CERNER (CERN) 10-Q 29 Oct 21 2021 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Oct. 25, 2021
Entity Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2021
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	0-15386
Entity Registrant Name	CERNER CORPORATION
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Address, Address Line One	2800 Rock Creek Parkway
Entity Address, City or Town	North Kansas City,
Entity Address, State or Province	MO
Entity Tax Identification Number	43-1196944
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	64117
City Area Code	816
Local Phone Number	221-1024
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share
Trading Symbol	CERN
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		294,222,760
Entity Central Index Key	0000804753
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 459,540	$ 615,615
Short-term investments	322,634	442,473
Receivables, net	1,219,849	1,168,712
Inventory	25,389	23,027
Prepaid expenses and other	412,744	401,160
Total current assets	2,440,156	2,650,987
Property and equipment, net	1,717,630	1,804,083
Right-of-use assets	89,619	104,536
Software development costs, net	1,008,440	1,009,349
Goodwill	1,126,843	914,520
Intangible assets, net	476,067	329,249
Long-term investments	488,454	510,220
Other assets	195,951	198,152
Total assets	7,543,160	7,521,096
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	311,196	235,755
Current installments of long-term debt	225,000	0
Deferred revenue	438,063	393,293
Accrued payroll and tax withholdings	344,879	309,814
Other current liabilities	232,187	229,764
Total current liabilities	1,551,325	1,168,626
Long-term Debt	1,611,205	1,336,069
Deferred income taxes	389,843	376,035
Other liabilities	150,884	157,799
Total liabilities	3,703,257	3,038,529
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 378,558,251 shares issued at September 30, 2021 and 373,224,832 shares issued at December 31, 2020	3,785	3,732
Additional paid-in capital	2,598,853	2,288,806
Retained earnings	6,656,679	6,475,551
Treasury stock, 82,216,073 shares at September 30, 2021 and 67,371,686 shares at December 31, 2020	(5,289,718)	(4,164,718)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	(129,696)	(120,804)
Total shareholders' equity	3,839,903	4,482,567
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 7,543,160	$ 7,521,096
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	500,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	378,558,251	373,224,832
Treasury Stock, Shares	82,216,073	67,371,686

Consolidated Statements Of Oper

Consolidated Statements Of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Revenues	$ 1,467,976	$ 1,368,673	$ 4,312,509	$ 4,110,763
Costs and expenses:
Costs of revenue	251,111	231,889	743,092	698,268
Sales and client service	651,010	625,402	2,004,263	1,907,138
Software development (Includes amortization of $66,222 and $196,319 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively; and $61,578 and $183,786 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively)	202,663	186,826	636,590	551,101
General and administrative	121,395	116,816	390,067	391,000
Amortization of acquisition-related intangibles	16,874	12,789	45,956	43,031
Total costs and expenses	1,243,053	1,173,722	3,819,968	3,590,538
Gain on sale of businesses	0	216,869	0	216,869
Operating earnings	224,923	411,820	492,541	737,094
Other income, net	(5,070)	48,020	(5,542)	78,247
Earnings before income taxes	219,853	459,840	486,999	815,341
Income taxes	(44,058)	(103,164)	(106,245)	(176,758)
Net earnings	$ 175,795	$ 356,676	$ 380,754	$ 638,583
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.59	$ 1.17	$ 1.27	$ 2.08
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.59	$ 1.16	$ 1.25	$ 2.07
Basic weighted average shares outstanding	296,202	305,759	300,526	306,759
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	298,714	308,366	303,423	309,124

Consolidated Statements Of Comp

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 175,795	$ 356,676	$ 380,754	$ 638,583
Foreign currency translation adjustment and other (net of taxes (benefit) of $(151) and $(580) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, and $351 and $688 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively)	(13,259)	9,611	(17,764)	(1,738)
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedge (net of taxes (benefit) of $748 and $2,993 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, and $745 and $(5,937) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively)	2,273	2,265	9,099	(18,050)
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments (net of taxes (benefit) of $5 and $(75) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, and $(73) and $142 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively)	17	(220)	(227)	433
Comprehensive income	$ 164,826	$ 368,332	$ 371,862	$ 619,228

Consolidated Statements Of Cash

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net earnings	$ 380,754	$ 638,583
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	535,816	518,987
Share-based compensation expense	157,165	110,500
Provision for deferred income taxes	3,582	21,554
Gain on sale of businesses	0	(216,869)
Investment gains	0	(75,834)
Asset Impairment Charges	117,739	0
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables, net	(33,948)	(78,695)
Inventory	(2,360)	8,206
Prepaid expenses and other	(2,091)	(36,664)
Accounts payable	27,467	(60,808)
Accrued income taxes	13,100	33,005
Deferred revenue	11,053	(32,071)
Other accrued liabilities	46,113	94,151
Net cash provided by operating activities	1,254,390	924,045
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital purchases	(246,813)	(238,053)
Capitalized software development costs	(242,677)	(224,710)
Purchases of investments	(607,390)	(511,378)
Sales and maturities of investments	753,347	213,309
Purchase of other intangibles	(23,197)	(29,698)
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired	(348,179)	(35,766)
Sale of businesses	0	229,471
Disposition of assets held for sale	9,349	0
Net cash used in investing activities	(705,560)	(596,825)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Long-term debt issuance	500,000	300,000
Repayments of Long-term Debt	0	(2,500)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	214,577	202,680
Payments to taxing authorities in connection with shares directly withheld from associates	(62,159)	(22,623)
Treasury stock purchases	(1,125,000)	(650,000)
Dividends paid	(202,054)	(166,277)
Other financing activities	(18,441)	(6,807)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(693,077)	(345,527)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(11,828)	(4,382)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(156,075)	(22,689)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	615,615	441,843
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 459,540	$ 419,154

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity Statement - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment	Treasury Stock [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Balance at Dec. 28, 2019		$ 3,676	$ 1,905,171	$ 5,934,909	$ (4,606)	$ (3,407,768)	$ (118,660)
Common stock, shares issued at Dec. 28, 2019		367,635,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exercise of stock options		$ 26	114,050
Exercise of stock options, shares		2,543,000
Employee share-based compensation expense			35,031
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)							(40,703)
Treasury stock purchases						(650,000)
Cash dividends declared				(55,206)
Net earnings				147,159
Balance at Mar. 31, 2020		$ 3,702	2,054,252	6,022,256		(4,057,768)	(159,363)
Common Stock, shares issued at Mar. 31, 2020		370,178,000
Balance at Dec. 28, 2019		$ 3,676	1,905,171	5,934,909	$ (4,606)	(3,407,768)	(118,660)
Common stock, shares issued at Dec. 28, 2019		367,635,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings	$ 638,583
Balance at Sep. 30, 2020		$ 3,723	2,196,127	6,402,220		(4,057,768)	(138,015)
Common Stock, shares issued at Sep. 30, 2020		372,273,000
Balance at Mar. 31, 2020		$ 3,702	2,054,252	6,022,256		(4,057,768)	(159,363)
Common stock, shares issued at Mar. 31, 2020		370,178,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exercise of stock options		$ 10	28,540
Exercise of stock options, shares		1,009,000
Employee share-based compensation expense			37,549
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)							9,692
Cash dividends declared				(55,602)
Net earnings				134,748
Balance at Jun. 30, 2020		$ 3,712	2,120,341	6,101,402		(4,057,768)	(149,671)
Common Stock, shares issued at Jun. 30, 2020		371,187,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exercise of stock options		$ 11	37,866
Exercise of stock options, shares		1,086,000
Employee share-based compensation expense			37,920
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)							11,656
Cash dividends declared				(55,858)
Net earnings	356,676			356,676
Balance at Sep. 30, 2020		$ 3,723	2,196,127	6,402,220		(4,057,768)	(138,015)
Common Stock, shares issued at Sep. 30, 2020		372,273,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2020	$ 4,482,567	$ 3,732	2,288,806	6,475,551		(4,164,718)	(120,804)
Common stock, shares issued at Dec. 31, 2020	373,224,832	373,225,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exercise of stock options		$ 8	31,471
Exercise of stock options, shares		824,000
Employee share-based compensation expense			47,950
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)							(4,620)
Treasury stock purchases						(350,000)
Cash dividends declared				(67,191)
Net earnings				172,252
Balance at Mar. 31, 2021		$ 3,740	2,368,227	6,580,612		(4,514,718)	(125,424)
Common Stock, shares issued at Mar. 31, 2021		374,049,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2020	$ 4,482,567	$ 3,732	2,288,806	6,475,551		(4,164,718)	(120,804)
Common stock, shares issued at Dec. 31, 2020	373,224,832	373,225,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury stock purchases	$ 1,120,000
Net earnings	380,754
Balance at Sep. 30, 2021	$ 3,839,903	$ 3,785	2,598,853	6,656,679		(5,289,718)	(129,696)
Common Stock, shares issued at Sep. 30, 2021	378,558,251	378,558,000
Balance at Mar. 31, 2021		$ 3,740	2,368,227	6,580,612		(4,514,718)	(125,424)
Common stock, shares issued at Mar. 31, 2021		374,049,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exercise of stock options		$ 29	87,377
Exercise of stock options, shares		2,887,000
Employee share-based compensation expense			53,941
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)							6,697
Treasury stock purchases						(400,000)
Cash dividends declared				(66,704)
Net earnings				32,707
Balance at Jun. 30, 2021		$ 3,769	2,509,545	6,546,615		(4,914,718)	(118,727)
Common Stock, shares issued at Jun. 30, 2021		376,936,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exercise of stock options		$ 16	34,034
Exercise of stock options, shares		1,622,000
Employee share-based compensation expense			55,274
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)							(10,969)
Treasury stock purchases						(375,000)
Cash dividends declared				(65,731)
Net earnings	$ 175,795			175,795
Balance at Sep. 30, 2021	$ 3,839,903	$ 3,785	$ 2,598,853	$ 6,656,679		$ (5,289,718)	$ (129,696)
Common Stock, shares issued at Sep. 30, 2021	378,558,251	378,558,000

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information Nine Months Ended (In thousands) 2021 2020 Cash paid during the period for: Interest (including amounts capitalized of $8,308 and $12,040, respectively) $ 41,918 $ 31,661 Income taxes, net of refunds 95,065 78,519 Non-cash items: Lease liabilities recorded upon the commencement of operating leases 9,062 24,499 Financed capital purchases 7,255 17,395

Consolidated Statements Of Op_2

Consolidated Statements Of Operations (Parenthetical Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Income Statement [Abstract]
Software development, amortization	$ 66,222	$ 61,578	$ 196,319	$ 183,786

Consolidated Statements Of Co_2

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustment and other, taxes (benefit)	$ (151)	$ 351	$ (580)	$ 688
Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge, taxes (benefit)	748	745	2,993	(5,937)
Change in net unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments, taxes (benefit)	$ 5	$ (73)	$ (75)	$ 142

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information details - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Interest Paid, Capitalized	$ 8,308	$ 12,040
Interest Paid	41,918	31,661
Income Taxes Paid, Net	95,065	78,519
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability	9,062	24,499
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid	$ 7,255	$ 17,395

Interim Statement Presentation

Interim Statement Presentation (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Interim Statement Presentation	Interim Statement Presentation Basis of Presentation The condensed consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by Cerner Corporation ("Cerner," the "Company," "we," "us" or "our") without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our latest annual report on Form 10-K. In management's opinion, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position and the results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. Our interim results as presented in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the entire year. The condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared using GAAP. These principles require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates. All references to quarters or nine month periods ended 2021 and 2020 in these notes to condensed consolidated financial statements refer to the respective three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, unless otherwise noted. Employee Separation Costs In connection with involuntary separation benefits, we recognized less than $1 million and $6 million of expenses in the third quarters of 2021 and 2020, respectively; and $46 million and $21 million of expenses during the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. In connection with voluntary separation benefits, we recognized $24 million and $2 million of expenses in the third quarters of 2021 and 2020, respectively; and $51 million and $18 million of expenses during the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. Such employee separation costs are included in "General and administrative" expense in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. At September 30, 2021, a liability of $19 million for such obligations is included in "Accrued payroll and tax withholdings" in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. Real Estate Held For Sale In connection with our operational improvement initiatives, during the nine months ended September 30, 2021, we made certain decisions regarding the continued use of certain of our owned real estate. As a result of those decisions, on July 9, 2021, we sold office space located in Kansas City, Missouri (known as our Oaks Campus), in April 2021 began the process of marketing office space located in Kansas City, Missouri (known as our Riverport Campus), in June 2021 began the process of marketing office space located in Kansas City, Kansas (known as our Continuous Campus), and in September 2021 began the process of marketing a portion of our office space located in Malvern, Pennsylvania. At September 30, 2021, these long-lived assets aggregating $101 million were held for sale and presented within our condensed consolidated balance sheets in "Property and equipment, net." In connection with the designation as held for sale, during the second quarter of 2021, we recorded a pre-tax charge of $68 million to reduce the amount of such long-lived assets to fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Such charge is included in "Sales and client service" expense in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. Software Development Costs In the second and third quarters of 2021, we recorded pre-tax charges of $48 million and $2 million, respectively, to reduce the carrying amount of certain capitalized software development costs to estimated net realizable value. Such charges are included in "Software development" expense in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information Nine Months Ended (In thousands) 2021 2020 Cash paid during the period for: Interest (including amounts capitalized of $8,308 and $12,040, respectively) $ 41,918 $ 31,661 Income taxes, net of refunds 95,065 78,519 Non-cash items: Lease liabilities recorded upon the commencement of operating leases 9,062 24,499 Financed capital purchases 7,255 17,395 Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Reference Rate Reform. The Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting in March 2020 and ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope in January 2021. Such guidance provides optional financial reporting alternatives to reduce the cost and complexity associated with the accounting for contracts and hedging relationships affected by reference rate reform, such as the upcoming discontinuance of the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"). The accommodations within this guidance may be applied prospectively from the beginning of our 2020 first quarter through December 31, 2022. We are currently evaluating the effect that this guidance may have on our contracts that reference LIBOR, specifically, our Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the "Credit Agreement") and related interest rate swap. As of the date of this filing, we have not elected to apply any of the provisions of this guidance.
Accounting Standards Update and Change in Accounting Principle	The Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting in March 2020 and ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope in January 2021. Such guidance provides optional financial reporting alternatives to reduce the cost and complexity associated with the accounting for contracts and hedging relationships affected by reference rate reform, such as the upcoming discontinuance of the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"). The accommodations within this guidance may be applied prospectively from the beginning of our 2020 first quarter through December 31, 2022. We are currently evaluating the effect that this guidance may have on our contracts that reference LIBOR, specifically, our Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the "Credit Agreement") and related interest rate swap. As of the date of this filing, we have not elected to apply any of the provisions of this guidance.

Business Acquisition

Business Acquisition	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combination Disclosure	Business Acquisition On April 1, 2021, we acquired Kantar Health, a division of Kantar Group. Kantar Health provides data, analytics, commercial research, and consulting services to the life sciences industry. We believe this acquisition complements our existing Data-as-a-Service efforts as it provides a meaningful entry into the pharmaceutical market through Kantar Health's existing clients and their leadership team with important industry experience and relationships. These factors, combined with the synergies and economies of scale expected, are the basis for the acquisition and comprise the resulting goodwill recorded. Consideration for the acquisition was a base cash purchase price of $375 million. The base purchase price is subject to post-closing adjustments for working capital and certain other adjustments, as specified in the Securities Purchase Agreement dated December 16, 2020, as amended. Our acquisition of Kantar Health is being treated as a purchase in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic ("ASC") 805, Business Combinations , which requires allocation of the purchase price to the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction. The allocation of purchase price is based on management's judgment after evaluating several factors, including a preliminary valuation assessment. The allocation of purchase price is preliminary and subject to changes, as appraisals of intangible assets are finalized, working capital and certain other adjustments are agreed upon, and additional information becomes available. The following is a summary of the preliminary allocation of purchase price: (In thousands) Allocation Amount Cash and cash equivalents $ 14,992 Receivables, net 31,952 Prepaid expenses and other 11,776 Property and equipment, net 1,147 Right-of-use assets 1,680 Goodwill 217,608 Intangible assets, net: Customer relationships 143,100 Existing technologies 39,700 Trade names 10,200 Other assets 26 Accounts payable (36,143) Deferred revenue (35,640) Accrued payroll and tax withholdings (11,031) Other current liabilities (3,777) Deferred income taxes (10,169) Other liabilities (10,250) Total purchase price $ 365,171 The fair values of the acquired intangible assets were estimated by applying the income approach. Such estimations required the use of inputs that were unobservable in the marketplace (Level 3), including a discount rate that we estimated would be used by a market participant in valuing these assets, projections of revenues and cash flows, and client attrition rates, among others. The acquired intangible assets are being amortized over a weighted-average period of 13 years. Refer to Note (7) for further information about the fair value level hierarchy. The goodwill of $218 million was allocated among our Domestic and International operating segments, as shown below, with approximately $160 million of such goodwill expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 were as follows: (In thousands) Domestic International Total Beginning balance at December 31, 2020 $ 854,188 $ 60,332 $ 914,520 Goodwill recorded in connection with the Kantar Health acquisition 117,047 100,561 217,608 Foreign currency translation adjustment and other — (5,285) (5,285) Ending balance at September 30, 2021 $ 971,235 $ 155,608 $ 1,126,843 Our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 include revenues of $45 million and $90 million, respectively, attributable to the acquired business since the April 1, 2021 acquisition date. The earnings contribution from the acquired business for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 was not material to our condensed consolidated financial statements. Pro forma results of operations, assuming the acquisition was made at the beginning of the earliest period presented, have not been presented because the effect of this acquisition was not material to our results.

Revenue from Contracts with Cus

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]	Revenue Recognition Disaggregation of Revenue The following tables present revenues disaggregated by our business models: Three Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Licensed software $ 186,106 $ 13,073 $ 199,179 $ 159,327 $ 12,367 $ 171,694 Technology resale 35,206 2,378 37,584 45,217 1,896 47,113 Subscriptions 87,490 4,281 91,771 87,878 5,529 93,407 Professional services 472,387 79,361 551,748 433,127 46,768 479,895 Managed services 286,038 37,094 323,132 280,827 31,017 311,844 Support and maintenance 210,864 46,161 257,025 219,682 40,296 259,978 Reimbursed travel 7,397 140 7,537 4,711 31 4,742 Total revenues $ 1,285,488 $ 182,488 $ 1,467,976 $ 1,230,769 $ 137,904 $ 1,368,673 Nine Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Licensed software $ 492,847 $ 43,109 $ 535,956 $ 444,774 $ 37,114 $ 481,888 Technology resale 124,777 15,339 140,116 126,042 14,675 140,717 Subscriptions 277,095 12,925 290,020 260,095 19,749 279,844 Professional services 1,364,450 218,798 1,583,248 1,295,759 156,564 1,452,323 Managed services 852,872 108,413 961,285 836,242 92,114 928,356 Support and maintenance 640,349 139,675 780,024 663,399 144,296 807,695 Reimbursed travel 22,117 (257) 21,860 19,086 854 19,940 Total revenues $ 3,774,507 $ 538,002 $ 4,312,509 $ 3,645,397 $ 465,366 $ 4,110,763 The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by timing of revenue recognition: Three Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Revenue recognized over time $ 1,200,015 $ 175,440 $ 1,375,455 $ 1,143,515 $ 132,891 $ 1,276,406 Revenue recognized at a point in time 85,473 7,048 92,521 87,254 5,013 92,267 Total revenues $ 1,285,488 $ 182,488 $ 1,467,976 $ 1,230,769 $ 137,904 $ 1,368,673 Nine Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Revenue recognized over time $ 3,542,178 $ 507,714 $ 4,049,892 $ 3,410,827 $ 437,791 $ 3,848,618 Revenue recognized at a point in time 232,329 30,288 262,617 234,570 27,575 262,145 Total revenues $ 3,774,507 $ 538,002 $ 4,312,509 $ 3,645,397 $ 465,366 $ 4,110,763 Transaction Price Allocated to Remaining Performance Obligations As of September 30, 2021, the aggregate amount of transaction price allocated to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) for executed contracts approximates $13.12 billion of which we expect to recognize approximately 30% of the revenue over the next 12 months and the remainder thereafter. Contract Liabilities Customer payments received in advance of satisfaction of the related performance obligations are deferred as contract liabilities. Such amounts are classified in our condensed consolidated balance sheets as "Deferred revenue". During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, we recognized $340 million of revenues that were included in our contract liability balance at the beginning of such period. Significant Customers Revenues attributable to our relationships (as the prime contractor or a subcontractor) with U.S. government agencies, within our Domestic segment, comprised 21% and 19% of our consolidated revenues for the third quarters of 2021 and 2020, respectively; and 20% and 17% for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. Amounts due in connection with these relationships comprised 17% and 13% of client receivables as of September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

Receivables

Receivables	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables	Receivables A summary of net receivables is as follows: (In thousands) September 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Client receivables $ 1,380,794 $ 1,322,278 Less: Provision for expected credit losses 160,945 153,566 Total receivables, net $ 1,219,849 $ 1,168,712 In addition to the client receivables presented above, at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had $19 million and $17 million of non-current net client receivables, respectively, which are presented in "Other assets" in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of our provision for expected credit losses is as follows: (In thousands) Current Non-current Total Provision for expected credit losses - balance at December 31, 2020 $ 153,566 $ 38,564 $ 192,130 Additions charged to costs and expenses 20,251 — 20,251 Deductions, foreign currency and other 2,278 — 2,278 Provision for expected credit losses - balance at March 31, 2021 176,095 38,564 214,659 Additions charged to costs and expenses 5,887 — 5,887 Reclassifications to non-current (26,480) 26,480 — Deductions, foreign currency and other (3,008) — (3,008) Provision for expected credit losses - balance at June 30, 2021 152,494 65,044 217,538 Additions charged to costs and expenses 11,265 — 11,265 Deductions, foreign currency and other (2,814) (3,938) (6,752) Provision for expected credit losses - balance at September 30, 2021 $ 160,945 $ 61,106 $ 222,051 Our estimates of expected credit losses for client receivables at both September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, were primarily based on historical credit loss experience and adjustments for certain asset-specific risk characteristics (i.e. known client financial hardship or bankruptcy). Exposure to credit losses may increase if our clients are adversely affected by changes in healthcare laws; changes in reimbursement or payor models; economic pressures or uncertainty associated with local or global economic recessions; disruption associated with the COVID-19 pandemic; or other client-specific factors. Although we have historically not experienced significant credit losses, it is possible that there could be an adverse impact from potential adjustments to the carrying amount of client receivables as clients' cash flows are impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic uncertainty, which may be material. During the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, we received total client cash collections of $4.46 billion and $4.09 billion, respectively.

Investments

Investments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	Investments Available-for-sale investments at September 30, 2021 were as follows: (In thousands) Adjusted Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Cash equivalents: Money market funds $ 91,433 $ — $ — $ 91,433 Time deposits 41,320 — — 41,320 Total cash equivalents 132,753 — — 132,753 Short-term investments: Time deposits 32,439 — — 32,439 Commercial paper 118,300 10 (2) 118,308 Government and corporate bonds 171,866 48 (27) 171,887 Total short-term investments 322,605 58 (29) 322,634 Long-term investments: Government and corporate bonds 60,102 — (41) 60,061 Total available-for-sale investments $ 515,460 $ 58 $ (70) $ 515,448 Available-for-sale investments at December 31, 2020 were as follows: (In thousands) Adjusted Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Cash equivalents: Money market funds $ 40,027 $ — $ — $ 40,027 Time deposits 36,756 — — 36,756 Commercial Paper 61,000 — — 61,000 Total cash equivalents 137,783 — — 137,783 Short-term investments: Time deposits 28,302 — — 28,302 Commercial Paper 264,000 12 (19) 263,993 Government and corporate bonds 149,975 247 (44) 150,178 Total short-term investments 442,277 259 (63) 442,473 Long-term investments: Government and corporate bonds 136,983 152 (57) 137,078 Total available-for-sale investments $ 717,043 $ 411 $ (120) $ 717,334 We sold available-for-sale investments for proceeds of $400 million and $5 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, respectively, resulting in insignificant losses in each period. Other Investments At September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had investments in equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values of $406 million and $361 million, respectively, accounted for in accordance with ASC 321, Investments-Equity Securities . Such investments are included in "Long-term investments" in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. We did not record any changes in the measurement of such investments during the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, respectively.

Debt

Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure	Long-term Debt The following is a summary of indebtedness outstanding: (In thousands) September 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Credit agreement loans due May 5, 2024 $ 600,000 $ 600,000 Senior notes: Series 2021-A due March 24, 2026 100,000 — Series 2021-B due March 24, 2031 400,000 — Series 2020-A due March 11, 2030 300,000 300,000 Series 2015-A due February 15, 2022 225,000 225,000 Series 2015-B due February 14, 2025 200,000 200,000 Other 11,662 11,662 Total indebtedness 1,836,662 1,336,662 Less: debt issuance costs (457) (593) Indebtedness, net 1,836,205 1,336,069 Less: current installments of long-term debt (225,000) — Long-term debt $ 1,611,205 $ 1,336,069 Credit Agreement As of September 30, 2021, the interest rate on revolving credit loans outstanding under our Credit Agreement was 0.88% based on LIBOR plus the applicable spread. We are exposed to market risk from fluctuations in the variable interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under our Credit Agreement. In order to manage this exposure, we have entered into an interest rate swap agreement to hedge the variability of cash flows associated with such interest obligations. The interest rate swap is designated as a cash flow hedge, which effectively fixes the interest rate on the hedged indebtedness under our Credit Agreement at 3.06%. At September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, this swap was in a net liability position with an aggregate fair value of $25 million and $37 million, respectively; which is presented in our condensed consolidated balance sheets in "Other current liabilities" . Series 2021 Senior Notes We entered into a Master Note Agreement on November 11, 2019, and subsequently amended on October 8, 2020 (collectively and as amended, the "2019 Shelf Agreement"), pursuant to which we may issue and sell up to an aggregate principal amount of $1.80 billion of unsecured senior promissory notes. In March 2021, we issued $500 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured senior notes (the "Series 2021 Senior Notes"), pursuant to the 2019 Shelf Agreement. The issuance consisted of $100 million of 2.00% Series 2021-A Notes due March 24, 2026 and $400 million of 2.59% Series 2021-B Notes due March 24, 2031. Interest on the Series 2021 Senior Notes is payable semiannually on each March 24 and September 24, commencing September 24, 2021, and the principal balance is due at maturity. The Company may prepay at any time all, or any part of, the outstanding principal amount of the Series 2021 Senior Notes, subject to the payment of a make-whole amount. The Series 2021 Senior Notes are subject to the terms of the 2019 Shelf Agreement, which contains customary events of default and covenants related to limitations on indebtedness and transactions with affiliates and the maintenance of certain financial ratios. As of the date of this filing, $1.00 billion remains available for sale under the 2019 Shelf Agreement, which is uncommitted and subject to participation by the purchasers.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements We determine fair value measurements used in our consolidated financial statements based upon the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below: • Level 1 – Valuations based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity has the ability to access. • Level 2 – Valuations based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. • Level 3 – Valuations based on inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. The following table details our investments in available-for-sale debt securities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2021: (In thousands) Fair Value Measurements Using Description Balance Sheet Classification Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market funds Cash equivalents $ 91,433 $ — $ — Time deposits Cash equivalents — 41,320 — Time deposits Short-term investments — 32,439 — Commercial paper Short-term investments — 118,308 — Government and corporate bonds Short-term investments — 171,887 — Government and corporate bonds Long-term investments — 60,061 — The following table details our investments in available-for-sale debt securities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2020: (In thousands) Fair Value Measurements Using Description Balance Sheet Classification Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market funds Cash equivalents $ 40,027 $ — $ — Time deposits Cash equivalents — 36,756 — Commercial paper Cash equivalents — 61,000 — Time deposits Short-term investments — 28,302 — Commercial paper Short-term investments — 263,993 — Government and corporate bonds Short-term investments — 150,178 — Government and corporate bonds Long-term investments — 137,078 — Our interest rate swap agreement is measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis using a Level 2 valuation. The fair value of such agreement is based on the market standard methodology of netting the discounted expected future variable cash receipts and the discounted future fixed cash payments. The variable cash receipts are based on an expectation of future interest rates derived from observed market interest rate forward curves. Since these inputs are observable in active markets over the terms that the instrument is held, the derivative is classified as Level 2 in the hierarchy. We estimate the fair value of our long-term, fixed rate debt using a Level 3 discounted cash flow analysis based on current borrowing rates for debt with similar maturities. We estimate the fair value of our long-term, variable rate debt using a

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income TaxesWe determine the tax provision for interim periods using an estimate of our annual effective tax rate, adjusted for discrete items, if any, that are taken into account in the relevant period. Each quarter we update our estimate of the annual effective tax rate, and if our estimated tax rate changes, we make a cumulative adjustment. Our effective tax rate was 21.8% and 21.7% for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share A reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations are as follows: Three Months Ended 2021 2020 Earnings Shares Per-Share Earnings Shares Per-Share (In thousands, except per share data) (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Basic earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders $ 175,795 296,202 $ 0.59 $ 356,676 305,759 $ 1.17 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options, non-vested shares and share units — 2,512 — 2,607 Diluted earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders including assumed conversions $ 175,795 298,714 $ 0.59 $ 356,676 308,366 $ 1.16 For the three months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, options to purchase 0.3 million and 3.9 million shares of common stock at per share prices ranging from $52.32 to $76.49 and $55.24 to $76.49, respectively, were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive. Nine Months Ended 2021 2020 Earnings Shares Per-Share Earnings Shares Per-Share (In thousands, except per share data) (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Basic earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders $ 380,754 300,526 $ 1.27 $ 638,583 306,759 $ 2.08 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options, non-vested shares and share units — 2,897 — 2,365 Diluted earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders including assumed conversions $ 380,754 303,423 $ 1.25 $ 638,583 309,124 $ 2.07 For the nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020, options to purchase 0.4 million and 4.4 million shares of common stock at per share prices ranging from $52.32 to $76.49 and $52.32 to $76.49, respectively, were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive.

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity and Share-based Payments	Share-Based Compensation and Equity Stock Options Stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was as follows: (In thousands, except per share and term data) Number of Weighted- Aggregate Weighted-Average Outstanding at beginning of year 10,204 $ 58.59 Exercised (3,779) 56.92 Forfeited and expired (180) 56.49 Outstanding as of September 30, 2021 6,245 $ 59.66 $ 67,999 4.48 Exercisable as of September 30, 2021 4,748 $ 59.06 $ 54,598 3.81 As of September 30, 2021, there was $20 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options granted under all plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.39 years. Non-vested Shares and Share Units Non-vested share and share unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was as follows: (In thousands, except per share data) Number of Shares Weighted-Average Outstanding at beginning of year 4,131 $ 68.05 Granted 2,158 77.31 Vested (2,386) 67.94 Forfeited (522) 72.40 Outstanding as of September 30, 2021 3,381 $ 73.36 As of September 30, 2021, there was $195 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share and share unit awards granted under all plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.13 years. Share-Based Compensation Cost The following table presents total compensation expense recognized with respect to stock options, non-vested shares and share units, and our associate stock purchase plan: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (In thousands) 2021 2020 2021 2020 Stock option and non-vested share and share unit compensation expense $ 55,274 $ 37,920 $ 157,165 $ 110,500 Associate stock purchase plan expense 1,300 1,367 4,461 4,195 Amounts capitalized in software development costs, net of amortization (908) (1,150) (4,034) (2,971) Amounts charged against earnings, before income tax benefit $ 55,666 $ 38,137 $ 157,592 $ 111,724 Amount of related income tax benefit recognized in earnings $ 11,155 $ 7,818 $ 31,602 $ 22,452 Treasury Stock Under one of our share repurchase programs, which was initially approved by our Board of Directors on May 23, 2017, and most recently amended on December 12, 2019 (the "2017 Share Repurchase Program"), the Company was authorized to repurchase up to $3.70 billion of shares of our common stock, excluding transaction costs. The repurchases were to be effectuated in the open market, by block purchase, in privately negotiated transactions, or through other transactions managed by broker-dealers, or any combination thereof. On April 23, 2021, our Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase program (the "2021 Share Repurchase Program"), which authorizes the Company to repurchase up to $3.75 billion in the aggregate of shares of our common stock, excluding transaction costs. The 2021 Share Repurchase Program is incremental to our 2017 Share Repurchase Program. The repurchases are to be effectuated in the open market, by block purchase, in privately negotiated transactions, or through other transactions managed by broker-dealers, or any combination thereof. The 2021 Share Repurchase Program will expire on December 31, 2023. During the nine months ended September 30, 2021, we repurchased 14.8 million shares for total consideration of $1.12 billion under our share repurchase programs. The shares were recorded as treasury stock and accounted for under the cost method. No repurchased shares have been retired. The 2017 Share Repurchase Program was completed during the third quarter of 2021. As of September 30, 2021, an aggregate of $3.55 billion remained available for repurchase under the 2021 Share Repurchase Program. Dividends On March 25, 2021, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.22 per share on our issued and outstanding common stock, which was paid on April 20, 2021 to shareholders of record as of April 6, 2021. On May 19, 2021, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.22 per share on our issued and outstanding common stock, which was paid on July 13, 2021 to shareholders of record as of June 28, 2021. On September 9, 2021, our Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.22 per share on our issued and outstanding common stock, which was paid on October 12, 2021 to shareholders of record as of September 27, 2021. In connection with the declaration of such dividends, our non-vested shares and share units are entitled to dividend equivalents, which will be payable to the holder subject to, and upon vesting of, the underlying awards. Our outstanding stock options are not entitled to dividend or dividend equivalents. At September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, our condensed consolidated balance sheets included liabilities for dividends payable of $67 million and $69 million, respectively, which are included in "Other current liabilities". Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net (AOCI) The components of AOCI, net of tax, were as follows: Foreign currency translation adjustment and other Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments Total (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2020 $ (93,450) $ (27,788) $ 434 $ (120,804) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (8,991) 2,061 (217) (7,147) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,527 — 2,527 Balance at March 31, 2021 (102,441) (23,200) 217 (125,424) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 4,486 (429) (26) 4,031 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,667 (1) 2,666 Balance at June 30, 2021 (97,955) (20,962) 190 (118,727) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (13,259) (384) (23) (13,666) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,657 40 2,697 Balance at September 30, 2021 $ (111,214) $ (18,689) $ 207 $ (129,696) Foreign currency translation adjustment and other Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments Total (In thousands) Balance at December 28, 2019 $ (106,347) $ (12,578) $ 265 $ (118,660) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (20,546) (20,430) (849) (41,825) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 1,122 — 1,122 Balance at March 31, 2020 (126,893) (31,886) (584) (159,363) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 9,197 (3,205) 1,502 7,494 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,198 — 2,198 Balance at June 30, 2020 (117,696) (32,893) 918 (149,671) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 9,611 (289) (220) 9,102 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,554 — 2,554 Balance at September 30, 2020 $ (108,085) $ (30,628) $ 698 $ (138,015) The effects on net earnings of amounts reclassified from AOCI were as follows: (In thousands) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended AOCI Component Location 2021 2020 2021 2020 Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge Other income, net $ (3,322) $ (3,213) $ (9,826) $ (7,383) Income taxes 665 659 1,975 1,509 Net of tax (2,657) (2,554) (7,851) (5,874) Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments Other income, net (51) — (49) — Income taxes 11 — 10 — Net of tax (40) — (39) — Total amount reclassified, net of tax $ (2,697) $ (2,554) $ (7,890) $ (5,874)

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies Disclosure	Contingencies We accrue estimates for resolution of any legal and other contingencies when losses are probable and reasonably estimable in accordance with ASC 450, Contingencies ("ASC 450"). No less than quarterly, and as facts and circumstances change, we review the status of each significant matter underlying a legal proceeding or claim and assess our potential financial exposure. We accrue a liability for an estimated loss if the potential loss from any legal proceeding or claim is considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Significant judgment is required in both the determination of probability and the determination as to whether the amount of an exposure is reasonably estimable, and accruals are based only on the information available to our management at the time the judgment is made, which may prove to be incomplete or inaccurate or unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that might cause us to change those estimates and assumptions. Furthermore, the outcome of legal proceedings is inherently uncertain, and we may incur substantial defense costs and expenses defending any of these matters. Should any one or a combination of more than one of these proceedings be successful, or should we determine to settle any one or a combination of these matters, we may be required to pay substantial sums, become subject to the entry of an injunction or be forced to change the manner in which we operate our business, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. Cerner Health Services, Inc. ("Cerner HS"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Cerner Corporation, filed a lawsuit in the Chester County, Pennsylvania, Court of Common Pleas against NextGen Healthcare Information Systems, LLC ("NextGen") relating to a dispute arising out of a supplier relationship initially established between Siemens Health Services, Inc. and NextGen prior to the acquisition of the assets of Siemens Health Services, Inc. by Cerner HS in 2015. The parties have settled the matter, and Cerner did not incur a significant loss. On May 16, 2019, Steward Health Care System LLC ("Steward") filed a lawsuit in the Chancery Court for Davidson County, Tennessee against the Company alleging $210 million in damages. The Company believes Steward's allegations arise out of Steward's disinterest in following the contract between the Company and Steward's predecessor for clinical and financial software and services after Steward closed on its acquisition of the predecessor. The Company has filed a counterclaim against Steward seeking recovery of more than $42 million in unpaid invoices owed to the Company. The Company believes the dispute is in the ordinary course of business and the damages Steward asserts lack both factual and causal support. We have not concluded that a material loss related to the Steward allegations is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to these claims. Although we believe a loss could be reasonably possible (as defined in ASC 450), we do not have sufficient information to determine the amount or range of reasonably possible loss with respect to the potential damages given that the dispute is in the discovery process. We will continue to vigorously defend against these claims, and we continue to believe that we have valid grounds for recovery of the disputed client receivables. However, there can be no assurances as to the outcome of the dispute. On March 22, 2021, Astria Health ("Astria") filed an adversary proceeding in the United States Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Washington against the Company. Astria's allegations largely arise out of the Company's provision of revenue cycle services in 2018 and 2019. The Company believes the dispute is in the ordinary course of business and the factual allegations and the damages asserted lack both factual and causal support. We have not concluded that a material loss related to the Astria allegations is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to these claims beyond reserving certain bankruptcy-related outstanding invoices. Although we believe a loss could be reasonably possible (as defined in ASC 450), we do not have sufficient information to determine the amount or range of reasonably possible loss with respect to the potential damages given that the dispute is in the early stages of the discovery process. We will continue to vigorously defend against this claim. However, there can be no assurances as to the outcome of the dispute. The terms of our agreements with our clients generally provide for limited indemnification of such clients against losses, expenses and liabilities arising from third party or other claims based on, among other things, alleged infringement by our solutions of an intellectual property right of third parti es or damages caused by data privacy breaches or system interruptions. The terms of such indemnification often limit the scope of and remedies for such indemnification obligations and generally include, as applicable, a right to replace or modify an infringing solution. For several reasons, including the lack of a sufficient number of prior indemnification claims relating to intellectual property infringement, data privacy breaches or system interruptions, the inherent uncertainty stemming from such claims, and the lack of a monetary liability limit for such claims under the terms of the corresponding agreements with our clients, we cannot determine the maximum amount of potential future payments, if any, related to such indemnification provisions. In addition to commitments and obligations in the ordinary course of business, we are involved in various other legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business, including for example, employment and client disputes and litigation alleging solution and implementation defects, personal injury, intellectual property infringement, violations of law, breaches of contract and warranties, and compliance audits by various government agencies. Many of these proceedings are at preliminary stages and many seek an indeterminate amount of damages. At this time, we do not believe the range of potential losses under any claims to be material to our consolidated financial statements.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	Segment ReportingWe have two operating segments, Domestic and International. Revenues are derived primarily from the sale of clinical, financial and administrative information solutions and services. The cost of revenues includes the cost of third-party consulting services, computer hardware, devices and sublicensed software purchased from manufacturers for delivery to clients. It also includes the cost of hardware maintenance and sublicensed software support subcontracted to the manufacturers. Operating expenses incurred by the geographic business segments consist of sales and client service expenses including salaries of sales and client service personnel, expenses associated with our managed services business, marketing expenses, communications expenses and unreimbursed travel expenses. "Other" includes expenses that have not been allocated to the operating segments, such as software development, general and administrative expenses, certain organizational restructuring and other expense, share-based compensation expense, and certain amortization and depreciation. Performance of the segments is assessed at the operating earnings level by our chief operating decision maker, who is our Chief Executive Officer. Items such as interest, income taxes, capital expenditures and total assets are managed at the consolidated level and thus are not included in our operating segment disclosures. Accounting policies for each of the reportable segments are the same as those used on a consolidated basis. The following table presents a summary of our operating segments and other expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020: (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Three Months Ended 2021 Revenues $ 1,285,488 $ 182,488 $ — $ 1,467,976 Costs of revenue 222,665 28,446 — 251,111 Operating expenses 580,535 70,472 340,935 991,942 Total costs and expenses 803,200 98,918 340,935 1,243,053 Operating earnings (loss) $ 482,288 $ 83,570 $ (340,935) $ 224,923 (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Three Months Ended 2020 Revenues $ 1,230,769 $ 137,904 $ — $ 1,368,673 Costs of revenue 219,938 11,951 — 231,889 Operating expenses 566,777 58,626 316,430 941,833 Total costs and expenses 786,715 70,577 316,430 1,173,722 Gain on sale of businesses — — 216,869 216,869 Operating earnings (loss) $ 444,054 $ 67,327 $ (99,561) $ 411,820 (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Nine Months Ended 2021 Revenues $ 3,774,507 $ 538,002 $ — $ 4,312,509 Costs of revenue 660,584 82,508 — 743,092 Operating expenses 1,797,466 206,794 1,072,616 3,076,876 Total costs and expenses 2,458,050 289,302 1,072,616 3,819,968 Operating earnings (loss) $ 1,316,457 $ 248,700 $ (1,072,616) $ 492,541 (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Nine Months Ended 2020 Revenues $ 3,645,397 $ 465,366 $ — $ 4,110,763 Costs of revenue 638,284 59,984 — 698,268 Operating expenses 1,724,545 182,594 985,131 2,892,270 Total costs and expenses 2,362,829 242,578 985,131 3,590,538 Gain on sale of businesses — — 216,869 216,869 Operating earnings (loss) $ 1,282,568 $ 222,788 $ (768,262) $ 737,094

Organization, Consolidation and

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	The condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared using GAAP
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	These principles require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses

Business Combinations (Policies

Business Combinations (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combinations Policy	Our acquisition of Kantar Health is being treated as a purchase in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic ("ASC") 805, Business Combinations

Business Acquisition (Tables)

Business Acquisition (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following is a summary of the preliminary allocation of purchase price: (In thousands) Allocation Amount Cash and cash equivalents $ 14,992 Receivables, net 31,952 Prepaid expenses and other 11,776 Property and equipment, net 1,147 Right-of-use assets 1,680 Goodwill 217,608 Intangible assets, net: Customer relationships 143,100 Existing technologies 39,700 Trade names 10,200 Other assets 26 Accounts payable (36,143) Deferred revenue (35,640) Accrued payroll and tax withholdings (11,031) Other current liabilities (3,777) Deferred income taxes (10,169) Other liabilities (10,250) Total purchase price $ 365,171
Schedule of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 were as follows: (In thousands) Domestic International Total Beginning balance at December 31, 2020 $ 854,188 $ 60,332 $ 914,520 Goodwill recorded in connection with the Kantar Health acquisition 117,047 100,561 217,608 Foreign currency translation adjustment and other — (5,285) (5,285) Ending balance at September 30, 2021 $ 971,235 $ 155,608 $ 1,126,843

Revenue from Contracts with C_2

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	Disaggregation of Revenue The following tables present revenues disaggregated by our business models: Three Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Licensed software $ 186,106 $ 13,073 $ 199,179 $ 159,327 $ 12,367 $ 171,694 Technology resale 35,206 2,378 37,584 45,217 1,896 47,113 Subscriptions 87,490 4,281 91,771 87,878 5,529 93,407 Professional services 472,387 79,361 551,748 433,127 46,768 479,895 Managed services 286,038 37,094 323,132 280,827 31,017 311,844 Support and maintenance 210,864 46,161 257,025 219,682 40,296 259,978 Reimbursed travel 7,397 140 7,537 4,711 31 4,742 Total revenues $ 1,285,488 $ 182,488 $ 1,467,976 $ 1,230,769 $ 137,904 $ 1,368,673 Nine Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Licensed software $ 492,847 $ 43,109 $ 535,956 $ 444,774 $ 37,114 $ 481,888 Technology resale 124,777 15,339 140,116 126,042 14,675 140,717 Subscriptions 277,095 12,925 290,020 260,095 19,749 279,844 Professional services 1,364,450 218,798 1,583,248 1,295,759 156,564 1,452,323 Managed services 852,872 108,413 961,285 836,242 92,114 928,356 Support and maintenance 640,349 139,675 780,024 663,399 144,296 807,695 Reimbursed travel 22,117 (257) 21,860 19,086 854 19,940 Total revenues $ 3,774,507 $ 538,002 $ 4,312,509 $ 3,645,397 $ 465,366 $ 4,110,763 The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by timing of revenue recognition: Three Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Revenue recognized over time $ 1,200,015 $ 175,440 $ 1,375,455 $ 1,143,515 $ 132,891 $ 1,276,406 Revenue recognized at a point in time 85,473 7,048 92,521 87,254 5,013 92,267 Total revenues $ 1,285,488 $ 182,488 $ 1,467,976 $ 1,230,769 $ 137,904 $ 1,368,673 Nine Months Ended 2021 2020 (In thousands) Domestic International Total Domestic International Total Revenue recognized over time $ 3,542,178 $ 507,714 $ 4,049,892 $ 3,410,827 $ 437,791 $ 3,848,618 Revenue recognized at a point in time 232,329 30,288 262,617 234,570 27,575 262,145 Total revenues $ 3,774,507 $ 538,002 $ 4,312,509 $ 3,645,397 $ 465,366 $ 4,110,763

Receivables (Tables)

Receivables (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]
Summary of Net Receivables	A summary of net receivables is as follows: (In thousands) September 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Client receivables $ 1,380,794 $ 1,322,278 Less: Provision for expected credit losses 160,945 153,566 Total receivables, net $ 1,219,849 $ 1,168,712
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of our provision for expected credit losses is as follows: (In thousands) Current Non-current Total Provision for expected credit losses - balance at December 31, 2020 $ 153,566 $ 38,564 $ 192,130 Additions charged to costs and expenses 20,251 — 20,251 Deductions, foreign currency and other 2,278 — 2,278 Provision for expected credit losses - balance at March 31, 2021 176,095 38,564 214,659 Additions charged to costs and expenses 5,887 — 5,887 Reclassifications to non-current (26,480) 26,480 — Deductions, foreign currency and other (3,008) — (3,008) Provision for expected credit losses - balance at June 30, 2021 152,494 65,044 217,538 Additions charged to costs and expenses 11,265 — 11,265 Deductions, foreign currency and other (2,814) (3,938) (6,752) Provision for expected credit losses - balance at September 30, 2021 $ 160,945 $ 61,106 $ 222,051

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Investments [Abstract]
Schedule of available-for-sale investments	Available-for-sale investments at September 30, 2021 were as follows: (In thousands) Adjusted Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Cash equivalents: Money market funds $ 91,433 $ — $ — $ 91,433 Time deposits 41,320 — — 41,320 Total cash equivalents 132,753 — — 132,753 Short-term investments: Time deposits 32,439 — — 32,439 Commercial paper 118,300 10 (2) 118,308 Government and corporate bonds 171,866 48 (27) 171,887 Total short-term investments 322,605 58 (29) 322,634 Long-term investments: Government and corporate bonds 60,102 — (41) 60,061 Total available-for-sale investments $ 515,460 $ 58 $ (70) $ 515,448 Available-for-sale investments at December 31, 2020 were as follows: (In thousands) Adjusted Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Cash equivalents: Money market funds $ 40,027 $ — $ — $ 40,027 Time deposits 36,756 — — 36,756 Commercial Paper 61,000 — — 61,000 Total cash equivalents 137,783 — — 137,783 Short-term investments: Time deposits 28,302 — — 28,302 Commercial Paper 264,000 12 (19) 263,993 Government and corporate bonds 149,975 247 (44) 150,178 Total short-term investments 442,277 259 (63) 442,473 Long-term investments: Government and corporate bonds 136,983 152 (57) 137,078 Total available-for-sale investments $ 717,043 $ 411 $ (120) $ 717,334

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt	The following is a summary of indebtedness outstanding: (In thousands) September 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Credit agreement loans due May 5, 2024 $ 600,000 $ 600,000 Senior notes: Series 2021-A due March 24, 2026 100,000 — Series 2021-B due March 24, 2031 400,000 — Series 2020-A due March 11, 2030 300,000 300,000 Series 2015-A due February 15, 2022 225,000 225,000 Series 2015-B due February 14, 2025 200,000 200,000 Other 11,662 11,662 Total indebtedness 1,836,662 1,336,662 Less: debt issuance costs (457) (593) Indebtedness, net 1,836,205 1,336,069 Less: current installments of long-term debt (225,000) — Long-term debt $ 1,611,205 $ 1,336,069

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The following table details our investments in available-for-sale debt securities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2021: (In thousands) Fair Value Measurements Using Description Balance Sheet Classification Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market funds Cash equivalents $ 91,433 $ — $ — Time deposits Cash equivalents — 41,320 — Time deposits Short-term investments — 32,439 — Commercial paper Short-term investments — 118,308 — Government and corporate bonds Short-term investments — 171,887 — Government and corporate bonds Long-term investments — 60,061 — The following table details our investments in available-for-sale debt securities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2020: (In thousands) Fair Value Measurements Using Description Balance Sheet Classification Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Money market funds Cash equivalents $ 40,027 $ — $ — Time deposits Cash equivalents — 36,756 — Commercial paper Cash equivalents — 61,000 — Time deposits Short-term investments — 28,302 — Commercial paper Short-term investments — 263,993 — Government and corporate bonds Short-term investments — 150,178 — Government and corporate bonds Long-term investments — 137,078 —

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciliation Of The Numerators And The Denominators Of The Basic And Diluted Per Share	A reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations are as follows: Three Months Ended 2021 2020 Earnings Shares Per-Share Earnings Shares Per-Share (In thousands, except per share data) (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Basic earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders $ 175,795 296,202 $ 0.59 $ 356,676 305,759 $ 1.17 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options, non-vested shares and share units — 2,512 — 2,607 Diluted earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders including assumed conversions $ 175,795 298,714 $ 0.59 $ 356,676 308,366 $ 1.16	Nine Months Ended 2021 2020 Earnings Shares Per-Share Earnings Shares Per-Share (In thousands, except per share data) (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount (Numerator) (Denominator) Amount Basic earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders $ 380,754 300,526 $ 1.27 $ 638,583 306,759 $ 2.08 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options, non-vested shares and share units — 2,897 — 2,365 Diluted earnings per share: Income available to common shareholders including assumed conversions $ 380,754 303,423 $ 1.25 $ 638,583 309,124 $ 2.07

Share-Based Compensation (Table

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Schedule Of Stock Options Activity	Stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was as follows: (In thousands, except per share and term data) Number of Weighted- Aggregate Weighted-Average Outstanding at beginning of year 10,204 $ 58.59 Exercised (3,779) 56.92 Forfeited and expired (180) 56.49 Outstanding as of September 30, 2021 6,245 $ 59.66 $ 67,999 4.48 Exercisable as of September 30, 2021 4,748 $ 59.06 $ 54,598 3.81
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Activity	Non-vested share and share unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was as follows: (In thousands, except per share data) Number of Shares Weighted-Average Outstanding at beginning of year 4,131 $ 68.05 Granted 2,158 77.31 Vested (2,386) 67.94 Forfeited (522) 72.40 Outstanding as of September 30, 2021 3,381 $ 73.36
Compensation Expense Recognized In The Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations	The following table presents total compensation expense recognized with respect to stock options, non-vested shares and share units, and our associate stock purchase plan: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (In thousands) 2021 2020 2021 2020 Stock option and non-vested share and share unit compensation expense $ 55,274 $ 37,920 $ 157,165 $ 110,500 Associate stock purchase plan expense 1,300 1,367 4,461 4,195 Amounts capitalized in software development costs, net of amortization (908) (1,150) (4,034) (2,971) Amounts charged against earnings, before income tax benefit $ 55,666 $ 38,137 $ 157,592 $ 111,724 Amount of related income tax benefit recognized in earnings $ 11,155 $ 7,818 $ 31,602 $ 22,452
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The components of AOCI, net of tax, were as follows: Foreign currency translation adjustment and other Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments Total (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2020 $ (93,450) $ (27,788) $ 434 $ (120,804) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (8,991) 2,061 (217) (7,147) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,527 — 2,527 Balance at March 31, 2021 (102,441) (23,200) 217 (125,424) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 4,486 (429) (26) 4,031 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,667 (1) 2,666 Balance at June 30, 2021 (97,955) (20,962) 190 (118,727) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (13,259) (384) (23) (13,666) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,657 40 2,697 Balance at September 30, 2021 $ (111,214) $ (18,689) $ 207 $ (129,696) Foreign currency translation adjustment and other Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments Total (In thousands) Balance at December 28, 2019 $ (106,347) $ (12,578) $ 265 $ (118,660) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (20,546) (20,430) (849) (41,825) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 1,122 — 1,122 Balance at March 31, 2020 (126,893) (31,886) (584) (159,363) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 9,197 (3,205) 1,502 7,494 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,198 — 2,198 Balance at June 30, 2020 (117,696) (32,893) 918 (149,671) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 9,611 (289) (220) 9,102 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 2,554 — 2,554 Balance at September 30, 2020 $ (108,085) $ (30,628) $ 698 $ (138,015)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The effects on net earnings of amounts reclassified from AOCI were as follows: (In thousands) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended AOCI Component Location 2021 2020 2021 2020 Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge Other income, net $ (3,322) $ (3,213) $ (9,826) $ (7,383) Income taxes 665 659 1,975 1,509 Net of tax (2,657) (2,554) (7,851) (5,874) Unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments Other income, net (51) — (49) — Income taxes 11 — 10 — Net of tax (40) — (39) — Total amount reclassified, net of tax $ (2,697) $ (2,554) $ (7,890) $ (5,874)

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summary of the Operating Information	The following table presents a summary of our operating segments and other expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 and September 30, 2020: (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Three Months Ended 2021 Revenues $ 1,285,488 $ 182,488 $ — $ 1,467,976 Costs of revenue 222,665 28,446 — 251,111 Operating expenses 580,535 70,472 340,935 991,942 Total costs and expenses 803,200 98,918 340,935 1,243,053 Operating earnings (loss) $ 482,288 $ 83,570 $ (340,935) $ 224,923 (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Three Months Ended 2020 Revenues $ 1,230,769 $ 137,904 $ — $ 1,368,673 Costs of revenue 219,938 11,951 — 231,889 Operating expenses 566,777 58,626 316,430 941,833 Total costs and expenses 786,715 70,577 316,430 1,173,722 Gain on sale of businesses — — 216,869 216,869 Operating earnings (loss) $ 444,054 $ 67,327 $ (99,561) $ 411,820 (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Nine Months Ended 2021 Revenues $ 3,774,507 $ 538,002 $ — $ 4,312,509 Costs of revenue 660,584 82,508 — 743,092 Operating expenses 1,797,466 206,794 1,072,616 3,076,876 Total costs and expenses 2,458,050 289,302 1,072,616 3,819,968 Operating earnings (loss) $ 1,316,457 $ 248,700 $ (1,072,616) $ 492,541 (In thousands) Domestic International Other Total Nine Months Ended 2020 Revenues $ 3,645,397 $ 465,366 $ — $ 4,110,763 Costs of revenue 638,284 59,984 — 698,268 Operating expenses 1,724,545 182,594 985,131 2,892,270 Total costs and expenses 2,362,829 242,578 985,131 3,590,538 Gain on sale of businesses — — 216,869 216,869 Operating earnings (loss) $ 1,282,568 $ 222,788 $ (768,262) $ 737,094

Policies (Details)

Policies (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	The condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared using GAAP
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	These principles require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses

Interim Statement Presentatio_2

Interim Statement Presentation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Interim Statement Presentation [Line Items]
Postemployment Benefits, Period Expense	$ 24		$ 2	$ 51	$ 18
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Current	101			101
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of		$ 68
Capitalized Computer Software, Impairments	2	$ 48
One-time Termination Benefits
Interim Statement Presentation [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges	1		$ 6	46	$ 21
Restructuring Reserve, Current	$ 19			$ 19

Business Acquisition (Details)

Business Acquisition (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life		13 years
Goodwill, Acquired During Period		$ 217,608
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount	$ 160,000	160,000
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	1,126,843	1,126,843	$ 914,520
Kantar Health
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents	14,992	14,992
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables	31,952	31,952
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets	11,776	11,776
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment	1,147	1,147
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Right-of-use Assets	1,680	1,680
Goodwill	217,608	217,608
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets	26	26
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable	(36,143)	(36,143)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue	(35,640)	(35,640)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Payroll and Tax Withholdings	(11,031)	(11,031)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other	(3,777)	(3,777)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent	(10,169)	(10,169)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other	(10,250)	(10,250)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net	365,171	$ 365,171
Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition		Apr. 1, 2021
Business Acquisition, Description of Acquired Entity		we acquired Kantar Health, a division of Kantar Group. Kantar Health provides data, analytics, commercial research, and consulting services to the life sciences industry.
Business Combination, Reason for Business Combination		We believe this acquisition complements our existing Data-as-a-Service efforts as it provides a meaningful entry into the pharmaceutical market through Kantar Health's existing clients and their leadership team with important industry experience and relationships.
Business Combination, Goodwill Recognized, Description		These factors, combined with the synergies and economies of scale expected, are the basis for the acquisition and comprise the resulting goodwill recorded.
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred		$ 375,000
Business Acquisition, Date of Acquisition Agreement		Dec. 16, 2020
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Reasons		The allocation of purchase price is preliminary and subject to changes, as appraisals of intangible assets are finalized, working capital and certain other adjustments are agreed upon, and additional information becomes available.
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual	45,000	$ 90,000
Kantar Health | Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles	10,200	10,200
Kantar Health | Customer Relationships
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles	143,100	143,100
Kantar Health | Technology-Based Intangible Assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles	$ 39,700	$ 39,700

Business Acquisition - Goodwill

Business Acquisition - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 1,126,843	$ 914,520
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	217,608
Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)	(5,285)
Domestic Segment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	971,235	854,188
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	117,047
Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)	0
International Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	155,608	$ 60,332
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	100,561
Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)	$ (5,285)

Disaggregation of Revenue (Deta

Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 1,467,976	$ 1,368,673	$ 4,312,509	$ 4,110,763
Transferred over Time [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	1,375,455	1,276,406	4,049,892	3,848,618
Transferred at Point in Time [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	92,521	92,267	262,617	262,145
Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	1,285,488	1,230,769	3,774,507	3,645,397
Domestic Segment | Transferred over Time [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	1,200,015	1,143,515	3,542,178	3,410,827
Domestic Segment | Transferred at Point in Time [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	85,473	87,254	232,329	234,570
International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	182,488	137,904	538,002	465,366
International Segment [Member] | Transferred over Time [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	175,440	132,891	507,714	437,791
International Segment [Member] | Transferred at Point in Time [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	7,048	5,013	30,288	27,575
Revenue, Licensed Software, Net [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	199,179	171,694	535,956	481,888
Revenue, Licensed Software, Net [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	186,106	159,327	492,847	444,774
Revenue, Licensed Software, Net [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	13,073	12,367	43,109	37,114
Revenue, Technology Resale, Net [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	37,584	47,113	140,116	140,717
Revenue, Technology Resale, Net [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	35,206	45,217	124,777	126,042
Revenue, Technology Resale, Net [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	2,378	1,896	15,339	14,675
Revenue, Subscriptions, Net [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	91,771	93,407	290,020	279,844
Revenue, Subscriptions, Net [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	87,490	87,878	277,095	260,095
Revenue, Subscriptions, Net [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	4,281	5,529	12,925	19,749
Revenue, Professional Services, Net [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	551,748	479,895	1,583,248	1,452,323
Revenue, Professional Services, Net [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	472,387	433,127	1,364,450	1,295,759
Revenue, Professional Services, Net [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	79,361	46,768	218,798	156,564
Revenue, Managed Services, Net [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	323,132	311,844	961,285	928,356
Revenue, Managed Services, Net [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	286,038	280,827	852,872	836,242
Revenue, Managed Services, Net [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	37,094	31,017	108,413	92,114
Revenue, Support and Maintenance Services, Net [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	257,025	259,978	780,024	807,695
Revenue, Support and Maintenance Services, Net [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	210,864	219,682	640,349	663,399
Revenue, Support and Maintenance Services, Net [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	46,161	40,296	139,675	144,296
Revenue, Reimbursement Revenue [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	7,537	4,742	21,860	19,940
Revenue, Reimbursement Revenue [Member] | Domestic Segment
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	7,397	4,711	22,117	19,086
Revenue, Reimbursement Revenue [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 140	$ 31	$ (257)	$ 854

Performance Obligation (Details

Performance Obligation (Details) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation	$ 13,120
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Explanation	we expect to recognize approximately 30% of the revenue over the next 12 months and the remainder thereafter
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized	$ 340

Revenue from Contracts with C_3

Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Details)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Major Customers	21		19	20	17
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Major Customers	21		19	20	17
Credit Concentration Risk [Member] | Accounts Receivable | U.S. government agencies
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Concentration Risk, Percentage		13.00%		17.00%
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage		13.00%		17.00%

Receivables (Narrative) (Detail

Receivables (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Noncurrent	$ 19		$ 17
Client cash collections	$ 4,460	$ 4,090

Receivables (Summary Of Net Rec

Receivables (Summary Of Net Receivables) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current	$ 1,380,794	$ 1,322,278
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	160,945	153,566
Total receivables, net	$ 1,219,849	$ 1,168,712

Schedule of Valuation and Quali

Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Credit Loss Expense (Reversal)	$ 11,265	$ 5,887	$ 20,251
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Reclassifications to non-current		0
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Writeoff	(6,752)	(3,008)	(2,278)
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss	222,051	217,538	214,659	$ 192,130
Current Expected Credit Losses
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Credit Loss Expense (Reversal)	11,265	5,887	20,251
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Reclassifications to non-current		(26,480)
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Writeoff	(2,814)	(3,008)	(2,278)
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss	160,945	152,494	176,095	153,566
Non-current Expected Credit Losses
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Credit Loss Expense (Reversal)	0	0	0
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Reclassifications to non-current		26,480
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Writeoff	(3,938)	0	0
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss	$ 61,106	$ 65,044	$ 38,564	$ 38,564

Investments (Narrative) (Detail

Investments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Investments [Abstract]
Proceeds from Sale of Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	$ 400	$ 5
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Amount	406		$ 361
Equity Method Investments	$ 22		$ 12

Investments (Details)

Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	$ 515,460	$ 717,043
Gross Unrealized Gains	58	411
Gross Unrealized Losses	(70)	(120)
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	515,448	717,334
Cash equivalents [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	132,753	137,783
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	132,753	137,783
Cash equivalents [Member] | Money market funds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	91,433	40,027
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	91,433	40,027
Cash equivalents [Member] | Time deposits [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	41,320	36,756
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	41,320	36,756
Cash equivalents [Member] | Commercial paper [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost		61,000
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale		61,000
Short-term investments [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	322,605	442,277
Gross Unrealized Gains	58	259
Gross Unrealized Losses	(29)	(63)
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	322,634	442,473
Short-term investments [Member] | Time deposits [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	32,439	28,302
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	32,439	28,302
Short-term investments [Member] | Commercial paper [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	118,300	264,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	10	12
Gross Unrealized Losses	(2)	(19)
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	118,308	263,993
Short-term investments [Member] | Government and corporate bonds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	171,866	149,975
Gross Unrealized Gains	48	247
Gross Unrealized Losses	(27)	(44)
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	171,887	150,178
Long-term investments [Member] | Government and corporate bonds [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Adjusted Cost	60,102	136,983
Gross Unrealized Gains		152
Gross Unrealized Losses	(41)	(57)
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	$ 60,061	$ 137,078

Schedule of Indebtedness Outsta

Schedule of Indebtedness Outstanding (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 1,836,662	$ 1,336,662
Debt Issuance Costs, Noncurrent, Net	457	593
Long-term Debt, Net of Debt Issuances Costs	1,836,205	1,336,069
Current installments of long-term debt	(225,000)	0
Long-term Debt	1,611,205	1,336,069
Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 600,000	600,000
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	May 5, 2024
Senior Notes - Series 2021-A due March 24, 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 100,000	0
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Mar. 24, 2026
Senior Notes - Series 2021-B due March 24, 2031
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 400,000	0
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Mar. 24, 2031
Senior Notes - Series 2020-A due March 11, 2030
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 300,000	300,000
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Mar. 11, 2030
Senior Notes - Series 2015 A due February 15, 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 225,000	225,000
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Feb. 15, 2022
Senior Notes - Series 2015-B due February 14, 2025
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 200,000	200,000
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Feb. 14, 2025
Other
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 11,662	$ 11,662

Indebtedness (Narrative) (Detai

Indebtedness (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End	0.88%
General Discussion of Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	We are exposed to market risk from fluctuations in the variable interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under our Credit Agreement. In order to manage this exposure, we have entered into an interest rate swap agreement to hedge the variability of cash flows associated with such interest obligations. The interest rate swap is designated as a cash flow hedge, which effectively fixes the interest rate on the hedged indebtedness under our Credit Agreement at 3.06%
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	$ 25	$ 37
Debt Instrument, Total Amount Authorized under Shelf Agreement	1,800
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 500
Debt Instrument, Frequency of Periodic Payment	payable semiannually
Debt Instrument, Date of First Required Payment	Sep. 24, 2021
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants	The Series 2021 Senior Notes are subject to the terms of the 2019 Shelf Agreement, which contains customary events of default and covenants related to limitations on indebtedness and transactions with affiliates and the maintenance of certain financial ratios.
Debt Instrument, Amount Uncommitted and Available for Sale	$ 1,000
Senior Notes - Series 2021-A due March 24, 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 100
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.00%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Mar. 24, 2026
Senior Notes - Series 2021-B due March 24, 2031
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 400
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.59%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Mar. 24, 2031

Fair Value Measurements (Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Processes, Description	We estimate the fair value of our long-term, fixed rate debt using a Level 3 discounted cash flow analysis based on current borrowing rates for debt with similar maturities. We estimate the fair value of our long-term, variable rate debt using a Level 3 discounted cash flow analysis based on LIBOR rate forward curves.
Fair value of long-term debt, including current maturities	$ 1,840	$ 1,360
Unsecured Debt	$ 1,830	$ 1,330

Fair Value Measurements Fair Va

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	$ 515,448	$ 717,334
Level 1 [Member] | Money market funds [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	91,433	40,027
Level 2 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	41,320	36,756
Level 2 [Member] | Commercial paper [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure		61,000
Level 3 [Member] | Money market funds [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Short-term investments [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	322,634	442,473
Short-term investments [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	32,439	28,302
Short-term investments [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Commercial paper [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	118,308	263,993
Short-term investments [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Government and corporate bonds [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	171,887	150,178
Short-term investments [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Time deposits [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	0	0
Short-term investments [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Commercial paper [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	0
Short-term investments [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Government and corporate bonds [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	0	0
Long-term investments [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Government and corporate bonds [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	60,061	137,078
Long-term investments [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Government and corporate bonds [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	$ 0	$ 0

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective tax rate	21.80%	21.70%

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliat

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliation Of The Numerators And The Denominators Of The Basic And Diluted Per Share) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income available to common shareholders, basic	$ 175,795	$ 356,676	$ 380,754	$ 638,583
Income available to common shareholders including assumed conversions, diluted	$ 175,795	$ 356,676	$ 380,754	$ 638,583
Basic weighted average shares outstanding	296,202	305,759	300,526	306,759
Stock options and non-vested shares, incremental shares	2,512	2,607	2,897	2,365
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	298,714	308,366	303,423	309,124
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.59	$ 1.17	$ 1.27	$ 2.08
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.59	$ 1.16	$ 1.25	$ 2.07

Earnings Per Share (Narrative)

Earnings Per Share (Narrative) (Details) - $ / shares shares in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount	0.3	3.9	0.4	4.4
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, exercise price, lower range limit	$ 52.32	$ 55.24	$ 52.32	$ 52.32
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, exercise price, upper range limit	$ 76.49	$ 76.49	$ 76.49	$ 76.49

Share-Based Compensation (Sched

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Stock Options Activity) (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Outstanding at beginning of year, number of shares | shares	10,204
Outstanding at beginning of year, weighted-average exercise price | $ / shares	$ 58.59
Exercised, number of shares | shares	(3,779)
Exercised, weighted-average exercise price | $ / shares	$ 56.92
Forfeited and expired, number of shares | shares	(180)
Forfeited and expired, weighted-average exercise price | $ / shares	$ 56.49
Outstanding end of year, number of shares | shares	6,245
Outstanding at end of year, weighted-average exercise price | $ / shares	$ 59.66
Outstanding at end of year, aggregate intrinsic value | $	$ 67,999
Outstanding at end of year, weighted-average remaining contractual term	4 years 5 months 23 days
Exercisable at end of year, number of shares | shares	4,748
Exercisable at end of year, weighted-average exercise price | $ / shares	$ 59.06
Exercisable at end of year, aggregate intrinsic value | $	$ 54,598
Exercisable at end of year, weighted-average remaining contractual term	3 years 9 months 21 days

Share-Based Compensation (Sch_2

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Non-Vested Shares Activity) (Details) - Restricted Stock [Member] shares in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding at beginning of year, number of shares | shares	4,131
Outstanding at beginning of year, weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	$ 68.05
Granted, number of shares | shares	2,158
Granted, weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	$ 77.31
Vested, number of shares | shares	(2,386)
Vested, weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	$ 67.94
Forfeited, number of shares | shares	(522)
Forfeited, weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	$ 72.40
Outstanding at end of year, number of shares | shares	3,381
Outstanding at end of year, weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	$ 73.36

Share-Based Compensation (Compe

Share-Based Compensation (Compensation Expense Recognized In The Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amounts charged against earnings, before income tax benefit	$ 55,666	$ 38,137	$ 157,592	$ 111,724
Amount of related income tax benefit recognized in earnings	11,155	7,818	31,602	22,452
Stock option and non-vested share compensation expense
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amounts charged against earnings, before income tax benefit	55,274	37,920	157,165	110,500
Associate stock purchase plan expense
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amounts charged against earnings, before income tax benefit	1,300	1,367	4,461	4,195
Amounts capitalized in software development costs, net of amortization
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amounts charged against earnings, before income tax benefit	$ (908)	$ (1,150)	$ (4,034)	$ (2,971)

Schedule of Accumulated Other C

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 28, 2019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	$ (129,696)	$ (118,727)	$ (125,424)	$ (138,015)	$ (149,671)	$ (159,363)	$ (120,804)	$ (118,660)
OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(13,666)	4,031	(7,147)	9,102	7,494	(41,825)
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	2,697	2,666	2,527	2,554	2,198	1,122
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	(111,214)	(97,955)	(102,441)	(108,085)	(117,696)	(126,893)	(93,450)	(106,347)
OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(13,259)	4,486	(8,991)	9,611	9,197	(20,546)
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	0	0	0	0	0	0
Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	(18,689)	(20,962)	(23,200)	(30,628)	(32,893)	(31,886)	(27,788)	(12,578)
OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(384)	(429)	2,061	(289)	(3,205)	(20,430)
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	2,657	2,667	2,527	2,554	2,198	1,122
AOCI, Accumulated Gain (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Parent
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	207	190	217	698	918	(584)	$ 434	$ 265
OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	(23)	(26)	(217)	(220)	1,502	(849)
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	$ 40	$ (1)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Reclassification out of Accumul

Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other income, net	$ (5,070)	$ 48,020	$ (5,542)	$ 78,247
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	44,058	103,164	106,245	176,758
Net earnings	175,795	356,676	380,754	638,583
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Net earnings	(2,697)	(2,554)	(7,890)	(5,874)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other income, net	(3,322)	(3,213)	(9,826)	(7,383)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	665	659	1,975	1,509
Net earnings	(2,657)	(2,554)	(7,851)	(5,874)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | AOCI, Accumulated Gain (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Parent
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other income, net	(51)	0	(49)	0
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	11	0	10	0
Net earnings	$ (40)	$ 0	$ (39)	$ 0

Share-Based Compensation (Narra

Share-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Stock Options	$ 20			$ 20
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options	195			$ 195
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired				14,800
Treasury stock purchases				$ 1,120
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	$ 3,550			$ 3,550
Dividends Payable, Date Declared	Sep. 9, 2021	May 19, 2021	Mar. 25, 2021
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share	$ 0.22	$ 0.22	$ 0.22	$ 0.22
Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid	Oct. 12, 2021	Jul. 13, 2021	Apr. 20, 2021
Dividends Payable, Date of Record	Sep. 27, 2021	Jun. 28, 2021	Apr. 6, 2021
Dividends Payable	$ 67			$ 67	$ 69
2021 Share Repurchase Program
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	3,750			$ 3,750
Stock Repurchase Program Expiration Date				Dec. 31, 2023
2017 Share Repurchase Program
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	$ 3,700			$ 3,700
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Period of recognition for remaining share-based compensation expense				1 year 4 months 20 days
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Period of recognition for remaining share-based compensation expense				2 years 1 month 17 days

Contingencies Contingencies (De

Contingencies Contingencies (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
NextGen [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Terms	Cerner Health Services, Inc. ("Cerner HS"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Cerner Corporation, filed a lawsuit in the Chester County, Pennsylvania, Court of Common Pleas against NextGen Healthcare Information Systems, LLC ("NextGen") relating to a dispute arising out of a supplier relationship initially established between Siemens Health Services, Inc. and NextGen prior to the acquisition of the assets of Siemens Health Services, Inc. by Cerner HS in 2015. The parties have settled the matter, and Cerner did not incur a significant loss.
Steward Health Care System LLC
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Management's Assessment and Process	On May 16, 2019, Steward Health Care System LLC ("Steward") filed a lawsuit in the Chancery Court for Davidson County, Tennessee against the Company alleging $210 million in damages. The Company believes Steward's allegations arise out of Steward's disinterest in following the contract between the Company and Steward's predecessor for clinical and financial software and services after Steward closed on its acquisition of the predecessor. The Company has filed a counterclaim against Steward seeking recovery of more than $42 million in unpaid invoices owed to the Company. The Company believes the dispute is in the ordinary course of business and the damages Steward asserts lack both factual and causal support. We have not concluded that a material loss related to the Steward allegations is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to these claims. Although we believe a loss could be reasonably possible (as defined in ASC 450), we do not have sufficient information to determine the amount or range of reasonably possible loss with respect to the potential damages given that the dispute is in the discovery process. We will continue to vigorously defend against these claims, and we continue to believe that we have valid grounds for recovery of the disputed client receivables. However, there can be no assurances as to the outcome of the dispute.
Astria Health
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Management's Assessment and Process	On March 22, 2021, Astria Health ("Astria") filed an adversary proceeding in the United States Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Washington against the Company. Astria's allegations largely arise out of the Company's provision of revenue cycle services in 2018 and 2019. The Company believes the dispute is in the ordinary course of business and the factual allegations and the damages asserted lack both factual and causal support. We have not concluded that a material loss related to the Astria allegations is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to these claims beyond reserving certain bankruptcy-related outstanding invoices. Although we believe a loss could be reasonably possible (as defined in ASC 450), we do not have sufficient information to determine the amount or range of reasonably possible loss with respect to the potential damages given that the dispute is in the early stages of the discovery process. We will continue to vigorously defend against this claim. However, there can be no assurances as to the outcome of the dispute.

Segment Reporting (Summary Of T

Segment Reporting (Summary Of The Operating Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 1,467,976	$ 1,368,673	$ 4,312,509	$ 4,110,763
Costs of revenue	251,111	231,889	743,092	698,268
Operating expenses	991,942	941,833	3,076,876	2,892,270
Total costs and expenses	1,243,053	1,173,722	3,819,968	3,590,538
Gain on sale of businesses	0	216,869	0	216,869
Operating earnings (loss)	224,923	411,820	492,541	737,094
Domestic Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	1,285,488	1,230,769	3,774,507	3,645,397
Costs of revenue	222,665	219,938	660,584	638,284
Operating expenses	580,535	566,777	1,797,466	1,724,545
Total costs and expenses	803,200	786,715	2,458,050	2,362,829
Gain on sale of businesses		0		0
Operating earnings (loss)	482,288	444,054	1,316,457	1,282,568
International Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	182,488	137,904	538,002	465,366
Costs of revenue	28,446	11,951	82,508	59,984
Operating expenses	70,472	58,626	206,794	182,594
Total costs and expenses	98,918	70,577	289,302	242,578
Gain on sale of businesses		0		0
Operating earnings (loss)	83,570	67,327	248,700	222,788
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating expenses	340,935	316,430	1,072,616	985,131
Total costs and expenses	340,935	316,430	1,072,616	985,131
Gain on sale of businesses		216,869		216,869
Operating earnings (loss)	$ (340,935)	$ (99,561)	$ (1,072,616)	$ (768,262)