Double-digit revenue growth in this market is nothing to sneeze at, and LabCorp
Revenue was up more than 11% in the fourth quarter, with most of that increase coming from higher volumes, not increased prices. But the company was able to keep its gross margin essentially the same, so price increases weren't really needed.
LabCorp was able to renew its contract with WellPoint
That isn't to say that the growth is going to be stellar this year. We've still got plenty of people out of work, and therefore uninsured, so revenue is only expected to grow 2% to 4%. Better margins and share repurchases could benefit the bottom line a little more, though. The company is guiding for earnings between $4.75 and $4.95 per share.
That puts it trading at about 13 times forward earnings, which isn't dirt cheap. Still, you've got to remember that diagnostic testing is poised to take off. Not only should volume increase as the economy recovers, but the number of routine tests given to patients is also likely to increase as researchers learn more about why drugs work on some patients and not on others.
For instance the FDA is considering recommending that patients get a genetic test before starting Bristol-Myers Squibb's
Don't worry, investors. Double-digit earnings growth will be back.
Further Foolishness has your results:
- Archrival Quest is doing well, too.
- Sometimes you've got to pay up for potential growth.
- This test developer is a Rule Breaker.