authorized, $0.01 par value, 124,129 and 129,652 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	143,828	478,144
Accumulated deficit	-788,798	-1,145,181
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-59,091	-376
Deficit attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.'s shareholders	-704,061	-667,413
Noncontrolling interests	49	-72
Total shareholders' deficit	-704,012	-667,485
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	$3,305,832	$3,066,797

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common stock, shares authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares issued	124,129,000	129,652,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	124,129,000	129,652,000	115,763,510	115,966,141

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating activities:
Net income	$356,501	$226,027	$176,631
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	121,013	107,504	98,288
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discount	6,688	21,825	9,237
Share-based compensation	30,001	22,826	25,926
Gain on disposals of property and equipment, net	-975	-1,153	-541
(Earnings) loss from unconsolidated affiliates	-4,346	1,004	-2,499
(Gain) loss on investments, net	-4,797	-183	70
(Benefit from) provision for deferred income taxes	-6,168	-24,236	16,595
Excess income tax benefits from share-based award activities	-20,303	-16,204	-465
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable and unbilled services	-78,630	-151,681	-60,255
Prepaid expenses and other assets	-40,832	-18,576	-27,013
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	45,804	107,047	58,345
Unearned income	19,943	71,852	54,502
Income taxes payable and other liabilities	7,855	47,319	-13,120
Net cash provided by operating activities	431,754	393,371	335,701
Investing activities:
Acquisition of property, equipment and software	-82,650	-88,347	-71,336
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired	-92,201	-144,970	-43,197
Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment	1,611	2,021	2,729
Purchase of equity securities			-13,204
Proceeds from sale of equity securities	5,861	60	70
Investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates, net of payments received	-4,472	-7,353	-3,646
Proceeds from (payments made for) sale of investment in unconsolidated affiliates		2,335	-577
Other	-1,263	78	-3,072
Net cash used in investing activities	-173,114	-236,176	-132,233
Financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of debt	275,000	2,060,755	2,441,017
Payment of debt issuance costs	-1,455	-2,607	-9,728
Repayment of debt	-30,157	-2,444,600	-1,995,472
Proceeds from revolving credit facility	150,000
Repayment of revolving credit facility	-150,000
Principal payments on capital lease obligations	-2,612	-3,812	-5,407
Contingent consideration paid	-3,000
Issuance of common stock		525,000	3,116
Payment of common stock issuance costs	-105	-35,439
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and option plans	35,228	12,539	350
Repurchase of common stock	-415,131	-6,434	-13,363
Repurchase of stock options	-8,415	-50,649
Excess income tax benefits from share-based award activities	20,303	16,204	465
Dividends paid to common shareholders			-567,851
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-130,344	70,957	-146,873
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash	-39,081	-17,737	-5,166
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	89,215	210,415	51,429
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	778,143	567,728	516,299
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$867,358	$778,143	$567,728

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_SHA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIT (USD $)	Total	(Accumulated Deficit) [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
In Thousands
Beginning Balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2011	($969,596)	($994,415)	$22,871	$1,160		$788
Issuance of common stock, Value	3,466			3	3,463
Repurchase of common stock, Value	-13,363			-5	-13,358
Share-based compensation	25,774				25,774
Income tax benefits from share-based award activities	465				465
Cash dividends paid to common shareholders	-567,851	-554,903			-12,948
Investment by noncontrolling interest	580					580
Net income	176,631	177,546				-915
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax	400		400
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net of tax	-6,306		-6,306
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	2,911		2,911
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of tax	-3,172		-3,172
Foreign currency translation, net of tax	-8,983		-9,009			26
Ending Balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2012	-1,359,044	-1,371,772	7,695	1,158	3,396	479
Issuance of common stock, Value	537,539			141	537,398
Stock issuance costs	-35,439				-35,439
Repurchase of common stock, Value	-6,434			-2	-6,432
Repurchase of stock options	-59,064				-59,064
Share-based compensation	20,784				20,784
Income tax benefits from share-based award activities	16,204				16,204
Net income	226,027	226,591				-564
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax	3,225		3,225
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net of tax	358		358
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	8,744		8,744
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of tax	2,278		2,278
Foreign currency translation, net of tax	-22,663		-22,676			13
Ending Balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2013	-667,485	-1,145,181	-376	1,297	476,847	-72
Issuance of common stock, Value	35,302			21	35,281
Stock issuance costs	-105				-105
Repurchase of common stock, Value	-415,131			-76	-415,055
Share-based compensation	25,315				25,315
Income tax benefits from share-based award activities	20,303				20,303
Net income	356,501	356,383				118
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax	-600		-600
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net of tax	-5,067		-5,067
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	1,999		1,999
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of tax	-7,237		-7,237
Foreign currency translation, net of tax	-47,807		-47,810			3
Ending Balance, Value at Dec. 31, 2014	($704,012)	($788,798)	($59,091)	$1,242	$142,586	$49

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_SHA1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' DEFICIT (Parenthetical)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Shares	129,652,000	115,763,510	115,966,141
Issuance of common stock, Shares	2,068,608	14,041,620	306,025
Repurchase of common stock, Shares	7,591,175	153,223	508,656
Ending Balance, Shares	124,129,000	129,652,000	115,763,510

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	The Company
	Conducting business in approximately 100 countries with approximately 32,600 employees, Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a provider of pharmaceutical development services and commercial outsourcing services that helps its biopharmaceutical customers, as well as customers in the broader healthcare industry, to make decisions regarding drug development, commercialization and drug therapy choices. The Company also offers a number of services designed to address the outcomes and analytical needs of the broader healthcare industry.
	Reclassifications
	Certain immaterial prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. These changes had no effect on previously reported total revenues, net income, comprehensive income or shareholders’ deficit.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of the Company and its subsidiaries. Amounts pertaining to the noncontrolling ownership interests held in third parties in the operating results and financial position of the Company’s majority-owned subsidiaries are reported as noncontrolling interests. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. These estimates are based on historical experience and various other assumptions believed reasonable under the circumstances. The Company evaluates its estimates on an ongoing basis and makes changes to the estimates and related disclosures as experience develops or new information becomes known. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
	Foreign Currencies
	The Company’s financial statements are reported in United States dollars and, accordingly, fluctuations in exchange rates will affect the translation of its revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies into United States dollars for purposes of reporting its consolidated financial results. Assets and liabilities recorded in foreign currencies on the books of foreign subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues, costs and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange during the year. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are charged or credited to the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) component of shareholders’ deficit. The Company is subject to foreign currency transaction risk for fluctuations in exchange rates during the period of time between the consummation and cash settlement of a transaction. The Company earns revenue from its service contracts over a period of several months and, in some cases, over a period of several years. Accordingly, exchange rate fluctuations during this period may affect the Company’s profitability with respect to such contracts. Other (income) expense, net includes foreign currency net losses for 2014, 2013 and 2012 of approximately $4.9 million, $4.0 million and $1.1 million, respectively.
	Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Investments
	The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an initial maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The Company’s restricted cash primarily consisted of amounts collateralizing standby letters of credit issued in favor of certain suppliers and health insurance funds. Investments in marketable equity securities are classified as available-for-sale and measured at fair market value with net unrealized gains and losses recorded in the AOCI component of shareholders’ deficit until realized. The fair market value is based on the closing price as quoted by the respective stock exchange. In addition, the Company has investments in equity securities of companies for which there are not readily available market values and for which the Company does not exercise significant influence or control; such investments are accounted for using the cost method. Any gains or losses from the sales of investments or other-than-temporary declines in fair value are computed by specific identification.
	Equity Method Investments
	The Company’s investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates are accounted for under the equity method if the Company exercises significant influence or has an investment in a limited partnership that is considered to be greater than minor. These investments and advances are classified as investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company records its pro rata share of the earnings, adjusted for accretion of basis difference, of these investments in equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates on the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The Company reviews its investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable.
	Derivatives
	The Company uses derivative instruments to manage exposures to interest rates and foreign currencies. The Company also holds freestanding warrants. Derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value at each balance sheet date utilizing pricing models for non-exchange-traded contracts. At inception, the Company designates whether or not the derivative instrument is an effective hedge of an asset, liability or firm commitment which is then classified as either a cash flow hedge or a fair value hedge. If determined to be an effective cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded as a component of AOCI until realized. We include the impact from these hedges in the same line item as the hedged item on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Changes in fair value of effective fair value hedges are recorded in earnings as an offset to the changes in the fair value of the related hedged item. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is immediately recognized in earnings. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that are not an effective hedge are recognized in earnings. The Company has entered, and may in the future enter, into derivative contracts (swaps, forwards, calls or puts, warrants, for example) related to its debt, investments in marketable equity securities and forecasted foreign currency transactions.
	Billed and Unbilled Services and Unearned Income
	In general, prerequisites for billings and payments are established by contractual provisions including predetermined payment schedules, which may or may not correspond to the timing of the performance of services under the contract. Unbilled services arise when services have been rendered for which revenue has been recognized but the customers have not been billed.
	In some cases, payments received are in excess of revenue recognized. Payments received in advance of services being provided are deferred as unearned income on the consolidated balance sheet. As the contracted services are subsequently performed and the associated revenue is recognized, the unearned income balance is reduced by the amount of the revenue recognized during the period.
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	The Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on a variety of factors that affect the potential collectability of the related receivables, including length of time the receivables are past due, customer credit ratings, financial stability of the customer, specific one-time events and past customer history. In addition, in circumstances where the Company is made aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific allowance is established. The accounts are individually evaluated on a regular basis and appropriate reserves are established as deemed appropriate based on the above criteria.
	Receivables Financing Facility
	Advances received under the Company’s receivables financing facility are accounted for as borrowings secured by the receivables and included in net cash provided by financing activities. The Company services the collateralized accounts receivable and the cash flows for the underlying receivables are included in cash provided by operating activities. The collateralized accounts receivable are included in trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net.
	Business Combinations
	Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method, and accordingly, the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree are recorded at their estimated fair values on the date of the acquisition. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets. When a business combination involves contingent consideration, the Company recognizes a liability equal to the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration obligation at the date of the acquisition. Subsequent changes in the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized in earnings in the period of the change.
	Long-Lived Assets
	Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over the shorter of the asset’s estimated useful life or the lease term, if related to leased property, as follows:
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		3 - 40 years
	Equipment		3 - 10 years
	Furniture and fixtures		5 - 10 years
	Motor vehicles		3 - 5   years
	Definite-lived identifiable intangible assets are amortized primarily using an accelerated method that reflects the pattern in which the Company expects to benefit from the use of the asset over its estimated remaining useful life as follows:
	Trademarks and trade names		3 - 7   years
	Product licensing and distribution rights		1        year
	Non-compete agreements		1 - 4   years
	Contract backlog and customer relationships		1 - 11 years
	Software and related assets		3 - 10 years
	Goodwill and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets, which consist of certain trade names, are not amortized but evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate an impairment.
	Included in software and related items is the capitalized cost of internal-use software used in supporting the Company’s business. Qualifying costs incurred during the application development stage are capitalized and amortized over their estimated useful lives. The Company recognized $33.1 million, $32.2 million and $27.4 million of amortization expense in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to software and related assets.
	The carrying values of property, equipment and intangible and other long-lived assets are reviewed for recoverability if the facts and circumstances suggest that a potential impairment may have occurred. If this review indicates that carrying values will not be recoverable, as determined based on undiscounted cash flow projections, the Company will record an impairment charge to reduce carrying values to estimated fair value. There were no events, facts or circumstances in 2014, 2013 and 2012 that resulted in any impairment charges to the Company’s property, equipment, intangible or other long-lived assets.
	Revenue Recognition
	The Company recognizes revenue when all of the following conditions are satisfied: (1) there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement; (2) the service offering has been delivered to the customer; (3) the collection of the fees is probable; and (4) the arrangement consideration is fixed or determinable. The Company’s arrangements are primarily service contracts that range in duration from a few months to several years. Most contracts may be terminated upon 30 to 90 days notice by the customer, however, in the event of termination, contract provisions typically require payment for services rendered through the date of termination, as well as for subsequent services rendered to close out the contract.
	In some cases, contracts provide for consideration that is contingent upon the occurrence of uncertain future events. The Company recognizes contingent revenue when the contingency has been resolved and all other criteria for revenue recognition have been met. The Company treats cash payments to customers as incentives to induce the customers to enter into such a service agreement with the Company. The related asset is amortized as a reduction of revenue over the period the services are performed. The Company records revenues net of any tax assessments by governmental authorities, such as value added taxes, that are imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue generating transactions. The Company does not recognize revenue with respect to start-up activities including contract and scope negotiation, feasibility analysis and conflict of interest review associated with contracts. The costs for these activities are expensed as incurred.
	For the arrangements that include multiple elements, arrangement consideration is allocated to units of accounting based on the relative selling price. The best evidence of selling price of a unit of accounting is vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”), which is the price the Company charges when the deliverable is sold separately. When VSOE is not available to determine selling price, management uses relevant third-party evidence (“TPE”) of selling price, if available. When neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists, management uses its best estimate of selling price considering all relevant information that is available without undue cost and effort.
	The majority of the Company’s contracts within the Product Development segment are service contracts for clinical research that represent a single unit of accounting. The Company recognizes revenue on its clinical research services contracts as services are performed primarily on a proportional-performance basis, generally using output measures that are specific to the service provided. Examples of output measures include among others, number of investigators enrolled, number of site initiation visits and number of monitoring visits completed. Revenue is determined by dividing the actual units of work completed by the total units of work required under the contract and multiplying that ratio by the total contract value. The total contract value, or total contractual payments, represents the aggregate contracted price for each of the agreed upon services to be provided. Changes in the scope of work are common, especially under long-term contracts, and generally result in a change in contract value. Once the customer has agreed to the changes in scope and renegotiated pricing terms, the contract value is amended and revenue is recognized, as described above. To the extent that contracts involve multiple elements, the Company follows the allocation methodology described above and recognizes revenue for each unit of accounting on a proportional performance basis.
	The Company derives the majority of its revenues in its Integrated Healthcare Services segment from providing commercialization services on a fee-for-service basis to customers within the biopharmaceutical industry. Fees on these arrangements are billed based on a contractual per-diem or hourly rate basis. The Company recognizes revenue on commercialization services contracts primarily on a time and materials basis. Some of the Company’s commercialization contracts are multiple element arrangements, with elements including recruiting, training and deployment of sales representatives. The nature of the terms of these multiple element arrangements will vary based on the customized needs of the Company’s customers. For contracts that have multiple elements, the Company follows the allocation methodology described above and recognizes revenue for each unit of accounting on a time and materials basis. The Company’s commercialization contracts sometimes include variable fees that are based on a percentage of product sales (royalty payments). The Company recognizes revenue on royalty payments when the variable components become fixed or determinable and all other revenue recognition criteria have been met, which generally only occurs upon the sale of the underlying product(s) and upon the Company’s receipt of information necessary to make a reasonable estimate.
	Reimbursed Expenses
	The Company includes reimbursed expenses in total revenues and costs of revenue as the Company is deemed to be the primary obligor in the applicable arrangements. These costs include such items as payments to investigators and travel expenses for the Company’s clinical monitors and sales representatives.
	Expenses
	Costs of revenue include reimbursed expenses, compensation and benefits for billable employees, depreciation of assets used in generating revenue and other expenses directly related to service contracts such as courier fees and laboratory supplies for the Company’s laboratory services, professional services and travel expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses primarily include costs related to administrative functions such as compensation and benefits, travel, professional services, training and expenses for advertising, information technology, facilities and depreciation and amortization.
	Concentration of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments that subject the Company to credit risk primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and accounts receivable. The Company maintains its cash and cash equivalent balances with high-quality financial institutions and, consequently, the Company believes that such funds are subject to minimal credit risk. Investment policies have been implemented that limit purchases of marketable securities to investment grade securities. Substantially all service revenues for Product Development and Integrated Healthcare Services are earned by performing services under contracts with various pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and healthcare companies. The concentration of credit risk is equal to the outstanding accounts receivable and unbilled services balances, less the unearned income related thereto, and such risk is subject to the financial and industry conditions of the Company’s customers. The Company does not require collateral or other securities to support customer receivables. Credit losses have been immaterial and reasonably within management’s expectations. No customer accounted for 10.0% or more of consolidated service revenues in 2014, 2013 or 2012.
	Research and Development Costs
	Research and development costs consist primarily of employee compensation and related expenses and information technology contract services. The following is a summary of the research and development expenses (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Internally developed software applications and computer technology	$	4,980	$	3,955	$	9,907
	Funding of customer’s research and development activity		811		1,000		—
	Collaboration agreement with HUYA		—		—		519
		$	5,791	$	4,955	$	10,426
	In January 2010, the Company entered into a collaboration agreement with a related party, HUYA Bioscience International, LLC (“HUYA”), to fund up to $2.3 million of its research and development activity for a specific compound. The funding consisted of $1.0 million in cash which was paid and expensed in 2010 and $1.3 million of services provided by the Company, which have been fully provided. In return for the $2.3 million in funding, the Company had the potential to receive additional consideration which contractually may not exceed $16.5 million excluding interest if certain events were to occur. In February 2015, the Company and HUYA agreed to terminate the collaboration agreement. In connection with the termination, HUYA agreed to pay the Company $5.0 million to satisfy all of HUYA’s various payment obligations under the collaboration agreement.
	Advertising Costs
	Advertising costs, which include the development and production of advertising materials and the communication of these materials, are charged to expense as incurred. The Company incurred approximately $16.0 million, $14.8 million and $14.5 million in advertising expense in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Restructuring Costs
Restructuring costs, which primarily include termination benefits and facility closure costs, are recorded at estimated fair value. Key assumptions in determining the restructuring costs include the terms and payments that may be negotiated to terminate certain contractual obligations and the timing of employees leaving the Company.
Contingencies
The Company records accruals for claims, suits, investigations and proceedings when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company reviews claims, suits, investigations and proceedings at least quarterly and records or adjusts accruals related to such matters to reflect the impact and status of any settlements, rulings, advice of counsel or other information pertinent to a particular matter. Legal costs associated with contingencies are charged to expense as incurred.
The Company is party to legal proceedings incidental to its business. While the outcome of these matters could differ from management’s expectations, the Company does not believe the resolution of these matters has a reasonable possibility of having a material adverse effect to the Company’s financial statements.
Income Taxes
Income tax expense includes United States federal, state and international income taxes. Certain items of income and expense are not reported in income tax returns and financial statements in the same year. The income tax effects of these differences are reported as deferred income taxes. Valuation allowances are provided to reduce the related deferred income tax assets to an amount which will, more likely than not, be realized. Beginning in 2013, the undistributed earnings of most of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States. Accordingly, a deferred income tax liability has not been provided related to those undistributed earnings. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized income tax benefits are recognized as a component of income tax expense as discussed further in Note 16.
Employee Stock Compensation
The Company accounts for share-based compensation for stock options and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) under the fair value method and uses the Black-Scholes-Merton model to estimate the value of such share-based awards granted to its employees and non-executive directors. Expected volatility is based upon the historical volatility of a peer group for a period equal to the expected term, as the Company does not have adequate history to calculate its own volatility and believes the expected volatility will approximate the historical volatility of the peer group. Prior to the completion of the Company’s initial public offering (“IPO”) on May 14, 2013, the expected dividends were based on the historical dividends paid by the Company, excluding dividends that resulted from activities that the Company deemed to be one-time in nature. Following the IPO, the Company does not currently anticipate paying dividends. The expected term represents the period of time the grants are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate is based on the United States Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant.
The Company accounts for its share-based compensation for restricted stock units (“RSUs”) based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.
The Company recognized share-based compensation expense of $30.0 million, $22.8 million and $25.9 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Share-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses on the accompanying consolidated statements of income based upon the classification of the employees who were granted the share-based awards. The associated future income tax benefit recognized was $7.6 million, $8.1 million and $6.9 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, there was approximately $38.4 million of total unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to outstanding non-vested share-based compensation arrangements, which the Company expects to recognize over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.
Earnings Per Share
The calculation of earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of common shares or common stock equivalents outstanding during the applicable period. The dilutive effect of common stock equivalents is excluded from basic earnings per share and is included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share. Potentially dilutive securities include outstanding stock options, shares to be purchased under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan (see Note 17) and unvested RSUs.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In May 2014, the United States Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board issued a converged standard on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The objective of the new standard is to establish a single comprehensive revenue recognition model that is designed to create greater comparability of financial statements across industries and jurisdictions. Under the new standard, companies will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new standard also will require expanded disclosures on revenue recognition and changes in assets and liabilities that result from contracts with customers. The Company will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2017, as required. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new standard on its consolidated financial statements.

Accounts_Receivable_and_Unbill

Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services	2. Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services
	Accounts receivable and unbilled services consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Trade:
	Billed	$	444,941		$	408,959
	Unbilled services		532,312			516,942
			977,253			925,901
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(1,998	)		(1,696	)
		$	975,255		$	924,205
	Substantially all of the Company’s trade accounts receivable and unbilled services are due from companies in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and healthcare industries and are a result of contract research, sales, marketing, healthcare consulting and health information management services provided by the Company on a global basis. The percentage of accounts receivable and unbilled services by region is as follows:
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Americas:
	United States		55	%		53	%
	Other		2			2
	Americas		57			55
	Europe and Africa:
	United Kingdom		23			25
	Other		11			12
	Europe and Africa		34			37
	Asia-Pacific:
	Japan		4			4
	Other		5			4
	Asia-Pacific		9			8
			100	%		100	%

InvestmentsDebt_Equity_and_Oth

Investments-Debt, Equity and Other Securities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments-Debt, Equity and Other Securities	3. Investments—Debt, Equity and Other Securities
	The following is a summary of the Company’s debt, equity and other securities (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Marketable securities	$	831	$	7,668
	Cost method		33,672		32,681
		$	34,503	$	40,349
	Investments in Marketable Securities:
	The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Available-for-Sale Securities	Amortized Cost		Gross			Market Value		Amortized Cost		Gross		Market Value
				Unrealized							Unrealized
				Loss							Gains
	Marketable equity	$	1,103	$	(272	)	$	831	$	1,960	$	5,708	$	7,668
	The Company recognized a $5.0 million gain from the sale of marketable equity securities in 2014. The Company did not recognize any gains from the sale of marketable equity securities in 2013 and 2012. The Company did not recognize any losses from the sale of marketable equity securities in 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	The net after-tax adjustment to unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities included in the AOCI component of shareholders’ deficit was ($170,000), $3.5 million and $284,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The Company’s policy is to continually review declines in fair value of marketable equity securities for declines that may be other than temporary. As part of this review, the Company considers the financial statements of the investee, analysts’ reports, duration of the decline in fair value and general market factors. The Company did not recognize any such losses in 2014, 2013 and 2012. At December 31, 2014, the marketable equity security was in an unrealized loss position. This investment has been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year as of December 31, 2014 and is expected to recover its value.
	Investments—Cost Method
	The Company has investments in equity securities of companies for which there are not readily available market values and for which the Company does not exercise significant influence or control. These investments are accounted for using the cost method. Below is a summary of the Company’s portfolio of cost method investments (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Equity investments	$	32,516	$	32,516
	Convertible notes		1,156		165
		$	33,672	$	32,681
	On February 25, 2011, the Company and the Samsung Group entered into an agreement to form a joint venture intended to provide biopharmaceutical contract manufacturing services in South Korea. The Company committed to invest up to $30.0 million for a noncontrolling interest and has funded all of this commitment. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has an approximately 3.0% and 5.1%, respectively, ownership interest in the joint venture.
	In December 2011, the Company and Intarcia Therapeutics (“Intarcia”) entered into an alliance to develop a new therapy for type 2 diabetes whereby Intarcia will use the Company to conduct Phase III pivotal trials and a cardiovascular outcomes trial. Under the alliance, the Company provided Intarcia a customer incentive of $12.5 million and acquired $5.0 million of preferred stock of Intarcia. The customer incentive is being amortized in proportion to the revenues earned as a reduction of revenue recorded under the service arrangements. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the customer incentive of $7.1 million and $10.7 million, respectively, was recorded in deposits and other assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The $5.0 million investment in preferred stock of Intarcia is recorded in “investments—debt, equity and other securities” on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
	The Company reviews the carrying value of each individual investment at each balance sheet date to determine whether or not an other-than-temporary decline in fair value has occurred. The Company employs alternative valuation techniques including the following: (i) the review of financial statements including assessments of liquidity, (ii) the review of valuations available to the Company prepared by independent third parties used in raising capital, (iii) the review of publicly available information including press releases and (iv) direct communications with the investee’s management, as appropriate. If the review indicates that such a decline in fair value has occurred, the Company adjusts the carrying value to the estimated fair value of the investment and recognizes a loss for the amount of the adjustment.

Investments_in_and_Advances_to

Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates, Schedule of Investments [Abstract]
Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates	4. Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates
	The Company accounts for its investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates under the equity method of accounting and records its pro rata share of its losses or earnings from these investments in equity in (losses) earnings of unconsolidated affiliates. The following is a summary of the Company’s investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund III, L.P.	$	22,633	$	11,792
	Oxford Cancer Biomarkers		—		4,141
	Cenduit™		8,271		6,431
	Other		604		563
		$	31,508	$	22,927
	NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Funds
	In November 2010, the Company committed to invest up to $60 million as a limited partner in NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund III, L.P. (“the Fund”). In November 2013, the Company sold $10.0 million of this commitment, thus, reducing the total commitment to $50.0 million. The Company had funded approximately $2.9 million of this commitment which had a carrying value of approximately $2.2 million. The Company received approximately $2.3 million for the funded portion of the commitment it sold. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has approximately $25.0 million of remaining funding commitments to the Fund. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has a 10.9% ownership interest in the Fund.
	In February 2015, the Company committed to invest up to $20 million as a limited partner in a new private equity fund, NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund IV, L.P.
	Oxford Cancer Biomarkers
	In January 2012, the Company invested approximately $4.7 million in Oxford Cancer Biomarkers (“OCB”). The Company has a 30.0% ownership interest in Oxford Cancer Biomarkers. During 2014, the Company recognized a loss of $3.5 million due to a decline in fair value of OCB that was deemed by management to be other than temporary.
	Cenduit™
	In May 2007, the Company and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (“Thermo Fisher”) completed the formation of a joint venture, Cenduit™. The Company contributed its Interactive Response Technology operations in India and the United States. Thermo Fisher contributed its Fisher Clinical Services Interactive Response Technology operations in three locations—the United Kingdom, the United States and Switzerland. Additionally, each company contributed $3.5 million in initial capital. The Company and Thermo Fisher each own 50% of Cenduit™.

Derivatives

Derivatives	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives	5. Derivatives
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company held the following derivative positions: (i) freestanding warrants to purchase shares of common stock of third parties, (ii) forward exchange contracts to protect against foreign exchange movements for certain forecasted foreign currency cash flows related to service contracts and (iii) interest rate swaps to hedge the exposure to variability in interest payments on variable interest rate debt. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes.
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company had freestanding warrants to purchase shares of third parties’ common stock. No quoted price is available for the warrants. Accordingly, the Company uses various valuation techniques to value the warrants, including the present value of estimated expected future cash flows, option-pricing models and fundamental analysis. Factors affecting the valuation include the current price of the underlying common stock, the exercise price of the warrants, the expected time to exercise the warrants, the estimated price volatility of the underlying common stock over the life of the warrants and the restrictions on the transferability of or ability to exercise the warrants. The Company did not sell any warrants in 2014, 2013 or 2012.
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company had 13 open foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge certain forecasted foreign currency cash flow transactions occurring in 2015 with notional amounts totaling $76.0 million. As of December 31, 2013, the Company had 12 open foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge certain forecasted foreign currency transactions which occurred in 2014 with notional amounts totaling $60.8 million. As these contracts were executed to hedge the risk of the potential volatility in the cash flows resulting from fluctuations in currency exchange rates during the first nine months of 2015, these transactions are accounted for as cash flow hedges. As such, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the contracts is recorded as unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives included in the AOCI component of shareholders’ deficit. These hedges are highly effective. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had recorded gross unrealized losses of $4.6 million and gains of $3.95 million, respectively, related to foreign exchange forward contracts. Upon expiration of the hedge instruments in 2015, the Company will reclassify the unrealized holding gains and losses on the derivative instruments included in AOCI into earnings. The unrealized losses are included in other current liabilities and the unrealized gains are included in other current assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2011, the Company, through its acquired subsidiary, Outcome Sciences, Inc. (“Outcome”), had open foreign exchange forward contracts to protect against the effects of foreign currency fluctuations on certain foreign currency cash flow transactions occurring in 2012. The derivative instruments that matured in 2012 had not been designated as hedges and, as a result, changes in the fair value were recorded as other (income) expense, net. The Company recognized $588,000 of losses related to these foreign exchange forward contracts as other (income) expense, net on the accompanying consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012. All of these contracts matured in 2012.
	On June 9, 2011, the Company entered into six interest rate swaps effective September 28, 2012 and expiring between September 30, 2013 and March 31, 2016 in an effort to limit its exposure to changes in the variable interest rate on its senior secured credit facilities. The critical terms of the interest rate swaps were substantially the same as those of the Company’s senior secured credit facilities, including quarterly interest settlements. These interest rate swaps are being accounted for as cash flow hedges as these transactions were executed to hedge the Company’s interest payments, and these hedges are deemed to be highly effective. As such, changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments are recorded as unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives included in the AOCI component of shareholders’ deficit. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the unrealized losses included in AOCI were $14.4 million and $24.8 million, respectively. The fair value of these interest rate swaps represents the present value of the anticipated net payments the Company will make to the counterparty, which, when they occur, are reflected as interest expense on the consolidated statements of income. These payments, together with the variable rate of interest incurred on the underlying debt, result in a fixed rate of interest of 2.57% plus the applicable margin on the affected borrowings ($910.0 million or 44.8% of the Company’s variable rate debt under its senior secured credit facilities at December 31, 2014). The Company expects that $12.2 million of unrealized losses will be reclassified out of AOCI and will form the interest rate swap component of the 2.57% fixed rate of interest to be incurred over the next 12 months as the underlying net payments are settled.
	The fair values of the Company’s derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments and the line items on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets to which they were recorded are summarized in the following table (in thousands):
				December 31,
		Balance Sheet Classification		2014				2013
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other current assets		$	—			$	3,950
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other current liabilities		$	4,635			$	—
	Interest rate swaps	Other current liabilities		$	14,424			$	24,805
	The effect of the Company’s cash flow hedging instruments on other comprehensive income (loss) is summarized in the following table (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	(8,585	)		$	3,485			$	2,327
	Interest rate swaps		10,381				9,202				(9,524	)
	Total	$	1,796			$	12,687			$	(7,197	)

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	6. Fair Value Measurements
	The Company records certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value is described below. This hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:
		•		Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
		•		Level 2—Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
		•		Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.
	Recurring Fair Value Measurements
	The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
			Level 1			Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Marketable equity securities		$	831		$	—	$	—	$	831
	Warrants			—			—		4		4
	Total		$	831		$	—	$	4	$	835
	Liabilities:
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	—		$	4,635	$	—	$	4,635
	Interest rate swaps			—			14,424		—		14,424
	Contingent consideration			—			—		1,452		1,452
	Total		$	—		$	19,059	$	1,452	$	20,511
	The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
			Level 1			Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Marketable equity securities		$	7,668		$	—	$	—	$	7,668
	Foreign exchange forward contracts			—			3,950		—		3,950
	Warrants			—			—		211		211
	Total		$	7,668		$	3,950	$	211	$	11,829
	Liabilities:
	Interest rate swaps		$	—		$	24,805	$	—	$	24,805
	Contingent consideration			—			—		13,014		13,014
	Total		$	—		$	24,805	$	13,014	$	37,819
	Below is a summary of the valuation techniques used in determining fair value:
	Marketable equity securities—The Company values marketable equity securities utilizing quoted market prices.
	Foreign exchange forward contracts—The Company values foreign exchange forward contracts using quoted market prices for identical instruments in less active markets or using other observable inputs.
	Warrants—The Company values warrants utilizing the Black-Scholes-Merton model.
	Interest rate swaps—The Company values interest rate swaps using market inputs with mid-market pricing as a practical expedient for bid-ask spread.
	Contingent consideration—The Company values contingent consideration related to business combinations using a weighted probability calculation of potential payment scenarios discounted at rates reflective of the risks associated with the expected future cash flows. Key assumptions used to estimate the fair value of contingent consideration include revenue, net new business and operating forecasts and the probability of achieving the specific targets.
	The following table summarizes the changes in Level 3 financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis for the year ended December 31 (in thousands):
			Warrants—Deposits							Contingent Consideration—Accrued
			and Other Assets							Expenses and Other Liabilities
			2014			2013		2012		2014			2013			2012
	Balance as of January 1		$	211		$	29	$	12	$	13,014		$	3,521		$	6,165
	Initial estimate of contingent consideration			—			—		—		—			14,300			1,990
	Contingent consideration paid			—			—		—		(3,000	)		—			—
	Revaluations included in earnings			(207	)		182		17		(8,562	)		(4,807	)		(4,634	)
	Balance as of December 31		$	4		$	211	$	29	$	1,452		$	13,014		$	3,521
	The revaluations for the warrants and the contingent consideration are recognized in other (income) expense, net on the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
	Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements
	Certain assets are carried on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at cost and are not remeasured to fair value on a recurring basis. These assets include cost and equity method investments and loans that are written down to fair value for declines which are deemed to be other-than-temporary, and goodwill and identifiable intangible assets which are tested for impairment annually and when a triggering event occurs.
	As of December 31, 2014, assets carried on the balance sheet and not remeasured to fair value on a recurring basis totaling approximately $809.8 million were identified as Level 3. These assets are comprised of cost and equity method investments of $65.2 million, goodwill of $464.4 million and other identifiable intangibles, net of $280.2 million.
	The Company has unfunded cash commitments totaling approximately $25.0 million related to its cost and equity method investments as of December 31, 2014.
	Cost and Equity Method Investments—The inputs available for valuing investments in non-public portfolio companies are generally not easily observable. The valuation of non-public investments requires significant judgment by the Company due to the absence of quoted market values, inherent lack of liquidity and the long-term nature of such assets. When a triggering event occurs, the Company considers a wide range of available market data when assessing the estimated fair value. Such market data includes observations of the trading multiples of public companies considered comparable to the private companies being valued as well as publicly disclosed merger transactions involving comparable private companies. In addition, valuations are adjusted to account for company-specific issues, the lack of liquidity inherent in a non-public investment and the fact that comparable public companies are not identical to the companies being valued. Such valuation adjustments are necessary because in the absence of a committed buyer and completion of due diligence similar to that performed in an actual negotiated sale process, there may be company-specific issues that are not fully known that may affect value. Further, a variety of additional factors are reviewed by the Company, including, but not limited to, financing and sales transactions with third parties, current operating performance and future expectations of the particular investment, changes in market outlook and the third party financing environment. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuations, estimated valuations may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market for the securities existed, and the differences could be material.
	Goodwill—Goodwill represents the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the identifiable tangible and intangible net assets resulting from business combinations. The Company performs a qualitative analysis to determine whether it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its book value. This includes a qualitative analysis of macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, internal cost factors, financial performance, fair value history and other company specific events. If this qualitative analysis indicates that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value is less than the book value for the respective reporting unit, the Company applies a two-step impairment test in which the Company determines whether the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is in excess of its carrying value. If the carrying value of the net assets assigned to the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value of the reporting unit, the Company performs the second step of the impairment test to determine the implied estimated fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. The Company determines the implied estimated fair value of goodwill by determining the present value of the estimated future cash flows for each reporting unit and comparing the reporting unit’s risk profile and growth prospects to selected, reasonably similar publicly traded companies. No indication of impairment was identified during the Company’s annual review.
	Definite-lived Intangible Assets—If a triggering event occurs, the Company determines the estimated fair value of definite-lived intangible assets by determining the present value of the expected cash flows.
	Indefinite-lived Intangible Asset—The Company performs a qualitative analysis to determine whether it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset is less than its carrying value. If this qualitative analysis indicates that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value is less than the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset, the Company determines the estimated fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset (trade name) by determining the present value of the estimated royalty payments on an after-tax basis that it would be required to pay the owner for the right to use such trade name. If the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess. No indication of impairment was identified during the Company’s annual review.

Property_and_Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	7. Property and Equipment
	The major classes of property and equipment were as follows (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Land, buildings and leasehold improvements	$	185,940		$	184,726
	Equipment		240,227			222,858
	Furniture and fixtures		54,615			55,741
	Motor vehicles		15,443			17,801
			496,225			481,126
	Less accumulated depreciation		(305,928	)		(281,548	)
		$	190,297		$	199,578

Goodwill_and_Identifiable_Inta

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets	8. Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company has approximately $280.2 million of identifiable intangible assets, of which approximately $109.7 million, relating to a trade name, is deemed to be indefinite-lived and, accordingly, is not being amortized. Amortization expense associated with identifiable definite-lived intangible assets was as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Amortization expense	$	58,457		$	51,450		$	46,440
	Estimated amortization expense for existing identifiable intangible assets is expected to be approximately $57.5 million, $41.8 million, $28.7 million, $17.9 million and $12.2 million for the years ending December 31, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. Estimated amortization expense can be affected by various factors, including future acquisitions or divestitures of product and/or licensing and distribution rights or impairments.
	The following is a summary of identifiable intangible assets (in thousands):
		As of December 31, 2014									As of December 31, 2013
		Gross			Accumulated			Net			Gross		Accumulated			Net
		Amount			Amortization			Amount			Amount		Amortization			Amount
	Definite-lived identifiable intangible assets:
	Product licensing and distribution rights and customer relationships	$	123,227		$	(54,413	)	$	68,814		$	115,895	$	(35,027	)	$	80,868
	Trademarks, trade names and other		18,571			(6,399	)		12,172			52,053		(37,450	)		14,603
	Software and related assets		260,052			(170,471	)		89,581			232,468		(139,561	)		92,907
		$	401,850		$	(231,283	)	$	170,567		$	400,416	$	(212,038	)	$	188,378
	Indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets:
	Trade name	$	109,676		$	—		$	109,676		$	109,676	$	—		$	109,676
	Accumulated amortization of identifiable intangible assets includes the impact of amortization expense, foreign exchange fluctuations and disposals of software and related assets.
	The following is a summary of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		Product			Integrated			Consolidated
		Development			Healthcare
					Services
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	237,757		$	64,672		$	302,429
	Acquisition		116,542			—			116,542
	Impact of foreign currency fluctuations		(3,155	)		(6,190	)		(9,345	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013		351,144			58,482			409,626
	Acquisition		—			62,778			62,778
	Impact of foreign currency fluctuations and other		(4,536	)		(3,434	)		(7,970	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	346,608		$	117,826		$	464,434

Accrued_Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	9. Accrued Expenses
	Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Compensation, including bonuses, fringe benefits and payroll taxes	$	403,250	$	437,138
	Restructuring		6,083		5,474
	Interest		274		278
	Contract related		255,530		240,548
	Other		68,507		77,751
		$	733,644	$	761,189

Credit_Arrangements

Credit Arrangements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Credit Arrangements	10. Credit Arrangements
	The following is a summary of the Company’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2014:
	Facility	Interest Rates
	$400.0 million (first lien revolving credit facility)	One month London Interbank Offer Rate (“LIBOR”), (0.17% at December 31, 2014) plus 2.50% to 2.75% depending upon the Company’s total leverage ratio
	$25.0 million (receivables financing facility)	LIBOR Market Index Rate, (0.17% at December 31, 2014) plus 0.85% to 1.35% depending upon the Company’s debt rating
	£10.0 million (approximately $15.6 million) general banking facility with a European headquartered bank	Bank’s base rate (0.5% at December 31, 2014) plus 1%
	During 2014, the Company borrowed and repaid $150.0 million from its first lien revolving credit facility. The Company did not have any outstanding borrowings under any of the revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2014 or 2013. At December 31, 2014, there were bank guarantees totaling approximately £4.2 million (approximately $6.5 million) issued against the availability of the general banking facility with a European headquartered bank through their operations in the United Kingdom.
	Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Term Loan B-3 due 2018 ((the greater of three month LIBOR or 1.25%) plus 2.50%, or 3.75% at December 31, 2014)	$	2,030,606		$	2,060,756
	Receivables financing facility due 2018 ((LIBOR 0.17%) plus 1.05%, or 1.22% at December 31, 2014)		275,000			—
	Other notes payable		—			7
			2,305,606			2,060,763
	Less: unamortized discount		(12,379	)		(14,975	)
	Less: current portion		(750	)		(10,307	)
		$	2,292,477		$	2,035,481
	Contractual maturities of long-term debt at December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	750
	2016		20,600
	2017		20,600
	2018		2,263,656
		$	2,305,606
	The estimated fair value of the long-term debt, which is primarily based on rates in which the debt is traded among banks, was approximately $2.3 billion and $2.1 billion at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Senior Secured Credit Agreement
	On June 8, 2011, the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Quintiles Transnational Corp. (“Quintiles Transnational”), entered into the initial credit agreement governing the Quintiles Transnational senior secured credit facilities under which the Company was permitted to borrow up to $2.225 billion. The credit facility arrangements were amended in October 2012, December 2012, December 2013 and November 2014, as described below, and initially consisted of two components: a $225.0 million first lien revolving credit facility due in 2016 and a $2.0 billion first lien Term Loan B due in 2018 (the “Term Loan B”).
	On December 20, 2012, the Term Loan B was repaid with the proceeds of a new Term Loan B-2 (see below), together with cash on hand.
	October 2012 Debt Issuance
	On October 22, 2012, the Company entered into an amendment to the credit agreement to provide (i) a new Term Loan B-1 (the “Term Loan B-1”) with a syndicate of banks for an aggregate principal amount of $175.0 million due 2018, (ii) a one-year extension of the maturity date of its existing $225.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility (to 2017) and (iii) a $75.0 million increase in its existing $225.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Increased Revolving Facility”), which would also mature in 2017. Annual maturities on the Term Loan B-1 were 1% of the original principal amount until December 31, 2017, with the balance of the Term Loan B-1 to be repaid at final maturity on June 8, 2018. In the fourth quarter of 2012, the proceeds from the Term Loan B-1, together with approximately $73 million of cash on hand, were used to (i) pay a dividend to the Company’s shareholders totaling approximately $241.7 million, (ii) pay a bonus to certain option holders totaling approximately $2.4 million and (iii) pay approximately $4.0 million of fees and related expenses. Other terms and covenants of the Term Loan B-1 and the Increased Revolving Facility were and are the same as the terms and covenants of the Company’s Term Loan B and the senior secured revolving credit facility prior to the amendment.
	In May 2013, the Company used $50.0 million of cash to pay down indebtedness under the Term Loan B-1. In connection with the pay down of indebtedness, the Company recognized a $1.0 million loss on extinguishment of debt which included approximately $930,000 of unamortized debt issuance costs and $112,000 of unamortized discount.
	On December 20, 2013, the Term Loan B-1 was repaid with the proceeds of a new Term Loan B-3 (see below).
	2012 Refinancing Transaction
	On December 20, 2012, the Company entered into an amendment to the credit agreement to provide a new Term Loan B-2 (the “Term Loan B-2”) with a syndicate of banks for an aggregate principal amount of $1.975 billion due in 2018. Annual maturities on the Term Loan B-2 were $20.0 million through December 31, 2017 with the balance of the Term Loan B-2 to be repaid at final maturity on June 8, 2018. Other terms and covenants of the Term Loan B-2 were the same as the terms and covenants of our Term Loan B prior to the amendment.
	The Company used the proceeds from the Term Loan B-2, together with cash on hand, to repay the remaining outstanding balance on the Company’s then-existing Term Loan B and related fees and expenses. In 2012, the Company recognized a $1.3 million loss on extinguishment of debt which included approximately $634,000 of unamortized debt issuance costs, approximately $631,000 of unamortized discount and approximately $10,000 of related fees and expenses.
	On December 20, 2013, the Term Loan B-2 was repaid with the proceeds of a new Term Loan B-3 (see below).
	2013 Refinancing Transaction
	On December 20, 2013, the Company entered into an amendment to its senior secured credit agreement to provide a new Term Loan B-3 (the “Term Loan B-3”) with a syndicate of banks for an aggregate principal amount of $2.061 billion due in 2018. The proceeds from the Term Loan B-3 were used to repay the then outstanding balances of the Term Loan B-1 and Term Loan B-2 and related fees and expenses. Quarterly principal payments on the Term Loan B-3 are $5.15 million, which commenced on September 30, 2014 and continue through March 31, 2018, with the balance of the Term Loan B-3 to be repaid at final maturity on June 8, 2018. Optional prepayments of the Term Loan B-3 are applied to reduce principal payments in direct order of maturity. The credit facility arrangements are collateralized by substantially all of the assets of Quintiles Transnational and the assets of Quintiles Transnational’s domestic subsidiaries, including 100% of the equity interests of substantially all of Quintiles Transnational’s domestic subsidiaries, and 65% of the equity interests of substantially all of the first-tier foreign subsidiaries of Quintiles Transnational and its domestic subsidiaries (in each case other than certain excluded subsidiaries as defined in the credit agreement). Beginning with fiscal year ending December 31, 2014, the Company is required to apply 50% of excess cash flow (as defined in the credit agreement), subject to a reduction to 25% or 0% depending upon Quintiles Transnational’s total leverage ratio, for prepayment of the Term Loan B-3, with any such prepayment to be applied, first, in direct order of maturities, to reduce the Term Loan B-3 principal payments due within eight quarters of such prepayment, then on a pro rata basis to reduce the other principal payments due prior to the maturity date, and then to reduce the principal payments due on the maturity date. The amendment also provided additional flexibility for the Company to enter into certain securitization financing transactions such as the receivables financing facility transaction we entered into in December 2014. Other than a lower interest rate, other terms and covenants of the Term Loan B-3 are the same as the terms and covenants of our Term Loan B-1 and Term Loan B-2 prior to the amendment.
	In connection with this amendment to the credit agreement, in 2013 the Company recognized a $3.3 million loss on extinguishment of debt which included approximately $1.6 million of unamortized debt issuance costs, approximately $1.6 million of unamortized discount and approximately $25,000 of related fees and expenses.
	2014 Revolving Credit Facility Amendment
	On November 7, 2014, the Company entered into an amendment to its senior secured credit agreement that increased its first lien revolving credit facility from $300.0 million to $400.0 million and extended the maturity date for most of the first lien revolving credit facility by six months. The $100.0 million increase will mature in December 2017 along with $282.5 million of the existing $300.0 million first lien revolving credit facility. In addition, the maturity date for the aggregate of $382.5 million of the first lien revolving credit facility may be further extended to June 2019 without lender consent in connection with certain extensions of the maturity date of the Term Loan B-3 under the senior secured credit facilities. The maturity date for the remaining $17.5 million of the existing $300.0 million first lien revolving credit facility was not altered and continues to be June 2017. The other terms of the senior secured credit agreement were not altered by the amendment.
	Receivables Financing Facility
	On December 5, 2014, the Company entered into a four-year arrangement to securitize certain of its accounts receivable. Under the receivables financing facility, certain of the Company’s accounts receivable are sold on a non-recourse basis by certain of its consolidated subsidiaries to another of its consolidated subsidiaries, a bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity (“SPE”). The SPE obtained a term loan and revolving loan commitment from a third party lender, secured by liens on the assets of the SPE, to finance the purchase of the accounts receivable, which included a $275.0 million term loan and a $25.0 million revolving loan commitment. The revolving loan commitment may be increased by an additional $35.0 million as amounts are repaid under the term loan. Quintiles Transnational has guaranteed the performance of the obligations of existing and future subsidiaries that sell and service the accounts receivable under the receivables financing facility. The assets of the SPE are not available to satisfy any of the Company’s obligations or any obligations of its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2014, $25.0 million of revolving loans were available under the receivables financing facility.
	The Company used the proceeds from the term loan under the receivables financing facility to repay in full the amount outstanding on the revolving credit facility under its senior secured credit agreement ($150.0 million), to repay $25.0 million of the Term Loan B-3 under its senior secured credit agreement, to pay related fees and expenses and the remainder was used for general working capital purposes.
	Other Long-Term Debt
	In February 2012, the Company executed a new term loan facility with a syndicate of banks for an aggregate principal amount of $300.0 million due February 26, 2017 (the “Holdings Term Loan”). The Company used the proceeds from the Holdings Term Loan, together with cash on hand, to (1) pay a dividend to its shareholders in March 2012 totaling approximately $326.1 million, (2) pay a bonus to certain option holders totaling approximately $8.9 million and (3) pay related expenses.
	In May 2013, the Company used $308.9 million of cash to pay all amounts outstanding under the $300.0 million Holdings Term Loan (including accrued interest and related fees and expenses). In connection with the repayment of debt, the Company recognized a $15.5 million loss on extinguishment of debt which included approximately $4.7 million of unamortized debt issuance costs, $4.7 million of unamortized discount and $6.1 million of related fees and expenses.
	Debt Issuance Costs and Covenants
	In connection with the long-term debt agreements, the Company had net debt issuance costs of approximately $10.2 million and $12.6 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, included in deposits and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The debt issuance costs are being amortized as a component of interest expense using the effective interest method over the term of the related debt arrangements, which range from five years to seven years.
	The Company’s long-term debt agreements contain usual and customary restrictive covenants that, among other things, place limitations on its ability to declare dividends and make other restricted payments; prepay, redeem or purchase debt; incur liens; make loans and investments; incur additional indebtedness; amend or otherwise alter debt and other material documents; engage in mergers, acquisitions and asset sales; transact with affiliates; and engage in businesses that are not related to the Company’s existing business. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company was in compliance with its debt covenants.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	11. Leases
	The Company leases facilities under operating leases, many of which contain renewal and escalation clauses. The Company also leases certain equipment under operating leases. The leases expire at various dates through 2029 with options to cancel certain leases at various intervals. Rental expenses under these agreements were $114.6 million, $125.6 million and $117.6 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company leases certain assets, primarily vehicles, under capital leases. Capital lease amortization is included with costs of revenues and accumulated depreciation on the accompanying financial statements.
	The following is a summary of future minimum payments under capital and operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year at December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
		Capital			Operating
		Leases			Leases
	2015	$	80		$	91,129
	2016		16			71,992
	2017		—			53,043
	2018		—			34,183
	2019		—			19,916
	Thereafter		—			80,839
	Total minimum lease payments		96		$	351,102
	Amounts representing interest		(6	)
	Present value of net minimum payments		90
	Current portion		(76	)
	Long-term capital lease obligations	$	14

Shareholders_Deficit

Shareholders' Deficit	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Shareholders' Deficit	12. Shareholders’ Deficit
	Initial Public Offering
	On May 9, 2013, the Company’s common stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “Q.” On May 14, 2013, the Company completed its IPO of its common stock at a price to the public of $40.00 per share. The Company issued and sold 13,125,000 shares of common stock in the IPO. The selling shareholders offered and sold 14,111,841 shares of common stock in the IPO, including 3,552,631 shares that were offered and sold by the selling shareholders pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares. The IPO raised proceeds to the Company of approximately $489.5 million, after deducting underwriting discounts, commissions and related expenses. The Company did not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the shares sold by the selling shareholders.
	Preferred Stock
	The Company is authorized to issue 1.0 million shares of preferred stock, $0.01 per share par value. No shares of preferred stock were issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2014 or 2013.
	Equity Repurchase Program
	On October 30, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) approved an equity repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) authorizing the repurchase of up to $125.0 million of either the Company’s common stock or vested in-the-money employee stock options, or a combination thereof. The Company has used and intends to continue to use cash on hand to fund the Repurchase Program. The Repurchase Program does not obligate the Company to repurchase any particular amount of common stock or vested in-the-money employee stock options, and it could be modified, suspended or discontinued at any time. The timing and amount of repurchases are determined by the Company’s management based on a variety of factors such as the market price of the Company’s common stock, the Company’s corporate requirements, and overall market conditions. Purchases of the Company’s common stock may be made in open market transactions effected through a broker-dealer at prevailing market prices, in block trades, or in privately negotiated transactions. The Company may also repurchase shares of its common stock pursuant to a trading plan meeting the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act, which would permit shares of the Company’s common stock to be repurchased when the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so by law. Repurchases of vested in-the-money employee stock options were made through transactions between the Company and its employees (other than its executive officers, who were not eligible to participate in the program), and this aspect of the Repurchase Program expired in November 2013. The Repurchase Program for common stock does not have an end date.
	In 2013, repurchases under the Repurchase Program resulted in a $65.5 million charge to equity consisting of (i) the repurchase of approximately 153,200 shares of common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $6.4 million (representing an average price per share of $42.01), and (ii) the repurchase of 2.0 million vested in-the-money employee stock options at fair value for an aggregate purchase price of $59.1 million (representing an average market price per share of $43.42 and an average exercise price per option of $13.74). The Company repurchased 300 shares of its common stock for $47.51 per share for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $14,000 in 2014 under the Repurchase Program. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has remaining authorization under the Repurchase Program to repurchase up to $59.5 million of its common stock.
	Other Equity Repurchases
	On May 28, 2014, the Company completed the repurchase of 3,287,209 shares of its common stock for $50.23 per share from TPG Quintiles Holdco, L.P., one of its existing shareholders, in a private transaction for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $165.1 million. The repurchase price per share of common stock was equal to 98% of the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE on May 27, 2014 (which was $51.26). The repurchase of shares from its existing shareholder was authorized in compliance with the Company’s related party transactions approval policy. The Company funded this private repurchase transaction with cash on hand. This private repurchase transaction was separate from and in addition to the Repurchase Program.
	On November 10, 2014, the Company completed the repurchase of 4,303,666 shares of its common stock for $58.09 per share, which was the price per share the underwriter paid to selling shareholders, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $250.0 million. The Company funded this repurchase transaction with a combination of cash on hand and a $150.0 million draw on its revolving credit facility. This repurchase transaction was separate from and in addition to the Repurchase Program.
	Dividends
	In October 2012, the Board declared a $2.09 per share dividend to shareholders of record on October 24, 2012. The dividend totaled approximately $241.7 million and was paid on November 1, 2012.
	In February 2012, the Board declared a $2.82 per share dividend to shareholders of record on February 29, 2012. The dividend totaled approximately $326.1 million and was paid on March 9, 2012.

Management_Fees

Management Fees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Management Fees	13. Management Fees
	In January 2008, pursuant to a management agreement with affiliates of certain of the Company’s shareholders, the Company agreed to pay an annual management service fee of $5.0 million in the aggregate to (i) GF Management Company, LLC (“GFM”); (ii) Bain Capital Partners, LLC; (iii) TPG Capital, LP; (iv) 3i Corporation; (v) Cassia Fund Management Pte Ltd; and (vi) Aisling Capital, LLC (“Aisling Capital”). Of this amount, Aisling Capital received $150,000 annually for so long as the Company’s Investment Committee included a member nominated by Aisling Capital. The remaining approximately $4.9 million of the annual management service fee was paid to the other managers each year, in advance and in equal quarterly installments, in proportion to each manager’s (or such manager’s affiliates’) respective share ownership in the Company. The annual management service fee was subject to upward adjustment each year effective as of March 31 based on any increase in the Consumer Price Index for the preceding calendar year. The initial term of the management agreement extended through December 31, 2010, after which it automatically renewed for an additional year unless written notice was provided or other conditions were met. In 2013, the management agreement was terminated, and the Company paid a $25.0 million fee in connection with the termination. In 2013 and 2012, the Company expensed $27.7 million and $5.3 million, respectively, in management fees under this agreement.

Business_Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combinations	14. Business Combinations
	Encore Health Resources
	On July 1, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of Encore Health Resources, LLC (“Encore”) effected through a merger for approximately $91.5 million in cash (net of approximately $2.2 million of acquired cash). Encore has operations in the United States, and its business is primarily focused on providing electronic health records (“EHR”) implementation and advisory services to healthcare providers. As part of its Integrated Healthcare Services segment, the Company expects that Encore will enhance its EHR expertise.
	Novella Clinical Inc.
	On September 16, 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Novella Clinical Inc. (“Novella”) through the purchase of 100% of Novella’s outstanding stock for approximately $146.6 million in cash (net of approximately $26.2 million of acquired cash) plus potential annual earn-out payments totaling up to $21.0 million contingent upon the achievement of certain revenue and net new business targets for approximately three years following closing. The Company initially recognized a liability of approximately $14.3 million as the estimated acquisition date fair value of the earn-out. Changes in the fair value of the earn-out subsequent to the acquisition date are recognized in earnings in the period of the change. Novella has operations primarily in the United States and Europe and is a clinical research organization focused primarily on emerging oncology customers as well as those in the medical device and diagnostics sectors. As part of its Product Development segment, the Company acquired Novella to complement its clinical service offerings through its focus on emerging companies and by adding expertise in oncology and medical devices.
	Expression Analysis, Inc.
	On August 10, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of Expression Analysis, Inc. (“EA”) through the purchase of 100% of EA’s outstanding stock for $39.7 million in cash and contingent consideration in the form of a potential earn-out payment of up to $3.5 million. The earn-out payment was contingent upon the achievement of certain revenue and earnings targets during the 24 month period following closing. The Company initially recognized a liability of approximately $2.0 million as the estimated acquisition date fair value of the earn-out. Changes in the fair value of the earn-out subsequent to the acquisition date were recognized in earnings in the period of the change. EA, based in the United States, provides genomic sequencing, gene expression, genotyping and bioinformatics services to biopharmaceutical companies, diagnostic test developers, government agencies and academic laboratories. The Company acquired EA to complement its current laboratory services by adding expertise in genetic sequencing and advanced bioinformatics.
	Accounting for Acquisitions
	Acquisitions are accounted for as business combinations and, accordingly, the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed have been recorded at their respective estimated fair values as of the acquisition date. In connection with the Encore acquisition, the Company recorded goodwill, primarily attributable to the assembled workforce of Encore and expected synergies, which was assigned to the Integrated Healthcare Services segment and is deductible for income tax purposes. In connection with the Novella and EA acquisitions, the Company recorded goodwill, primarily attributable to the assembled workforce of Novella and EA and expected synergies, which was assigned to the Product Development segment and is not deductible for income tax purposes. Pro forma information is not presented as the operations of the acquired businesses are not significant to the overall operations of the Company. Acquisition-related expenses were immaterial and are also not presented. The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired at the date of the acquisitions (in thousands):
		Encore			Novella			EA
	Assets acquired:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	2,223		$	26,190		$	441
	Accounts receivable and unbilled services		17,714			28,644			1,920
	Other current assets		443			1,441			2,952
	Property and equipment		289			9,616			4,731
	Goodwill		62,778			116,542			28,201
	Other identifiable intangibles		14,150			42,740			9,460
	Deferred income tax asset—long-term		396			—			—
	Other long-term assets		—			2,203			—
	Liabilities assumed:
	Accounts payable and accrued expenses		(4,206	)		(12,716	)		(3,574	)
	Unearned income		(31	)		(7,782	)		(411	)
	Other current liabilities		—			(132	)		(101	)
	Deferred income tax liability—long-term		—			(18,364	)		(1,707	)
	Other long-term liabilities		—			(1,334	)		(226	)
	Net assets acquired	$	93,756		$	187,048		$	41,686
	The other identifiable intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
		Encore			Novella			EA
	Other identifiable intangibles
	Customer relationships	$	8,800		$	20,800		$	9,000
	Acquired backlog		800			14,000			170
	Trade names		1,100			7,500			290
	Non-compete agreements		450			440			—
	Software		3,000			—			—
	Total other identifiable intangibles	$	14,150		$	42,740		$	9,460
	Amortized over a weighted average useful life (in years)		8			7			11

Restructuring

Restructuring	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring	15. Restructuring
	2014 Plan
	In 2014, the Board approved restructuring plans of approximately $13 million to better align resources with the Company’s strategic direction, which resulted in a reduction of approximately 250 positions. During 2014, the Company recognized approximately $10.3 million of restructuring costs related to these plans including reversals. All of the restructuring costs are related to severance and lease costs. Of the $10.3 million in total restructuring costs recognized for these plans, approximately $7.3 million and $3.0 were related to activities in the Product Development and Integrated Healthcare Services segments, respectively.
	2013 Plan
	In February 2013, the Board approved a restructuring plan of up to $15.0 million to migrate the delivery of services, primarily in the Product Development segment, and to reduce anticipated overcapacity in selected areas, primarily in the Integrated Healthcare Services segment, which resulted in a reduction of approximately 400 positions. Since February 2013, the Company has recognized approximately $13.6 million of restructuring costs related to this plan including reversals. All of the restructuring costs are related to severance costs. Of the $13.6 million in total restructuring costs recognized for this plan, approximately $8.4 million, $4.7 million and $500,000 were related to activities in the Product Development segment, Integrated Healthcare Services segment and corporate activities, respectively.
	2012 Plan
	In May 2012, the Board approved a restructuring plan of up to $20.0 million to reduce anticipated overcapacity and to rationalize the number of non-billable support roles, which resulted in a reduction of approximately 280 positions, primarily in Europe. Since May 2012, the Company has recognized approximately $19.6 million of restructuring costs related to this plan including reversals. Of the $19.6 million in total restructuring costs recognized for this plan, $19.2 million and $400,000 were related to severance costs and lease costs, respectively. Of the $19.6 million in total restructuring costs recognized for this plan, approximately $11.8 million, $3.8 million and $4.0 million were related to activities in the Product Development segment, Integrated Healthcare Services segment and corporate activities, respectively.
	The following amounts were recorded for the 2014 restructuring plan and the restructuring plans initiated in prior years (in thousands):
		Severance and			Exit Costs			Total
		Related Costs
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	12,784		$	—		$	12,784
	Expense, net of reversals		13,718			353			14,071
	Payments		(21,324	)		(154	)		(21,478	)
	Foreign currency translation		98			(1	)		97
	Balance at December 31, 2013		5,276			198			5,474
	Expense, net of reversals		8,421			567			8,988
	Payments		(7,998	)		(160	)		(8,158	)
	Foreign currency translation		(221	)		—			(221	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	5,478		$	605		$	6,083
	The reversals were due to changes in estimates primarily resulting from the redeployment of staff and higher than expected voluntary terminations. Restructuring costs are not allocated to the Company’s reportable segments as they are not part of the segment performance measures regularly reviewed by management. The Company expects the majority of the restructuring accruals at December 31, 2014 will be paid in 2015.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	16. Income Taxes
	The components of income before income taxes and equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Domestic	$	96,917		$	68,425		$	31,204
	Foreign		405,272			254,691			236,224
		$	502,189		$	323,116		$	267,428
	The components of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Current expense (benefit):
	Federal	$	58,403		$	38,573		$	18,236
	State		4,618			(4,309	)		1,384
	Foreign		95,010			83,744			58,712
			158,031			118,008			78,332
	Deferred (benefit) expense:
	Federal and state		(4,549	)		(15,807	)		16,023
	Foreign		(3,426	)		(6,236	)		(991	)
			(7,975	)		(22,043	)		15,032
		$	150,056		$	95,965		$	93,364
	The differences between the Company’s consolidated income tax expense attributable to continuing operations and the expense computed at the 35% United States statutory income tax rate were as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Federal income tax expense at statutory rate	$	175,766		$	113,091		$	93,600
	State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit		2,312			(1,088	)		(914	)
	Research and development		(16,765	)		(12,788	)		(17,096	)
	Foreign nontaxable interest income		(10,217	)		(9,751	)		(7,864	)
	Gain on note settlement		—			10,794			—
	United States taxes recorded on foreign earnings		18,631			(1,616	)		23,236
	Foreign rate differential		(30,734	)		(10,753	)		(8,396	)
	Increase/(decrease) in valuation allowance		1,713			(178	)		401
	Effect of changes in apportionment and tax rates		536			(492	)		1,872
	Other		8,814			8,746			8,525
		$	150,056		$	95,965		$	93,364
	Prior to June 2013, the Company had not considered the majority of the undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested. Management reevaluated this assertion following the IPO, as a portion of the IPO proceeds were used to pay down debt held in the United States as well as the fact the Company does not anticipate paying dividends in the foreseeable future, which had been significant in the past. Given the Company’s current debt balance, and related interest expense and the change in approach related to payment of dividends, the Company expects to be able to support the cash needs of the domestic subsidiaries without repatriating cash from the affected foreign subsidiaries. The Company expects to utilize the cash generated outside of the United States to fund growth outside of the United States. As a result of the assertion change, the Company recorded an $8.1 million income tax benefit in the second quarter of 2013 to reverse the deferred income tax liability previously recorded on undistributed foreign earnings prior to 2013 that are now considered indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States. Undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries amounted to approximately $696.9 million at December 31, 2014. Approximately $244.2 million of this total is not considered to be indefinitely reinvested and would be taxable upon repatriation. The Company has recorded a deferred income tax liability, net of foreign income tax credits that would be generated upon repatriation, of $27.7 million as of December 31, 2014 associated with those earnings based upon the United States federal income tax rate. Upon distribution of those earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to both United States income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits, if available) and withholding taxes payable to the various countries in which the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are located. If the approximately $452.7 million of indefinitely reinvested earnings were repatriated to the United States, it would generate an estimated $61.2 million of additional tax liability for the Company.
	The income tax effects of temporary differences from continuing operations that give rise to significant portions of deferred income tax (liabilities) assets are presented below (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Undistributed foreign earnings	$	(27,717	)	$	(18,393	)
	Depreciation and amortization		(65,614	)		(78,486	)
	Other		(15,346	)		(12,700	)
	Total deferred income tax liabilities		(108,677	)		(109,579	)
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Net operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards		43,535			49,308
	Accrued expenses and unearned income		34,048			31,067
	Employee benefits		130,217			124,688
	Other		17,784			20,215
			225,584			225,278
	Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets		(24,695	)		(29,501	)
	Total deferred income tax assets		200,889			195,777
	Net deferred income tax assets	$	92,212		$	86,198
	The Company has net operating loss and capital loss carryforwards of approximately $46.0 million in various entities within the United Kingdom which have no expiration date and has $40.3 million of net operating loss and capital loss carryforwards from various foreign jurisdictions which have different expiration periods. The Company has United States net operating loss carryforwards of $20.0 million, which were obtained through the acquisitions of Novella, EA, and Advion BioSciences, Inc. in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively, and expire through 2023. These losses are subject to IRC Section 382 limitations; however, management expects all losses to be utilized during the carryforward periods. In addition, the Company has approximately $43.1 million of United States state operating loss carryforwards which expire through 2034.
	In 2014, the Company decreased its valuation allowance $4.8 million to $24.7 million at December 31, 2014 from $29.5 million at December 31, 2013. The valuation allowance is primarily related to loss carryforwards in various foreign and state jurisdictions.
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized income tax benefits is presented below (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance at January 1	$	54,936		$	43,393		$	41,371
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		2,807			4,493			891
	Additions for income tax positions of prior years		1,588			12,854			2,230
	Impact of changes in exchange rates		(376	)		(71	)		118
	Settlements with tax authorities		(135	)		(1,052	)		(179	)
	Reductions for income tax positions of prior years		(6,023	)		(3,520	)		(63	)
	Reductions due to the lapse of the applicable statute of limitations		(11,976	)		(1,161	)		(975	)
Balance at December 31	$	40,821		$	54,936		$	43,393
As of December 31, 2014, the Company had total gross unrecognized income tax benefits of $40.8 million associated with over 50 jurisdictions in which the Company conducts business. This amount includes $40.4 million of unrecognized benefits that, if recognized, would reduce the Company’s effective income tax rate. This amount excludes $4.8 million of accrued interest and penalties.
The Company’s policy for recording interest and penalties relating to uncertain income tax positions is to record them as a component of income tax expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the amount of interest and penalties recorded as an addition to income tax expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income was $1.3 million, $843,000 and $796,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company accrued approximately $4.8 million and $3.6 million, respectively, of interest and penalties.
The Company believes that it is reasonably possible that a decrease of up to $19.1 million in gross unrecognized income tax benefits for federal, state and foreign exposure items may be necessary within the next 12 months due to lapse of statutes of limitations or uncertain tax positions being effectively settled. The Company believes that it is reasonably possible that a decrease of up to $1.1 million in gross unrecognized benefits for foreign items may be necessary within the next 12 months due to payments. For the remaining uncertain income tax positions, it is difficult at this time to estimate the timing of the resolution.
The Company conducts business globally and, as a result, files income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities throughout the world. The following table summarizes the tax years that remain open for examination by tax authorities in the most significant jurisdictions in which the Company operates:
United States	2001-2013
India	2006-2014
Japan	2008-2013
United Kingdom	2013
In certain of the jurisdictions noted above, the Company operates through more than one legal entity, each of which has different open years subject to examination. The table above presents the open years subject to examination for the most material of the legal entities in each jurisdiction. Additionally, it is important to note that tax years are technically not closed until the statute of limitations in each jurisdiction expires. In the jurisdictions noted above, the statute of limitations can extend beyond the open years subject to examination.
Due to the geographic breadth of the Company’s operations, numerous tax audits may be ongoing throughout the world at any point in time. Income tax liabilities are recorded based on estimates of additional income taxes which will be due upon the conclusion of these audits. Estimates of these income tax liabilities are made based upon prior experience and are updated in light of changes in facts and circumstances. However, due to the uncertain and complex application of income tax regulations, it is possible that the ultimate resolution of audits may result in liabilities which could be materially different from these estimates. In such an event, the Company will record additional income tax expense or income tax benefit in the period in which such resolution occurs.
The Company has a tax holiday for Quintiles East Asia Pte. Ltd. in Singapore through June 2015, provided the Company maintains specific levels of spending and employment. The income tax benefit of this holiday was approximately $2.4 million, $798,000 and $343,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company also had a tax holiday for Outcome Europe Sarl in Switzerland for 2013 and 2012. The income tax benefit of this holiday was approximately $64,000 and $28,000 in 2013 and 2012 respectively. The tax holiday in 2014 increased earnings per share by approximately $0.02. The tax holidays in 2013 and 2012 did not have a notable impact on earnings per share.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	17. Employee Benefit Plans
	The Company has numerous employee retirement benefit plans, which cover substantially all eligible employees in the countries where the plans are offered either voluntarily or statutorily. Contributions are primarily discretionary, except in some countries where contributions are contractually required.
	Defined Contribution Plans
	Defined contribution or profit sharing style plans are offered in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Ireland, Israel, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, the United States and the United Kingdom. In some cases these plans are required by local laws or regulations.
	In the United States, the Company has a 401(k) Plan under which the Company matches employee deferrals at varying percentages, set at the discretion of the Board. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company expensed $31.2 million, $26.1 million and $24.3 million, respectively, related to matching contributions.
	Defined Benefit Plans
	Defined benefit plans are offered in Austria, France, Germany, Greece, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Philippines, Poland, Turkey and the United Kingdom. The following table summarizes the components of pension expense related to these defined benefit plans (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014				2013				2012
	Service cost		$	12,944			$	13,227			$	13,839
	Interest cost			3,821				3,684				3,775
	Expected return on plan assets			(4,277	)			(3,442	)			(2,822	)
	Amortization of prior service costs			107				336				411
	Amortization of actuarial losses			636				708				758
			$	13,231			$	14,513			$	15,961
	The Company expects to recognize approximately $996,000 in its pension expense in 2015 related to the amortization of net actuarial losses.
	The weighted average assumptions used in determining pension expense were as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014				2013				2012
	Discount rate			3.01	%			3.06	%			3.32	%
	Rate of compensation increases			4.36	%			4.74	%			4.96	%
	Expected return on plan assets			5.21	%			5.33	%			5.23	%
	The following table summarizes financial information about the Company’s defined benefit plans as measured on December 31 (in thousands):
			2014				2013
	Projected benefit obligation January 1		$	135,110			$	130,323
	Service costs			12,944				13,227
	Interest cost			3,821				3,684
	Expected return on plan assets			(4,277	)			(3,442	)
	Actuarial losses			16,396				1,890
	Benefits paid			(7,409	)			(5,917	)
	Foreign currency fluctuations and other			(9,458	)			(4,655	)
	Projected benefit obligation December 31		$	147,127			$	135,110
	Plan assets at fair value, January 1		$	82,787			$	68,258
	Actual return on plan assets			10,004				5,928
	Contributions			8,594				8,620
	Benefits paid			(7,409	)			(5,917	)
	Foreign currency fluctuations and other			(5,556	)			5,898
	Plan assets at fair value, December 31		$	88,420			$	82,787
	Unfunded balance		$	58,707			$	52,323
	The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit plans was approximately $127.9 million and $118.4 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2014, the projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation for the defined benefit plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets were $83.4 million and $66.4 million, respectively, and were primarily related to unfunded plans. As of December 31, 2013, the projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation for the defined benefit plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets were $77.7 million and $63.6 million, respectively, and were primarily related to unfunded plans. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the projected benefit obligation exceeded the fair value of the plan assets for each defined benefit plan except for the defined benefit plan in the United Kingdom.
	The following table summarizes the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets related to the defined benefit plans as of December 31 (in thousands):
			2014				2013
	Deposits and other assets		$	18,690			$	18,835
	Accrued expenses			6,075				8,622
	Other long-term liabilities			71,322				62,536
	AOCI		$	(14,519	)		$	(5,044	)
	The following table summarizes the amounts recognized in AOCI related to the defined benefit plans (in thousands):
			Prior Service				Actuarial				Deferred				Total
			Costs				Net (Gain)				Income
							Loss				Taxes
	Balance as of December 31, 2012		$	(443	)		$	(7,792	)		$	3,214			$	(5,021	)
	Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
	Amortization			336				708				(389	)			655
	Amounts arising during the period:
	Tax rate adjustments			—				—				(26	)			(26	)
	Actuarial changes in benefit obligation			—				2,147				157				2,304
	Balance as of December 31, 2013			(107	)			(4,937	)			2,956				(2,088	)
	Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
	Amortization			107				636				(275	)			468
	Amounts arising during the period:
	Actuarial changes in benefit obligation			—				(10,218	)			2,981				(7,237	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014		$	—			$	(14,519	)		$	5,662			$	(8,857	)
	The following table summarizes the weighted average assumptions used in determining the pension obligations as of December 31:
		2014				2013
Discount rate			2.46	%			3.01	%
Rate of compensation increases			4.32	%			4.36	%
The discount rate represents the interest rate used to determine the present value of the future cash flows currently expected to be required to settle the Company’s defined benefit plan obligations. The discount rates are derived using weighted average yield curves on AA-rated corporate bonds. The cash flows from the Company’s expected benefit obligation payments are then matched to the yield curve to derive the discount rates.
The Company’s assumption for the expected return on plan assets was determined by the weighted average of the long-term expected rate of return on each of the asset classes invested as of the balance sheet date. For plan assets invested in government bonds, the expected return was based on the yields on the relevant indices as of the balance sheet date. There is considerable uncertainty for the expected return on plan assets invested in equity and diversified growth funds. The expected return on these plan assets was based on the expected return on long-term fixed interest rate government bonds as of the balance sheet date with a premium of 3% to 4% added to reflect the expected long-term returns expected from these types of investments.
The investment objective for defined benefit plan assets is to meet the plan’s benefit obligations and maintaining adequate funding, while minimizing the potential for future required Company contributions. The defined benefit plans in the United Kingdom, India and Israel are funded. The plan assets of the defined benefit plans in India and Israel are held in a fund which holds debt investments, primarily government bonds in accordance with local laws and regulations. The plan assets of the defined benefit plan in the United Kingdom, which are held in a trust, are primarily held in funds which hold investments in government bonds, equity investments and diversified growth funds. The equity investments are diversified to include domestic (United Kingdom) and global equity investments. A “horizon based” approach is used to determine the asset allocation. Funds intended to meet the plan’s benefit obligation payments in a horizon period are invested in low risk assets such as bond investments. Funds intended to meet the plan’s benefit obligation payments outside of the horizon period are invested in more volatile assets which are expected to provide a higher return such as equity investments and diversified growth funds. The target allocation percentage for 2015 is approximately 40-50% in bond investments, 35-45% in equity investments and 15-25% in diversified growth funds. However, the trustees may reallocate the plan assets between equity investments and bond investments depending upon the actual investment performances.
The Company’s plan assets have been identified within the fair value hierarchy as Level 2. Funds are valued using the net asset value reported by the managers of the funds. The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s defined benefit plans assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		2014				2013
Funds that hold debt investments primarily government bonds		$	47,473			$	42,738
Funds that hold United Kingdom equity investments			19,547				19,826
Funds that hold global equity investments			8,255				8,393
Diversified growth fund			12,569				11,169
Other			576				661
Total		$	88,420			$	82,787
The Company estimates that it will make contributions totaling approximately $5.6 million to the defined benefit plans in 2015.
The following table summarizes the Company’s expected benefit payments under the defined benefit plans for each of the next five years and the aggregate of the five years thereafter (in thousands):
2015		$	4,810
2016			4,541
2017			5,188
2018			5,884
2019			6,175
Years 2020 through 2024			36,360
		$	62,958
Stock Incentive Plans
The stock incentive plans provide incentives to eligible employees, officers and directors in the form of non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, SARs, restricted stock, RSUs, performance shares, performance units, covered annual incentive awards, cash-based awards and other share-based awards, in each case subject to the terms of the stock incentive plans. As of December 31, 2014, there were 8,369,995 shares available for future grants under the stock incentive plans.
The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of stock options and SARs:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
Expected volatility		26 – 43%		18 – 47%		33 – 53%
Weighted average expected volatility		36%		40%		40%
Expected dividends		0.00%		0.0 – 5.45%		4.82%
Expected term (in years)		1.5 – 6.7		0.25 – 6.4		2.0 – 7.0
Risk-free interest rate		0.28 – 2.21%		0.04 – 2.24%		0.29 – 1.31%
Stock Options
The option price is determined by the Board at the date of grant and the options expire 10 years from the date of grant. The vesting schedule for options granted to employees is either (i) 20% per year beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant; (ii) 25% per year beginning on the first anniversary of the date of grant; or (iii) 33% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and 67% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. In addition, an option to acquire 38,580 shares of the Company’s common stock was granted to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer on May 31, 2012 which vests monthly over three years. Options granted to our non-employee directors vest 34% on the first anniversary of the date of grant and 33% on the second and third anniversaries of the date of grant.
The Company’s stock option activity in 2014 is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		Number of				Weighted				Aggregate
		Options				Average				Intrinsic Value
						Exercise Price
										(in thousands)
Outstanding at December 31, 2013			10,100,160			$	23			$	235,729
Granted			1,622,000			$	52.82
Exercised			(2,022,576	)		$	16.37
Canceled			(574,630	)		$	32.91
Outstanding at December 31, 2014			9,124,954			$	29.15			$	271,216
The weighted average fair value per share of the options granted in 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $18.72, $14.39 and $6.34, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised was approximately $77.3 million, $27.1 million and $4.6 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company received cash of approximately $33.1 million, $12.5 million and $2.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from options exercised.
Under the Repurchase Program discussed further in Note 12, in 2013 the Company repurchased 1,990,540 vested in-the-money employee stock options with an intrinsic value of $59.1 million.
Selected information regarding the Company’s stock options as of December 31, 2014 is as follows:
Options Outstanding																Options Exercisable
Number of Options				Exercise Price Range				Weighted Average				Weighted Average				Number of Options		Weighted Average
								Exercise Price				Remaining Life						Exercise Price
												(in Years)
	2,122,427			$	4.70 - $15.88			$	13.37				2.9				2,122,427	$	13.37
	2,290,827			$	17.11 - $23.83			$	21.42				6.6				1,220,640	$	20.84
	1,373,850			$	24.59 - $30.07			$	24.93				7.36				592,500	$	24.8
	1,523,750			$	40.00 - $40.00			$	40				8.15				282,000	$	40
	1,551,700			$	42.74 - $53.26			$	50.45				9.1				65,750	$	43.54
	262,400			$	57.00 - $57.95			$	57.42				9.91				—	$	—
The weighted average remaining contractual life of the options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2014 is 6.63 years and 4.86 years, respectively. The total aggregate intrinsic value of the exercisable stock options and the stock options expected to vest as of December 31, 2014 was approximately $267.3 million.
In connection with the November 2012 per share dividend discussed further in Note 12, the Board authorized a $2.09 per share reduction in the exercise price of certain non-vested and vested options outstanding on October 24, 2012. As such, the Company repriced 10,166,820 options previously granted to 228 employees and directors. The other terms, including the vesting schedules, remained unchanged. The aggregate incremental share-based compensation expense resulting from the modification of these outstanding stock options was approximately $11.4 million, of which approximately $9.2 million was recognized during the three months ended December 31, 2012, and the remaining $2.2 million is being recognized over the remaining vesting periods of the respective stock options.
In connection with the February 2012 per share dividend discussed further in Note 12, the Board authorized a $2.82 per share reduction in the exercise price of all non-vested options and certain vested options outstanding on February 29, 2012. As such, the Company repriced 5,561,700 options previously granted to 222 employees and directors. The other terms, including the vesting schedules, remained unchanged. The aggregate incremental share-based compensation expense resulting from the modification of these outstanding stock options was approximately $7.1 million, of which approximately $4.5 million was recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2012, and the remaining $2.6 million is being recognized over the remaining vesting periods of the respective stock options.
Stock Appreciation Rights
The Company’s SARs require the Company to settle in cash an amount equal to the difference between the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of exercise and the grant price, multiplied by the number of SARs being exercised. These awards either (i) vest 25% per year or (ii) vest 33% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and 67% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant.
The Company’s SAR activity in 2014 is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		Number of				Weighted				Aggregate
		SARs				Average				Intrinsic Value
						Exercise Price
										(in thousands)
Outstanding at December 31, 2013			258,025			$	35.26			$	2,858
Granted			186,300			$	53.5
Exercised			(15,349	)		$	28.76
Canceled			(10,175	)		$	37.96
Outstanding at December 31, 2014			418,801			$	43.55			$	6,417
As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the weighted average fair value per share of the SARs granted was $27.17, $19.07 and $8.16, respectively. The Company paid approximately $408,000 and $83,000 to settle exercised SARs in 2014 and 2013, respectively. There were no SARs exercised in 2012.
The weighted average remaining contractual life of the SARs outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2014 is 8.6 years and 8.0 years, respectively. The total aggregate intrinsic value of the exercisable SARs and the SARs expected to vest as of December 31, 2014 was approximately $6.2 million.
In connection with the November 2012 per share dividend discussed further in Note 12, the Company’s Board authorized a $2.09 per share reduction in the exercise price of all non-vested cash-settled SARs outstanding on October 24, 2012.
Restricted Stock Units
The Company’s RSUs will settle in shares of the Company’s common stock within 45 days of the applicable vesting date. RSUs granted to employees vest 33% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and 67% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. RSUs granted to our non-employee directors vest 34% on the first anniversary of the date of grant and 33% on the second and third anniversaries of the date of grant.
The Company’s RSU activity in 2014 is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		Number of				Weighted Average
		RSUs				Grant-Date Fair
						Value
Non-vested at December 31, 2013			57,167			$	44.62
Granted			36,500			$	47.87
Non-vested at December 31, 2014			93,667			$	45.89
As of December 31, 2014, there are 93,667 RSUs outstanding with an intrinsic value of approximately $5.5 million.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
In November 2013, the Board approved an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) which was approved by the Company’s shareholders in May 2014. Beginning in 2014, the ESPP allows eligible employees to authorize payroll deductions of up to 10% of their base salary to be applied toward the purchase of full shares of the Company’s common stock on the last day of the offering period. Offering periods under the ESPP are six months in duration. During 2014, the offering periods under the ESPP began on March 1 and September 1. In November 2014, the ESPP was amended to change the start of the offering periods to begin on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning April 1, 2015. Participating employees purchase shares on the last day of each offering period at a discount of 15% of the closing price of the common stock on such date as reported on the NYSE. The aggregate number of shares of the Company’s common stock that may be issued under the ESPP may not exceed 2,500,000 shares and no one employee may purchase any shares under the ESPP having a collective fair market value greater than $25,000 in any one calendar year. The shares available for purchase under the ESPP will be drawn from authorized but unissued shares of common stock. During 2014, the Company issued 46,032 shares of common stock for purchases under the ESPP.
Other
The Company sponsors a supplemental non-qualified deferred compensation plan, covering certain management employees, and maintains other statutory indemnity plans as required by local laws or regulations.
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has a severance accrual included in accrued expenses on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of $6.3 million and $14.1 million, respectively. The Company recognizes obligations associated with severance related to contractual termination benefits at fair value on the date that it is probable that the affected employees will be entitled to the benefit and the amount can reasonably be estimated. The severance accrual is related to cost reduction programs that will result in severance for approximately 270 positions, which are expected to lower operating costs and improve profitability by reducing excess capacity. In 2014, the Company recognized approximately $1.7 million of net reversals related to these cost reduction programs, primarily as a result of affected individuals transferring into other positions within the Company. Of the $1.7 million decrease from net reversals recognized for these cost reduction programs, approximately ($1.8) million, $100,000 and ($16,000) were related to activities in the Product Development segment, Integrated Healthcare Services segment and corporate activities, respectively. The Company expects the majority of the severance accruals at December 31, 2014 will be paid in 2015.
The following amounts were recorded for the severance associated with cost reduction programs (in thousands):
Balance at December 31, 2013		$	14,056
Expense, net of reversals			(1,665	)
Payments			(6,036	)
Foreign currency translation			(81	)
Balance at December 31, 2014		$	6,274

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	18. Related Party Transactions
	As the Company has done in prior years, the Company reimburses its Executive Chairman for business-related travel services he provides for himself and other Company employees with the use of his own airplane. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company expensed approximately $1.8 million, $2.7 million and $4.2 million, respectively, for such business-related travel expenses. In the second quarter of 2013, the Company paid a $1.5 million fee in connection with the modification of the agreement for the business usage of the airplane that limits reimbursements to $2.5 million per year.
	During 2014 and 2013, the Company entered into a number of contracts with HUYA, primarily in Asia, in which the Company will provide up to approximately $416,000 and $19.2 million, respectively, of services on a fee for services basis at arm’s length and at market rates. In 2014 and 2013, the Company provided approximately $2.3 million and $772,000, respectively, of services under these agreements.
	During 2014, HUYA subleased office space in Japan from the Company. The nine month sublease ended in September 2014 and the Company recognized $76,000 in sublease income during 2014.
	The Company has entered into other transactions with related parties including the funding of research and development costs for HUYA which is discussed in Note 1; investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates which are discussed in Note 4; and management fees which are discussed in Note 13.

Operations_by_Geographic_Locat

Operations by Geographic Location	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Operations by Geographic Location	19. Operations by Geographic Location
	The table below presents the Company’s operations by geographical location. The Company attributes revenues to geographical locations based upon where the services are performed. The Company’s operations within each geographical region are further broken down to show each country which accounts for 10% or more of the totals (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Service revenues:
	Americas:
	United States	$	1,589,402	$	1,351,160	$	1,288,990
	Other		194,597		181,814		180,568
	Americas		1,783,999		1,532,974		1,469,558
	Europe and Africa:
	United Kingdom		402,184		362,242		344,852
	Other		1,121,354		1,139,262		1,086,065
	Europe and Africa		1,523,538		1,501,504		1,430,917
	Asia-Pacific:
	Japan		471,831		438,882		500,280
	Other		386,454		334,980		291,543
	Asia-Pacific		858,285		773,862		791,823
	Total service revenues		4,165,822		3,808,340		3,692,298
	Reimbursed expenses		1,294,176		1,291,205		1,173,215
	Total revenues	$	5,459,998	$	5,099,545	$	4,865,513
		As of December 31,
		2014		2013
	Property, equipment and software, net:
	Americas:
	United States	$	167,890	$	168,380
	Other		1,774		2,146
	Americas		169,664		170,526
	Europe and Africa:
	United Kingdom		48,409		50,043
	Other		15,782		18,246
	Europe and Africa		64,191		68,289
	Asia-Pacific:
	Japan		20,752		26,096
	Other		25,271		27,574
	Asia-Pacific		46,023		53,670
	Total property, equipment and software, net	$	279,878	$	292,485

Segments

Segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segments	20. Segments
	The following table presents the Company’s operations by reportable segment. The Company is managed through two reportable segments, Product Development and Integrated Healthcare Services. Product Development, which primarily serves biopharmaceutical customers engaged in research and development, provides clinical research and clinical trial services. Integrated Healthcare Services provides commercialization services to biopharmaceutical customers and research, analytics, real-world and late phase research, and other services to both biopharmaceutical customers and the broader healthcare market.
	Certain costs are not allocated to the Company’s segments and are reported as general corporate and unallocated expenses. These costs primarily consist of share-based compensation and expenses for corporate overhead functions such as finance, human resources, information technology, facilities and legal, as well as certain expenses incurred during the second quarter of 2013, including the $25.0 million fee incurred in connection with the termination of the management agreement with affiliates of certain shareholders and the $1.5 million fee paid in connection with the modification of an agreement for the business usage of an airplane owned by GFM, a company owned by the Company’s Executive Chairman. The Company does not allocate restructuring or impairment charges to its segments.
	Information presented below is in thousands:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Service revenues
	Product Development	$	3,097,831		$	2,919,730		$	2,728,695
	Integrated Healthcare Services		1,067,991			888,610			963,603
	Total service revenues		4,165,822			3,808,340			3,692,298
	Costs of revenue, service costs
	Product Development		1,820,937			1,752,800			1,683,340
	Integrated Healthcare Services		863,169			718,626			776,027
	Total costs of revenue, service costs		2,684,106			2,471,426			2,459,367
	Selling, general and administrative
	Product Development		631,678			604,663			567,500
	Integrated Healthcare Services		140,019			127,860			127,067
	General corporate and unallocated		110,641			127,987			123,188
	Total selling, general and administrative		882,338			860,510			817,755
	Income from operations
	Product Development		645,216			562,267			477,855
	Integrated Healthcare Services		64,803			42,124			60,509
	General corporate and unallocated		(110,641	)		(127,987	)		(123,188	)
	Restructuring costs		(8,988	)		(14,071	)		(18,741	)
	Total income from operations	$	590,390		$	462,333		$	396,435
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Assets
	Product Development	$	2,786,692		$	2,571,502		$	2,016,605
	Integrated Healthcare Services		330,689			299,284			351,656
	General corporate and unallocated		188,451			196,011			130,892
	Total assets	$	3,305,832		$	3,066,797		$	2,499,153
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Expenditures to acquire long-lived assets
	Product Development	$	68,187		$	69,375		$	61,097
	Integrated Healthcare Services		8,279			17,398			8,181
	General corporate and unallocated		6,184			1,574			2,058
	Total expenditures to acquire long-lived assets	$	82,650		$	88,347		$	71,336
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Depreciation and amortization expense
	Product Development	$	95,168		$	82,047		$	68,825
	Integrated Healthcare Services		20,821			20,475			24,366
	General corporate and unallocated		5,024			4,982			5,097
	Total depreciation and amortization expense	$	121,013		$	107,504		$	98,288

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	21. Earnings Per Share
	The following table reconciles the basic to diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Basic weighted average common shares outstanding		127,994		124,147		115,710
	Effect of dilutive stock options and share awards		3,089		3,715		2,086
	Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding		131,083		127,862		117,796
	The following table shows the weighted average number of outstanding share-based awards not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share as the effect of including such share-based awards in the computation would be anti-dilutive (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted average shares subject to anti-dilutive share-based awards		1,241		1,765		2,363
	Share-based awards will have a dilutive effect under the treasury method only when the respective period’s average market value of the Company’s common stock exceeds the exercise proceeds.

Comprehensive_Income

Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income	22. Comprehensive Income
	Below is a summary of the components of AOCI (in thousands):
		Foreign				Marketable				Derivative				Defined			Income			AOCI
		Currency				Securities				Instrument				Benefit			Taxes
		Translation												Plan
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	25,357			$	(191	)		$	(26,345	)		$	(4,788	)	$	28,838		$	22,871
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(6,045	)			658				(10,698	)			(4,616	)		2,614			(18,087	)
	Reclassification adjustments		—				—				3,501				1,169			(1,759	)		2,911
	Balance at December 31, 2012		19,312				467				(33,542	)			(8,235	)		29,693			7,695
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(25,141	)			5,241				(393	)			2,147			1,331			(16,815	)
	Reclassification adjustments		—				—				13,080				1,044			(5,380	)		8,744
	Balance at December 31, 2013		(5,829	)			5,708				(20,855	)			(5,044	)		25,644			(376	)
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(49,911	)			(976	)			(6,834	)			(10,218	)		7,225			(60,714	)
	Reclassification adjustments		—				(5,004	)			8,630				743			(2,370	)		1,999
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	(55,740	)		$	(272	)		$	(19,059	)		$	(14,519	)	$	30,499		$	(59,091	)
	Below is a summary of the (gains) losses reclassified from AOCI into the consolidated statements of income and the affected financial statement line item (in thousands):
	Reclassification Adjustments	Affected Financial Statement		Year Ended December 31,
		Line Item		2014				2013				2012
	Marketable securities:
	Marketable securities	Other (income) expense, net		$	(5,004	)		$	—			$	—
	Total before income taxes				(5,004	)			—				—
	Income tax expense				(1,927	)			—				—
	Total net of income taxes			$	(3,077	)		$	—			$	—
	Derivative instruments:
	Interest rate swaps	Interest expense		$	12,424			$	12,582			$	3,248
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Service revenues			(3,794	)			498				253
	Total before income taxes				8,630				13,080				3,501
	Income tax benefit				4,022				4,991				1,313
	Total net of income taxes			$	4,608			$	8,089			$	2,188
	Defined benefit plans:
	Amortization of prior service costs	See Note 17		$	107			$	336			$	411
	Amortization of actuarial losses	See Note 17			636				708				758
	Total before income taxes				743				1,044				1,169
	Income tax benefit				275				389				446
	Total net of income taxes			$	468			$	655			$	723

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	23. Supplemental Cash Flow Information
	The following table presents the Company’s supplemental cash flow information (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
	Interest paid	$	93,912	$	115,494	$	127,133
	Income taxes paid, net of refunds		138,931		70,983		103,976
	Non-cash Investing Activities:
	Acquisition of property and equipment utilizing capital leases	$	2,476	$	3,761	$	5,267
	Fair value of contingent consideration payable in connection with acquisitions		—		14,300		1,990

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	24. Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
	The following table summarizes the Company’s unaudited quarterly results of operations (in thousands, except per share data):
			2014
			First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
	Service revenues		$	1,005,288		$	1,035,476	$	1,061,013		$	1,064,045
	Income from operations			141,316			141,000		149,142			158,932
	Net income			90,214			85,110		92,733			88,444
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests			(31	)		10		(79	)		(18	)
	Net income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc		$	90,183		$	85,120	$	92,654		$	88,426
	Basic earnings per share (1)		$	0.69		$	0.66	$	0.73		$	0.7
	Diluted earnings per share (1)		$	0.68		$	0.64	$	0.71		$	0.69
			2013
			First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
	Service revenues		$	927,435		$	944,238	$	932,727		$	1,003,940
	Income from operations			115,165			94,897		125,259			127,012
	Net income			48,156			38,353		66,584			72,934
	Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests			153			164		185			62
	Net income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc		$	48,309		$	38,517	$	66,769		$	72,996
	Basic earnings per share (1)		$	0.42		$	0.31	$	0.52		$	0.57
	Diluted earnings per share (1)		$	0.41		$	0.3	$	0.5		$	0.55
	-1	The sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal per share amounts reported for year-to-date periods. This is due to changes in the number of weighted average shares outstanding and the effects of rounding for each period.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	25. Subsequent Event
	In February 2015, the Board approved a restructuring plan for approximately $30.0 million to align its resources and reduce overcapacity. These actions are expected to occur throughout 2015 and 2016, and are expected to consist of severance, facility closure and other exit related costs.

Schedule_I_Condensed_Financial

Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	Schedule I—Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
	QUINTILES TRANSNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Selling, general and administrative	$	1,509		$	2		$	23
	Loss from operations		(1,509	)		(2	)		(23	)
	Interest income		(52	)		(6	)		(14	)
	Interest expense		—			9,242			21,134
	Loss on extinguishment of debt		—			15,501			—
	Other expense (income), net		8			—			—
	Loss before income taxes and equity in earnings of subsidiary		(1,465	)		(24,739	)		(21,143	)
	Income tax benefit		(810	)		(9,347	)		(7,601	)
	Loss before equity in earnings of subsidiary		(655	)		(15,392	)		(13,542	)
	Equity in earnings of subsidiary		357,038			241,983			191,088
	Net income	$	356,383		$	226,591		$	177,546
	QUINTILES TRANSNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Net income	$	356,383		$	226,591		$	177,546
	Unrealized (losses) gains on marketable securities, net of income taxes of ($376), $2,016 and $258		(600	)		3,225			400
	Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of ($1,767), ($751) and ($4,392)		(5,067	)		358			(6,306	)
	Foreign currency translation, net of income taxes of ($2,101), ($2,465) and $2,964		(47,810	)		(22,676	)		(9,009	)
	Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of income taxes of ($2,981), ($131) and ($1,444)		(7,237	)		2,278			(3,172	)
	Reclassification adjustments:
	Gains on marketable securities included in net income, net of income taxes of ($1,927)		(3,077	)		—			—
	Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, net of income taxes of $4,022, $4,991 and $1,313		4,608			8,089			2,188
	Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, net of income taxes of $275, $389 and $446		468			655			723
	Comprehensive income	$	297,668		$	218,520		$	162,370
	QUINTILES TRANSNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
		December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	ASSETS
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	11,635		$	71,942
	Income taxes receivable		546			—
	Other current assets and receivables		114			2,995
	Total current assets		12,295			74,937
	Deferred income taxes		7			44
	Deposits and other assets		—			26
	Total assets	$	12,302		$	75,007
	LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
	Current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	$	21		$	—
	Accrued expenses		84			—
	Income taxes payable		—			302
	Total current liabilities		105			302
	Investment in subsidiary		716,148			739,115
	Payable to subsidiary		110			3,003
	Total liabilities		716,363			742,420
	Commitments and contingencies
	Shareholders’ deficit:
	Common stock and additional paid-in capital, 300,000 shares authorized, $0.01 par value, 124,129 and 129,652 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively		143,828			478,144
	Accumulated deficit		(788,798	)		(1,145,181	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income		(59,091	)		(376	)
	Total shareholders’ deficit		(704,061	)		(667,413	)
	Total liabilities and shareholders’ deficit	$	12,302		$	75,007
	QUINTILES TRANSNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Operating activities:
Net income	$	356,383		$	226,591		$	177,546
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discount		—			10,346			1,884
Subsidiary income		(27,623	)		(119,998	)		—
Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes		37			304			(70	)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable and unbilled services		2,994			(2,995	)		—
Prepaid expenses and other assets		—			(21	)		(100	)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		65			(62	)		63
Income taxes payable and other liabilities		(847	)		(9,651	)		(7,531	)
Net cash provided by operating activities		331,009			104,514			171,792
Investing activities:
Investments in subsidiary, net of payments received		—			(179,847	)		118,712
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		—			(179,847	)		118,712
Financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of debt		—			—			293,877
Payment of debt issuance costs		—			—			(5,988	)
Repayment of debt		—			(300,000	)		—
Issuance of common stock		—			525,000			3,116
Payment of common stock issuance costs		(105	)		(35,439	)		—
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and option plans		35,228			12,539			350
Repurchase of common stock		(415,131	)		(6,434	)		(13,363	)
Repurchase of stock options		(8,415	)		(50,649	)		—
Intercompany with subsidiary		(2,893	)		(153	)		156
Dividends paid to common shareholders		—			—			(567,851	)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities		(391,316	)		144,864			(289,703	)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		(60,307	)		69,531			801
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		71,942			2,411			1,610
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	11,635		$	71,942		$	2,411
QUINTILES TRANSNATIONAL HOLDINGS INC. (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The condensed parent company financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Rule 12-04, Schedule I of Regulation S-X as the restricted net assets of Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.’s (the “Company”) wholly-owned subsidiary, Quintiles Transnational Corp. (“Quintiles Transnational”) exceed 25% of the consolidated net assets of the Company. The ability of Quintiles Transnational to pay dividends may be limited due to the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing its credit arrangements.
These condensed parent company financial statements include the accounts of Quintiles Transnational Holdings, Inc. on a standalone basis (the “Parent”) and the equity method of accounting is used to reflect ownership interest in its subsidiary. Refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes presented elsewhere herein for additional information and disclosures with respect to these financial statements.
Since the Parent is part of a group that files a consolidated income tax return, in accordance with ASC 740, a portion of the consolidated amount of current and deferred income tax expense of the Company has been allocated to the Parent. The income tax benefit of $810,000, $9.3 million and $7.6 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, represents the income tax benefit that will be or were already utilized in the Company’s consolidated United States federal and state income tax returns. If the Parent was not part of these consolidated income tax returns, it would not be able to recognize any income tax benefit, as it generates no revenue against which the losses could be used on a separate filer basis.
Below is a summary of the dividends paid to the Parent by Quintiles Transnational in 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
	Amount
Paid in November 2014	$	234,000
Paid in May 2014		87,000
Paid in January 2014		8,415
Total paid in 2014	$	329,415
Paid in November and December 2013	$	116,585
Paid in February 2013		5,400
Total paid in 2013	$	121,985
Paid in November 2012	$	6,000
Paid in October 2012		241,700
Paid in August 2012		6,300
Paid in May 2012		4,800
Paid in March 2012		50,000
Paid in February 2012		10,000
Total paid in 2012	$	318,800

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
	Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance
	Information presented below is in thousands:
			Balance at		Additions		Deductions			Balance at
			Beginning		Charged to		(a)			End of Year
			of Year		Expenses
	31-Dec-14		$	29,501	$	11,084	$	(15,890	)	$	24,695
	31-Dec-13		$	32,344	$	3,611	$	(6,454	)	$	29,501
	31-Dec-12		$	31,669	$	4,173	$	(3,498	)	$	32,344
	(a)	– Impact of reductions recorded to expense and translation adjustments.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Reclassifications	Reclassifications
	Certain immaterial prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. These changes had no effect on previously reported total revenues, net income, comprehensive income or shareholders’ deficit.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of the Company and its subsidiaries. Amounts pertaining to the noncontrolling ownership interests held in third parties in the operating results and financial position of the Company’s majority-owned subsidiaries are reported as noncontrolling interests. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. These estimates are based on historical experience and various other assumptions believed reasonable under the circumstances. The Company evaluates its estimates on an ongoing basis and makes changes to the estimates and related disclosures as experience develops or new information becomes known. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
Foreign Currencies	Foreign Currencies
	The Company’s financial statements are reported in United States dollars and, accordingly, fluctuations in exchange rates will affect the translation of its revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currencies into United States dollars for purposes of reporting its consolidated financial results. Assets and liabilities recorded in foreign currencies on the books of foreign subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues, costs and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange during the year. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are charged or credited to the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) component of shareholders’ deficit. The Company is subject to foreign currency transaction risk for fluctuations in exchange rates during the period of time between the consummation and cash settlement of a transaction. The Company earns revenue from its service contracts over a period of several months and, in some cases, over a period of several years. Accordingly, exchange rate fluctuations during this period may affect the Company’s profitability with respect to such contracts. Other (income) expense, net includes foreign currency net losses for 2014, 2013 and 2012 of approximately $4.9 million, $4.0 million and $1.1 million, respectively.
Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Investments	Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Investments
	The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an initial maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The Company’s restricted cash primarily consisted of amounts collateralizing standby letters of credit issued in favor of certain suppliers and health insurance funds. Investments in marketable equity securities are classified as available-for-sale and measured at fair market value with net unrealized gains and losses recorded in the AOCI component of shareholders’ deficit until realized. The fair market value is based on the closing price as quoted by the respective stock exchange. In addition, the Company has investments in equity securities of companies for which there are not readily available market values and for which the Company does not exercise significant influence or control; such investments are accounted for using the cost method. Any gains or losses from the sales of investments or other-than-temporary declines in fair value are computed by specific identification.
Equity Method Investments	Equity Method Investments
	The Company’s investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates are accounted for under the equity method if the Company exercises significant influence or has an investment in a limited partnership that is considered to be greater than minor. These investments and advances are classified as investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company records its pro rata share of the earnings, adjusted for accretion of basis difference, of these investments in equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates on the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The Company reviews its investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable.
Derivatives	Derivatives
	The Company uses derivative instruments to manage exposures to interest rates and foreign currencies. The Company also holds freestanding warrants. Derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value at each balance sheet date utilizing pricing models for non-exchange-traded contracts. At inception, the Company designates whether or not the derivative instrument is an effective hedge of an asset, liability or firm commitment which is then classified as either a cash flow hedge or a fair value hedge. If determined to be an effective cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded as a component of AOCI until realized. We include the impact from these hedges in the same line item as the hedged item on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Changes in fair value of effective fair value hedges are recorded in earnings as an offset to the changes in the fair value of the related hedged item. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is immediately recognized in earnings. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that are not an effective hedge are recognized in earnings. The Company has entered, and may in the future enter, into derivative contracts (swaps, forwards, calls or puts, warrants, for example) related to its debt, investments in marketable equity securities and forecasted foreign currency transactions.
Billed and Unbilled Services and Unearned Income	Billed and Unbilled Services and Unearned Income
	In general, prerequisites for billings and payments are established by contractual provisions including predetermined payment schedules, which may or may not correspond to the timing of the performance of services under the contract. Unbilled services arise when services have been rendered for which revenue has been recognized but the customers have not been billed.
	In some cases, payments received are in excess of revenue recognized. Payments received in advance of services being provided are deferred as unearned income on the consolidated balance sheet. As the contracted services are subsequently performed and the associated revenue is recognized, the unearned income balance is reduced by the amount of the revenue recognized during the period.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	The Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on a variety of factors that affect the potential collectability of the related receivables, including length of time the receivables are past due, customer credit ratings, financial stability of the customer, specific one-time events and past customer history. In addition, in circumstances where the Company is made aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific allowance is established. The accounts are individually evaluated on a regular basis and appropriate reserves are established as deemed appropriate based on the above criteria.
Receivables Financing Facility	Receivables Financing Facility
	Advances received under the Company’s receivables financing facility are accounted for as borrowings secured by the receivables and included in net cash provided by financing activities. The Company services the collateralized accounts receivable and the cash flows for the underlying receivables are included in cash provided by operating activities. The collateralized accounts receivable are included in trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net.
Business Combinations	Business Combinations
	Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method, and accordingly, the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree are recorded at their estimated fair values on the date of the acquisition. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets. When a business combination involves contingent consideration, the Company recognizes a liability equal to the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration obligation at the date of the acquisition. Subsequent changes in the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration are recognized in earnings in the period of the change.
Long-Lived Assets	Long-Lived Assets
	Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over the shorter of the asset’s estimated useful life or the lease term, if related to leased property, as follows:
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		3 - 40 years
	Equipment		3 - 10 years
	Furniture and fixtures		5 - 10 years
	Motor vehicles		3 - 5   years
	Definite-lived identifiable intangible assets are amortized primarily using an accelerated method that reflects the pattern in which the Company expects to benefit from the use of the asset over its estimated remaining useful life as follows:
	Trademarks and trade names		3 - 7   years
	Product licensing and distribution rights		1        year
	Non-compete agreements		1 - 4   years
	Contract backlog and customer relationships		1 - 11 years
	Software and related assets		3 - 10 years
	Goodwill and indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets, which consist of certain trade names, are not amortized but evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate an impairment.
	Included in software and related items is the capitalized cost of internal-use software used in supporting the Company’s business. Qualifying costs incurred during the application development stage are capitalized and amortized over their estimated useful lives. The Company recognized $33.1 million, $32.2 million and $27.4 million of amortization expense in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to software and related assets.
	The carrying values of property, equipment and intangible and other long-lived assets are reviewed for recoverability if the facts and circumstances suggest that a potential impairment may have occurred. If this review indicates that carrying values will not be recoverable, as determined based on undiscounted cash flow projections, the Company will record an impairment charge to reduce carrying values to estimated fair value. There were no events, facts or circumstances in 2014, 2013 and 2012 that resulted in any impairment charges to the Company’s property, equipment, intangible or other long-lived assets.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	The Company recognizes revenue when all of the following conditions are satisfied: (1) there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement; (2) the service offering has been delivered to the customer; (3) the collection of the fees is probable; and (4) the arrangement consideration is fixed or determinable. The Company’s arrangements are primarily service contracts that range in duration from a few months to several years. Most contracts may be terminated upon 30 to 90 days notice by the customer, however, in the event of termination, contract provisions typically require payment for services rendered through the date of termination, as well as for subsequent services rendered to close out the contract.
	In some cases, contracts provide for consideration that is contingent upon the occurrence of uncertain future events. The Company recognizes contingent revenue when the contingency has been resolved and all other criteria for revenue recognition have been met. The Company treats cash payments to customers as incentives to induce the customers to enter into such a service agreement with the Company. The related asset is amortized as a reduction of revenue over the period the services are performed. The Company records revenues net of any tax assessments by governmental authorities, such as value added taxes, that are imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue generating transactions. The Company does not recognize revenue with respect to start-up activities including contract and scope negotiation, feasibility analysis and conflict of interest review associated with contracts. The costs for these activities are expensed as incurred.
	For the arrangements that include multiple elements, arrangement consideration is allocated to units of accounting based on the relative selling price. The best evidence of selling price of a unit of accounting is vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”), which is the price the Company charges when the deliverable is sold separately. When VSOE is not available to determine selling price, management uses relevant third-party evidence (“TPE”) of selling price, if available. When neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists, management uses its best estimate of selling price considering all relevant information that is available without undue cost and effort.
	The majority of the Company’s contracts within the Product Development segment are service contracts for clinical research that represent a single unit of accounting. The Company recognizes revenue on its clinical research services contracts as services are performed primarily on a proportional-performance basis, generally using output measures that are specific to the service provided. Examples of output measures include among others, number of investigators enrolled, number of site initiation visits and number of monitoring visits completed. Revenue is determined by dividing the actual units of work completed by the total units of work required under the contract and multiplying that ratio by the total contract value. The total contract value, or total contractual payments, represents the aggregate contracted price for each of the agreed upon services to be provided. Changes in the scope of work are common, especially under long-term contracts, and generally result in a change in contract value. Once the customer has agreed to the changes in scope and renegotiated pricing terms, the contract value is amended and revenue is recognized, as described above. To the extent that contracts involve multiple elements, the Company follows the allocation methodology described above and recognizes revenue for each unit of accounting on a proportional performance basis.
	The Company derives the majority of its revenues in its Integrated Healthcare Services segment from providing commercialization services on a fee-for-service basis to customers within the biopharmaceutical industry. Fees on these arrangements are billed based on a contractual per-diem or hourly rate basis. The Company recognizes revenue on commercialization services contracts primarily on a time and materials basis. Some of the Company’s commercialization contracts are multiple element arrangements, with elements including recruiting, training and deployment of sales representatives. The nature of the terms of these multiple element arrangements will vary based on the customized needs of the Company’s customers. For contracts that have multiple elements, the Company follows the allocation methodology described above and recognizes revenue for each unit of accounting on a time and materials basis. The Company’s commercialization contracts sometimes include variable fees that are based on a percentage of product sales (royalty payments). The Company recognizes revenue on royalty payments when the variable components become fixed or determinable and all other revenue recognition criteria have been met, which generally only occurs upon the sale of the underlying product(s) and upon the Company’s receipt of information necessary to make a reasonable estimate.
Reimbursed Expenses	Reimbursed Expenses
	The Company includes reimbursed expenses in total revenues and costs of revenue as the Company is deemed to be the primary obligor in the applicable arrangements. These costs include such items as payments to investigators and travel expenses for the Company’s clinical monitors and sales representatives.
Expenses	Expenses
	Costs of revenue include reimbursed expenses, compensation and benefits for billable employees, depreciation of assets used in generating revenue and other expenses directly related to service contracts such as courier fees and laboratory supplies for the Company’s laboratory services, professional services and travel expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses primarily include costs related to administrative functions such as compensation and benefits, travel, professional services, training and expenses for advertising, information technology, facilities and depreciation and amortization.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments that subject the Company to credit risk primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and accounts receivable. The Company maintains its cash and cash equivalent balances with high-quality financial institutions and, consequently, the Company believes that such funds are subject to minimal credit risk. Investment policies have been implemented that limit purchases of marketable securities to investment grade securities. Substantially all service revenues for Product Development and Integrated Healthcare Services are earned by performing services under contracts with various pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and healthcare companies. The concentration of credit risk is equal to the outstanding accounts receivable and unbilled services balances, less the unearned income related thereto, and such risk is subject to the financial and industry conditions of the Company’s customers. The Company does not require collateral or other securities to support customer receivables. Credit losses have been immaterial and reasonably within management’s expectations. No customer accounted for 10.0% or more of consolidated service revenues in 2014, 2013 or 2012.
Research and Development Costs	Research and Development Costs
	Research and development costs consist primarily of employee compensation and related expenses and information technology contract services. The following is a summary of the research and development expenses (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Internally developed software applications and computer technology	$	4,980	$	3,955	$	9,907
	Funding of customer’s research and development activity		811		1,000		—
	Collaboration agreement with HUYA		—		—		519
		$	5,791	$	4,955	$	10,426
	In January 2010, the Company entered into a collaboration agreement with a related party, HUYA Bioscience International, LLC (“HUYA”), to fund up to $2.3 million of its research and development activity for a specific compound. The funding consisted of $1.0 million in cash which was paid and expensed in 2010 and $1.3 million of services provided by the Company, which have been fully provided. In return for the $2.3 million in funding, the Company had the potential to receive additional consideration which contractually may not exceed $16.5 million excluding interest if certain events were to occur. In February 2015, the Company and HUYA agreed to terminate the collaboration agreement. In connection with the termination, HUYA agreed to pay the Company $5.0 million to satisfy all of HUYA’s various payment obligations under the collaboration agreement.
Advertising Costs	Advertising Costs
	Advertising costs, which include the development and production of advertising materials and the communication of these materials, are charged to expense as incurred. The Company incurred approximately $16.0 million, $14.8 million and $14.5 million in advertising expense in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Restructuring Costs	Restructuring Costs
	Restructuring costs, which primarily include termination benefits and facility closure costs, are recorded at estimated fair value. Key assumptions in determining the restructuring costs include the terms and payments that may be negotiated to terminate certain contractual obligations and the timing of employees leaving the Company.
Contingencies	Contingencies
	The Company records accruals for claims, suits, investigations and proceedings when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company reviews claims, suits, investigations and proceedings at least quarterly and records or adjusts accruals related to such matters to reflect the impact and status of any settlements, rulings, advice of counsel or other information pertinent to a particular matter. Legal costs associated with contingencies are charged to expense as incurred.
	The Company is party to legal proceedings incidental to its business. While the outcome of these matters could differ from management’s expectations, the Company does not believe the resolution of these matters has a reasonable possibility of having a material adverse effect to the Company’s financial statements.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Income tax expense includes United States federal, state and international income taxes. Certain items of income and expense are not reported in income tax returns and financial statements in the same year. The income tax effects of these differences are reported as deferred income taxes. Valuation allowances are provided to reduce the related deferred income tax assets to an amount which will, more likely than not, be realized. Beginning in 2013, the undistributed earnings of most of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States. Accordingly, a deferred income tax liability has not been provided related to those undistributed earnings. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized income tax benefits are recognized as a component of income tax expense as discussed further in Note 16.
Employee Stock Compensation	Employee Stock Compensation
	The Company accounts for share-based compensation for stock options and stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) under the fair value method and uses the Black-Scholes-Merton model to estimate the value of such share-based awards granted to its employees and non-executive directors. Expected volatility is based upon the historical volatility of a peer group for a period equal to the expected term, as the Company does not have adequate history to calculate its own volatility and believes the expected volatility will approximate the historical volatility of the peer group. Prior to the completion of the Company’s initial public offering (“IPO”) on May 14, 2013, the expected dividends were based on the historical dividends paid by the Company, excluding dividends that resulted from activities that the Company deemed to be one-time in nature. Following the IPO, the Company does not currently anticipate paying dividends. The expected term represents the period of time the grants are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate is based on the United States Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant.
	The Company accounts for its share-based compensation for restricted stock units (“RSUs”) based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.
	The Company recognized share-based compensation expense of $30.0 million, $22.8 million and $25.9 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Share-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses on the accompanying consolidated statements of income based upon the classification of the employees who were granted the share-based awards. The associated future income tax benefit recognized was $7.6 million, $8.1 million and $6.9 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, there was approximately $38.4 million of total unrecognized share-based compensation expense related to outstanding non-vested share-based compensation arrangements, which the Company expects to recognize over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share
	The calculation of earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of common shares or common stock equivalents outstanding during the applicable period. The dilutive effect of common stock equivalents is excluded from basic earnings per share and is included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share. Potentially dilutive securities include outstanding stock options, shares to be purchased under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan (see Note 17) and unvested RSUs.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	In May 2014, the United States Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board issued a converged standard on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The objective of the new standard is to establish a single comprehensive revenue recognition model that is designed to create greater comparability of financial statements across industries and jurisdictions. Under the new standard, companies will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new standard also will require expanded disclosures on revenue recognition and changes in assets and liabilities that result from contracts with customers. The Company will adopt the new standard on January 1, 2017, as required. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new standard on its consolidated financial statements.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property and Equipment at Cost Using Straight-Line Method	Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over the shorter of the asset’s estimated useful life or the lease term, if related to leased property, as follows:
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		3 - 40 years
	Equipment		3 - 10 years
	Furniture and fixtures		5 - 10 years
	Motor vehicles		3 - 5   years
Definite-Lived Identifiable Intangible Assets Amortized	Definite-lived identifiable intangible assets are amortized primarily using an accelerated method that reflects the pattern in which the Company expects to benefit from the use of the asset over its estimated remaining useful life as follows:
	Trademarks and trade names		3 - 7   years
	Product licensing and distribution rights		1        year
	Non-compete agreements		1 - 4   years
	Contract backlog and customer relationships		1 - 11 years
	Software and related assets		3 - 10 years
Summary of Research and Development Expenses	The following is a summary of the research and development expenses (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Internally developed software applications and computer technology	$	4,980	$	3,955	$	9,907
	Funding of customer’s research and development activity		811		1,000		—
	Collaboration agreement with HUYA		—		—		519
		$	5,791	$	4,955	$	10,426

Accounts_Receivable_and_Unbill1

Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services	Accounts receivable and unbilled services consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Trade:
	Billed	$	444,941		$	408,959
	Unbilled services		532,312			516,942
			977,253			925,901
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(1,998	)		(1,696	)
		$	975,255		$	924,205
Percentage of Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services by Region	The percentage of accounts receivable and unbilled services by region is as follows:
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Americas:
	United States		55	%		53	%
	Other		2			2
	Americas		57			55
	Europe and Africa:
	United Kingdom		23			25
	Other		11			12
	Europe and Africa		34			37
	Asia-Pacific:
	Japan		4			4
	Other		5			4
	Asia-Pacific		9			8
			100	%		100	%

InvestmentsDebt_Equity_and_Oth1

Investments-Debt, Equity and Other Securities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Summary of the Company's Debt, Equity and Other Securities	The following is a summary of the Company’s debt, equity and other securities (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Marketable securities	$	831	$	7,668
	Cost method		33,672		32,681
		$	34,503	$	40,349
Summary of Available-for-Sale Securities	The following is a summary of available-for-sale securities (in thousands):
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Available-for-Sale Securities	Amortized Cost		Gross			Market Value		Amortized Cost		Gross		Market Value
				Unrealized							Unrealized
				Loss							Gains
	Marketable equity	$	1,103	$	(272	)	$	831	$	1,960	$	5,708	$	7,668
Summary of the Company's Portfolio of Cost Method Investments	Below is a summary of the Company’s portfolio of cost method investments (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Equity investments	$	32,516	$	32,516
	Convertible notes		1,156		165
		$	33,672	$	32,681

Investments_in_and_Advances_to1

Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates, Schedule of Investments [Abstract]
Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates	The Company accounts for its investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates under the equity method of accounting and records its pro rata share of its losses or earnings from these investments in equity in (losses) earnings of unconsolidated affiliates. The following is a summary of the Company’s investments in and advances to unconsolidated affiliates (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund III, L.P.	$	22,633	$	11,792
	Oxford Cancer Biomarkers		—		4,141
	Cenduit™		8,271		6,431
	Other		604		563
		$	31,508	$	22,927

Derivatives_Tables

Derivatives (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Fair Values of Derivative Instruments Designated as Hedges	The fair values of the Company’s derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments and the line items on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets to which they were recorded are summarized in the following table (in thousands):
				December 31,
		Balance Sheet Classification		2014				2013
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other current assets		$	—			$	3,950
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other current liabilities		$	4,635			$	—
	Interest rate swaps	Other current liabilities		$	14,424			$	24,805
Effect of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The effect of the Company’s cash flow hedging instruments on other comprehensive income (loss) is summarized in the following table (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	(8,585	)		$	3,485			$	2,327
	Interest rate swaps		10,381				9,202				(9,524	)
	Total	$	1,796			$	12,687			$	(7,197	)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
		Level 1			Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Marketable equity securities	$	831		$	—	$	—	$	831
	Warrants		—			—		4		4
	Total	$	831		$	—	$	4	$	835
	Liabilities:
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	—		$	4,635	$	—	$	4,635
	Interest rate swaps		—			14,424		—		14,424
	Contingent consideration		—			—		1,452		1,452
	Total	$	—		$	19,059	$	1,452	$	20,511
	The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		Level 1			Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Marketable equity securities	$	7,668		$	—	$	—	$	7,668
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		—			3,950		—		3,950
	Warrants		—			—		211		211
	Total	$	7,668		$	3,950	$	211	$	11,829
	Liabilities:
	Interest rate swaps	$	—		$	24,805	$	—	$	24,805
	Contingent consideration		—			—		13,014		13,014
	Total	$	—		$	24,805	$	13,014	$	37,819
Changes in Level 3 Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The following table summarizes the changes in Level 3 financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis for the year ended December 31 (in thousands):
		Warrants—Deposits							Contingent Consideration—Accrued
		and Other Assets							Expenses and Other Liabilities
		2014			2013		2012		2014			2013			2012
	Balance as of January 1	$	211		$	29	$	12	$	13,014		$	3,521		$	6,165
	Initial estimate of contingent consideration		—			—		—		—			14,300			1,990
	Contingent consideration paid		—			—		—		(3,000	)		—			—
	Revaluations included in earnings		(207	)		182		17		(8,562	)		(4,807	)		(4,634	)
	Balance as of December 31	$	4		$	211	$	29	$	1,452		$	13,014		$	3,521

Property_and_Equipment_Tables

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Summary of Major Classes of Property and Equipment	The major classes of property and equipment were as follows (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Land, buildings and leasehold improvements	$	185,940		$	184,726
	Equipment		240,227			222,858
	Furniture and fixtures		54,615			55,741
	Motor vehicles		15,443			17,801
			496,225			481,126
	Less accumulated depreciation		(305,928	)		(281,548	)
		$	190,297		$	199,578

Goodwill_and_Identifiable_Inta1

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization Expense Associated with Identifiable Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	Amortization expense associated with identifiable definite-lived intangible assets was as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Amortization expense	$	58,457		$	51,450		$	46,440
Summary of Identifiable Intangible Assets	The following is a summary of identifiable intangible assets (in thousands):
		As of December 31, 2014									As of December 31, 2013
		Gross			Accumulated			Net			Gross		Accumulated			Net
		Amount			Amortization			Amount			Amount		Amortization			Amount
	Definite-lived identifiable intangible assets:
	Product licensing and distribution rights and customer relationships	$	123,227		$	(54,413	)	$	68,814		$	115,895	$	(35,027	)	$	80,868
	Trademarks, trade names and other		18,571			(6,399	)		12,172			52,053		(37,450	)		14,603
	Software and related assets		260,052			(170,471	)		89,581			232,468		(139,561	)		92,907
		$	401,850		$	(231,283	)	$	170,567		$	400,416	$	(212,038	)	$	188,378
	Indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets:
	Trade name	$	109,676		$	—		$	109,676		$	109,676	$	—		$	109,676
Summary of Goodwill by Segment	The following is a summary of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
		Product			Integrated			Consolidated
		Development			Healthcare
					Services
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	237,757		$	64,672		$	302,429
	Acquisition		116,542			—			116,542
	Impact of foreign currency fluctuations		(3,155	)		(6,190	)		(9,345	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013		351,144			58,482			409,626
	Acquisition		—			62,778			62,778
	Impact of foreign currency fluctuations and other		(4,536	)		(3,434	)		(7,970	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	346,608		$	117,826		$	464,434

Accrued_Expenses_Tables

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Compensation, including bonuses, fringe benefits and payroll taxes	$	403,250	$	437,138
	Restructuring		6,083		5,474
	Interest		274		278
	Contract related		255,530		240,548
	Other		68,507		77,751
		$	733,644	$	761,189

Credit_Arrangements_Tables

Credit Arrangements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Company's Credit Facilities	The following is a summary of the Company’s revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2014:
	Facility	Interest Rates
	$400.0 million (first lien revolving credit facility)	One month London Interbank Offer Rate (“LIBOR”), (0.17% at December 31, 2014) plus 2.50% to 2.75% depending upon the Company’s total leverage ratio
	$25.0 million (receivables financing facility)	LIBOR Market Index Rate, (0.17% at December 31, 2014) plus 0.85% to 1.35% depending upon the Company’s debt rating
	£10.0 million (approximately $15.6 million) general banking facility with a European headquartered bank	Bank’s base rate (0.5% at December 31, 2014) plus 1%
Schedule of Long-term Debt	Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Term Loan B-3 due 2018 ((the greater of three month LIBOR or 1.25%) plus 2.50%, or 3.75% at December 31, 2014)	$	2,030,606		$	2,060,756
	Receivables financing facility due 2018 ((LIBOR 0.17%) plus 1.05%, or 1.22% at December 31, 2014)		275,000			—
	Other notes payable		—			7
			2,305,606			2,060,763
	Less: unamortized discount		(12,379	)		(14,975	)
	Less: current portion		(750	)		(10,307	)
		$	2,292,477		$	2,035,481
Contractual Maturities of Long-term Debt	Contractual maturities of long-term debt at December 31, 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	2015	$	750
	2016		20,600
	2017		20,600
	2018		2,263,656
		$	2,305,606

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Summary of Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Capital and Operating Leases	The following is a summary of future minimum payments under capital and operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year at December 31, 2014 (in thousands):
		Capital			Operating
		Leases			Leases
	2015	$	80		$	91,129
	2016		16			71,992
	2017		—			53,043
	2018		—			34,183
	2019		—			19,916
	Thereafter		—			80,839
	Total minimum lease payments		96		$	351,102
	Amounts representing interest		(6	)
	Present value of net minimum payments		90
	Current portion		(76	)
	Long-term capital lease obligations	$	14

Business_Combinations_Tables

Business Combinations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Summary of Estimated Fair Value of Net Assets Acquired at the Date of Acquisition	The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired at the date of the acquisitions (in thousands):
		Encore			Novella			EA
	Assets acquired:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	2,223		$	26,190		$	441
	Accounts receivable and unbilled services		17,714			28,644			1,920
	Other current assets		443			1,441			2,952
	Property and equipment		289			9,616			4,731
	Goodwill		62,778			116,542			28,201
	Other identifiable intangibles		14,150			42,740			9,460
	Deferred income tax asset—long-term		396			—			—
	Other long-term assets		—			2,203			—
	Liabilities assumed:
	Accounts payable and accrued expenses		(4,206	)		(12,716	)		(3,574	)
	Unearned income		(31	)		(7,782	)		(411	)
	Other current liabilities		—			(132	)		(101	)
	Deferred income tax liability—long-term		—			(18,364	)		(1,707	)
	Other long-term liabilities		—			(1,334	)		(226	)
	Net assets acquired	$	93,756		$	187,048		$	41,686
Summary Of Identifiable Intangible Assets	The other identifiable intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
		Encore			Novella			EA
	Other identifiable intangibles
	Customer relationships	$	8,800		$	20,800		$	9,000
	Acquired backlog		800			14,000			170
	Trade names		1,100			7,500			290
	Non-compete agreements		450			440			—
	Software		3,000			—			—
	Total other identifiable intangibles	$	14,150		$	42,740		$	9,460
	Amortized over a weighted average useful life (in years)		8			7			11

Restructuring_Tables

Restructuring (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Summary of Amounts Recorded for Restructuring Plans	The following amounts were recorded for the 2014 restructuring plan and the restructuring plans initiated in prior years (in thousands):
		Severance and			Exit Costs			Total
		Related Costs
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	12,784		$	—		$	12,784
	Expense, net of reversals		13,718			353			14,071
	Payments		(21,324	)		(154	)		(21,478	)
	Foreign currency translation		98			(1	)		97
	Balance at December 31, 2013		5,276			198			5,474
	Expense, net of reversals		8,421			567			8,988
	Payments		(7,998	)		(160	)		(8,158	)
	Foreign currency translation		(221	)		—			(221	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	5,478		$	605		$	6,083

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Income Before Income Taxes and Equity in Earnings of Unconsolidated Affiliates	The components of income before income taxes and equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Domestic	$	96,917		$	68,425		$	31,204
	Foreign		405,272			254,691			236,224
		$	502,189		$	323,116		$	267,428
Components of Income Tax Expense Attributable to Continuing Operations	The components of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Current expense (benefit):
	Federal	$	58,403		$	38,573		$	18,236
	State		4,618			(4,309	)		1,384
	Foreign		95,010			83,744			58,712
			158,031			118,008			78,332
	Deferred (benefit) expense:
	Federal and state		(4,549	)		(15,807	)		16,023
	Foreign		(3,426	)		(6,236	)		(991	)
			(7,975	)		(22,043	)		15,032
		$	150,056		$	95,965		$	93,364
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The differences between the Company’s consolidated income tax expense attributable to continuing operations and the expense computed at the 35% United States statutory income tax rate were as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Federal income tax expense at statutory rate	$	175,766		$	113,091		$	93,600
	State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit		2,312			(1,088	)		(914	)
	Research and development		(16,765	)		(12,788	)		(17,096	)
	Foreign nontaxable interest income		(10,217	)		(9,751	)		(7,864	)
	Gain on note settlement		—			10,794			—
	United States taxes recorded on foreign earnings		18,631			(1,616	)		23,236
	Foreign rate differential		(30,734	)		(10,753	)		(8,396	)
	Increase/(decrease) in valuation allowance		1,713			(178	)		401
	Effect of changes in apportionment and tax rates		536			(492	)		1,872
	Other		8,814			8,746			8,525
		$	150,056		$	95,965		$	93,364
Income Tax Effects of Temporary Differences from Continuing Operations that Give Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Income Tax (Liabilities) Assets	The income tax effects of temporary differences from continuing operations that give rise to significant portions of deferred income tax (liabilities) assets are presented below (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Undistributed foreign earnings	$	(27,717	)	$	(18,393	)
	Depreciation and amortization		(65,614	)		(78,486	)
	Other		(15,346	)		(12,700	)
	Total deferred income tax liabilities		(108,677	)		(109,579	)
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Net operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards		43,535			49,308
	Accrued expenses and unearned income		34,048			31,067
	Employee benefits		130,217			124,688
	Other		17,784			20,215
			225,584			225,278
	Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets		(24,695	)		(29,501	)
	Total deferred income tax assets		200,889			195,777
	Net deferred income tax assets	$	92,212		$	86,198
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized income tax benefits is presented below (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Balance at January 1	$	54,936		$	43,393		$	41,371
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		2,807			4,493			891
	Additions for income tax positions of prior years		1,588			12,854			2,230
	Impact of changes in exchange rates		(376	)		(71	)		118
	Settlements with tax authorities		(135	)		(1,052	)		(179	)
	Reductions for income tax positions of prior years		(6,023	)		(3,520	)		(63	)
	Reductions due to the lapse of the applicable statute of limitations		(11,976	)		(1,161	)		(975	)
	Balance at December 31	$	40,821		$	54,936		$	43,393
Summary of Tax Years Open for Examination	The following table summarizes the tax years that remain open for examination by tax authorities in the most significant jurisdictions in which the Company operates:
	United States	2001-2013
	India	2006-2014
	Japan	2008-2013
	United Kingdom	2013

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Summary of Components of Pension Expenses Related to Defined Benefit Plans	The following table summarizes the components of pension expense related to these defined benefit plans (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014				2013				2012
	Service cost		$	12,944			$	13,227			$	13,839
	Interest cost			3,821				3,684				3,775
	Expected return on plan assets			(4,277	)			(3,442	)			(2,822	)
	Amortization of prior service costs			107				336				411
	Amortization of actuarial losses			636				708				758
			$	13,231			$	14,513			$	15,961
Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Determining Pension Expense	The weighted average assumptions used in determining pension expense were as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014				2013				2012
	Discount rate			3.01	%			3.06	%			3.32	%
	Rate of compensation increases			4.36	%			4.74	%			4.96	%
	Expected return on plan assets			5.21	%			5.33	%			5.23	%
Financial Information About Defined Benefit Plans	The following table summarizes financial information about the Company’s defined benefit plans as measured on December 31 (in thousands):
			2014				2013
	Projected benefit obligation January 1		$	135,110			$	130,323
	Service costs			12,944				13,227
	Interest cost			3,821				3,684
	Expected return on plan assets			(4,277	)			(3,442	)
	Actuarial losses			16,396				1,890
	Benefits paid			(7,409	)			(5,917	)
	Foreign currency fluctuations and other			(9,458	)			(4,655	)
	Projected benefit obligation December 31		$	147,127			$	135,110
	Plan assets at fair value, January 1		$	82,787			$	68,258
	Actual return on plan assets			10,004				5,928
	Contributions			8,594				8,620
	Benefits paid			(7,409	)			(5,917	)
	Foreign currency fluctuations and other			(5,556	)			5,898
	Plan assets at fair value, December 31		$	88,420			$	82,787
	Unfunded balance		$	58,707			$	52,323
Summary of Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets	The following table summarizes the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets related to the defined benefit plans as of December 31 (in thousands):
			2014				2013
	Deposits and other assets		$	18,690			$	18,835
	Accrued expenses			6,075				8,622
	Other long-term liabilities			71,322				62,536
	AOCI		$	(14,519	)		$	(5,044	)
Summary of Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The following table summarizes the amounts recognized in AOCI related to the defined benefit plans (in thousands):
			Prior Service				Actuarial				Deferred				Total
			Costs				Net (Gain)				Income
							Loss				Taxes
	Balance as of December 31, 2012		$	(443	)		$	(7,792	)		$	3,214			$	(5,021	)
	Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
	Amortization			336				708				(389	)			655
	Amounts arising during the period:
	Tax rate adjustments			—				—				(26	)			(26	)
	Actuarial changes in benefit obligation			—				2,147				157				2,304
	Balance as of December 31, 2013			(107	)			(4,937	)			2,956				(2,088	)
	Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
	Amortization			107				636				(275	)			468
	Amounts arising during the period:
	Actuarial changes in benefit obligation			—				(10,218	)			2,981				(7,237	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014		$	—			$	(14,519	)		$	5,662			$	(8,857	)
Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Determining Pension Obligations	The following table summarizes the weighted average assumptions used in determining the pension obligations as of December 31:
			2014				2013
	Discount rate			2.46	%			3.01	%
	Rate of compensation increases			4.32	%			4.36	%
Schedule of Fair Value Measurement	The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s defined benefit plans assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
			2014				2013
	Funds that hold debt investments primarily government bonds		$	47,473			$	42,738
	Funds that hold United Kingdom equity investments			19,547				19,826
	Funds that hold global equity investments			8,255				8,393
	Diversified growth fund			12,569				11,169
	Other			576				661
	Total		$	88,420			$	82,787
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments Under the Defined Benefit Plans	The following table summarizes the Company’s expected benefit payments under the defined benefit plans for each of the next five years and the aggregate of the five years thereafter (in thousands):
	2015		$	4,810
	2016			4,541
	2017			5,188
	2018			5,884
	2019			6,175
	Years 2020 through 2024			36,360
			$	62,958
Estimated Fair Value of Stock Options and SARs	The following assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of stock options and SARs:
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014		2013		2012
	Expected volatility		26 – 43%		18 – 47%		33 – 53%
	Weighted average expected volatility		36%		40%		40%
	Expected dividends		0.00%		0.0 – 5.45%		4.82%
	Expected term (in years)		1.5 – 6.7		0.25 – 6.4		2.0 – 7.0
	Risk-free interest rate		0.28 – 2.21%		0.04 – 2.24%		0.29 – 1.31%
Summary of Stock Option Activity	The Company’s stock option activity in 2014 is as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			Number of				Weighted				Aggregate
			Options				Average				Intrinsic Value
							Exercise Price
											(in thousands)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013			10,100,160			$	23			$	235,729
	Granted			1,622,000			$	52.82
	Exercised			(2,022,576	)		$	16.37
	Canceled			(574,630	)		$	32.91
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014			9,124,954			$	29.15			$	271,216
Schedule of Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable	Selected information regarding the Company’s stock options as of December 31, 2014 is as follows:
	Options Outstanding																Options Exercisable
	Number of Options				Exercise Price Range				Weighted Average				Weighted Average				Number of Options		Weighted Average
									Exercise Price				Remaining Life						Exercise Price
													(in Years)
		2,122,427			$	4.70 - $15.88			$	13.37				2.9				2,122,427	$	13.37
		2,290,827			$	17.11 - $23.83			$	21.42				6.6				1,220,640	$	20.84
		1,373,850			$	24.59 - $30.07			$	24.93				7.36				592,500	$	24.8
		1,523,750			$	40.00 - $40.00			$	40				8.15				282,000	$	40
		1,551,700			$	42.74 - $53.26			$	50.45				9.1				65,750	$	43.54
		262,400			$	57.00 - $57.95			$	57.42				9.91				—	$	—
Schedule of Stock Appreciation Rights Activity	The Company’s SAR activity in 2014 is as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			Number of				Weighted				Aggregate
			SARs				Average				Intrinsic Value
							Exercise Price
											(in thousands)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013			258,025			$	35.26			$	2,858
	Granted			186,300			$	53.5
	Exercised			(15,349	)		$	28.76
	Canceled			(10,175	)		$	37.96
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014			418,801			$	43.55			$	6,417
Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity	The Company’s RSU activity in 2014 is as follows:
			Year Ended December 31,
			Number of				Weighted Average
			RSUs				Grant-Date Fair
							Value
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013			57,167			$	44.62
	Granted			36,500			$	47.87
	Non-vested at December 31, 2014			93,667			$	45.89
Summary of Severance Associated with Cost Reduction Programs	The following amounts were recorded for the severance associated with cost reduction programs (in thousands):
	Balance at December 31, 2013		$	14,056
	Expense, net of reversals			(1,665	)
	Payments			(6,036	)
	Foreign currency translation			(81	)
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	6,274

Operations_by_Geographic_Locat1

Operations by Geographic Location (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]
Operations within Geographic Region	The table below presents the Company’s operations by geographical location. The Company attributes revenues to geographical locations based upon where the services are performed. The Company’s operations within each geographical region are further broken down to show each country which accounts for 10% or more of the totals (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Service revenues:
	Americas:
	United States	$	1,589,402	$	1,351,160	$	1,288,990
	Other		194,597		181,814		180,568
	Americas		1,783,999		1,532,974		1,469,558
	Europe and Africa:
	United Kingdom		402,184		362,242		344,852
	Other		1,121,354		1,139,262		1,086,065
	Europe and Africa		1,523,538		1,501,504		1,430,917
	Asia-Pacific:
	Japan		471,831		438,882		500,280
	Other		386,454		334,980		291,543
	Asia-Pacific		858,285		773,862		791,823
	Total service revenues		4,165,822		3,808,340		3,692,298
	Reimbursed expenses		1,294,176		1,291,205		1,173,215
	Total revenues	$	5,459,998	$	5,099,545	$	4,865,513
Long Lived Assets
		As of December 31,
		2014		2013
	Property, equipment and software, net:
	Americas:
	United States	$	167,890	$	168,380
	Other		1,774		2,146
	Americas		169,664		170,526
	Europe and Africa:
	United Kingdom		48,409		50,043
	Other		15,782		18,246
	Europe and Africa		64,191		68,289
	Asia-Pacific:
	Japan		20,752		26,096
	Other		25,271		27,574
	Asia-Pacific		46,023		53,670
	Total property, equipment and software, net	$	279,878	$	292,485

Segments_Tables

Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Revenues and Income from Segments to Consolidated	Information presented below is in thousands:
			Year Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Service revenues
	Product Development		$	3,097,831		$	2,919,730		$	2,728,695
	Integrated Healthcare Services			1,067,991			888,610			963,603
	Total service revenues			4,165,822			3,808,340			3,692,298
	Costs of revenue, service costs
	Product Development			1,820,937			1,752,800			1,683,340
	Integrated Healthcare Services			863,169			718,626			776,027
	Total costs of revenue, service costs			2,684,106			2,471,426			2,459,367
	Selling, general and administrative
	Product Development			631,678			604,663			567,500
	Integrated Healthcare Services			140,019			127,860			127,067
	General corporate and unallocated			110,641			127,987			123,188
	Total selling, general and administrative			882,338			860,510			817,755
	Income from operations
	Product Development			645,216			562,267			477,855
	Integrated Healthcare Services			64,803			42,124			60,509
	General corporate and unallocated			(110,641	)		(127,987	)		(123,188	)
	Restructuring costs			(8,988	)		(14,071	)		(18,741	)
	Total income from operations		$	590,390		$	462,333		$	396,435
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated
		As of December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Assets
	Product Development		$	2,786,692		$	2,571,502		$	2,016,605
	Integrated Healthcare Services			330,689			299,284			351,656
	General corporate and unallocated			188,451			196,011			130,892
	Total assets		$	3,305,832		$	3,066,797		$	2,499,153
Depreciation and Amortization Expense		Year Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Expenditures to acquire long-lived assets
	Product Development		$	68,187		$	69,375		$	61,097
	Integrated Healthcare Services			8,279			17,398			8,181
	General corporate and unallocated			6,184			1,574			2,058
	Total expenditures to acquire long-lived assets		$	82,650		$	88,347		$	71,336
Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated		Year Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	Depreciation and amortization expense
	Product Development		$	95,168		$	82,047		$	68,825
	Integrated Healthcare Services			20,821			20,475			24,366
	General corporate and unallocated			5,024			4,982			5,097
	Total depreciation and amortization expense		$	121,013		$	107,504		$	98,288

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciles the Basic to Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding	The following table reconciles the basic to diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Basic weighted average common shares outstanding		127,994		124,147		115,710
	Effect of dilutive stock options and share awards		3,089		3,715		2,086
	Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding		131,083		127,862		117,796
Summary of Weighted-Average Outstanding Stock Options Excluded from Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share	The following table shows the weighted average number of outstanding share-based awards not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share as the effect of including such share-based awards in the computation would be anti-dilutive (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted average shares subject to anti-dilutive share-based awards		1,241		1,765		2,363

Comprehensive_Income_Tables

Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Summary of Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive (loss) Income	Below is a summary of the components of AOCI (in thousands):
		Foreign				Marketable				Derivative				Defined			Income			AOCI
		Currency				Securities				Instrument				Benefit			Taxes
		Translation												Plan
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	25,357			$	(191	)		$	(26,345	)		$	(4,788	)	$	28,838		$	22,871
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(6,045	)			658				(10,698	)			(4,616	)		2,614			(18,087	)
	Reclassification adjustments		—				—				3,501				1,169			(1,759	)		2,911
	Balance at December 31, 2012		19,312				467				(33,542	)			(8,235	)		29,693			7,695
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(25,141	)			5,241				(393	)			2,147			1,331			(16,815	)
	Reclassification adjustments		—				—				13,080				1,044			(5,380	)		8,744
	Balance at December 31, 2013		(5,829	)			5,708				(20,855	)			(5,044	)		25,644			(376	)
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(49,911	)			(976	)			(6,834	)			(10,218	)		7,225			(60,714	)
	Reclassification adjustments		—				(5,004	)			8,630				743			(2,370	)		1,999
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	(55,740	)		$	(272	)		$	(19,059	)		$	(14,519	)	$	30,499		$	(59,091	)
Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	Below is a summary of the (gains) losses reclassified from AOCI into the consolidated statements of income and the affected financial statement line item (in thousands):
	Reclassification Adjustments	Affected Financial Statement		Year Ended December 31,
		Line Item		2014				2013				2012
	Marketable securities:
	Marketable securities	Other (income) expense, net		$	(5,004	)		$	—			$	—
	Total before income taxes				(5,004	)			—				—
	Income tax expense				(1,927	)			—				—
	Total net of income taxes			$	(3,077	)		$	—			$	—
	Derivative instruments:
	Interest rate swaps	Interest expense		$	12,424			$	12,582			$	3,248
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Service revenues			(3,794	)			498				253
	Total before income taxes				8,630				13,080				3,501
	Income tax benefit				4,022				4,991				1,313
	Total net of income taxes			$	4,608			$	8,089			$	2,188
	Defined benefit plans:
	Amortization of prior service costs	See Note 17		$	107			$	336			$	411
	Amortization of actuarial losses	See Note 17			636				708				758
	Total before income taxes				743				1,044				1,169
	Income tax benefit				275				389				446
	Total net of income taxes			$	468			$	655			$	723

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa1

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	The following table presents the Company’s supplemental cash flow information (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
	Interest paid	$	93,912	$	115,494	$	127,133
	Income taxes paid, net of refunds		138,931		70,983		103,976
	Non-cash Investing Activities:
	Acquisition of property and equipment utilizing capital leases	$	2,476	$	3,761	$	5,267
	Fair value of contingent consideration payable in connection with acquisitions		—		14,300		1,990

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud1

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations	The following table summarizes the Company’s unaudited quarterly results of operations (in thousands, except per share data):
			2014
			First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
	Service revenues		$	1,005,288		$	1,035,476	$	1,061,013		$	1,064,045
	Income from operations			141,316			141,000		149,142			158,932
	Net income			90,214			85,110		92,733			88,444
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests			(31	)		10		(79	)		(18	)
	Net income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc		$	90,183		$	85,120	$	92,654		$	88,426
	Basic earnings per share (1)		$	0.69		$	0.66	$	0.73		$	0.7
	Diluted earnings per share (1)		$	0.68		$	0.64	$	0.71		$	0.69
			2013
			First Quarter			Second Quarter		Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
	Service revenues		$	927,435		$	944,238	$	932,727		$	1,003,940
	Income from operations			115,165			94,897		125,259			127,012
	Net income			48,156			38,353		66,584			72,934
	Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests			153			164		185			62
	Net income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc		$	48,309		$	38,517	$	66,769		$	72,996
	Basic earnings per share (1)		$	0.42		$	0.31	$	0.52		$	0.57
	Diluted earnings per share (1)		$	0.41		$	0.3	$	0.5		$	0.55
	-1	The sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal per share amounts reported for year-to-date periods. This is due to changes in the number of weighted average shares outstanding and the effects of rounding for each period.

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 28, 2015
	Employee
	Country
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of countries	100
Number of employees	32,600
Foreign currency net losses	($4,900,000)	($4,000,000)	($1,100,000)
Capitalized and amortized expense related to software and related assets	33,100,000	32,200,000	27,400,000
Impairment charge related to long-lived assets	0	0	0
Contract termination period	Most contracts may be terminated upon 30 to 90 days notice by the customer, however, in the event of termination, contract provisions typically require payment for services rendered through the date of termination, as well as for subsequent services rendered to close out the contract.
Related party fund to research and development activity	2,300,000
Related party fund to research and development activity, paid in cash	1,000,000
Related party fund to research and development activity expense	1,300,000
Additional consideration agreement	16,500,000
Advertising expense	16,000,000	14,800,000	14,500,000
Share-based compensation expense	30,001,000	22,826,000	25,926,000
Recognized future income tax benefit	7,600,000	8,100,000	6,900,000
Unrecognized non-vested share-based compensation	38,400,000
Weighted average period of share-based compensation	1 year 6 months
Subsequent Event [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Gain on termination of collaboration agreement				$5,000,000
Customer Concentration Risk [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of customers served	0	0	0
Percentage of service revenue from major customers	10.00%	10.00%	10.00%

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment at Cost Using Straight-Line Method (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Minimum [Member] | Buildings and leasehold improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Furniture and fixtures [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	5 years
Minimum [Member] | Motor vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	3 years
Maximum [Member] | Buildings and leasehold improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	40 years
Maximum [Member] | Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Furniture and fixtures [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	10 years
Maximum [Member] | Motor vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	5 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Definite-lived identifiable intangible assets amortized (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Product licensing and distribution rights [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Trademarks and trade names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	3 years
Minimum [Member] | Non-compete agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Contract backlog and customer relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Software and related assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	3 years
Maximum [Member] | Trademarks and trade names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	7 years
Maximum [Member] | Non-compete agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	4 years
Maximum [Member] | Contract backlog and customer relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	11 years
Maximum [Member] | Software and related assets [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life, Years	10 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Research and Development Expenses (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule Of Research And Development [Line Items]
Research and development expenses	$5,791	$4,955	$10,426
Software and related assets [Member]
Schedule Of Research And Development [Line Items]
Research and development expenses	4,980	3,955	9,907
Research and development activity [Member]
Schedule Of Research And Development [Line Items]
Research and development expenses	811	1,000
Collaborative Arrangement [Member]
Schedule Of Research And Development [Line Items]
Research and development expenses	$0		$519

Accounts_Receivable_and_Unbill2

Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services - Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Trade:
Billed	$444,941	$408,959
Unbilled services	532,312	516,942
Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, gross	977,253	925,901
Allowance for doubtful accounts	-1,998	-1,696
Trade accounts receivable and unbilled services, net	$975,255	$924,205

Accounts_Receivable_and_Unbill3

Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services - Percentage of Accounts Receivable and Unbilled Services by Region (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	100.00%	100.00%
United States [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	55.00%	53.00%
Other [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	2.00%	2.00%
Americas [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	57.00%	55.00%
United Kingdom [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	23.00%	25.00%
Other [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	11.00%	12.00%
Europe and Africa [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	34.00%	37.00%
Japan [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	4.00%	4.00%
Other [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	5.00%	4.00%
Asia-Pacific [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of accounts receivables	9.00%	8.00%

Investments_Debt_Equity_and_Ot

Investments - Debt, Equity and Other Securities - Summary of the Company's Debt, Equity and Other Securities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Marketable securities	$831	$7,668
Cost method	33,672	32,681
Total	$34,503	$40,349

Investments_Debt_Equity_and_Ot1

Investments - Debt, Equity and Other Securities - Summary of Available-for-Sale Securities (Detail) (Marketable Equity Securities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Marketable Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$1,103	$1,960
Gross Unrealized Gains (Loss)	-272	5,708
Market Value	$831	$7,668

Investments_Debt_Equity_and_Ot2

Investments - Debt, Equity and Other Securities - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 15, 2011
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Gains or losses from the sale of marketable equity securities	$5,000,000	$0	$0
Net of tax adjustment to unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	-170,000	3,500,000	284,000
Loss on sale of marketable equity securities	0	0	0
Investment in joint venture				3,000,000
Non controlling interest percentage in exchange of investment in joint venture	3.00%	5.10%
Customer incentive	12,500,000
Preferred stock acquired from Intarcia	5,000,000
Total customer incentive	7,100,000	10,700,000
Preferred stock investment	$5,000,000

Investments_Debt_Equity_and_Ot3

Investments - Debt, Equity and Other Securities - Summary of the Company's Portfolio of Cost Method Investments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Cost-method Investments [Line Items]
Cost of investments	$33,672	$32,681
Equity investments [Member]
Schedule of Cost-method Investments [Line Items]
Cost of investments	32,516	32,516
Convertible notes [Member]
Schedule of Cost-method Investments [Line Items]
Cost of investments	$1,156	$165

Investments_in_and_Advances_to2

Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates - Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates	$31,508	$22,927
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund III, L.P [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates	22,633	11,792
Oxford Cancer Biomarkers [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates		4,141	47,000
Cenduit TM [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates	8,271	6,431
Other [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates	$604	$563

Investments_in_and_Advances_to3

Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Affiliates - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 15, 2011	Nov. 30, 2010	Jan. 31, 2012	31-May-07	Feb. 28, 2015
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total commitment
Investment in affiliates		31,508,000	22,927,000
Amount of initial capital				3,000,000
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund III, L.P [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Committed to invest fund					60,000,000
Sale of commitments	10,000,000
Total commitment	50,000,000
Funding commitments		25,000,000
Beneficial ownership in common stock		10.90%	10.90%
Carrying value of commitments		2,200,000
Commitment funded		2,900,000
Proceeds from sale of funded commitments		2,300,000
Investment in affiliates		22,633,000	11,792,000
Oxford Cancer Biomarkers [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Investment in affiliates			4,141,000			47,000,000
Ownership interest						30.00%
Loss recognized due to decline in fair value of investment		3,500,000
Cenduit TM [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Investment in affiliates		8,271,000	6,431,000
Ownership interest							50.00%
Amount of initial capital							350,000
NovaQuest Pharma Opportunities Fund IV, L.P [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Committed to invest fund								$20,000,000

Derivatives_Additional_Informa

Derivatives - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 09, 2011
				Agreement
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]
Interest rate cash flow hedge loss to be reclassified during next 12 months, net	$12,200,000
Derivative fixed interest rate	2.57%
Interest rate swaps effectively converted percent	44.80%
Unrealized losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income	14,400,000	24,800,000
Minimum [Member]
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]
Interest rate swaps expiry date	30-Sep-13
Maximum [Member]
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]
Interest rate swaps expiry date	31-Mar-16
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]
Number of foreign exchange forward contracts	13	12
Notional amount	76,000,000	60,800,000
Expiration year of hedge instruments	2015	2014
Unrealized gains related to foreign exchange forward contracts		3,950,000
Losses related to these foreign exchange forward contracts	4,600,000		588,000
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]
Number of foreign exchange forward contracts				6
Interest rate swaps hedged amount due to future change in interest rate swaps	$910,000,000
Warrants [Member]
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]
Warrant sold	0	0	0

Derivatives_Summary_of_Fair_Va

Derivatives - Summary of Fair Values of Derivative Instruments Designated as Hedges (Detail) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset fair value		$3,950
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member] | Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability fair value	4,635
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability fair value	$14,424	$24,805

Derivatives_Effect_of_Cash_Flo

Derivatives - Effect of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) (Derivatives Designated As Cash Flow Hedges [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Effect of cash flow hedging instruments on other comprehensive income (loss)	$1,796	$12,687	($7,197)
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Effect of cash flow hedging instruments on other comprehensive income (loss)	-8,585	3,485	2,327
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Effect of cash flow hedging instruments on other comprehensive income (loss)	$10,381	$9,202	($9,524)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements - Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis (Detail) (Recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	$835	$11,829
Fair value of liabilities	20,511	37,819
Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	4	211
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets		3,950
Fair value of liabilities	4,635
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities	14,424	24,805
Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities	1,452	13,014
Marketable Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	831	7,668
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	831	7,668
Fair value of liabilities
Level 1 [Member] | Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets
Level 1 [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities
Level 1 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities
Level 1 [Member] | Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities
Level 1 [Member] | Marketable Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	831	7,668
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets		3,950
Fair value of liabilities	19,059	24,805
Level 2 [Member] | Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets
Level 2 [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets		3,950
Fair value of liabilities	4,635
Level 2 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities	14,424	24,805
Level 2 [Member] | Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities
Level 2 [Member] | Marketable Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	4	211
Fair value of liabilities	1,452	13,014
Level 3 [Member] | Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	4	211
Level 3 [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities
Level 3 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities
Level 3 [Member] | Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of liabilities	1,452	13,014
Level 3 [Member] | Marketable Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets

Fair_Value_Measurements_Change

Fair Value Measurements - Changes in Level 3 Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis (Detail) (Level 3 [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] | Contingent Consideration [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance, Contingent Consideration	$13,014	$3,521	$6,165
Initial estimate of contingent consideration		14,300	1,990
Contingent consideration paid	-3,000
Revaluations included in earnings	-8,562	-4,807	-4,634
Ending Balance, Contingent Consideration	1,452	13,014	3,521
Deposits and Other Assets [Member] | Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance, Warrants	211	29	12
Initial estimate of contingent consideration	0	0	0
Contingent consideration paid	0	0	0
Revaluations included in earnings	-207	182	17
Ending Balance, Warrants	$4	$211	$29

Fair_Value_Measurements_Additi

Fair Value Measurements - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other identifiable intangibles, net	$280,243,000	$298,054,000
Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cost and equity method investments	65,200,000
Goodwill	464,400,000
Other identifiable intangibles, net	280,200,000
Fair value of assets	809,800,000
Non-recurring Fair Value Measurements [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Equity Method Investments [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Unfunded cash commitments	$25,000,000

Property_and_Equipment_Summary

Property and Equipment - Summary of Major Classes of Property and Equipment (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and Equipment, Gross	$496,225	$481,126
Less accumulated depreciation	-305,928	-281,548
Property and Equipment, Net	190,297	199,578
Land, buildings and leasehold improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and Equipment, Gross	185,940	184,726
Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and Equipment, Gross	240,227	222,858
Furniture and fixtures [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and Equipment, Gross	54,615	55,741
Motor vehicles [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and Equipment, Gross	$15,443	$17,801

Goodwill_and_Identifiable_Inta2

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Identifiable intangible assets	$280.20
Identifiable intangible assets related to trade name	109.7
Estimated amortization expense, 2015	57.5
Estimated amortization expense, 2016	41.8
Estimated amortization expense, 2017	28.7
Estimated amortization expense, 2018	17.9
Estimated amortization expense, 2019	$12.20

Goodwill_and_Identifiable_Inta3

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets - Summary of Amortization Expense Associated with Identifiable Definite-Lived Intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization expense	$58,457	$51,450	$46,440

Goodwill_and_Identifiable_Inta4

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets - Summary of Identifiable Intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Amount	$401,850	$400,416
Accumulated Amortization	-231,283	-212,038
Net Amount	170,567	188,378
Product licensing and distribution rights and customer relationships [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Amount	123,227	115,895
Accumulated Amortization	-54,413	-35,027
Net Amount	68,814	80,868
Trademarks and trade names [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Amount	18,571	52,053
Accumulated Amortization	-6,399	-37,450
Net Amount	12,172	14,603
Software and related assets [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Amount	260,052	232,468
Accumulated Amortization	-170,471	-139,561
Net Amount	89,581	92,907
Trade name [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Amount	109,676	109,676
Net Amount	$109,676	$109,676

Goodwill_and_Identifiable_Inta5

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets - Summary of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$409,626	$302,429
Acquisition	62,778	116,542
Impact of foreign currency fluctuations	-7,970	-9,345
Ending Balance	464,434	409,626
Product Development [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	351,144	237,757
Acquisition		116,542
Impact of foreign currency fluctuations	-4,536	-3,155
Ending Balance	346,608	351,144
Integrated Healthcare Services [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	58,482	64,672
Acquisition	62,778
Impact of foreign currency fluctuations	-3,434	-6,190
Ending Balance	$117,826	$58,482

Accrued_Expenses_Accrued_Expen

Accrued Expenses - Accrued Expenses (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Compensation, including bonuses, fringe benefits and payroll taxes	$403,250	$437,138
Restructuring	6,083	5,474	12,784
Interest	274	278
Contract related	255,530	240,548
Other	68,507	77,751
Total	$733,644	$761,189

Credit_Arrangements_Summary_of

Credit Arrangements - Summary of Credit Facilities (Detail)

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Receivables Financing Facility [Member]

Receivables Financing Facility [Member]

General Banking Facility [Member]

General Banking Facility [Member]

General Banking Facility [Member]

General Banking Facility [Member]

General Banking Facility [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

USD ($)

LIBOR [Member]

USD ($)

USD ($)

EUR (€)

Bank's Base Rate [Member]

Bank's Base Rate [Member]

First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Receivables Financing Facility [Member]

First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Receivables Financing Facility [Member]

LIBOR [Member]

LIBOR [Member]

Credit Facility [Line Items]

Facility

$400

$25

$15.60

€ 10

Interest Rate Description

One month London Interbank Offer Rate ("LIBOR"), (0.17% at December 31, 2014) plus 2.50% to 2.75% depending upon the Company's total leverage ratio

LIBOR Market Index Rate, (0.17% at December 31, 2014) plus 0.85% to 1.35% depending upon the Company's debt rating

Bank's base rate (0.5% at December 31, 2014) plus 1%

Rate

0.17%

0.17%

0.50%

Interest Rate spread on base rate

1.00%

2.50%

0.85%

2.75%

1.35%

Credit_Arrangements_Additional

Credit Arrangements - Additional Information (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
	USD ($)	USD ($)	First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	General Banking Facility [Member]	General Banking Facility [Member]
			USD ($)	USD ($)	EUR (€)
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving line of credit facility maximum borrowing capacity			$400,000,000	$15,600,000	€ 10,000,000
Credit facility repaid			150,000,000
Outstanding borrowings	0	0	225,000,000
Bank guarantees				6,500,000	4,200,000
Estimated fair value of long-term debt	$2,300,000,000	$2,100,000,000

Credit_Arrangements_Schedule_o

Credit Arrangements - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Other notes payable		$7
Contractual maturities of long-term debt, Total	2,305,606	2,060,763
Less: unamortized discount	-12,379	-14,975
Less: current portion	-750	-10,307
Long term debt, total	2,292,477	2,035,481
Term Loan B-3 due 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	2,030,606	2,060,756
Less: unamortized discount		1,600
Receivables Financing Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$275,000

Credit_Arrangements_Schedule_o1

Credit Arrangements - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Term Loan B-3 due 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument interest rate terms, Description	The greater of three month LIBOR or 1.25% plus 2.50%, or 3.75% at December 31, 2014
Receivables Financing Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument interest rate terms, Description	LIBOR 0.17% plus 1.05%, or 1.22% at December 31, 2014

Credit_Arrangements_Contractua

Credit Arrangements - Contractual Maturities of Long-term Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$750
2016	20,600
2017	20,600
2018	2,263,656
Contractual maturities of long-term debt, Total	$2,305,606	$2,060,763

Credit_Arrangements_Senior_Sec

Credit Arrangements - Senior Secured Credit Agreement - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 07, 2014	Oct. 22, 2012	31-May-13	Dec. 20, 2012	Dec. 20, 2013
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility	$0	$0
Dividends paid to shareholders			567,851,000
Cash paid to pay down debt	30,157,000	2,444,600,000	1,995,472,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt		19,831,000	1,275,000
Unamortized discount	-12,379,000	-14,975,000
First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate maximum principal amount	400,000,000
Credit facility	225,000,000
Credit facility due	2016
First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | 2014 Revolving Credit Facility Amendment [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility				282,500,000
Increase in revolving credit facility				100,000,000
Line of credit facility maturity period				2017-06
Aggregate amount of Line of credit facility maturity				382,500,000
Line of credit facility remaining				17,500,000
Maximum [Member] | First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | 2014 Revolving Credit Facility Amendment [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility arrangement amended date				7-Nov-14
Credit facility				400,000,000
Minimum [Member] | First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | 2014 Revolving Credit Facility Amendment [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility				300,000,000
Senior secured credit facilities [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Initial credit agreement date	8-Jun-11
Aggregate maximum principal amount	2,225,000,000
Credit facility					225,000,000
Increase in revolving credit facility					75,000,000
Senior secured credit facilities [Member] | First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility, extended year					2017
Senior secured credit facilities [Member] | Period 1 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility arrangement amended date	30-Oct-12
Senior secured credit facilities [Member] | Period 2 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility arrangement amended date	31-Dec-12
Senior secured credit facilities [Member] | Period 3 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility arrangement amended date	31-Dec-13
Senior secured credit facilities [Member] | Period 4 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility arrangement amended date	30-Nov-14
Extended Maturity [Member] | First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | 2014 Revolving Credit Facility Amendment [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility maturity period				2017-12
Extended maturity period of credit facility				2019-06
Term B Loan [Member] | First Lien Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility	2,000,000,000
Credit facility due	2018
Term Loan B-1 due 2018 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Annual maturities on term loan B					1.00%
Term loan maturity dates, description					Annual maturities on the Term Loan B-1 were 1% of the original principal amount until December 31, 2017, with the balance of the Term Loan B-1 to be repaid at final maturity on June 8, 2018.
Cash in hand used to pay dividend					73,000,000
Dividends paid to shareholders					241,700,000
Cash paid to pay down debt						50,000,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt						-1,000,000
Unamortized debt issuance cost						930,000,000
Unamortized discount						112,000,000
Term Loan B-1 due 2018 [Member] | Option Holders [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Bonus to option holders					2,400,000
Term Loan B-1 due 2018 [Member] | Fees and Related Expenses [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Bonus to option holders					4,000,000
Term Loan B-1 due 2018 [Member] | Senior secured credit facilities [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate maximum principal amount					175,000,000
Credit facility arrangement amended date					22-Oct-12
Credit facility due					2018
Term Loan B-2 due 2018 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate maximum principal amount							1,975,000,000
Credit facility due							2018
Term loan maturity dates, description							Annual maturities on the Term Loan B-2 were $20.0 million through December 31, 2017 with the balance of the Term Loan B-2 to be repaid at final maturity on June 8, 2018.
Loss on extinguishment of debt			-1,300,000
Unamortized debt issuance cost			634,000,000
Unamortized discount			631,000,000
Annual maturities , principal amount							20,000,000
Final maturity of term loan							8-Jun-18
Fees and expenses			10,000
Term Loan B-3 due 2018 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate maximum principal amount								2,061,000,000
Credit facility due								2018
Term loan maturity dates, description								Commenced on September 30, 2014 and continue through March 31, 2018, with the balance of the Term Loan B-3 to be repaid at final maturity on June 8, 2018.
Loss on extinguishment of debt		-3,300,000
Unamortized debt issuance cost		1,600,000
Unamortized discount		1,600,000
Annual maturities , principal amount								5,150,000
Final maturity of term loan								8-Jun-18
Fees and expenses		$25,000
Percentage of equity interest of domestic subsidiaries pledged as collateral								100.00%
Percentage of equity interest of foreign subsidiaries pledged as collateral								65.00%
Interest as stated in credit agreement								50.00%
Term Loan B-3 due 2018 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Interest as stated in credit agreement								25.00%
Term Loan B-3 due 2018 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Interest as stated in credit agreement								0.00%

Credit_Arrangements_Additional1

Credit Arrangements - Additional Information - Detail (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	31-May-13	Feb. 29, 2012	Dec. 05, 2014	Dec. 20, 2013
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility	$0	$0
Dividends paid to shareholders			567,851,000
Line of credit facility amount outstanding	30,157,000	2,444,600,000	1,995,472,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt		19,831,000	1,275,000
Unamortized discount	-12,379,000	-14,975,000
Debt issuance cost	10,200,000	12,600,000
Maximum [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Accounts receivable securitization facility agreement term	7 years
Minimum [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Accounts receivable securitization facility agreement term	5 years
Holdings Term Loan [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount					300,000,000
Aggregate principal amount due date					26-Feb-17
Dividends paid to shareholders					326,100,000
Bonuses to shareholders					8,900,000
Line of credit facility amount outstanding				308,900,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt				-15,500,000
Unamortized debt issuance cost				4,700,000
Unamortized discount				4,700,000
Fees and expenses				6,100,000
Term Loan B-3 due 2018 [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount							2,061,000,000
Repayment of term loan	25,000,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt		-3,300,000
Unamortized debt issuance cost		1,600,000
Unamortized discount		1,600,000
Fees and expenses		25,000
Receivables Financing Facility [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility expiration date	5-Dec-14
Accounts receivable securitization facility agreement term	4 years
Aggregate principal amount	25,000,000
Amount available under receivables financing facility	25,000,000
Receivables Financing Facility [Member] | Term Loans [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount						275,000,000
Receivables Financing Facility [Member] | Revolving Loan Commitment [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount						25,000,000
Increase in revolving loan commitment						35,000,000
Revolving credit facility [Member]
Credit Facility [Line Items]
Credit facility	$150,000,000

Leases_Additional_Information_

Leases - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Leases [Abstract]
Rental expenses under agreement	$114.60	$125.60	$117.60
Operating lease year of expiry	2029

Leases_Summary_of_Future_Minim

Leases - Summary of Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Capital and Operating Leases (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Leases [Abstract]
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, 2015	$80
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, 2016	16
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, 2017	0
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, 2018	0
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, 2019	0
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, Thereafter	0
Capital leases, total minimum lease payments	96
Capital leases, Amounts representing interest	-6
Capital leases, Present value of net minimum payments	90
Capital leases, Current portion	-76
Capital leases, Long-term capital lease obligations	14
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, 2015	91,129
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, 2016	71,992
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, 2017	53,043
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, 2018	34,183
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, 2019	19,916
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, Thereafter	80,839
Operating leases, total minimum lease payments	$351,102

Shareholders_Deficit_Additiona

Shareholders' Deficit - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended				12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Nov. 01, 2012	Oct. 31, 2012	Mar. 09, 2012	Feb. 28, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	14-May-14	Nov. 10, 2014	28-May-14	27-May-14	Oct. 30, 2013
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock issued					124,129,000	129,652,000
Proceeds from issue of common stock through IPO						$525,000,000	$3,116,000
Preferred stock, authorized					1,000,000
Preferred stock, par value					$0.01
Preferred stock, shares issued					0	0
Equity repurchase program authorized amount												125,000,000
Repurchases under the equity repurchase program						65,500,000
Repurchase of common stock, Shares					7,591,175	153,223	508,656
Repurchase of common stock, value					415,131,000	6,434,000	13,363,000
Common stock repurchased, average share price						$42.01
Credit facility amount used to fund repurchase					0	0
Dividend declared per share		$2.09		$2.82
Dividend, date declared		2012-10		2012-02
Dividend, date of record		24-Oct-12		29-Feb-12
Dividend, date to be paid		1-Nov-12		29-Mar-12
Total dividend paid	241,700,000		326,100,000
Revolving credit facility [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Credit facility amount used to fund repurchase					150,000,000
IPO [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock price								$40
Common stock issued								13,125,000
Proceeds from issue of common stock through IPO								489,500,000
Selling Shareholders [Member] | IPO [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Sale of common stock								14,111,841
Proceeds from issue of common stock through IPO								0
Selling Shareholders [Member] | IPO [Member] | Underwriters Option [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares offered and sold by selling shareholders pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriters' option to purchase additional shares								3,552,631
Stock Options [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Equity repurchased -vested in-the-money employee stock options, shares						2,000,000
Equity repurchased -vested in-the-money employee stock options, value						59,100,000
Repurchase vested in-the-money employee stock options, average market price						$43.42
Repurchase of vested in-the-money employee stock options, average exercise price per option						$13.74
Other Equity Repurchases [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock, Shares									4,303,666	3,287,209
Repurchase of common stock, value									250,000,000	165,100,000
Repurchase of common stock, share price									$58.09	$50.23	$51.26
Repurchase price per share percentage											98.00%
Other Equity Repurchases [Member] | Revolving credit facility [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Credit facility amount used to fund repurchase									150,000,000
Share Repurchase Program [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock, Shares					300
Repurchase of common stock, value					14,000
Repurchase of common stock, share price					$47.51
Equity available for repurchase under the repurchase program					$59,500,000

Management_Fees_Additional_Inf

Management Fees - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 31, 2008
Management Fees Provided For Service [Line Items]
Annual management service fee agreed to pay			$5,000,000
Management service fee	27,700,000	5,300,000
Termination fee	25,000,000
Aisling Capital [Member]
Management Fees Provided For Service [Line Items]
Management service fee			150,000,000
Other Managers [Member]
Management Fees Provided For Service [Line Items]
Management service fee			$4,900,000

Business_Combinations_Addition

Business Combinations - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 01, 2014	Sep. 16, 2013	Aug. 10, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Earn-out payment				$16.50
Encore [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition through merger	91.5
Date of Acquisition	1-Jul-14
Cash acquired	2.2
Novella [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Date of Acquisition		16-Sep-13
Cash acquired		26.2
Outstanding stock value		146.6
Outstanding stock, percentage		100.00%
Contingent consideration, annual earn out payment		21
Liability recognized on acquisition		14.3
EA [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition through merger			39.7
Date of Acquisition			10-Aug-12
Outstanding stock, percentage			100.00%
Earn-out payment			3.5
Description of terms of contingent consideration			The earn-out payment was contingent upon the achievement of certain revenue and earnings targets during the 24 month period following closing.
Initially recognized liability			$2

Business_Combinations_Summary_

Business Combinations - Summary of Estimated Fair Value of Net Assets Acquired at the Date of Acquisition (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Liabilities assumed:
Other current liabilities	($1,471,900)	($1,482,247)
Encore [Member]
Assets acquired:
Cash and cash equivalents	2,223
Accounts receivable and unbilled services	17,714
Other current assets	443
Property and equipment	289
Goodwill	62,778
Other identifiable intangibles	14,150
Deferred income tax asset-long-term	396
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-4,206
Unearned income	-31
Net assets acquired	93,756
Novella [Member]
Assets acquired:
Cash and cash equivalents	26,190
Accounts receivable and unbilled services	28,644
Other current assets	1,441
Property and equipment	9,616
Goodwill	116,542
Other identifiable intangibles	42,740
Other long-term assets	2,203
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-12,716
Unearned income	-7,782
Other current liabilities	-132
Deferred income tax liability-long-term	-18,364
Other long-term liabilities	-1,334
Net assets acquired	187,048
EA [Member]
Assets acquired:
Cash and cash equivalents	441
Accounts receivable and unbilled services	1,920
Other current assets	2,952
Property and equipment	4,731
Goodwill	28,201
Other identifiable intangibles	9,460
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-3,574
Unearned income	-411
Other current liabilities	-101
Deferred income tax liability-long-term	-1,707
Other long-term liabilities	-226
Net assets acquired	$41,686

Business_Combinations_Summary_1

Business Combinations - Summary Of Identifiable Intangible Assets (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Encore [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	$14,150
Amortized over a weighted average useful life (in years)	8 years
Encore [Member] | Contract backlog and customer relationships [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	8,800
Encore [Member] | Acquired Backlog [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	800
Encore [Member] | Trade name [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	1,100
Encore [Member] | Non-compete agreements [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	450
Encore [Member] | Software and related assets [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	3,000
Novella [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	42,740
Amortized over a weighted average useful life (in years)	7 years
Novella [Member] | Contract backlog and customer relationships [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	20,800
Novella [Member] | Acquired Backlog [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	14,000
Novella [Member] | Trade name [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	7,500
Novella [Member] | Non-compete agreements [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	440
EA [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	9,460
Amortized over a weighted average useful life (in years)	11 years
EA [Member] | Contract backlog and customer relationships [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	9,000
EA [Member] | Acquired Backlog [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	170
EA [Member] | Trade name [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other identifiable intangibles	$290

Restructuring_Additional_Infor

Restructuring - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 28, 2013	31-May-12
				Position	Position
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	$8,988,000	$14,071,000	$18,741,000
2014 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring plan approved	13,000,000
Number of positions expected to reduce	250
Restructuring costs	10,300,000
2013 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring plan approved				15,000,000
Number of positions expected to reduce				400
Restructuring costs	13,600,000
2012 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring plan approved					20,000,000
Number of positions expected to reduce					280
Restructuring costs					19,600,000
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] | 2013 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	500,000
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] | 2012 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs					4,000,000
Severance and Related Costs [Member] | 2012 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring cost -lease costs					400,000
Other Restructuring [Member] | 2012 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring cost -severance cost					19,200,000
Product Development [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | 2014 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	7,300,000
Product Development [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | 2013 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	8,400,000
Product Development [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | 2012 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs					11,800,000
Integrated Healthcare Services [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | 2014 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	3,000,000
Integrated Healthcare Services [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | 2013 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	4,700,000
Integrated Healthcare Services [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | 2012 Plan [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring costs					$3,800,000

Restructuring_Summary_of_Amoun

Restructuring - Summary of Amounts Recorded for Restructuring Plans (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring reserves, beginning balance	$5,474	$12,784
Expense, net of reversals	8,988	14,071
Payments	-8,158	-21,478
Foreign currency translation	-221	97
Restructuring reserves, ending balance	6,083	5,474
Severance and Related Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring reserves, beginning balance	5,276	12,784
Expense, net of reversals	8,421	13,718
Payments	-7,998	-21,324
Foreign currency translation	-221	98
Restructuring reserves, ending balance	5,478	5,276
Exit Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring reserves, beginning balance	198
Expense, net of reversals	567	353
Payments	-160	-154
Foreign currency translation		-1
Restructuring reserves, ending balance	$605	$198

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc

Income Taxes - Components of Income Before Income Taxes and Equity in Earnings of Unconsolidated Affiliates (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Before Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates	$502,189	$323,116	$267,428
Domestic [Member]
Income Before Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates	96,917	68,425	31,204
Foreign [Member]
Income Before Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates	$405,272	$254,691	$236,224

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc1

Income Taxes - Components of Income Tax Expense Attributable to Continuing Operations (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal		$58,403	$38,573	$18,236
State		4,618	-4,309	1,384
Foreign		95,010	83,744	58,712
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		158,031	118,008	78,332
Federal and state		-4,549	-15,807	16,023
Foreign		-3,426	-6,236	-991
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		-7,975	-22,043	15,032
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$8,100	$150,056	$95,965	$93,364

Income_Taxes_Effective_Income_

Income Taxes - Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal income tax expense at statutory rate		$175,766	$113,091	$93,600
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit		2,312	-1,088	-914
Research and development		-16,765	-12,788	-17,096
Foreign nontaxable interest income		-10,217	-9,751	-7,864
Gain on note settlement			10,794
United States taxes recorded on foreign earnings		18,631	-1,616	23,236
Foreign rate differential		-30,734	-10,753	-8,396
Increase/(decrease) in valuation allowance		1,713	-178	401
Effect of changes in apportionment and tax rates		536	-492	1,872
Other		8,814	8,746	8,525
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$8,100	$150,056	$95,965	$93,364

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income tax benefit	$8,100,000	$150,056,000	$95,965,000	$93,364,000
Statutory U.S. tax rate		35.00%
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries		27,717,000	18,393,000
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiary, taxable upon repatriation		244,200,000
Deferred income tax liability, net of foreign income tax credits upon repatriation		27,700,000
Indefinitely reinvested undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries		452,700,000
Additional tax liability on Indefinitely reinvested undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries		61,200,000
Net operating loss carryforwards		43,535,000	49,308,000
Increase in valuation allowance			29,500,000
Unrecognized income tax benefits		40,800,000
Unrecognized benefits		40,400,000
Accrued interest and penalties		4,800,000	3,600,000
Interest and penalties recorded		1,300,000	843,000	796,000
Gross unrecognized income tax benefits		40,821,000	54,936,000	43,393,000	41,371,000
Quintiles East Asia [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income tax benefit		2,400,000	798,000	343,000
Income tax holiday period		Through June 2015
Outcome Europe Sarl [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income tax benefit			64,000	28,000
Earnings per share		$0.02	$0	$0
United Kingdom [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Operating Loss and capital loss carryforwards		46,000,000
Foreign Jurisdictions [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Operating Loss and capital loss carryforwards		40,300,000
United States [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards		43,100,000
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration year		2034
Novella, EA And Advion BioSciences, Inc. [Member] | United States [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards			20,000,000	20,000,000	20,000,000
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration year		2023
Federal State And Foreign Tax [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Gross unrecognized income tax benefits		19,100,000
Foreign Tax [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Gross unrecognized income tax benefits		1,100,000
Minimum [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Increase in valuation allowance		4,800,000
Maximum [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Increase in valuation allowance		$24,700,000

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Effect

Income Taxes - Income Tax Effects of Temporary Differences from Continuing Operations that Give Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Income Tax (Liabilities) Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Undistributed foreign earnings	($27,717)	($18,393)
Depreciation and amortization	-65,614	-78,486
Other	-15,346	-12,700
Total deferred income tax liabilities	-108,677	-109,579
Deferred income tax assets:
Net operating loss, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards	43,535	49,308
Accrued expenses and unearned income	34,048	31,067
Employee benefits	130,217	124,688
Other	17,784	20,215
Deferred Tax Assets Net	225,584	225,278
Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets	-24,695	-29,501
Total deferred income tax assets	200,889	195,777
Net deferred income tax assets	$92,212	$86,198

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_of

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Gross Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$54,936	$43,393	$41,371
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	2,807	4,493	891
Additions for income tax positions of prior years	1,588	12,854	2,230
Impact of changes in exchange rates	-376	-71	118
Settlements with tax authorities	-135	-1,052	-179
Reductions for income tax positions of prior years	-6,023	-3,520	-63
Reductions due to the lapse of the applicable statute of limitations	-11,976	-1,161	-975
Ending balance	$40,821	$54,936	$43,393

Income_Taxes_Summary_of_Tax_Ye

Income Taxes - Summary of Tax Years Open for Examination (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
United States [Member] | Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2001
United States [Member] | Latest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2013
India [Member] | Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2006
India [Member] | Latest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2014
Japan [Member] | Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2008
Japan [Member] | Latest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2013
United Kingdom [Member] | Latest Tax Year [Member]
Schedule Of Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax year	2013

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Defined

Employee Benefit Plans - Defined Contribution Plans And Defined Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Expenses related to matching contributions	$31,200,000	$26,100,000	$24,300,000
Amortization of actuarial losses	-636,000	-708,000	-758,000
Accumulated benefit obligation	127,900,000	118,400,000
Projected benefit obligation related to unfunded plans	83,400,000	66,400,000
Accumulated benefit obligation related to unfunded plan	77,700,000	63,600,000
Minimum [Member]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Long term government bonds premium percentage	3.00%
Maximum [Member]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Long term government bonds premium percentage	4.00%
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Amortization of actuarial losses	996,000
Estimated employer contribution to defined benefit plan	$5,600,000
Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Bond Investments [Member]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	40.00%
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	50.00%
Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Equity Investments [Member]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	35.00%
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	45.00%
Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Diversified Growth Funds [Member]
Defined Contribution and Defined Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	15.00%
Defined benefit plan, target allocation percentage	25.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Components of Pension Expenses Related to Defined Benefit Plans (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Service cost	$12,944	$13,227	$13,839
Interest cost	3,821	3,684	3,775
Expected return on plan assets	-4,277	-3,442	-2,822
Amortization of prior service costs	107	336	411
Amortization of actuarial losses	636	708	758
Total pension expense related to defined benefit plans	$13,231	$14,513	$15,961

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Weighte

Employee Benefit Plans - Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Determining Pension Expense (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Discount rate	3.01%	3.06%	3.32%
Rate of compensation increases	4.36%	4.74%	4.96%
Expected return on plan assets	5.21%	5.33%	5.23%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Financi

Employee Benefit Plans - Financial Information About Defined Benefit Plans (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Projected benefit obligation January 1	$135,110	$130,323
Service costs	12,944	13,227	13,839
Interest cost	3,821	3,684	3,775
Expected return on plan assets	-4,277	-3,442	-2,822
Actuarial losses	16,396	1,890
Benefits paid	-7,409	-5,917
Foreign currency fluctuations and other	-9,458	-4,655
Projected benefit obligation December 31	147,127	135,110	130,323
Plan assets at fair value, January 1	82,787	68,258
Actual return on plan assets	10,004	5,928
Contributions	8,594	8,620
Benefits paid	-7,409	-5,917
Foreign currency fluctuations and other	-5,556	5,898
Plan assets at fair value, December 31	88,420	82,787	68,258
Unfunded balance	$58,707	$52,323

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary1

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Deposits and other assets	$18,690	$18,835
Accrued expenses	6,075	8,622
Other long-term liabilities	71,322	62,536
AOCI	($14,519)	($5,044)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary2

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning balance			($5,021)
Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
Amortization		468	655
Amounts arising during the period:
Tax rate adjustments	8,100	150,056	95,965	93,364
Actuarial changes in benefit obligation		-7,237	2,304
Ending balance		-8,857	-2,088
Prior Service Costs [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning balance			-443
Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
Amortization		107	336
Amounts arising during the period:
Ending balance			-107
Actuarial Net (Gain) Loss [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning balance			-7,792
Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
Amortization		636	708
Amounts arising during the period:
Actuarial changes in benefit obligation		-10,218	2,147
Ending balance		-14,519	-4,937
Deferred Income Taxes [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning balance			3,214
Reclassification adjustments included in pension expense:
Amortization		-275	-389
Amounts arising during the period:
Tax rate adjustments			-26
Actuarial changes in benefit obligation		2,981	157
Ending balance		$5,662	$2,956

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Weighte1

Employee Benefit Plans - Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Determining Pension Obligations (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Discount rate	2.46%	3.01%
Rate of compensation increases	4.32%	4.36%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Schedul

Employee Benefit Plans - Schedule of Fair Value Measurement (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	$88,420	$82,787	$68,258
Funds that hold debt investments primarily government bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	47,473	42,738
Funds that hold United Kingdom equity investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	19,547	19,826
Funds that hold global equity investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	8,255	8,393
Diversified Growth Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	12,569	11,169
Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, fair value of plan assets	$576	$661

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Schedul1

Employee Benefit Plans - Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments Under the Defined Benefit Plans (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$4,810
2016	4,541
2017	5,188
2018	5,884
2019	6,175
Years 2020 through 2024	36,360
Total	$62,958

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Stock_I

Employee Benefit Plans - Stock Incentive Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 29, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012
						Employee
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Expiry period of options from grant date		10 years
Percentage of options granted per annum	20.00%	25.00%
Number of shares granted under option		1,622,000
Number of shares repurchased that are vested		1,990,540
Intrinsic value of vested in the money employee stock options		$59,100,000
Weighted average remaining contractual life of the options outstanding		6 years 7 months 17 days
Weighted average remaining contractual life of the options exercisable		4 years 10 months 10 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of the exercisable stock options and the stock options expected to vest		267,300,000
Stock appreciation rights exercise price description		The Company's Board authorized a $2.09 per share reduction in the exercise price of all non-vested cash-settled SARs outstanding on October 24, 2012.
Stock Options [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value per share of options granted		$18.72	$14.39	$6.34
Total intrinsic value of options exercised		77,300,000	27,100,000	4,600,000
Proceeds from options exercised		33,100,000	12,500,000	2,500,000
Stock Options [Member] | Stock Option Repricing in November 2012 [Member] | Options Outstanding on October 2012 [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Number of shares granted under option		10,166,820
Authorized reduction in exercise price per share of cash settled stock appreciation rights outstanding		$2.09
Total number of employees and directors to whom options were granted		228
Aggregate incremental share-based compensation expense outstanding stock options		11,400,000			9,200,000
Stock Options [Member] | Stock Option Repricing in November 2012 [Member] | Options Outstanding on February 29, 2012 [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Number of shares granted under option						5,561,700
Authorized reduction in exercise price per share of cash settled stock appreciation rights outstanding						$2.82
Total number of employees and directors to whom options were granted						222
Aggregate incremental share-based compensation expense outstanding stock options						7,100,000	4,500,000
Stock Options [Member] | Stock Option Repricing in November 2012 [Member] | Deferred Cost [Member] | Options Outstanding on October 2012 [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Aggregate incremental share-based compensation expense outstanding stock options		2,200,000
Stock Options [Member] | Stock Option Repricing in November 2012 [Member] | Deferred Cost [Member] | Options Outstanding on February 29, 2012 [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Aggregate incremental share-based compensation expense outstanding stock options						2,600,000
Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Expiry period of options from grant date		3 years
Number of shares granted under option		38,580
Third Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		33.00%
Third Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member] | Non Employee Director [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		33.00%
Fourth Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		67.00%
First Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member] | Non Employee Director [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		34.00%
Second Anniversary of Grant Date [Member] | Non Employee Director [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		33.00%
Stock appreciation rights (SARs) [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		25.00%
Stock appreciation rights vesting description		These awards either (i) vest 25% per year or (ii) vest 33% on the third anniversary of the date of grant and 67% on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant.
Fair value of Stock Appreciation Rights granted		$27.17	$19.07	$8.16
Cash paid to settle exercised SARs		408,000	83,000
Number of SARs Exercised		15,349,000		0
Weighted average remaining contractual life of SARs outstanding		8 years 7 months 6 days
Weighted average remaining contractual life of SARs exercisable		8 years
Aggregate intrinsic value of exercisable expected to vest		6,200,000
Intrinsic value of stock units outstanding		6,417,000	2,858,000
Stock appreciation rights (SARs) [Member] | Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding On October 24, 2012 [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Authorized reduction in exercise price per share of cash settled stock appreciation rights outstanding		$2.09
Stock appreciation rights (SARs) [Member] | Third Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		33.00%
Stock appreciation rights (SARs) [Member] | Fourth Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		67.00%
Restricted Stock [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Number of days for stock units to settle in common stock from vesting date		45 days
Number of stock units outstanding		93,667
Intrinsic value of stock units outstanding		$5,500,000
Restricted Stock [Member] | Third Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		33.00%
Restricted Stock [Member] | Fourth Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of options granted per annum		67.00%
Restricted Stock [Member] | First Anniversary Of Grant Date [Member] | Non Employee Director [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of RSU granted per annum		34.00%
Restricted Stock [Member] | Second Anniversary of Grant Date [Member] | Non Employee Director [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Percentage of RSU granted per annum		33.00%
Stock Incentive Plan [Member]
Stock Based Compensation Plans [Line Items]
Number of shares available for future grant		8,369,995

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Assumpt

Employee Benefit Plans - Assumptions Used to Estimate Value of Share-Based Compensation for Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Issued (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]
Weighted average expected volatility	36.00%	40.00%	40.00%
Expected dividends	0.00%		4.82%
Minimum [Member]
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]
Expected volatility	26.00%	18.00%	33.00%
Expected dividends		0.00%
Expected term (in years)	1 year 6 months	3 months	2 years
Risk-free interest rate	0.28%	0.04%	0.29%
Maximum [Member]
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]
Expected volatility	43.00%	47.00%	53.00%
Expected dividends		5.45%
Expected term (in years)	6 years 8 months 12 days	6 years 4 months 24 days	7 years
Risk-free interest rate	2.21%	2.24%	1.31%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary3

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Stock Option Activity (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Number of Options Outstanding at Beginning Balance	10,100,160
Number of Options, Granted	1,622,000
Number of Options, Exercised	-2,022,576
Number of Options, Canceled	-574,630
Number of Options Outstanding at Ending Balance	9,124,954
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at Beginning Balance	$23
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted	$52.82
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised	$16.37
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Canceled	$32.91
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at Ending Balance	$29.15
Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding at Beginning Balance	$235,729
Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding at Ending Balance	$271,216

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Schedul2

Employee Benefit Plans - Schedule of Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Exercise Price Range $4.70 - $15.88 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Options Outstanding	2,122,427
Exercise Price Lower Range Outstanding	$4.70
Exercise Price Upper Range Outstanding	$15.88
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding	$13.37
Weighted Average Remaining Life Outstanding (in years)	2 years 10 months 24 days
Number of Options Exercisable	2,122,427
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$13.37
Exercise Price Range $17.11 - $23.83 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Options Outstanding	2,290,827
Exercise Price Lower Range Outstanding	$17.11
Exercise Price Upper Range Outstanding	$23.83
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding	$21.42
Weighted Average Remaining Life Outstanding (in years)	6 years 7 months 6 days
Number of Options Exercisable	1,220,640
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$20.84
Exercise Price Range $24.59 - $30.07 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Options Outstanding	1,373,850
Exercise Price Lower Range Outstanding	$24.59
Exercise Price Upper Range Outstanding	$30.07
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding	$24.93
Weighted Average Remaining Life Outstanding (in years)	7 years 4 months 10 days
Number of Options Exercisable	592,500
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$24.80
Exercise Price Range $40.00 - $40.00 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Options Outstanding	1,523,750
Exercise Price Lower Range Outstanding	$40
Exercise Price Upper Range Outstanding	$40
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding	$40
Weighted Average Remaining Life Outstanding (in years)	8 years 1 month 24 days
Number of Options Exercisable	282,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$40
Exercise Price Range $42.74 - $53.26 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Options Outstanding	1,551,700
Exercise Price Lower Range Outstanding	$42.74
Exercise Price Upper Range Outstanding	$53.26
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding	$50.45
Weighted Average Remaining Life Outstanding (in years)	9 years 1 month 6 days
Number of Options Exercisable	65,750
Weighted Average Exercise Price	$43.54
Exercise Price Range $57.00 - $57.95 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Options Outstanding	262,400
Exercise Price Lower Range Outstanding	$57
Exercise Price Upper Range Outstanding	$57.95
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding	$57.42
Weighted Average Remaining Life Outstanding (in years)	9 years 10 months 28 days

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Schedul3

Employee Benefit Plans - Schedule of Stock Appreciation Rights Activity (Detail) (Stock appreciation rights (SARs) [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012
Stock appreciation rights (SARs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of SARs Outstanding Beginning Balance	258,025,000
Number of SARs Granted	186,300,000
Number of SARs Exercised	-15,349,000	0
Number of SARs Canceled	-10,175,000
Number of SARs Outstanding Ending Balance	418,801,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding Beginning Balance	$35.26
Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted	$53.50
Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised	$28.76
Weighted Average Exercise Price Canceled	$37.96
Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding Ending Balance	$43.55
Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding Beginning Balance	$2,858
Aggregate Intrinsic Value Outstanding Ending Balance	$6,417

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary4

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Company's RSU Activity (Detail) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of RSUs Non-vested Beginning Balance	57,167
Number of RSUs Granted	36,500
Number of RSUs Non-vested Ending Balance	93,667
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Non-vested Beginning Balance	$44.62
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Granted	$47.87
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Non-vested Ending Balance	$45.89

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Employe

Employee Benefit Plans - Employee Stock Purchase Plan and Other - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Severance expenses payable	$6,274,000	$14,056,000
Severance expense, net of reversals	1,665,000
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Severance expense, net of reversals	16,000
Product Development [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Severance expense, net of reversals	1,800,000
Integrated Healthcare Services [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Severance expense, net of reversals	100,000
Cost Reduction Initiative [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Severance expenses payable	6,300,000	14,100,000
Number of positions expected to be eliminated	270
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Employee stock purchase plan payroll deductions percent	10.00%
Discount on closing price of share	15.00%
Fair market value of shares under ESPP	$25,000
Number of shares issued for purchases under ESPP	46,032
Employee stock purchase plan amendment, description	Offering periods under the ESPP are six months in duration. During 2014, the offering periods under the ESPP began on March 1 and September 1. In November 2014, the ESPP was amended to change the start of the offering periods to begin on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning April 1, 2015.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan And Cost Reduction Initiative Disclosure [Line Items]
Aggregate number of shares that may be issued under ESPP	2,500,000

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary5

Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Severance Associated with Cost Reduction Programs (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Severance expenses payable, opening balance	$14,056
Severance expense, net of reversals	-1,665
Severance payments	-6,036
Severance foreign currency translation	-81
Severance expenses payable, ending balance	$6,274

Related_Party_Transactions_Add

Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Business related travel expense		$1,800,000	$2,700,000	$4,200,000
Payment of fee for modification of agreement relating to business usage of airplane	1,500,000
Maximum [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Maximum future annual reimbursements	2,500,000
Affiliated Entity [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fee for services		2,300,000	772,000
Sublease income		76,000
Affiliated Entity [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fee for services		$416,000	$19,200,000

Operations_by_Geographic_Locat2

Operations by Geographic Location - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues [Abstract]
Minimum percentage of revenue account for major country	10.00%

Operations_by_Geographic_Locat3

Operations by Geographic Location - Operations Within Geographic Region (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net	$1,064,045	$1,061,013	$1,035,476	$1,005,288	$1,003,940	$932,727	$944,238	$927,435	$4,165,822	$3,808,340	$3,692,298
Reimbursed expenses									1,294,176	1,291,205	1,173,215
Total revenues									5,459,998	5,099,545	4,865,513
Americas [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									1,783,999	1,532,974	1,469,558
Americas [Member] | United States [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									1,589,402	1,351,160	1,288,990
Americas [Member] | Other [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									194,597	181,814	180,568
Europe and Africa [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									1,523,538	1,501,504	1,430,917
Europe and Africa [Member] | Other [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									1,121,354	1,139,262	1,086,065
Europe and Africa [Member] | United Kingdom [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									402,184	362,242	344,852
Asia-Pacific [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									858,285	773,862	791,823
Asia-Pacific [Member] | Other [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									386,454	334,980	291,543
Asia-Pacific [Member] | Japan [Member]
Geographic Information [Line Items]
Sales Revenue Services Net									$471,831	$438,882	$500,280

Operations_by_Geographic_Locat4

Operations by Geographic Location - Long Lived Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	$279,878	$292,485
Americas [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	169,664	170,526
Americas [Member] | United States [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	167,890	168,380
Americas [Member] | Other [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	1,774	2,146
Europe and Africa [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	64,191	68,289
Europe and Africa [Member] | Other [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	15,782	18,246
Europe and Africa [Member] | United Kingdom [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	48,409	50,043
Asia-Pacific [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	46,023	53,670
Asia-Pacific [Member] | Other [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	25,271	27,574
Asia-Pacific [Member] | Japan [Member]
Long Lived Assets Geographic [Line Items]
Property, equipment and software, net	$20,752	$26,096

Segments_Additional_Informatio

Segments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014
		Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments		2
Management agreement termination fee	$25
Agreement modification fee	$1.50

Segments_Operations_by_Reporta

Segments - Operations by Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues	$1,064,045,000	$1,061,013,000	$1,035,476,000	$1,005,288,000	$1,003,940,000	$932,727,000	$944,238,000	$927,435,000	$4,165,822,000	$3,808,340,000	$3,692,298,000
Costs of revenue, service costs									2,684,106,000	2,471,426,000	2,459,367,000
Selling, general and administrative									882,338,000	860,510,000	817,755,000
Restructuring costs									-8,988,000	-14,071,000	-18,741,000
Income from operations	158,932,000	149,142,000	141,000,000	141,316,000	127,012,000	125,259,000	94,897,000	115,165,000	590,390,000	462,333,000	396,435,000
Operating Segments [Member] | Product Development [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									3,097,831,000	2,919,730,000	2,728,695,000
Costs of revenue, service costs									1,820,937,000	1,752,800,000	1,683,340,000
Selling, general and administrative									631,678,000	604,663,000	567,500,000
Income from operations									645,216,000	562,267,000	477,855,000
Operating Segments [Member] | Integrated Healthcare Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service revenues									1,067,991,000	888,610,000	963,603,000
Costs of revenue, service costs									863,169,000	718,626,000	776,027,000
Selling, general and administrative									140,019,000	127,860,000	127,067,000
Income from operations									64,803,000	42,124,000	60,509,000
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative									110,641,000	127,987,000	123,188,000
Income from operations									-110,641,000	-127,987,000	-123,188,000
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs									-8,988,000	-14,071,000	-18,741,000
Income from operations									$590,390,000	$462,333,000	$396,435,000

Segments_Reconciliation_of_Ass

Segments - Reconciliation of Assets from Segments to Consolidated (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$3,305,832	$3,066,797	$2,499,153
Operating Segments [Member] | Product Development [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	2,786,692	2,571,502	2,016,605
Operating Segments [Member] | Integrated Healthcare Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	330,689	299,284	351,656
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$188,451	$196,011	$130,892

Segments_Reconciliation_of_Oth

Segments - Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Expenditures to acquire long-lived assets	$82,650	$88,347	$71,336
Operating Segments [Member] | Product Development [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Expenditures to acquire long-lived assets	68,187	69,375	61,097
Operating Segments [Member] | Integrated Healthcare Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Expenditures to acquire long-lived assets	8,279	17,398	8,181
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Expenditures to acquire long-lived assets	$6,184	$1,574	$2,058

Segments_Depreciation_and_Amor

Segments - Depreciation and Amortization Expense (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	$121,013	$107,504	$98,288
Operating Segments [Member] | Product Development [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	95,168	82,047	68,825
Operating Segments [Member] | Integrated Healthcare Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	20,821	20,475	24,366
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense	$5,024	$4,982	$5,097

Earnings_Per_Share_Reconciles_

Earnings Per Share - Reconciles the Basic to Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (Detail)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	127,994	124,147	115,710
Effect of dilutive stock options and share awards	3,089	3,715	2,086
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	131,083	127,862	117,796

Earnings_Per_Share_Summary_of_

Earnings Per Share - Summary of Weighted-Average Outstanding Share-Based Awards Excluded from Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted average shares subject to anti-dilutive share-based awards	1,241	1,765	2,363

Comprehensive_Income_Summary_o

Comprehensive Income - Summary of Components of AOCI (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	($376)	$7,695	$22,871
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	-60,714	-16,815	-18,087
Reclassification adjustments	1,999	8,744	2,911
Ending Balance	-59,091	-376	7,695
Income Taxes [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	25,644	29,693	28,838
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	7,225	1,331	2,614
Reclassification adjustments	-2,370	-5,380	-1,759
Ending Balance	30,499	25,644	29,693
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	-5,829	19,312	25,357
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	-49,911	-25,141	-6,045
Reclassification adjustments
Ending Balance	-55,740	-5,829	19,312
Marketable Securities [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	5,708	467	-191
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	-976	5,241	658
Reclassification adjustments	-5,004
Ending Balance	-272	5,708	467
Derivative Instruments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	-20,855	-33,542	-26,345
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	-6,834	-393	-10,698
Reclassification adjustments	8,630	13,080	3,501
Ending Balance	-19,059	-20,855	-33,542
Defined Benefit Plans [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	-5,044	-8,235	-4,788
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	-10,218	2,147	-4,616
Reclassification adjustments	743	1,044	1,169
Ending Balance	($14,519)	($5,044)	($8,235)

Comprehensive_Income_Summary_o1

Comprehensive Income - Summary of (Gains) Losses Reclassified from AOCI into Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Affected Financial Statement Line Item (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service costs		$107,000	$336,000	$411,000
Marketable securities, Other (income) expense, net		-8,978,000	-185,000	-3,572,000
Amortization of actuarial losses		636,000	708,000	758,000
Income tax expense/benefit	-8,100,000	-150,056,000	-95,965,000	-93,364,000
Foreign exchange forward contracts, Service revenues		-5,459,998,000	-5,099,545,000	-4,865,513,000
Marketable Securities [Member] | Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Marketable securities, Other (income) expense, net		-5,004,000
Total before income taxes		-5,004,000
Income tax expense/benefit		-1,927,000
Total net of income taxes		-3,077,000
Defined Benefit Plans [Member] | Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service costs		107,000	336,000	411,000
Amortization of actuarial losses		636,000	708,000	758,000
Total before income taxes		743,000	1,044,000	1,169,000
Income tax expense/benefit		275,000	389,000	446,000
Total net of income taxes		468,000	655,000	723,000
Derivative [Member] | Derivative Instruments [Member] | Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before income taxes		8,630,000	13,080,000	3,501,000
Income tax expense/benefit		4,022,000	4,991,000	1,313,000
Total net of income taxes		4,608,000	8,089,000	2,188,000
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Derivative Instruments [Member] | Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest rate swaps, Interest expense		12,424,000	12,582,000	3,248,000
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member] | Derivative Instruments [Member] | Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Foreign exchange forward contracts, Service revenues		($3,794,000)	$498,000	$253,000

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
Interest paid	$93,912	$115,494	$127,133
Income taxes paid, net of refunds	138,931	70,983	103,976
Non-cash Investing Activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment utilizing capital leases	2,476	3,761	5,267
Fair value of contingent consideration payable in connection with acquisitions		$14,300	$1,990

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud2

Quarterly Financial Data - Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]
Service revenues	$1,064,045	$1,061,013	$1,035,476	$1,005,288	$1,003,940	$932,727	$944,238	$927,435	$4,165,822	$3,808,340	$3,692,298
Income from operations	158,932	149,142	141,000	141,316	127,012	125,259	94,897	115,165	590,390	462,333	396,435
Net income	88,444	92,733	85,110	90,214	72,934	66,584	38,353	48,156	356,501	226,027	176,631
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	-18	-79	10	-31	62	185	164	153	-118	564	915
Net income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc	$88,426	$92,654	$85,120	$90,183	$72,996	$66,769	$38,517	$48,309	$356,383	$226,591	$177,546
Basic earnings per share	$0.70	$0.73	$0.66	$0.69	$0.57	$0.52	$0.31	$0.42	$2.78	$1.83	$1.53
Diluted earnings per share	$0.69	$0.71	$0.64	$0.68	$0.55	$0.50	$0.30	$0.41	$2.72	$1.77	$1.51

Subsequent_Event_Additional_In

Subsequent Event - Additional Information (Detail) (Subsequent Event [Member], USD $)	Feb. 28, 2015
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Cost of Restructuring	$30

Schedule_I_Condensed_Statement

Schedule I - Condensed Statements of Income (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative									$882,338	$860,510	$817,755
Loss from operations	158,932	149,142	141,000	141,316	127,012	125,259	94,897	115,165	590,390	462,333	396,435
Interest income									3,410	3,937	3,067
Interest expense									-100,589	-123,508	-134,371
Loss on extinguishment of debt										19,831	1,275
Other expense (income), net									8,978	185	3,572
Loss before income taxes and equity in earnings of subsidiary									502,189	323,116	267,428
Income tax benefit							8,100		150,056	95,965	93,364
Net income	88,426	92,654	85,120	90,183	72,996	66,769	38,517	48,309	356,383	226,591	177,546
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative									1,509	2	23
Loss from operations									-1,509	-2	-23
Interest income									-52	-6	-14
Interest expense										9,242	21,134
Loss on extinguishment of debt										15,501
Other expense (income), net									8
Loss before income taxes and equity in earnings of subsidiary									-1,465	-24,739	-21,143
Income tax benefit									-810	-9,347	-7,601
Loss before equity in earnings of subsidiary									-655	-15,392	-13,542
Equity in earnings of subsidiary									357,038	241,983	191,088
Net income									$356,383	$226,591	$177,546

Schedule_I_Condensed_Statement1

Schedule I - Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items]
Net income	$88,444	$92,733	$85,110	$90,214	$72,934	$66,584	$38,353	$48,156	$356,501	$226,027	$176,631
Unrealized (losses) gains on marketable securities, net of income taxes of ($376), $2,016 and $258									-600	3,225	400
Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of ($1,767), ($751) and ($4,392)									-5,067	358	-6,306
Foreign currency translation, net of income taxes of ($2,101), ($2,465) and $2,964									-47,807	-22,663	-8,983
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of income taxes of ($2,981), ($131) and ($1,444)									-7,237	2,278	-3,172
Reclassification adjustments:
Gains on marketable securities included in net income, net of income taxes of ($1,927)									-3,077
Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, net of income taxes of $4,022, $4,991 and $1,313									4,608	8,089	2,188
Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, net of income taxes of $275, $389 and $446									468	655
Comprehensive income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.									297,668	218,520	162,370
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items]
Net income									356,383	226,591	177,546
Unrealized (losses) gains on marketable securities, net of income taxes of ($376), $2,016 and $258									-600	3,225	400
Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, net of income taxes of ($1,767), ($751) and ($4,392)									-5,067	358	-6,306
Foreign currency translation, net of income taxes of ($2,101), ($2,465) and $2,964									-47,810	-22,676	-9,009
Defined benefit plan adjustments, net of income taxes of ($2,981), ($131) and ($1,444)									-7,237	2,278	-3,172
Reclassification adjustments:
Gains on marketable securities included in net income, net of income taxes of ($1,927)									-3,077
Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, net of income taxes of $4,022, $4,991 and $1,313									4,608	8,089	2,188
Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, net of income taxes of $275, $389 and $446									468	655	723
Comprehensive income attributable to Quintiles Transnational Holdings Inc.									$297,668	$218,520	$162,370

Schedule_I_Condensed_Statement2

Schedule I - Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items]
Unrealized gains (losses) on marketable equity securities, income taxes	($376)	$2,016	$258
Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, income taxes	-1,767	-751	-4,392
Foreign currency translation, net of income taxes	-2,101	-2,465	2,964
Defined benefit plan adjustment, income taxes	2,981	131	1,444
Gains on marketable securities included in net income, net of income taxes	1,927
Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, income taxes	-4,022	-4,991	-1,313
Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, income taxes	275	389	446
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items]
Unrealized gains (losses) on marketable equity securities, income taxes	-376	2,016	258
Unrealized (losses) gains on derivative instruments, income taxes	-1,767	-751	-4,392
Foreign currency translation, net of income taxes	-2,101	-2,465	2,964
Defined benefit plan adjustment, income taxes	-2,981	-131	-1,444
Gains on marketable securities included in net income, net of income taxes	-1,927
Losses on derivative instruments included in net income, income taxes	4,022	4,991	1,313
Amortization of prior service costs and losses included in net income, income taxes	$275	$389	$446

Schedule_I_Condensed_Balance_S

Schedule I - Condensed Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$867,358,000	$778,143,000	$567,728,000	$516,299,000
Income taxes receivable	45,357,000	16,171,000
Total current assets	2,146,083,000	1,945,688,000
Deferred income taxes	35,972,000	32,864,000
Deposits and other assets	122,792,000	117,711,000
Total assets	3,305,832,000	3,066,797,000	2,499,153,000
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	108,743,000	100,616,000
Accrued expenses	733,644,000	761,189,000
Income taxes payable	55,694,000	35,778,000
Total current liabilities	1,471,900,000	1,482,247,000
Total liabilities	4,009,844,000	3,734,282,000
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' deficit:
Common stock and additional paid-in capital, 300,000 shares authorized, $0.01 par value, 124,129 and 129,652 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	143,828,000	478,144,000
Accumulated deficit	-788,798,000	-1,145,181,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	-59,091,000	-376,000	7,695,000	22,871,000
Total shareholders' deficit	-704,061,000	-667,413,000
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	3,305,832,000	3,066,797,000
Parent Company [Member]
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	11,635,000	71,942,000	2,411,000	1,610,000
Income taxes receivable	546,000
Other current assets and receivables	114,000	2,995,000
Total current assets	12,295,000	74,937,000
Deferred income taxes	7,000	44,000
Deposits and other assets		26,000
Total assets	12,302,000	75,007,000
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	21,000
Accrued expenses	84,000
Income taxes payable		302,000
Total current liabilities	105,000	302,000
Investment in subsidiary	716,148,000	739,115,000
Payable to subsidiary	110,000	3,003,000
Total liabilities	716,363,000	742,420,000
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' deficit:
Common stock and additional paid-in capital, 300,000 shares authorized, $0.01 par value, 124,129 and 129,652 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively	143,828,000	478,144,000
Accumulated deficit	-788,798,000	-1,145,181,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	-59,091,000	-376,000
Total shareholders' deficit	-704,061,000	-667,413,000
Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit	$12,302,000	$75,007,000

Schedule_I_Condensed_Balance_S1

Schedule I - Condensed Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock, authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares issued	124,129,000	129,652,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	124,129,000	129,652,000	115,763,510	115,966,141
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock, authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares issued	124,129,000	129,652,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	124,129,000	129,652,000

Schedule_I_Condensed_Statement3

Schedule I - Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating activities:
Net income	$356,501	$226,027	$176,631
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discount	6,688	21,825	9,237
Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes	-6,168	-24,236	16,595
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable and unbilled services	-78,630	-151,681	-60,255
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	45,804	107,047	58,345
Investing activities:
Investments in subsidiary, net of payments received	-4,472	-7,353	-3,646
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-173,114	-236,176	-132,233
Financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of debt	275,000	2,060,755	2,441,017
Payment of debt issuance costs	-1,455	-2,607	-9,728
Issuance of common stock		525,000	3,116
Payment of common stock issuance costs	-105	-35,439
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and option plans	35,228	12,539	350
Repurchase of common stock	-415,131	-6,434	-13,363
Repurchase of stock options	-8,415	-50,649
Dividends paid to common shareholders			-567,851
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-130,344	70,957	-146,873
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	89,215	210,415	51,429
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	778,143	567,728	516,299
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	867,358	778,143	567,728
Parent Company [Member]
Operating activities:
Net income	356,383	226,591	177,546
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of debt issuance costs and discount		10,346	1,884
Subsidiary income	-27,623	-119,998
Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes	37	304	-70
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable and unbilled services	2,994	-2,995
Prepaid expenses and other assets		-21	-100
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	65	-62	63
Income taxes payable and other liabilities	-847	-9,651	-7,531
Net cash provided by operating activities	331,009	104,514	171,792
Investing activities:
Investments in subsidiary, net of payments received		-179,847	118,712
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		-179,847	118,712
Financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of debt			293,877
Payment of debt issuance costs			-5,988
Repayment of debt		-300,000
Issuance of common stock		525,000	3,116
Payment of common stock issuance costs	-105	-35,439
Stock issued under employee stock purchase and option plans	35,228	12,539	350
Repurchase of common stock	-415,131	-6,434	-13,363
Repurchase of stock options	-8,415	-50,649
Intercompany with subsidiary	-2,893	-153	156
Dividends paid to common shareholders			-567,851
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-391,316	144,864	-289,703
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-60,307	69,531	801
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	71,942	2,411	1,610
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$11,635	$71,942	$2,411

Schedule_I_Additional_Informat

Schedule I - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Income tax benefit	($8,100)	($150,056)	($95,965)	($93,364)
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Minimum percentage of restricted net assets of consolidated subsidiaries of consolidated net assets		25.00%
Income tax benefit		$810	$9,347	$7,601

Schedule_I_Dividends_Paid_Deta

Schedule I - Dividends Paid (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company	$329,415	$121,985	$318,800
Paid in November 2014 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company	234,000
Paid in May 2014 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company	87,000
Paid in January 2014 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company	8,415
Paid in November and December 2013 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company		116,585
Paid in February 2013 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company		5,400
Paid in November 2012 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company			6,000
Paid in October 2012 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company			241,700
Paid in August 2012 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company			6,300
Paid in May 2012 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company			4,800
Paid in March 2012 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company			50,000
Paid in February 2012 [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid to parent company			$10,000

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual1

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) (Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Year	$29,501	$32,344	$31,669
Addition Charged to Expenses	11,084	3,611	4,173
Deductions	-15,890	-6,454	-3,498
Balance at End of Year	$24,695	$29,501	$32,344