Segment Data (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Segment Operating Income
Total Segment Operating Income	$ 537,678	$ 538,416	$ 1,039,745	$ 1,065,640
Unallocated Expenses	(145,045)	(109,955)	(302,858)	(229,028)
Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes	392,633	428,461	736,887	836,612
Medical [Member]
Segment Operating Income
Total Segment Operating Income	285,251	287,313	538,986	562,910
Diagnostics [Member]
Segment Operating Income
Total Segment Operating Income	158,052	155,866	323,416	317,029
Biosciences [Member]
Segment Operating Income
Total Segment Operating Income	$ 94,375	$ 95,237	$ 177,343	$ 185,701