quest diagnostics 10_20_05

This document summarizes a conference call by Quest Diagnostics about their third quarter 2005 financial results. Key points include: - Revenues grew 6.4%, earnings per share were $0.66, and cash flow was $178 million. - Clinical testing revenues grew 7.1% due to increased volume and revenue per test. Hurricanes Katrina and Rita reduced revenues by 0.5%. - Operating income was 17.7% of revenues compared to 18% last year. Margins increased in clinical testing but were reduced by hurricanes and a $6.2 million charge. - Their test kit manufacturing subsidiary NID performed below last year, reducing revenue growth by 0.5% and margin expansion