XML 48 R1.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v3.3.0.814
Document and Entity Information Document - shares
shares in Millions
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2015
Oct. 27, 2015
Document Information [Line Items]    
Entity Registrant Name LABORATORY CORP OF AMERICA HOLDINGS  
Entity Central Index Key 0000920148  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2015  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2015  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3  
Amendment Flag false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   101.2