This Annual report on Form 10-K may contain "forward-looking statements," including, but not limited to, statements of plans and objectives, statements of future economic performance and statements of assumptions underlying such statements, and statements of the Company's or management's intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "could," "should," "will," "will be," "intended," "continue," "believe," "may," "hope," "anticipate," "goal," "forecast," "plan," "estimate" or variations thereof. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates, forecasts and assumptions involving risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. The uncertainties, risks and assumptions referred to above include, but are not limited to, those described under "Factors Affecting Future Performance" in Item 7.

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

LabOne, Inc., a Missouri corporation, is a diagnostic services provider. The services and information LabOne and its subsidiaries provide include: risk assessment information services for the insurance industry; diagnostic healthcare testing; and drugs of abuse testing services and related employee qualification products. LabOne's business plan is to be the premier provider of certified and accredited, cost effective laboratory and information services to life and health insurance companies, employers, third party administrators ("TPAs"), government agencies, hospitals, physician practices and occupational health clinics.

LabOne, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries are hereinafter collectively referred to as either LabOne or the Company. The Company's website can be found on the internet at www.LabOne.com. The Company's annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports are available free through the Company's website as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports and amendments are filed with the SEC, generally on the same day. These documents may also be found at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

On January 5, 2004, the Company acquired, for cash, substantially all of the assets associated with the core laboratory operations of The Health Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (the "Health Alliance") for $42.4 million. The core laboratory operations acquired provide outreach laboratory testing services for physicians in the Greater Cincinnati area and reference laboratory testing for the six hospitals affiliated with the Health Alliance. In connection with the acquisition, the Company entered into a long-term service agreement for the Company to provide reference testing to the Health Alliance hospitals and management of their six immediate response laboratories. Anticipated annual revenues associated with this acquisition include $29.0 million of outreach revenues, $11.0 million of reference testing performed for the six hospitals in the Health Alliance and $8.5 million of fee revenue associated with the management of the six immediate response laboratories owned by the Health Alliance. The acquisition was financed through the Company's existing line of credit.

On March 1, 2004, the Company acquired for cash the assets of the drug testing division, Northwest Toxicology, from NWT Inc. for $10.0 million subject to adjustment based on net working capital at closing. The acquisition will result in additional urine and oral fluid testing volumes directed to LabOne's Lenexa, Kansas laboratory, and furthers the Company's capabilities to include drugs of abuse testing in blood, expanded specimen validity testing, medical professional and other esoteric drug testing. The acquisition is expected to add approximately $11.0 million in annual revenues. The acquisition was financed through the Company's existing line of credit.

LabOne's risk assessment services comprise underwriting support services including teleunderwriting, specimen collection and paramedical examinations, laboratory testing, telephone inspections, motor vehicle reports and medical record retrieval to the insurance industry. The laboratory tests performed and data gathered by the Company are specifically designed to assist an insurance company in objectively evaluating the mortality and morbidity risks posed by policy applicants. The majority of the testing is performed on specimens of individual life insurance policy applicants, but also includes specimens of individuals applying for individual and group medical and disability policies.

LabOne's clinical services include laboratory testing services for the healthcare industry as an aid in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. LabOne operates highly automated and centralized laboratory facilities, which the Company believes has significant economic advantages over other laboratory competitors. LabOne markets its clinical testing services to managed care companies, insurance companies, self-insured groups, hospitals and physicians.

LabOne's clinical services also include substance abuse testing ("SAT") provided to employers to support their drug free workplace programs. LabOne is certified by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ("SAMSHA") to perform substance abuse testing services for federally regulated employers and currently markets these services throughout the country to both regulated and nonregulated employers. Additionally, the Company can provide background checks, social security number verification and other pre-employment data required by employers. The Company's rapid turnaround times and multiple testing options help clients reduce downtime for affected employees and meet mandated drug screening guidelines.

The following table summarizes the Company's revenues and volumes from services provided to the risk assessment services and clinical segments:

(See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for operating
earnings and identifiable assets by segment.)

Risk Assessment Services:

Life insurance companies require an objective means of evaluating the insurance risk posed by policy applicants in order to establish the appropriate level of premium payments or to determine whether to issue a policy. Because decisions of this type are based on statistical probabilities of mortality and morbidity, insurance companies generally require quantitative data reflecting the applicant's general health. LabOne utilizes standardized specimen collection, medical questionnaires and laboratory testing, tailored to the needs of the insurance industry and reported in a uniform format. This information provides insurance companies with a consistent and efficient means of evaluating the mortality and morbidity risks posed by policy applicants.

The Company's involvement in the life underwriting process often begins when LabOne personnel conduct telephone interviews tailored to obtain the medical history for a new life insurance policy applicant. This teleunderwriting process includes a series of medical questions, which may result in additional questions based on an applicant's responses.

Following the completion of an individual's application for life insurance, a paramedical company may be contacted to arrange for collection of a blood and/or urine specimen. Through the Company's subsidiary, ExamOne World Wide, Inc. ("ExamOne"), or another paramedical company, paramedical contractors collect specimens from individual insurance applicants and perform paramedical examinations using custom-designed collection kits and containers. Insurance agents also collect oral fluid or urine specimens using LabOne's kits. These kits and containers are delivered to LabOne's laboratory via overnight delivery services or mail, bar coded for identification and tested according to each insurance company's specifications.

LabOne's insurance laboratory testing services consist of certain specimen profiles that provide insurance companies with specific information that may indicate liver or kidney disorders, diabetes, the risk of cardiovascular disease, bacterial or viral infections and other health risks. The Company also offers tests to detect the presence of antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus ("HIV"). Standardized laboratory testing can verify responses on a policy application to such questions as whether the applicant is a user of tobacco products, certain controlled substances or certain prescription drugs.

LabOne assists with the administration and tracking of data for applicants during the information gathering process. The Company can obtain medical records or attending physician statements so underwriters can review the complete medical history of applicants. Additional applicant information in the form of inspection reports can be gathered quickly and cost-effectively either by telephone or in the field. Motor vehicle reports are ordered automatically based on insurance company specifications or on demand by the underwriter. The Company can collect, process and provide imaged reports of these various pieces of information electronically through LabOne NET® directly to the insurance company's underwriting department.

CaseView, LabOne's proprietary requirements management software, allows underwriters to order laboratory testing and other services, check the status of those requests, review results electronically, request add-on tests or services based on the results and to manage the underwriting services they order through LabOne and its subsidiaries. Through its subsidiary, Intellisys, the Company also offers CaseOne®, a service that provides a single source solution for underwriting requirements management for insurance clients.

Clinical Services:

Clinical healthcare laboratory tests are generally requested by physicians to diagnose, determine treatment and monitor diseases and other medical conditions through the detection of substances in blood and other specimens. Laboratory testing is generally categorized as either clinical testing, which is performed on bodily fluids including blood and urine, or anatomic pathology testing, which is performed on tissue specimens. The most frequently requested tests include blood chemistry analyses, urinalyses, blood cell counts, Pap smears and infectious disease tests. Tests not performed at LabOne are sent out for testing, and the results of these outsourced tests are transmitted into the Company's computer system for reporting along with the results of testing completed by LabOne.

Additionally, LabOne has several exclusive and non-exclusive arrangements with managed care organizations. With these arrangements, the managed care organizations may direct testing for their members through LabOne. In conjunction with many of these agreements, LabOne provides utilization and disease management reporting to the managed care organizations.

The Company developed and provides the Lab Card® program as a method of marketing outpatient laboratory services directly to payors such as self-insured groups and insurance companies. It uses a unique benefit design that shares the cost savings with the patient and the payor by creating an incentive for the patient to direct laboratory work to LabOne. The patient generally incurs no out-of-pocket expense when the Lab Card is used, and the insurance company or self-insured group receives substantial savings on its laboratory charges.

Substance abuse testing is marketed to large employers, TPAs and occupational health providers. Certification by SAMHSA enables the Company to offer substance abuse testing services to federally regulated industries.

Specimens for substance abuse testing, both urine and oral fluid, are typically collected by independent agencies or employers that use LabOne's forms and collection supplies. Specimens are sealed with bar coded, tamper-evident seals and shipped overnight to the Company. Automated systems monitor the specimens throughout the screening and confirmation process. Negative results are typically reported within 12 hours of accessioning in the laboratory. Initial positive specimens are verified by the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method, and confirmed positive results are generally reported within 72 hours of accessioning in the laboratory. Results can be transmitted electronically to the client's secured computer, printer or fax machine, or the client can use LabOne's LabLink software or secure web site to retrieve, store, search and print their drug testing results.

LabOne's principal operation is located in Lenexa, Kansas, where it operates a highly automated and centralized laboratory. In connection with the acquisition of the core laboratory operations of the Health Alliance, the Company leases space from the Health Alliance while it pursues construction of a new state-of-the-art laboratory facility in the Greater Cincinnati/Tri-State area. The Company anticipates that construction could be completed during 2004. The Company will continue all Cincinnati-based testing operations with the exception of certain toxicology and immunology tests, which will be directed to LabOne's facility in Lenexa. The Company intends to consolidate routine and esoteric laboratory testing in its core facilities while maintaining anatomic pathology and rapid response capabilities, as well as customer service, on a regional basis.

The Company's operations are designed to facilitate the testing of a large number of specimens and to report the results to clients, generally within 24 hours of receipt of the specimens. The Company has internally developed, custom-designed laboratory and business processing systems. This centralized network system provides an automated link between LabOne's testing equipment, data processing equipment and clients' computer systems thus providing clients with the ability to customize their initial testing and follow-up testing requirements to best meet their needs.

At many physician office clients, LabOne uses proprietary and non-proprietary technologies to facilitate secure electronic transmission of laboratory orders and results. The Company's connectivity solutions are often interfaced directly into a physician's practice management system to retrieve patient demographics from the physician's systems for transmission to the laboratory with the test order. These demographic interfaces streamline data entry for the physician offices and the laboratory, and allow LabOne to mandate that a physician office provides specific information necessary for billing. After testing, LabOne transmits results in a variety of formats to devices ranging from fax machines and dedicated printers to electronic medical reporting systems.

As a result of the significant number of tests it has performed over the past several years, LabOne has compiled and maintains a large statistical database of test results. These summary statistics are useful to the actuarial and underwriting departments of an insurance client in comparing that client's test results to the results obtained by the Company's entire client base. Company-specific and industry-wide reports are frequently distributed to clients on subjects such as coronary risk analysis, cholesterol and drugs of abuse. Additionally, the Company's statistical engineering department is capable of creating customized reports to assist managed care entities for required reporting, disease management and utilization tracking to help manage healthcare costs.

The Company considers the confidentiality of its test results and other personal data processed to be of primary importance and has established procedures to ensure that this information remains secure, in compliance with statutory regulations.

Substantially all of the test supplies and products used by the Company in conducting its testing are commercially purchased or internally developed and most, but not all, are available from multiple sources. Any interruption in the availability of test supplies or other products used by the Company to collect and test specimens could have an adverse impact on the Company's business.

LabOne's business is subject to significant federal and state regulation. Changes in laws and regulations, including laws and regulations establishing reimbursement for laboratory services under government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, could significantly increase the costs of doing business or limit revenues and have an adverse impact on the Company's results.

LabOne is licensed under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 and maintains additional licenses in all states where such licenses are required. LabOne is certified by SAMSHA to perform testing to detect drugs of abuse in federal employees and in workers governed by federal regulations. The Company is subject to federal and state regulation relating to the handling and disposal of medical waste and hazardous waste and federal regulation by the Food and Drug Administration, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration related to workplace safety and several agencies related to the transportation of laboratory specimens. The loss of any of these licenses or certifications by the Company, or the failure of the Company to maintain compliance with federal and state requirements, could have an adverse impact on the Company's business.

Congress enacted the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ("HIPAA"). Pursuant to HIPAA, LabOne maintains administrative, technical and physical safeguards to protect the security and confidentiality of Protected Health Information against unauthorized use or disclosure. LabOne's compliance committee and security and privacy officers consistently monitor the Company's compliance with these requirements.

LabOne's Regulatory Affairs department oversees quality programs to ensure that accurate and reliable test results are released to clients. This is accomplished by incorporating both internal and external quality improvement programs in each area of the laboratory. In addition, quality improvement specialists share the responsibility with all LabOne employees of an ongoing commitment to quality and safety in all laboratory operations. Internal quality and educational programs are designed to identify opportunities for improvement in laboratory services and to meet all required safety, training and education issues. These programs monitor the reliability and confidentiality of test results.

Procedure manuals in all areas of the laboratory are developed and written to help maintain uniformity and accuracy and follow regulatory guidelines. Tests on control samples with known results are performed frequently to maintain and verify accuracy in the testing process. Complete documentation provides record keeping for employee reference and meets regulatory requirements. All employees are trained to meet standards mandated by OSHA in order to maintain a safe work environment. The Superblind® Program is used to challenge every aspect of service at LabOne from account setup and specimen arrival to testing, reporting and through final billing. Approximately 500 sample kits are prepared and submitted anonymously each month. These samples have at least 15 different indicators each representing over 7,500 challenges to the testing, handling and reporting procedures.

LabOne participates in proficiency testing programs as required by state and federal licensing and accrediting agencies.

LabOne has appointed a Chief Compliance Officer and co-compliance officers representing corporate privacy, corporate security, operations, pathology, legal, human resources, regulatory affairs, billing, sales, finance, administration and information systems and technology functions within LabOne. Additionally, the Company has developed the LabOne Compliance Program, based on the Model Compliance Plan recommended by the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, to monitor compliance with federally-funded programs where LabOne seeks reimbursement for laboratory testing services.

LabOne's client base consists of insurance companies, managed care organizations, TPAs, government agencies, physician practices, hospitals and employers, primarily in North America. The Company believes that its ability to provide prompt and accurate results on a cost-effective basis and its responsiveness to customer needs have been important factors in servicing existing business.

LabOne is the national account manager for State Farm Insurance Companies ("State Farm") for teleunderwriting, collection and testing of specimens from its life and health insurance applicants. Under these arrangements, total revenue recognized by the Company from State Farm for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 represented 10%, 12% and 13%, respectively, of total revenue. The loss of the State Farm account would have a material adverse effect on the Company's results.

All of the Company's sales representatives for the risk assessment market have significant business experience in the insurance and paramedical industry or clinical laboratory-related fields. These representatives call on major clients several times each year, usually meeting with a medical director or vice president of underwriting. An important part of the Company's marketing effort is directed toward providing its existing clients and prospects with information pertaining to the benefits of, and trends in, laboratory testing, applicant interviews and other medical information gathering. The Company's sales representatives and its senior management also attend and sponsor insurance industry underwriters' and medical directors' meetings.

The Company's sales representatives for clinical healthcare services are experienced in clinical laboratory-related fields, and each currently works in a specific geographic area. Marketing efforts are directed at insurance carriers, employers, TPAs, physician practices, hospitals and other organizations nationwide.

Marketing for substance abuse testing is primarily directed at Fortune 1000 companies, occupational health clinics and TPAs. The Company's strategy is to offer consistent, quality services, nationwide, at competitive prices. The Company's marketing focuses on LabOne's ability to offer multiple reporting methods, next-flight-out options, dedicated client service representatives and rapid reporting of results. The clinical SAT business is sensitive to economic conditions and levels of new employment. The Company has not experienced any appreciable organic revenue growth in this segment.

The Company believes that the risk assessment services market in the United States and Canada is approximately a $1 billion industry. The Company serves approximately 25% of this market. The primary competition in the market includes Hooper Holmes, Inc. and Examination Management Services, Inc. In this market, LabOne has developed long-term client relationships and a reputation for providing quality services at competitive prices tailored specifically to the insurance industry's needs. The Company continues to develop innovative data management services and technological solutions that differentiate its products from competitors. These services and solutions enable LabOne's clients to expedite the underwriting and claims processes, saving time and reducing underwriting costs.

The Company believes that the laboratory testing segment of the clinical market is a $35-40 billion industry, which is highly fragmented and very competitive. The Company faces competition from numerous independent clinical laboratories and hospital-owned or physician-owned laboratories. Two of the Company's competitors are significantly larger and have substantially greater financial resources than LabOne. The Company has established a solid client base through the use of Lab Card® and arrangements with managed care entities to provide laboratory services and information reporting.

LabOne competes in the employment substance abuse testing segment nationwide. There are currently 52 laboratories certified by SAMHSA. Two major clinical chains, which collectively perform the majority of the substance abuse testing, are the Company's major competitors. The Company's focus is fast turnaround with high-quality, low-cost service, with a strategic position of offering oral fluid based drug screening. The acquisition of the assets of Northwest Toxicology will result in additional urine and oral fluid testing volumes directed to LabOne's Lenexa laboratory, and furthers the Company's capabilities to include drugs of abuse testing in blood, expanded specimen validity testing, medical professional and other esoteric drug testing.

The Company derives revenues from risk assessment services, primarily laboratory testing, marketed to life insurance clients insuring residents of foreign countries. Substantially all of this laboratory testing is from Canada, but the Company also receives specimens from insurance applicants in Mexico and other foreign countries. The laboratory testing on these specimens is performed primarily in the United States. Total revenues from these sales were $14.1 million in 2003, $12.1 million in 2002 and $8.9 million in 2001, or approximately 4% of the Company's total revenues in each of these years. The Company does not maintain any significant long-lived assets in foreign countries.

After recent acquisitions, the Company has approximately 3,000 employees, including 250 part-time employees. None of the Company's employees are represented by a labor union. The Company believes its relations with employees are good.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

The Company's principal operations are located on 54 acres of land in Lenexa, Kansas, approximately 15 miles from Kansas City, Missouri. Its 268,000 square foot, custom-designed facility houses the Company's primary laboratory, administrative and warehouse functions. The facility is owned by the Company and financed through industrial revenue bonds issued by the City of Lenexa, Kansas. The laboratory has certain enhancements that improve the efficiency of operations. Conveyor systems transport inbound test kits through the opening and set-up process and remove waste. All automated testing equipment requiring purified water is linked directly to a centralized water-purification system. Over 50,000 square feet of raised flooring allows laboratory instruments and computer systems to be arranged or moved quickly and easily. The security system includes proximity card readers to control access and a ceiling detector system to prevent unauthorized access. In addition, three diesel generators and a UPS battery system are on-line in the event of electrical power shortage. These back-up power sources allow specimen testing and data processing to continue until full power is restored, thus assuring LabOne's clients of continuous laboratory operation.

In conjunction with the acquisition of Central Plains Laboratories in December 2002, the Company leases two laboratories and office space in Hays, Kansas. These leases expire in 2006 and 2007. LabOne leases 24 locations in the Midwest, which serve as LabOne Service Centers. These facilities provide specimen collection services for patients and are typically located in medical office buildings. Lab One Canada Inc. leases office space in Ontario Canada, which is used for sales and client services. This lease expires in 2004. Additionally, Lab One Canada Inc. leases space in Quebec, Canada for assembly and distribution of specimen collection kits for Canadian insurance testing and insurance applicant interviews. This lease expires in 2005. LabOne leases a facility in Lee's Summit, Missouri, under lease until 2011, to perform teleunderwriting interviews and process physician statement reports. The Company also leases space in Earth City, Missouri to process physician statement reports. ExamOne has a five-year lease expiring in 2004 for a facility used as office space in Voorhees, New Jersey, and leases locations across the United States as regional paramedical offices.

In connection with the acquisition of the core laboratory operations of the Health Alliance, the Company leases space from the Health Alliance while it pursues construction of a new state-of-the-art laboratory facility in the Greater Cincinnati/Tri-State area. The Company anticipates that construction could be completed during 2004.

In conjunction with the acquisition of the assets of Northwest Toxicology, the Company leases space in Salt Lake City, Utah. The leases expire in 2005. The Northwest Toxicology laboratory will be maintained as a SAMHSA-certified laboratory.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the normal course of business, LabOne was the subject of certain lawsuits pending as of December 31, 2003. Although LabOne cannot predict the outcome of such proceedings or any other claims made against it, management believes that the ultimate resolution of these claims will not have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

None

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The Registrant's common stock trades on The Nasdaq Stock Market® under the symbol LABS. As of February 13, 2004, outstanding shares were held by approximately 8,600 shareholders either directly or in street name.

The Company did not pay a dividend on its common stock during 2003 or 2002. The Board of Directors will review the dividend policy on a periodic basis, but presently has no plans to pay a dividend in the near future. Additionally, the Company's line of credit includes a covenant restricting the payment of dividends on the Company's common stock.

The following are the high and low prices of LabOne's common stock for each quarter of 2003 and 2002:

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table summarizes certain selected financial data regarding the Company. This information should be read in conjunction with ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS and ITEM 15. (a) (1) and (2), CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULE. The balance sheet data as of December 31, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 and 1999 and the statement of operations data for each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2003, have been derived from the Company's Audited Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion of the Company's financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements and the related notes. This discussion may contain forward-looking statements. Please see "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Factors Affecting the Company's Future Performance" for a discussion of some, but not all, of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions associated with these statements.

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2003, was $346.0 million compared to $298.1 million in 2002. The increase of $47.9 million, or 16%, was due to increases in clinical healthcare revenue of $27.5 million and risk assessment revenue of $20.7 million, partially offset by a decrease in clinical SAT revenue of $0.4 million. Risk assessment revenue increased to $230.7 million from $210.0 million in 2002 due primarily to increases of $14.7 million of other insurance services and $11.1 million in paramedical services, partially offset by a decrease in insurance laboratory services of $5.1 million. Other insurance services increased due to growth in medical records retrieval services and teleunderwriting. Paramedical services revenue increased due to an increase in the number of paramedical exams performed from the addition of new customer accounts. Insurance laboratory revenue decreased 6% due to a decline in the total number of insurance applicants tested by the Company, partially offset by an increase in the average revenue per applicant. The number of insurance applicants tested decreased due to accounts lost as a result of pricing competition. Healthcare services revenue increased to $88.5 million in 2003 from $60.9 million in 2002 due to a 37% increase in testing volumes and a 6% increase in the average revenue per patient. Increased sales to new and existing healthcare customers accounted for 28% of the revenue increase, and the acquisition of Central Plains Laboratories, L.L.C. ("CPL") in December 2002 accounted for 17% of the revenue increase. SAT revenue decreased to $26.8 million in 2003 from $27.2 million in 2002 primarily due to a 2% decrease in testing volumes. Total laboratory services revenue from risk assessment and clinical was $204.1 million as compared to $182.0 million in 2002.

Cost of sales increased $31.2 million, or 15%, for the year compared to the prior year. This increase is primarily due to increases in paramedical services, payroll, material costs, medical records and motor vehicle reports. Risk assessment cost of sales increased to $166.0 million compared to $151.7 million during 2002 due to the growth of medical records retrieval services, paramedical examinations performed and teleunderwriting interviews, partially offset by the decrease in laboratory specimen volumes. Clinical healthcare cost of sales increased to $51.9 million compared to $33.7 million during 2002 due to increased specimen volumes. Clinical SAT cost of sales decreased to $19.2 million compared to $20.4 million during 2002 due to cost savings on material costs and payroll, and lower specimen volumes.

As a result of the above factors, gross profit increased $16.6 million, or 18%, to $108.9 million in 2003 from $92.3 million in 2002. Risk assessment gross profit increased $6.5 million, or 11%, to $64.7 million in 2003. Clinical healthcare gross profit improved $9.4 million to $36.5 million in 2003 from $27.1 million in 2002. Clinical SAT gross profit increased $0.7 million to $7.6 million in 2003 from $6.9 million last year.

Selling, general and administrative ("SGA") expenses increased $9.5 million, or 15%, in 2003 compared to 2002 primarily due to increases in payroll, consulting for software implementations, insurance, bad debt and amortization expenses. Payroll expenses increased $3.7 million, or 10%, due to increased headcount. Bad debt expense increased in conjunction with the increase in revenue. Risk assessment SGA increased to $17.4 million compared to $17.2 million in 2002 due to amortization and consulting expenses, partially offset by a decrease in payroll. Clinical healthcare SGA increased to $18.7 million compared to $15.3 million in 2002 due to an increase in payroll and bad debt expenses. Clinical SAT SGA decreased to $3.1 million in 2003 from $3.3 million. Corporate SGA increased to $34.2 million from $28.0 million in 2002 due to increases in payroll, insurance, consulting and audit expenses.

Operating income increased 25% to $35.5 million in 2003 from $28.4 million in 2002. Risk assessment services had operating income of $47.4 million compared to $41.0 million in 2002. Clinical healthcare services operating income increased to $17.7 million in 2003 from $11.9 million in 2002. Clinical SAT operating income improved to $4.6 million in 2003 from $3.6 million in 2002. Corporate operating expenses for the year were $34.2 million compared to $28.0 million in 2002.

Nonoperating expense decreased $1.3 million in 2003 compared to 2002, primarily due to decreased interest expense. Interest expense decreased from 2002 primarily due to refinancing the Company's subordinated debt through borrowings under the Company's line of credit. The effective tax rate during 2003 was 37% compared to 39% in 2002.

The combined effect of the above factors resulted in net income of $20.7 million, or $1.23 per diluted share, compared to net income of $14.8 million, or $0.91 per diluted share, in 2002.

Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2002, was $298.1 million compared to $233.9 million in 2001. The increase of $64.2 million, or 27%, was due to increases in risk assessment revenue of $50.6 million and clinical healthcare revenue of $14.3 million, partially offset by a decrease in clinical SAT revenue of $0.7 million. Risk assessment revenue increased to $210.0 million from $159.3 million in 2001 due primarily to increases of $17.1 million of other insurance services revenue, $17.0 million in paramedical services and $16.6 million in laboratory testing. Other insurance services revenue increased due to growth in teleunderwriting and medical records retrieval services. Paramedical services revenue increased due to an increase in the number of paramedical exams performed. Insurance laboratory revenue increased primarily due to the acquisition of the Osborn Group, Inc. ("Osborn") on August 31, 2001 and a first quarter increase in applicant volumes. Healthcare services revenue increased to $60.9 million in 2002 from $46.6 million in 2001 due to a 17% increase in testing volumes and a 12% increase in the average revenue per patient. SAT revenue decreased to $27.2 million in 2002 from $27.9 million in 2001 primarily due to a 5% decrease in testing volumes. Total laboratory services revenue from risk assessment and clinical was $182.0 million as compared to $151.8 million in 2001.

Cost of sales increased $40.5 million, or 25%, for the year compared to the prior year. This increase is primarily due to increases in paramedical collections, payroll, material costs, medical records retrieval services and motor vehicle reports. Risk assessment cost of sales increased to $151.7 million compared to $113.1 million during 2001 due to the increase in paramedical exams, teleunderwriting interviews and laboratory specimen volumes. Clinical healthcare cost of sales increased to $33.7 million compared to $29.6 million during 2001 due to increased specimen volumes. Clinical SAT cost of sales decreased to $20.4 million compared to $22.6 million during 2001 due to cost savings on payroll and material costs, and lower specimen volumes.

As a result of the above factors, gross profit increased $23.7 million, or 35%, to $92.3 million in 2002 from $68.6 million in 2001. Risk assessment gross profit increased $12.0 million, or 26%, to $58.3 million in 2002. Clinical healthcare gross profit improved $10.1 million to $27.1 million in 2002 from $17.0 million in 2001. Clinical SAT gross profit increased $1.6 million to $6.9 million in 2002 from $5.3 million last year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $0.4 million, or 1%, in 2002 compared to 2001 primarily due to lower amortization expense of $7.9 million partially offset by increases in payroll and bad debt expenses. Amortization in 2001 included goodwill amortization of $4.2 million, non cash warrant amortization of $3.2 million related to the Welsh, Carson, Anderson and Stowe IX, L.P. ("WCAS") financing and non cash amortization of $0.6 million for warrants issued in exchange for an exclusive marketing arrangement. Payroll expenses increased $5.7 million, or 19%, primarily due to an investment in corporate information systems personnel and clinical healthcare and risk assessment commission expenses related to the higher testing volumes. Bad debt expenses increased in conjunction with the increase in revenue. Risk assessment SGA decreased to $17.2 million compared to $17.6 million in 2001 due to the elimination of $1.3 million of goodwill amortization, partially offset by increases in payroll, bad debt and sales expenses. Clinical healthcare SGA increased to $15.3 million compared to $13.6 million in 2001 due to an increase in bad debt and payroll expenses partially offset by savings on Lab Card production expenses. Clinical SAT SGA decreased to $3.3 million in 2002 from $4.1 million due to lower payroll expense and the one time warrant amortization of $0.6 million in 2001. Corporate SGA decreased to $28.0 million from $29.1 million in 2001 due to the elimination of goodwill amortization and the WCAS warrant amortization in 2001, partially offset by an increase in payroll expenses.

Operating income increased to $28.4 million in 2002 from $4.3 million in 2001. Risk assessment services had operating income of $41.0 million compared to $28.7 million in 2001. Clinical healthcare services operating income increased to $11.9 million in 2002 from $3.5 million in 2001. Clinical SAT operating income improved to $3.6 million in 2002 from $1.3 million in 2001. Corporate operating expenses decreased to $28.0 million from $29.1 million in 2001.

Nonoperating expense increased $2.0 million in 2002 compared to 2001 primarily due to increased interest expense. The effective tax rate during 2002 was 39% compared to 150% in 2001. The high effective tax rate in 2001 was due to goodwill amortization expenses, which were not deductible for tax purposes.

The combined effect of the above factors resulted in net income of $14.8 million, or $0.91 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $1.0 million, or $0.18 per share, in 2001.

The risk assessment services market continues to be highly competitive. The primary focus of the competition has been on lower pricing for laboratory and paramedical services and expansion of services to compete with those offered by the Company. LabOne plans to maintain its focus on its long-standing commitment to customer service, provision of quality products and services at competitive prices and development of innovative data management services and technological solutions that offer customers faster sources of reliable underwriting information and differentiate LabOne from its competitors.

The Company anticipates that during 2004 the number of insurance applicants who undergo laboratory testing will remain relatively flat with 2003 and downward pressures on laboratory pricing will continue. Continued increases in the number and type of tests ordered per applicant tested are expected to continue, as is the willingness of life insurance companies to outsource other services such as case management and teleunderwriting. The Company should be uniquely positioned to capitalize on these anticipated trends.

During 2003, LabOne continued to expand its customer base of national life insurance carriers using the Company's teleunderwriting services. Under the terms of these contracts, LabOne personnel conduct telephone interviews relating to the medical histories of new life insurance policy applicants. The Company anticipates continued increases in revenues from these services during 2004.

Revenue from paramedical services increased $11.1 million in 2003, and the Company anticipates that this growth trend will continue during 2004 although at a slower pace. Paramedical services historically return a lower gross margin than LabOne's other business segments. In most cases, a substantial percentage of the revenue from a specimen collection is paid to a contractor who owns and operates an independent local office that arranges for the collection. If this revenue grows as a percentage of total LabOne revenue, its lower gross margins will add to the total profitability of LabOne but will reduce the average gross profit percentage of revenue.

In clinical healthcare, the Company serves approximately 800,000 managed care members under exclusive managed care outpatient laboratory service arrangements. The Company continues to add network approvals for healthcare plans in focused regional physician markets to increase penetration. Managed care organizations, and the physicians who are under their contracts, continue to choose LabOne for its quality controlled testing, disease management data capabilities and responsive customer service and support.

Development of new clinical tests and proprietary methodologies for use by healthcare providers continues to expand. Recent discoveries or potential technology breakthroughs could enable rapid acceleration of this development and subsequent demand for these tests. These tests are often characterized by higher processing costs or limited access through specific laboratories. LabOne's response to this trend has been to internalize methodologies for these tests, thus lowering costs, and to seek adequate reimbursement for these tests from payors and clients. The ability of outside firms to advance new tests and create demand for them, offset by the Company's ability to successfully limit the expense impact of such tests and to be adequately reimbursed, may pressure clinical healthcare gross margins in the future. Alternatively, LabOne's responsive strategy may create advantages over smaller, less equipped competition.

LabOne continues development of methods to internalize testing formerly referenced to esoteric laboratories. Additionally, internal cytology and anatomic pathology capacity has been added, which will reduce LabOne's dependence on commercial providers for these services and reduce costs. The integration of purchased laboratories, including Central Plains Laboratories, the core laboratory operations of the Health Alliance and Northwest Toxicology, will increase testing volumes at the Lenexa facility, improving capacity utilization and generating improved incremental margins on transferred testing.

The Company continues to market the Lab Card® Program to physician practices and managed care companies. Membership in the Lab Card Program is approximately 3.2 million members.

LabOne's working capital position increased to $48.1 million as of December 31, 2003, from $40.4 million as of December 31, 2002. This increase is primarily due to increased net income for the year. Accounts receivable grew to $57.9 million as of December 31, 2003, from $48.7 million as of December 31, 2002, due to the increase in revenue. Total cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2003, were $4.7 million compared to $8.1 million as of December 31, 2002. Management expects to be able to fund operations from a combination of cash flow from operations and borrowings.

During 2003, the Company spent $13.3 million on acquisitions and $9.7 million for capital expenditures. Acquisitions for 2003 included ScanTech Solutions, L.L.C. for $5.9 million, the insurance testing laboratory of MetLife, Inc. for $5.1 million and $2.2 million for three paramedical affiliates. During 2002, the Company spent $17.2 million on acquisitions and $8.0 million for capital expenditures. Acquisitions for 2002 included CPL for $12.1 million and $4.6 million for several paramedical affiliates. During 2001, the Company spent $53.0 million on acquisitions and $8.6 million for capital expenditures. Acquisitions in 2001 included $50.6 million for Osborn and $2.4 million for several paramedical operations.

To finance the purchase of Osborn in 2001, LabOne issued $35 million of convertible preferred stock, 350,000 warrants to purchase LabOne stock at $0.01 per share and $15 million of subordinated debt to WCAS. The preferred stock earned a paid-in-kind dividend at a fixed rate of 8% compounded semiannually and was converted into LabOne common stock at a rate of $8.32 per share during the third and fourth quarters of 2003. The warrants were exercised in 2003. The $15 million of subordinated debt bore a fixed interest rate of 11% and was refinanced on December 31, 2002 from borrowings on the Company's line of credit.

Interest on the industrial revenue bonds issued to finance the construction of the Company's Lenexa facility is based on a taxable seven-day variable rate which, including letter of credit and remarketing fees, was approximately 2.1% as of February 1, 2004. The outstanding balance on the bonds was $10.8 million as of December 31, 2003 and the bonds mature over the next six years in increments of $1.8 million per year.

On June 11, 2002, the Company entered into a $100 million credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank (administrative agent and collateral agent) and Wachovia Bank, N.A. (syndication agent). On December 3, 2003, the commitments under the credit agreement were increased to $150 million. The line of credit bears variable interest which, as of December 31, 2003, was 2.9% and requires a commitment fee of 0.5% on the unused portion of the commitment. The line of credit is due on June 11, 2005. As of December 31, 2003, prior to the acquisitions of the core laboratory operations of the Health Alliance and of Northwest Toxicology, $47 million was outstanding under the agreement and approximately $70 million of the remaining $103 million was available for borrowing.

Under the terms of the credit agreement, the Company must comply with certain financial covenants. A leverage covenant requires that the ratio of total indebtedness to the sum of four rolling quarters of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), as defined, be less than 2.75 times. An interest coverage covenant requires that the ratio of the sum of four rolling quarters of EBITDA be at least 4.0 times the net interest expense, as defined, for those quarters. Other covenants limit annual cash capital expenditures to thirty percent of EBITDA and require the maintenance of a certain level of consolidated net worth. As of December 31, 2003, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants related to the line of credit.

The following table summarizes certain contractual obligations as of December 31, 2003:

In November 2002, FASB issued Interpretation No. 45, Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others, an interpretation of FASB Statements No. 5, 57, and 107 and rescission of FASB Interpretation No. 34. This Interpretation elaborates on the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under guarantees issued. The Interpretation also clarifies that a guarantor is required to recognize, at inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken. The initial recognition and measurement provisions of the Interpretation are applicable to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. The adoption of FASB Interpretation No. 45 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

In January 2003, FASB issued Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an interpretation of ARB No. 51. This Interpretation addresses the consolidation by business enterprises of variable interest entities, as defined in the Interpretation. The Interpretation applies immediately to variable interests in variable interest entities created or obtained after January 31, 2003. The application of this Interpretation did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

In December 2003, FASB issued Interpretation No. 46 (revised December 2003), Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, which addresses how a business enterprise should evaluate whether it has a controlling financial interest in an entity through means other than voting rights and accordingly should consolidate the entity. This Interpretation replaces Interpretation 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an interpretation of ARB No. 51, which was issued in January 2003. The Company will be required to apply Interpretation No. 46R to variable interests in variable interest entities created after December 31, 2003. For variable interests in variable interest entities created before January 1, 2004, Interpretation No. 46R will be applied beginning on January 1, 2005. The Company currently does not have any controlling financial interests that are within the scope of this Interpretation.

In May 2003, FASB issued SFAS No. 150, Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity. SFAS No. 150 establishes standards for the classification and measurement of certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. The Statement also includes required disclosures for financial instruments within its scope. For the Company, the Statement was effective for instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and otherwise will be effective as of January 1, 2004, except for mandatorily redeemable financial instruments. For certain mandatorily redeemable financial instruments, the Statement will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2005. The effective date has been deferred indefinitely for certain other types of mandatorily redeemable financial instruments. The Company currently does not have any financial instruments that are within the scope of SFAS No. 150.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Revenue Recognition

While many operational aspects are subject to complex federal, state and local regulations, the accounting for LabOne's business is generally straightforward. The Company recognizes revenues for its services when those services are provided to the customer. Revenues related to clinical healthcare billings include adjustments for revenue disallowances estimated at the time the revenue is recorded.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The estimate of the allowance for doubtful accounts involves a standardized monthly review of the collectibility of receivables based on contractual obligations and the aging of accounts receivable. Contractual agreements, historical collection patterns and payor reimbursement experience are integral in the estimation of the allowance for doubtful accounts. In addition, the current state of billing functions is assessed in order to identify any known collection or reimbursement issues in order to assess the impact, if any, on reserve estimates, which involve judgment. Adjustments to the reserve for contractual agreements are reported as a reduction in revenues. Other adjustments are recorded to bad debt expense within selling, general and administrative expenses. The collection and reserves processes, along with the monitoring of billing processes, helps to reduce the risk associated with material revisions to estimates resulting from adverse changes in collection and reimbursement experience and billing functions.

Software Developed for Internal Use

Certain internal and external costs incurred in connection with developing or obtaining software for internal use are capitalized in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' Statement of Position 98-1, Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use. These capitalized costs are included in property, plant and equipment and are subject to amortization over their estimated useful lives beginning when the software project is put in service. The Company periodically reviews the lives and values of its capitalized software and makes adjustments if necessary.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The Company allocates the purchase price of acquired businesses in accordance with SFAS No. 141, Business Combinations. A portion of the purchase price is assigned to each individual asset acquired on the basis of its fair value. Intangible assets are recognized as assets apart from goodwill if they arise from contractual or other legal rights. If intangible assets do not arise from contractual or other legal rights, they are recognized as assets apart from goodwill only if they are capable of being separated from the acquired entity and sold, transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged. Intangible assets recognized apart from goodwill have a determinable life and are amortized accordingly. The excess of the purchase price over the sum of the amounts assigned to the tangible assets and any separately recognized intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed is recognized as goodwill.

The Company evaluates the recoverability and measures the potential impairment of goodwill under SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The impairment test is a two-step process that begins with the estimation of the fair value of the reporting units to determine if any impairment exists. The second step measures the amount of the impairment, if any. The estimate of fair value considers publicly available information regarding the market capitalization of the Company, as well as the financial projections and future prospects of business, including growth opportunities and likely operational improvements, and comparable sales prices, if available. To assess potential impairment, the estimate of fair value for the Company is compared to the book value of the consolidated net assets. If the book value of the consolidated net assets is greater than the estimate of fair value, the Company then proceeds to the second step to measure the impairment, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill with its carrying value. The implied fair value is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to its assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill is greater than its implied fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized in the amount of the excess. The Company believes its estimation methods are reasonable and reflective of common valuation practices.

Investing in shares of LabOne common stock involves a risk of loss. Set forth below and elsewhere in this Report and in other documents the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission are risks and uncertainties that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in this Report and other public statements made by the Company.

If the Company cannot effectively implement its growth strategy, it would materially affect business and results of operations. LabOne's growth strategy assumes the Company will acquire additional risk assessment, laboratory testing or other related businesses and enter into new strategic alliances. The Company cannot assure that it will be able to continue to identify risk assessment, laboratory testing or other related service companies to acquire or enter into alliances with or otherwise negotiate acceptable terms with respect to any transaction. Furthermore, the Company may have difficulty integrating an acquired business with existing operations, retaining key customers or vendors or retaining key personnel of the acquired business. The acquisition and integration of an acquired business requires the dedication of significant management resources that could adversely affect business activities or customer service. In addition, the issuance of equity securities pursuant to these acquisitions or alliances could be dilutive to existing shareholders.

LabOne derives a significant portion of revenue from risk assessment and laboratory testing services contracts, many of which are terminable at will or on short notice by customers. Other contracts are terminable or subject to significant penalties if performance standards are not met. Competition, interruption or deterioration in services or a change in management or ownership of a customer could result in a customer's decision to stop using LabOne's services in whole or in part.

Lower prices offered by competitors may undercut LabOne's competitive advantage and reduce profits. The Company has competed in the life insurance risk assessment business by offering a more complete suite of higher quality services than its competitors at competitive prices. Some competitors are offering lower prices. If these competitors continue to reduce prices and customers refuse to pay higher prices for LabOne's services, profits may be reduced. Competition from other providers of risk assessment, laboratory testing or other related services may materially harm LabOne's business and results of operations.

LabOne has numerous competitors, including two larger national laboratory companies with significantly greater financial and technical resources. These national laboratory companies also have national and regional contracts with managed care networks, some on an exclusive basis, and they also have exclusive arrangements for the distribution of certain esoteric tests applicable to the clinical market. The strategies and other efforts of the Company's competitors, if successful, may erode the Company's customer base, limit the Company's access to users and payors of laboratory services, reduce the Company's existing and future sources of revenue and access to local and regional markets, and cause the Company to reduce prices or increase its marketing and other costs of doing business, each of which could have a material adverse affect on the Company's business and results of operations.

Any adverse change in the number and types of tests ordered by life insurance companies could reduce profits. Currently, the largest and most profitable business segment for LabOne is providing risk assessment services to the life insurance industry. The level of demand for such services is influenced by a number of factors, including:

These factors are beyond the Company's control. Any adverse changes in life insurance industry demand for testing and other services the Company provides could significantly reduce profits.

Efforts by managed-care organizations, Medicare, Medicaid, insurance companies and other payors to reduce the cost and utilization of healthcare services, including laboratory testing services, could reduce the prices for laboratory testing services and harm the results of clinical laboratory operations.

Impairment of goodwill on LabOne's books could depress the stock price. As of December 31, 2003, the Company had $99.1 million of goodwill, including $23.6 million from the merger of LabOne, Inc. and Lab Holdings, Inc. in 1999, recorded on its balance sheet. If this goodwill is impaired in the future, the Company will be required to take a non-cash charge to earnings. This could depress the market price of LabOne stock if the stock price is influenced by investors that focus primarily on net earnings rather than on other financial measures.

The failure to provide accurate laboratory test results and other data or follow accepted procedures may result in claims that may not be covered by insurance. Clients rely on the accuracy of testing and other services to make significant insurance, treatment and employment decisions. In addition, federal and state laws regulate the disclosure of specimen testing results and other nonpublic personal information. If LabOne does not provide accurate test results using accepted scientific methods, does not provide other data accurately, or does not adequately protect the confidentiality and security of this information, the Company could incur significant liability. The Company has insurance to cover these types of claims, but cannot assure that this coverage is adequate or will continue to be available at reasonable prices.

Business could be harmed by disruption in express delivery service. LabOne generally relies on express couriers to transport specimens to its laboratories quickly and safely. A disruption in these couriers' businesses resulting from a labor dispute, natural disaster, malicious human acts or other event could harm business and results of operations.

The development of more attractive on-site rapid assay tests may reduce demand for laboratory testing services. LabOne serves customers through laboratory-based testing facilities. Although there are some on-site rapid assay testing products available in the marketplace, rapid assays have not achieved broad market acceptance due to the high cost of such assays, liability concerns, regulatory limitations, less accurate testing results and the absence of a broad testing menu. If more competitive assays become available, such products could be substituted for laboratory based testing and have an adverse impact on business and results of operations.

Business and results of operations could be adversely affected if the Company's primary testing facility is temporarily shut down or severely damaged because of a natural disaster, telecommunications failure or other serious event. The Company carries business interruption insurance to compensate for losses which might occur, but it cannot provide assurance that this insurance coverage will be enough to compensate for damages resulting from any such disruption to business.

LabOne's organizational documents and other agreements contain restrictions that might prevent a takeover or change in management. Provisions of the articles of incorporation and by-laws might have the effect of discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting a takeover on terms that some shareholders might favor, reducing the opportunity for shareholders to sell shares at a premium over then-prevailing market prices and preventing or frustrating attempts to replace or remove current management. These provisions include:

In addition, the Company has a shareholder rights plan, which grants shareholders other than the acquiring person the right to purchase common stock at one-half of market price if any person becomes the beneficial owner of 15% or more of the outstanding shares of common stock, subject to a number of exceptions set forth in the plan.

ITEM 7(A). QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market risk exposure exists due to LabOne's variable interest rates associated with its liability of $47.0 million borrowing on its line of credit and $10.8 million in industrial revenue bonds as of December 31, 2003. The interest expense on the line of credit is based on the LIBOR rate plus a range of 125 to 225 basis points and is approximately 2.9% as of February 1, 2004. The interest expense incurred on the bonds is based on a taxable seven-day variable rate which, including letter of credit and remarketing fees, is approximately 2.1% as of February 1, 2004. Any future increase in interest rates would result in additional interest expense which could be material. Based on balances outstanding as of December 31, 2003, an assumed 10% increase in interest rates (representing approximately 30 basis points) would potentially increase interest expense on these instruments by $0.2 million annually.

A foreign currency risk exposure exists due to sales in Canada in Canadian dollars and the direct laboratory expenses associated with this revenue being incurred in US dollars. This exposure is not considered to be material.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

See ITEM 15.(a).

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None

ITEM 9(A). CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed for information required to be disclosed in the Company's reports filed pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), to be recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures also are designed for such information to be accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system's objectives will be met.

Management of the Company, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2003. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2003 to provide reasonable assurance that the control system's objectives would be met.

There were no changes in the Company's internal controls over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2003 that materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The information included under the captions entitled "Election of Directors" and "Management of LabOne" in the Company's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A with respect to its annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 24, 2004, is incorporated into Item 10 by reference.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information included under the caption entitled "Executive Compensation" in the Company's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A with respect to its annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 24, 2004, is incorporated into Item 11 by reference, except the information contained in the Proxy Statement under the captions "Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation" and "Comparison of Five Year Cumulative Total Return Among LabOne, Nasdaq Composite Index and Peer Group" is not incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information included under the captions entitled "Security Ownership of Management," "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners" and "Equity Compensation Plan Information" in the Company's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A with respect to its annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 24, 2004, is incorporated into Item 12 by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

The information included under the caption entitled "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" in the Company's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A with respect to its annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 24, 2004, is incorporated into Item 13 by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information included under the caption entitled "Audit and Non-audit Fees" in the Company's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A with respect to its annual meeting of stockholders to be held May 24, 2004, is incorporated into Item 14 by reference.

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) (1) and (2) -- The following consolidated financial statements and schedule are attached as a separate section of this report entitled "Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedule":

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
   Consolidated Balance Sheets, December 31, 2003 and 2002
   Consolidated Statements of Operations, Years Ended
      December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001
   Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity,
      Years Ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001
   Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, Years Ended
      December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001
   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

SCHEDULE:
   Schedule II - Valuation and qualifying accounts

All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required or the information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or the notes thereto.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

A Form 8-K current report dated October 8, 2003, was filed with the Commission reporting under Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure, the Health Alliance had entered into negotiations with LabOne as its partner for the sale of its medical testing laboratory, Alliance Laboratory Services.

A Form 8-K current report dated October 10, 2003, was filed with the Commission reporting under Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure, the completion of the closing process with MetLife to acquire the MetLife Insurance Testing Laboratory located in Elmsford, NY and initiation of a long-term agreement to provide laboratory testing services to MetLife, Inc. and its affiliated entities.

A Form 8-K current report dated November 12, 2003, was filed with the Commission reporting under Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure, the content of the third quarter 2003 financial results conference call to investors.

A Form 8-K current report dated December 1, 2003, was filed with the Commission reporting under Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure, the signing of a definitive agreement with the Health Alliance to acquire Alliance Laboratory Services and to provide laboratory testing services.

A Form 8-K current report dated December 3, 2003, was filed with the Commission reporting under Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure, the establishment of earnings guidance for 2004.

A Form 8-K current report dated December 11, 2003, was filed with the Commission reporting under Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure, an increase in the amount available under the Company's revolving credit facility.

(c) Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K

   (Exhibits follow the Schedule):

* Incorporated by reference pursuant to Rule 12b-23
** Management Compensatory Plan
*** Non-Management Director Compensatory Plan

These exhibits may be obtained by stockholders of Registrant upon written
request to LabOne, Inc., 10101 Renner Blvd., Lenexa, KS 66219.

(d) Not applicable

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.