| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 12, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | OWENS & MINOR INC/VA/ |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000075252 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 12, 2022 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | VA |
| Entity File Number | 001-09810 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 54-1701843 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 9120 Lockwood Blvd |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Mechanicsville |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 23116 |
| City Area Code | (804) |
| Local Phone Number | 723-7000 |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $2 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | OMI |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
