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Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information - shares	Apr. 01, 2017	May 03, 2017
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Apr. 01, 2017
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2017
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-30
Entity Central Index Key	0001000228
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Trading Symbol	HSIC
Entity Registrant Name	HENRY SCHEIN INC
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		79,329,460

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 62,888	$ 62,381
Accounts receivable, net of reserves of $90,691 and $90,329	1,362,832	1,254,139
Inventories, net	1,623,983	1,635,750
Prepaid expenses and other	342,554	360,510
Total current assets	3,392,257	3,312,780
Property and equipment, net	336,465	333,906
Goodwill	2,058,687	2,019,740
Other intangibles, net	599,183	621,180
Investments and other	458,028	442,790
Total assets	6,844,620	6,730,396
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	843,782	977,249
Bank credit lines	671,724	437,476
Current maturities of long-term debt	18,604	65,923
Accrued expenses:
Payroll and related	226,364	266,463
Taxes	168,532	151,750
Other	356,426	391,785
Total current liabilities	2,285,432	2,290,646
Long-term debt	708,422	715,457
Deferred income taxes	79,107	51,589
Other liabilities	256,875	264,264
Total liabilities	3,329,836	3,321,956
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	719,390	607,636
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $.01 par value, 240,000,000 shares authorized, 79,468,025 outstanding on April 01, 2017 and 79,402,505 outstanding on December 31, 2016	795	794
Additional paid-in capital	0	127,536
Retained earnings	3,068,249	2,981,777
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(281,819)	(317,041)
Total Henry Schein, Inc. stockholders' equity	2,787,225	2,793,066
Noncontrolling interests	8,169	7,738
Total stockholders' equity	2,795,394	2,800,804
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and stockholders' equity	$ 6,844,620	$ 6,730,396

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Accounts receivable, reserves (in dollars)	$ 90,691	$ 90,329
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	240,000,000	240,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	79,468,025	79,402,505

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 2,922,948	$ 2,712,956
Cost of sales	2,100,028	1,935,114
Gross profit	822,920	777,842
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative	628,952	597,590
Restructuring costs	0	4,058
Operating income	193,968	176,194
Other income (expense):
Interest income	4,304	3,348
Interest expense	(11,430)	(7,127)
Other, net	(45)	3,137
Income before taxes and equity in earnings of affiliates	186,797	175,552
Income taxes	(38,630)	(53,533)
Equity in earnings of affiliates	2,086	2,514
Net income	150,253	124,533
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(9,505)	(10,781)
Net income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.	$ 140,748	$ 113,752
Earnings per share attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.78	$ 1.39
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1.76	$ 1.37
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	78,858	81,568
Diluted (in shares)	79,879	82,739

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 150,253	$ 124,533
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	41,452	9,990
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	(2,861)	1,617
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	84	(393)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	38,675	11,214
Comprehensive income (loss)	188,928	135,747
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests:
Net income	(9,505)	(10,781)
Foreign currency translation loss (gain)	(3,453)	(972)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(12,958)	(11,753)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.	$ 175,970	$ 123,994

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - 3 months ended Apr. 01, 2017 - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 2,800,804	$ 794	$ 127,536	$ 2,981,777	$ (317,041)	$ 7,738
Beginning Balance, shares (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016	79,402,505	79,402,505
Net income (excluding $9,395 attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests)	$ 140,858	$ 0	0	140,748	0	110
Foreign currency translation gain (loss) (excluding gain of $3,363 attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests)	38,089	0	0	0	37,999	90
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities net of tax benefit of $217	(2,861)	0	0	0	(2,861)	0
Pension adjustment gain, net of tax benefit of $29	84	0	0	0	84	0
Dividends paid	(125)	0	0	0	0	(125)
Other adjustments	402	0	46	0	0	356
Change in fair value of redeemable securities	(100,826)	0	(100,826)	0	0	0
Repurchase and retirement of common stock - Value	(50,006)	$ (3)	(11,285)	(38,718)	0	0
Repurchase and retirement of common stock - Shares		(308,036)
Stock issued upon exercise of stock options, including tax benefit of $59 - Value	3,893	$ 1	3,892	0	0	0
Stock issued upon exercise of stock options, including tax benefit - Shares		76,312
Stock-based compensation expense - Value	8,497	$ 5	8,492	0	0	0
Stock-based compensation expense - Shares		545,278
Shares withheld for payroll taxes - Value	(43,201)	$ (2)	(43,199)	0	0	0
Shares withheld for payroll taxes - Shares		(248,034)
Liability for cash settlement stock-based compensation awards	(214)	$ 0	(214)	0	0	0
Liability for cash settlement stock-based compensation awards, shares		0
Transfer of charges in excess of capital	0	$ 0	15,558	(15,558)	0	0
Ending Balance at Apr. 01, 2017	$ 2,795,394	$ 795	$ 0	$ 3,068,249	$ (281,819)	$ 8,169
Ending Balance, shares (in shares) at Apr. 01, 2017	79,468,025	79,468,025

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017 USD ($)
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 9,395
Foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests	3,363
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities, (tax benefit) tax	(217)
Pension adjustment gain (loss), tax benefit (tax)	29
Stock issued upon exercise of stock options, tax benefit	$ 59

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 150,253	$ 124,533
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	44,749	40,967
Stock-based compensation expense	8,497	14,144
Provision for losses on trade and other accounts receivable	2,810	580
Provision for (benefit from) deferred income taxes	13,496	6,963
Equity in earnings of affiliates	(2,086)	(2,514)
Distributions from equity affiliates	3,038	2,181
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits	(10,876)	2,504
Other	2,689	(173)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	(101,764)	(39,767)
Inventories	28,278	13,930
Other current assets	2,689	(24,918)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(194,364)	(216,228)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(52,591)	(77,798)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of fixed assets	(17,311)	(12,605)
Payments for equity investments and business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(11,820)	(52,562)
Other	(5,549)	(5,829)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(34,680)	(70,996)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from (repayments of) bank borrowings	234,037	95,111
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	210,000
Debt issuance costs	0	(58)
Principal payments for long-term debt	(56,367)	(7,554)
Proceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options	3,952	6,398
Payments for repurchases of common stock	(50,006)	(99,997)
Payments for taxes related to shares withheld for employee taxes	(40,605)	(23,714)
Distributions to noncontrolling shareholders	(3,264)	(2,096)
Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries	(4,089)	(32,711)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	83,658	145,379
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	4,120	2,943
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	507	(472)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	62,381	72,086
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 62,888	$ 71,614

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
Basis of Presentation	Apr. 01, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Note 1 – Basis of Presentation Our consolidated financial statements include our accounts, as well as those of our wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. Our accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnote disclosures required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. The consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated results of operations and financial position for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The results of operations for the three months ended April 1, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any other interim period or for the year ending December 30, 2017.

Segment Data

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Data

Note 2 – Segment Data

We conduct our business through two reportable segments: (i) health care distribution and (ii) technology and value-added services. These segments offer different products and services to the same customer base.

The health care distribution reportable segment aggregates our global dental, animal health and medical operating segments. This segment distributes consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins. Our global dental group serves office-based dental practitioners, dental laboratories, schools and other institutions. Our global animal health group serves animal health practices and clinics. Our global medical group serves office-based medical practitioners, ambulatory surgery centers, other alternate-care settings and other institutions. Our global dental, animal health and medical groups serve practitioners in 33 countries worldwide.

Our global technology and value-added services group provides software, technology and other value-added services to health care practitioners. Our technology group offerings include practice management software systems for dental and medical practitioners and animal health clinics. Our value-added practice solutions include financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners, consulting and other services.

The following tables present information about our reportable and operating segments:

				Three Months Ended
				April 1,		March 26,
				2017		2016
Net Sales:
	Health care distribution (1):
		Dental		$	1,405,158	$	1,301,755
		Animal health			812,939		771,413
		Medical			598,886		538,117
			Total health care distribution		2,816,983		2,611,285
	Technology and value-added services (2)				105,965		101,671
		Total		$	2,922,948	$	2,712,956


(1)	Consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and
	generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.

(2)	Consists of practice management software and other value-added products, which are distributed primarily to health care providers,
	and financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners, consulting and other
	services.


				Three Months Ended
				April 1,		March 26,
				2017		2016
Operating Income:
	Health care distribution			$	162,707	$	148,101
	Technology and value-added services				31,261		28,093
		Total		$	193,968	$	176,194

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

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+ Details

Debt

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt

Note 3 – Debt

Bank Credit Lines

On April 18, 2017, we increased the borrowing capacity of a revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) from $500 million to $750 million and extended the expiration date of the Credit Agreement to April 18, 2022. The interest rate is based on the USD LIBOR plus a spread based on our leverage ratio at the end of each financial reporting quarter. The Credit Agreement provides, among other things, that we are required to maintain maximum leverage ratios, and contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. The Credit Agreement also contains customary negative covenants, subject to negotiated exceptions on liens, indebtedness, significant corporate changes (including mergers), dispositions and certain restrictive agreements. As of April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the borrowings on this revolving credit facility were $210.0 million and $65.0 million, respectively. As of April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016, there were $12.7 million and $13.0 million of letters of credit, respectively, provided to third parties under the credit facility.

As of April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had various other short-term bank credit lines available, of which $461.7 million and $372.5 million, respectively, were outstanding. At April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016, borrowings under all of our credit lines had a weighted average interest rate of 1.74% and 1.61%, respectively.

Private Placement Facilities

On September 22, 2014, we increased our available private placement facilities with three insurance companies to a total facility amount of $975 million, and extended the expiration date to September 22, 2017. These facilities are available on an uncommitted basis at fixed rate economic terms to be agreed upon at the time of issuance, from time to time through September 22, 2017. The facilities allow us to issue senior promissory notes to the lenders at a fixed rate based on an agreed upon spread over applicable treasury notes at the time of issuance. The term of each possible issuance will be selected by us and can range from five to 15 years (with an average life no longer than 12 years). The proceeds of any issuances under the facilities will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and capital expenditures, to refinance existing indebtedness and/or to fund potential acquisitions. The agreements provide, among other things, that we maintain certain maximum leverage ratios, and contain restrictions relating to subsidiary indebtedness, liens, affiliate transactions, disposal of assets and certain changes in ownership. These facilities contain make-whole provisions in the event that we pay off the facilities prior to the applicable due dates.

The components of our private placement facility borrowings as of April 1, 2017 are presented in the following table (in thousands):

	Amount of
	Borrowing		Borrowing
Date of Borrowing	Outstanding		Rate		Due Date
September 2, 2010	$	100,000	3.79	%	September 2, 2020
January 20, 2012		50,000	3.45		January 20, 2024
January 20, 2012 (1)		35,714	3.09		January 20, 2022
December 24, 2012		50,000	3.00		December 24, 2024
June 2, 2014		100,000	3.19		June 2, 2021
	$	335,714


(1) Annual repayments of approximately $7.1 million for this borrowing commenced on January 20, 2016.

U.S. Trade Accounts Receivable Securitization

We have a facility agreement with a bank, as agent, based on the securitization of our U.S. trade accounts receivable that is structured as an asset-backed securitization program with pricing committed for up to three years. On June 1, 2016, we extended the expiration date of this facility agreement to April 29, 2019 and increased the purchase limit under the facility from $300 million to $350 million. The borrowings outstanding under this securitization facility were $350.0 million and $350.0 million as of April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. At April 1, 2017, the interest rate on borrowings under this facility was based on the asset-backed commercial paper rate of 105 basis points plus 75 basis points, for a combined rate of 1.80%. At December 31, 2016, the interest rate on borrowings under this facility was based on the asset-backed commercial paper rate of 101 basis points plus 75 basis points, for a combined rate of 1.76%.

We are required to pay a commitment fee of 30 basis points on the daily balance of the unused portion of the facility if our usage is greater than or equal to 50% of the facility limit or a commitment fee of 35 basis points on the daily balance of the unused portion of the facility if our usage is less than 50% of the facility limit.

Borrowings under this facility are presented as a component of Long-term debt within our consolidated balance sheet.

Long-term debt

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

		April 1,		December 31,
		2017		2016
Private placement facilities		$	335,714	$	342,857
U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization			350,000		350,000
Note payable to bank at a weighted-average interest rate of
	21.37% at December 31, 2016		-		47,957
Various collateralized and uncollateralized loans payable with
	interest, in varying installments through 2021 at interest rates
	ranging from 2.56% to 12.90%
	at April 1, 2017 and at December 31, 2016		35,810		35,150
Capital lease obligations payable through 2029 with interest rates
	ranging from 0.84% to 19.15% at April 1, 2017
	and at December 31, 2016		5,502		5,416
Total			727,026		781,380
Less current maturities			(18,604)		(65,923)
	Total long-term debt	$	708,422	$	715,457

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Temporary Equity Disclosure [Abstract]

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Note 4 – Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Some minority shareholders in certain of our subsidiaries have the right, at certain times, to require us to acquire their ownership interest in those entities at fair value. Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 480-10 is applicable for noncontrolling interests where we are or may be required to purchase all or a portion of the outstanding interest in a consolidated subsidiary from the noncontrolling interest holder under the terms of a put option contained in contractual agreements. The components of the change in the Redeemable noncontrolling interests for the three months ended April 1, 2017 and the year ended December 31, 2016 are presented in the following table:

		April 1,		December 31,
		2017		2016
Balance, beginning of period		$	607,636	$	542,194
Decrease in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to
	redemptions		-		(72,729)
Increase in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to business
	acquisitions		-		58,172
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests			9,395		48,760
Dividends declared			(1,830)		(32,973)
Effect of foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to
	redeemable noncontrolling interests		3,363		(2,652)
Change in fair value of redeemable securities			100,826		66,864
Balance, end of period		$	719,390	$	607,636

Changes in the estimated redemption amounts of the noncontrolling interests subject to put options are adjusted at each reporting period with a corresponding adjustment to Additional paid-in capital. Future reductions in the carrying amounts are subject to a “floor” amount that is equal to the fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests at the time they were originally recorded. The recorded value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests cannot go below the floor level. These adjustments do not impact the calculation of earnings per share.

Comprehensive Income

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]

Comprehensive Income

Note 5 – Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income includes certain gains and losses that, under U.S. GAAP, are excluded from net income as such amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to stockholders’ equity. Our comprehensive income is primarily comprised of net income, foreign currency translation gain (loss), unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency hedging activities, unrealized investment gain (loss) and pension adjustment gain (loss).

The following table summarizes our Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of applicable taxes as of:

			April 1,		December 31,
			2017		2016
Attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests:
		Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	(9,662)	$	(13,025)

Attributable to noncontrolling interests:
		Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	(23)	$	(113)

Attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:
	Foreign currency translation loss		$	(258,213)	$	(296,212)
	Unrealized loss from foreign currency hedging activities			(2,914)		(53)
	Pension adjustment loss			(20,692)		(20,776)
		Accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(281,819)	$	(317,041)

Total Accumulated other comprehensive loss			$	(291,504)	$	(330,179)

The following table summarizes the components of comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes as follows:

	Three Months Ended
	April 1,		March 26,
	2017		2016
Net income	$	150,253	$	124,533

Foreign currency translation gain		41,452		9,990
Tax effect		-		-
Foreign currency translation gain		41,452		9,990

Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities		(3,078)		2,168
Tax effect		217		(551)
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities		(2,861)		1,617

Pension adjustment gain (loss)		55		(492)
Tax effect		29		99
Pension adjustment gain (loss)		84		(393)
Comprehensive income	$	188,928	$	135,747

During the three months ended April 1, 2017 and March 26, 2016, we recognized as a component of our comprehensive income, a foreign currency translation gain of $41.5 million and $10.0 million, respectively, due to changes in foreign exchange rates from the beginning of the period to the end of the period. Our financial statements are denominated in the U.S. Dollar currency. Fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies as compared to the U.S. Dollar may have a significant impact on our comprehensive income. The foreign currency translation gain (loss) during the three months ended April 1, 2017 and three months ended March 26, 2016 was impacted by changes in foreign currency exchange rates as follows:

		Foreign Currency				Foreign Currency
		Translation				Translation
		Gain (Loss)				Gain (Loss)
		for the Three				for the Three
		Months Ended		FX Rate into USD		Months Ended		FX Rate into USD
		April 1,		April 1,	December 31,	March 26,		March 26,	December 26,
Currency		2017		2017	2016	2016		2016	2015
Euro			11,848	1.07	1.05		11,170	1.12	1.10
British Pound			4,606	1.25	1.23		(14,772)	1.41	1.49
Australian Dollar			10,716	0.76	0.72		5,071	0.75	0.73
Canadian Dollar			812	0.75	0.74		4,956	0.75	0.72
Polish Zloty			2,639	0.25	0.24		499	0.26	0.26
Swiss Franc			1,156	1.00	0.98		921	1.02	1.01
Brazilian Real			5,638	0.32	0.31		930	0.27	0.25
All other currencies			4,037				1,215
	Total	$	41,452			$	9,990

The following table summarizes our total comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes, as follows:

		Three Months Ended
		April 1,		March 26,
		2017		2016
Comprehensive income attributable to
	Henry Schein, Inc.	$	175,970	$	123,994
Comprehensive income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		200		72
Comprehensive income attributable to
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests		12,758		11,681
Comprehensive income		$	188,928	$	135,747

- Definition

The entire disclosure for comprehensive income, which includes, but is not limited to, 1) the amount of income tax expense or benefit allocated to each component of other comprehensive income, including reclassification adjustments, 2) the reclassification adjustments for each classification of other comprehensive income and 3) the ending accumulated balances for each component of comprehensive income.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 15
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66004124&loc=d3e689-108580

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
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-Paragraph 1
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-Glossary Reclassification Adjustments
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6522872

+ Details

Fair Value Measurements

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

Note 6 – Fair Value Measurements

ASC Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” (“ASC Topic 820”) provides a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles.

ASC Topic 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. ASC Topic 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs).

The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy under ASC Topic 820 are described as follows:

• Level 1— Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that are accessible at the measurement date.

• Level 2— Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.

• Level 3— Inputs that are unobservable for the asset or liability.

The following section describes the valuation methodologies that we used to measure different financial instruments at fair value.

Investments and notes receivable

There are no quoted market prices available for investments in unconsolidated affiliates and notes receivable; however, we believe the carrying amounts are a reasonable estimate of fair value.

Debt

The fair value of our debt as of April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was estimated at $1,398.8 million and $1,218.9 million, respectively. Factors that we considered when estimating the fair value of our debt include market conditions, prepayment and make-whole provisions, liquidity levels in the private placement market, variability in pricing from multiple lenders and term of debt.

Derivative contracts

Derivative contracts are valued using quoted market prices and significant other observable and unobservable inputs. We use derivative instruments to minimize our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Our derivative instruments primarily include foreign currency forward agreements related to intercompany loans and certain forecasted inventory purchase commitments with suppliers.

The fair values for the majority of our foreign currency derivative contracts are obtained by comparing our contract rate to a published forward price of the underlying market rates, which is based on market rates for comparable transactions and are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Redeemable noncontrolling interests

Some minority shareholders in certain of our subsidiaries have the right, at certain times, to require us to acquire their ownership interest in those entities at fair value based on third-party valuations. The primary factor affecting the future value of redeemable noncontrolling interests is expected earnings and, if such earnings are not achieved, the value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests might be impacted. The noncontrolling interests subject to put options are adjusted to their estimated redemption amounts each reporting period with a corresponding adjustment to Additional paid-in capital. Future reductions in the carrying amounts are subject to a “floor” amount that is equal to the fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests at the time they were originally recorded. The recorded value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests cannot go below the floor level. These adjustments do not impact the calculation of earnings per share. The values for Redeemable noncontrolling interests are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The details of the changes in Redeemable noncontrolling interests are presented in Note 4.

The following table presents our assets and liabilities that are measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis classified under the appropriate level of the fair value hierarchy as of April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

			April 1, 2017
				Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total

Assets:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	668	$	-	$	668
		Total assets	$	-	$	668	$	-	$	668

Liabilities:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	5,189	$	-	$	5,189
		Total liabilities	$	-	$	5,189	$	-	$	5,189

Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	719,390	$	719,390
*CS										*CE

			December 31, 2016
				Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total

Assets:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	1,240	$	-	$	1,240
		Total assets	$	-	$	1,240	$	-	$	1,240

Liabilities:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	931	$	-	$	931
		Total liabilities	$	-	$	931	$	-	$	931

Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	607,636	$	607,636

Business Acquisitions	3 Months Ended
Business Acquisitions	Apr. 01, 2017
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Acquisitions	Note 7 – Business Acquisitions Acquisitions The operating results of all acquisitions are reflected in our financial statements from their respective acquisition dates. We did not complete any material acquisitions during the three months ended April 1, 2017. Some prior owners of acquired subsidiaries are eligible to receive additional purchase price cash consideration if certain financial targets are met. We have accrued liabilities for the estimated fair value of additional purchase price consideration at the time of the acquisition. Any adjustments to these accrual amounts are recorded in our consolidated statements of income. For the three months ended April 1, 2017 and March 26, 2016, there were no material adjustments recorded in our consolidated statement of income relating to changes in estimated contingent purchase price liabilities.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable).

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=65885119&loc=d3e1497-128463

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+ Details

Plan of Restructuring

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Plan of Restructuring

Note 8 – Plan of Restructuring

On November 6, 2014, we announced a corporate initiative to rationalize our operations and provide expense efficiencies, which was expected to be completed by the end of fiscal 2015. This initiative originally planned for the elimination of approximately 2% to 3% of our workforce and the closing of certain facilities. We subsequently announced our plan to extend these restructuring activities through the end of 2016 to further implement cost-savings initiatives, which ultimately resulted in the elimination of approximately 900 positions, representing 4% of our workforce. We recorded restructuring costs of $34.9 million pre-tax in fiscal 2015 and $45.9 million pre-tax in fiscal 2016. Our restructuring activities are complete and we do not expect to report any such charges in 2017.

During the three months ended March 26, 2016, we recorded restructuring costs of $4.1 million. The costs associated with this restructuring are included in a separate line item, “Restructuring costs” within our consolidated statements of income.

The following table shows the amounts expensed and paid for restructuring costs that were incurred during the three months ended April 1, 2017 and during our 2016 fiscal year and the remaining accrued balance of restructuring costs as of April 1, 2017, which is included in Accrued expenses: Other and Other liabilities within our consolidated balance sheet:

			Facility
	Severance		Closing
	Costs		Costs		Other		Total
Balance, December 26, 2015	$	9,103	$	2,151	$	811	$	12,065
Provision		40,728		3,587		1,576		45,891
Payments and other adjustments		(27,477)		(3,284)		(1,492)		(32,253)
Balance, December 31, 2016	$	22,354	$	2,454	$	895	$	25,703
Provision		-		-		-		-
Payments		(10,700)		(478)		(813)		(11,991)
Balance, April 01, 2017	$	11,654	$	1,976	$	82	$	13,712

The following table shows, by reportable segment, the amounts expensed and paid for restructuring costs that were incurred during the three months ended April 1, 2017 and the 2016 fiscal year and the remaining accrued balance of restructuring costs as of April 1, 2017:

			Technology and
	Health Care		Value-Added
	Distribution		Services		Total
Balance, December 26, 2015	$	12,062	$	3	$	12,065
Provision		44,082		1,809		45,891
Payments and other adjustments		(30,906)		(1,347)		(32,253)
Balance, December 31, 2016	$	25,238	$	465	$	25,703
Provision		-		-		-
Payments		(11,849)		(142)		(11,991)
Balance, April 01, 2017	$	13,389	$	323	$	13,712

Earnings Per Share

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

Note 9 – Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Henry Schein, Inc. by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Our diluted earnings per share is computed similarly to basic earnings per share, except that it reflects the effect of common shares issuable for presently unvested restricted stock and restricted stock units and upon exercise of stock options, using the treasury stock method in periods in which they have a dilutive effect.

A reconciliation of shares used in calculating earnings per basic and diluted share follows:

		Three Months Ended
		April 1,	March 26,
		2017	2016
Basic		78,858	81,568
Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units	1,021	1,171
Diluted		79,879	82,739

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
Income Taxes	Apr. 01, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 10 – Income Taxes For the three months ended April 1, 2017, our effective tax rate was 20.7% compared to 30.5% for the prior year period. The difference between our effective tax rates and the federal statutory tax rates primarily relates to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-09, “Stock Compensation (Topic 718)” in the first quarter of 2017, as well as state and foreign income taxes and interest expense. Under ASU 2016-09, all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies resulting from the difference between the deduction for tax purposes and the stock-based compensation cost recognized for financial reporting purposes are included as a component of income tax expense as of January 1, 2017. Prior to the implementation of ASU 2016-09, excess tax benefits were recorded as a component of additional paid in capital and tax deficiencies were recognized either as an offset to accumulated excess tax benefits or in the income statement if there were no accumulated excess tax benefits. The adoption of ASU No. 2016-09 reduced income tax expense by approximately $17.0 million in the period. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of April 1, 2017 was approximately $96.5 million, of which $71.1 million would affect the effective tax rate if recognized. It is expected that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change in the next 12 months; however, we do not expect the change to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. The total amounts of interest and penalties, which are classified as a component of the provision for income taxes, were approximately $12.3 million and $0.0, respectively, as of April 1, 2017. The tax years subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions include the years 2012 and forward by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), as well as the years 2008 and forward for certain states and certain foreign jurisdictions. We are currently under audit for the years 2012 and 2013. During the quarter ended December 31, 2016, we reached a settlement on a portion of the IRS audit of tax years 2012 and 2013. Additionally, during the quarter ended December 31, 2016 we filed a Mutual Agreement Procedure request with the IRS for assistance from the U.S. Competent Authority for an open transfer pricing matter. We received a 30-Day Letter from the IRS during the quarter ended April 1, 2017 for the remaining open audit matters for the years 2012 and 2013. We anticipate filing a protest with the Appellate Division regarding these matters during the second quarter of 2017. We do not expect this to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, liquidity or results of operations.

Derivatives and Hedging Activities	3 Months Ended
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	Apr. 01, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	Note 11 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities We are exposed to market risks as well as changes in foreign currency exchange rates as measured against the U.S. dollar and each other, and changes to the credit markets. We attempt to minimize these risks by primarily using foreign currency forward contracts and by maintaining counter-party credit limits. These hedging activities provide only limited protection against currency exchange and credit risks. Factors that could influence the effectiveness of our hedging programs include currency markets and availability of hedging instruments and liquidity of the credit markets. All foreign currency forward contracts that we enter into are components of hedging programs and are entered into for the sole purpose of hedging an existing or anticipated currency exposure. We do not enter into such contracts for speculative purposes and we manage our credit risks by diversifying our investments, maintaining a strong balance sheet and having multiple sources of capital. Fluctuations in the value of certain foreign currencies as compared to the U.S. dollar may positively or negatively affect our revenues, gross margins, operating expenses and retained earnings, all of which are expressed in U.S. dollars. Where we deem it prudent, we engage in hedging programs using primarily foreign currency forward contracts aimed at limiting the impact of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on earnings. We purchase short-term (i.e., 18 months or less) foreign currency forward contracts to protect against currency exchange risks associated with intercompany loans due from our international subsidiaries and the payment of merchandise purchases to our foreign suppliers. We do not hedge the translation of foreign currency profits into U.S. dollars, as we regard this as an accounting exposure, not an economic exposure. Our hedging activities have historically not had a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, additional disclosures related to derivatives and hedging activities required by ASC Topic 815 have been omitted.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for derivative instruments and hedging activities including, but not limited to, risk management strategies, non-hedging derivative instruments, assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts.

+ References

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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64837297&loc=SL5580258-113959

Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4E
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64837297&loc=SL5624181-113959

Reference 17: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 25
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6886632&loc=d3e76258-113986

Reference 18: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64837297&loc=d3e41638-113959

Reference 19: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(n))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690

+ Details

Stock-Based Compensation

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

Note 12 – Stock-Based Compensation

Our accompanying consolidated statements of income reflect pre-tax share-based compensation expense of $8.5 million ($6.7 million after-tax) and $14.1 million ($9.8 million after-tax) for the three months ended April 1, 2017 and March 26, 2016, respectively.

Stock-based compensation represents the cost related to stock-based awards granted to employees and non-employee directors. We measure stock-based compensation at the grant date, based on the estimated fair value of the award, and recognize the cost (net of estimated forfeitures) as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Our stock-based compensation expense is reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of income.

Stock-based awards are provided to certain employees and non-employee directors under the terms of our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, and our 2015 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan (together, the “Plans”). The Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Prior to March 2009, awards under the Plans principally included a combination of at-the-money stock options and restricted stock/units. Since March 2009, equity-based awards have been granted solely in the form of restricted stock/units, with the exception of providing stock options to employees pursuant to certain pre-existing contractual obligations.

Grants of restricted stock/units are stock-based awards granted to recipients with specified vesting provisions. In the case of restricted stock, common stock is delivered on the date of grant, subject to vesting conditions. In the case of restricted stock units, common stock is generally delivered on or following satisfaction of vesting conditions. We issue restricted stock/units that vest solely based on the recipient’s continued service over time (primarily four-year cliff vesting, except for grants made under the 2015 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan, which are primarily 12-month cliff vesting) and restricted stock/units that vest based on our achieving specified performance measurements and the recipient’s continued service over time (primarily three-year cliff vesting).

With respect to time-based restricted stock/units, we estimate the fair value on the date of grant based on our closing stock price. With respect to performance-based restricted stock/units, the number of shares that ultimately vest and are received by the recipient is based upon our performance as measured against specified targets over a specified period, as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Although there is no guarantee that performance targets will be achieved, we estimate the fair value of performance-based restricted stock/units based on our closing stock price at time of grant.

The Plans provide for adjustments to the performance-based restricted stock/units targets for significant events, including, without limitation, acquisitions, divestitures, new business ventures, certain capital transactions (including share repurchases), restructuring costs, if any, changes in accounting principles or in applicable laws or regulations and certain foreign exchange fluctuations. Over the performance period, the number of shares of common stock that will ultimately vest and be issued and the related compensation expense is adjusted upward or downward based upon our estimation of achieving such performance targets. The ultimate number of shares delivered to recipients and the related compensation cost recognized as an expense will be based on our actual performance metrics as defined under the Plans.

Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards as of April 1, 2017 was $124.2 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.6 years.

The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Plans during the three months ended April 1, 2017:

				Weighted
				Average
		Weighted		Remaining
		Average		Contractual	Aggregate
		Exercise		Life in	Intrinsic
	Shares	Price		Years	Value
Outstanding at beginning of period	177	$	57.19
Granted	-		-
Exercised	(76)		54.60
Forfeited	-		-
Outstanding at end of period	101	$	59.16	0.9	$	11,099

Options exercisable at end of period	101	$	59.16	0.9	$	11,099

The following tables summarize the activity of our non-vested restricted stock/units for the three months ended April 1, 2017:

	Time-Based Restricted Stock/Units
		Weighted Average
		Grant Date Fair		Intrinsic Value
	Shares/Units	Value Per Share		Per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	670	$	121.08
Granted	138		170.92
Vested	(172)		93.86
Forfeited	(5)		140.63
Outstanding at end of period	631	$	139.23	$	169.97


	Performance-Based Restricted Stock/Units
		Weighted Average
		Grant Date Fair		Intrinsic Value
	Shares/Units	Value Per Share		Per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	925	$	108.09
Granted	197		166.18
Vested	(424)		109.72
Forfeited	(3)		155.03
Outstanding at end of period	695	$	125.70	$	169.97

- Definition

The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details.

+ References + Details

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Note 13 – Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Cash paid for interest and income taxes was:

	Three Months Ended
	April 1,		March 26,
	2017		2016
Interest	$	10,852	$	7,109
Income taxes		29,018		12,490

During the three months ended April 1, 2017 and March 26, 2016, we had $(3.1) million and $2.2 million of non-cash net unrealized gains (losses) related to foreign currency hedging activities, respectively.

Legal Proceedings	3 Months Ended
Legal Proceedings	Apr. 01, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Legal Proceedings	Note 14 – Legal Proceedings In September 2015, Henry Schein, Inc. was served with a summons and complaint in an action commenced in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, entitled SourceOne Dental, Inc. v. Patterson Companies, Inc., Henry Schein, Inc. and Benco Dental Supply Company, Civil Action No. 15-cv-05440-JMA-GRB. Plaintiff alleges that, through its website, it markets and sells dental supplies and equipment to dentists. Plaintiff alleges, among other things, that defendants conspired to eliminate plaintiff as a viable competitor and to exclude plaintiff from the market for the marketing, distribution and sale of dental supplies and equipment in the United States and that defendants unlawfully agreed with one another to boycott dentists, manufacturers and state dental associations that deal with, or considered dealing with, plaintiff. Plaintiff asserts the following claims: (i) unreasonable restraint of trade in violation of state and federal antitrust laws; (ii) tortious interference with prospective business relations; (iii) civil conspiracy; and (iv) aiding and abetting the other defendants’ ongoing tortious and anticompetitive conduct. Plaintiff seeks equitable relief, compensatory and treble damages, jointly and severally, punitive damages, interest, and reasonable costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and expert fees. We intend to defend ourselves vigorously against the action. Beginning in January 2016, class action complaints were filed against Patterson Companies, Inc., Benco Dental Supply Co. and Henry Schein, Inc. Each of these complaints allege, among other things, that defendants conspired to fix prices, allocate customers and foreclose competitors by boycotting manufacturers, state dental associations and others that deal with defendants’ competitors. Subject to certain exclusions, these classes seek to represent all persons who purchased dental supplies or equipment in the United States directly from any of the defendants or Burkhart Dental Supply Co. since August 31, 2008. Each class action complaint asserts a single count under Section 1 of the Sherman Act, and seeks equitable relief, compensatory and treble damages, jointly and severally, and reasonable costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and expert fees. We intend to defend ourselves vigorously against these actions. From time to time, we may become a party to other legal proceedings, including, without limitation, product liability claims, employment matters, commercial disputes, governmental inquiries and investigations (which may in some cases involve our entering into settlement arrangements or consent decrees), and other matters arising out of the ordinary course of our business. While the results of any legal proceeding cannot be predicted with certainty, in our opinion none of these other pending matters are currently anticipated to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. As of April 1, 2017, we had accrued our best estimate of potential losses relating to claims that were probable to result in liability and for which we were able to reasonably estimate a loss. This accrued amount, as well as related expenses, was not material to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Our method for determining estimated losses considers currently available facts, presently enacted laws and regulations and other factors, including probable recoveries from third parties.

Segment Data (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Business segment information

				Three Months Ended
				April 1,		March 26,
				2017		2016
Net Sales:
	Health care distribution (1):
		Dental		$	1,405,158	$	1,301,755
		Animal health			812,939		771,413
		Medical			598,886		538,117
			Total health care distribution		2,816,983		2,611,285
	Technology and value-added services (2)				105,965		101,671
		Total		$	2,922,948	$	2,712,956


(1)	Consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and
	generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control products and vitamins.

(2)	Consists of practice management software and other value-added products, which are distributed primarily to health care providers,
	and financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners, consulting and other
	services.


				Three Months Ended
				April 1,		March 26,
				2017		2016
Operating Income:
	Health care distribution			$	162,707	$	148,101
	Technology and value-added services				31,261		28,093
		Total		$	193,968	$	176,194

Debt (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Private placement facilities

	Amount of
	Borrowing		Borrowing
Date of Borrowing	Outstanding		Rate		Due Date
September 2, 2010	$	100,000	3.79	%	September 2, 2020
January 20, 2012		50,000	3.45		January 20, 2024
January 20, 2012 (1)		35,714	3.09		January 20, 2022
December 24, 2012		50,000	3.00		December 24, 2024
June 2, 2014		100,000	3.19		June 2, 2021
	$	335,714


(1) Annual repayments of approximately $7.1 million for this borrowing commenced on January 20, 2016.

Schedule of long-term debt

		April 1,		December 31,
		2017		2016
Private placement facilities		$	335,714	$	342,857
U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization			350,000		350,000
Note payable to bank at a weighted-average interest rate of
	21.37% at December 31, 2016		-		47,957
Various collateralized and uncollateralized loans payable with
	interest, in varying installments through 2021 at interest rates
	ranging from 2.56% to 12.90%
	at April 1, 2017 and at December 31, 2016		35,810		35,150
Capital lease obligations payable through 2029 with interest rates
	ranging from 0.84% to 19.15% at April 1, 2017
	and at December 31, 2016		5,502		5,416
Total			727,026		781,380
Less current maturities			(18,604)		(65,923)
	Total long-term debt	$	708,422	$	715,457

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of long-debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. These are debt arrangements that originally required repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21475-112644

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 470
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6479336&loc=d3e64711-112823

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(e),(f))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 55
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64930739&loc=d3e28878-108400

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21538-112644

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21506-112644

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1A
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64930785&loc=d3e28541-108399

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64930785&loc=d3e28551-108399

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21521-112644

+ Details

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Temporary Equity Disclosure [Abstract]

Change in fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interests

		April 1,		December 31,
		2017		2016
Balance, beginning of period		$	607,636	$	542,194
Decrease in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to
	redemptions		-		(72,729)
Increase in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to business
	acquisitions		-		58,172
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests			9,395		48,760
Dividends declared			(1,830)		(32,973)
Effect of foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to
	redeemable noncontrolling interests		3,363		(2,652)
Change in fair value of redeemable securities			100,826		66,864
Balance, end of period		$	719,390	$	607,636

Comprehensive Income (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes

			April 1,		December 31,
			2017		2016
Attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests:
		Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	(9,662)	$	(13,025)

Attributable to noncontrolling interests:
		Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	(23)	$	(113)

Attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:
	Foreign currency translation loss		$	(258,213)	$	(296,212)
	Unrealized loss from foreign currency hedging activities			(2,914)		(53)
	Pension adjustment loss			(20,692)		(20,776)
		Accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(281,819)	$	(317,041)

Total Accumulated other comprehensive loss			$	(291,504)	$	(330,179)

Components of comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes

	Three Months Ended
	April 1,		March 26,
	2017		2016
Net income	$	150,253	$	124,533

Foreign currency translation gain		41,452		9,990
Tax effect		-		-
Foreign currency translation gain		41,452		9,990

Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities		(3,078)		2,168
Tax effect		217		(551)
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities		(2,861)		1,617

Pension adjustment gain (loss)		55		(492)
Tax effect		29		99
Pension adjustment gain (loss)		84		(393)
Comprehensive income	$	188,928	$	135,747

Components of foreign currency translation gain (loss) by foreign currency

		Foreign Currency				Foreign Currency
		Translation				Translation
		Gain (Loss)				Gain (Loss)
		for the Three				for the Three
		Months Ended		FX Rate into USD		Months Ended		FX Rate into USD
		April 1,		April 1,	December 31,	March 26,		March 26,	December 26,
Currency		2017		2017	2016	2016		2016	2015
Euro			11,848	1.07	1.05		11,170	1.12	1.10
British Pound			4,606	1.25	1.23		(14,772)	1.41	1.49
Australian Dollar			10,716	0.76	0.72		5,071	0.75	0.73
Canadian Dollar			812	0.75	0.74		4,956	0.75	0.72
Polish Zloty			2,639	0.25	0.24		499	0.26	0.26
Swiss Franc			1,156	1.00	0.98		921	1.02	1.01
Brazilian Real			5,638	0.32	0.31		930	0.27	0.25
All other currencies			4,037				1,215
	Total	$	41,452			$	9,990

Total comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes

		Three Months Ended
		April 1,		March 26,
		2017		2016
Comprehensive income attributable to
	Henry Schein, Inc.	$	175,970	$	123,994
Comprehensive income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		200		72
Comprehensive income attributable to
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests		12,758		11,681
Comprehensive income		$	188,928	$	135,747

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair value - assets and liabilities measured and recognized on a recurring basis

			April 1, 2017
				Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total

Assets:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	668	$	-	$	668
		Total assets	$	-	$	668	$	-	$	668

Liabilities:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	5,189	$	-	$	5,189
		Total liabilities	$	-	$	5,189	$	-	$	5,189

Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	719,390	$	719,390
*CS										*CE

			December 31, 2016
				Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total

Assets:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	1,240	$	-	$	1,240
		Total assets	$	-	$	1,240	$	-	$	1,240

Liabilities:
	Derivative contracts		$	-	$	931	$	-	$	931
		Total liabilities	$	-	$	931	$	-	$	931

Redeemable noncontrolling interests			$	-	$	-	$	607,636	$	607,636

Plan of Restructuring (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Schedule of restructuring reserve by type of cost

			Facility
	Severance		Closing
	Costs		Costs		Other		Total
Balance, December 26, 2015	$	9,103	$	2,151	$	811	$	12,065
Provision		40,728		3,587		1,576		45,891
Payments and other adjustments		(27,477)		(3,284)		(1,492)		(32,253)
Balance, December 31, 2016	$	22,354	$	2,454	$	895	$	25,703
Provision		-		-		-		-
Payments		(10,700)		(478)		(813)		(11,991)
Balance, April 01, 2017	$	11,654	$	1,976	$	82	$	13,712

Schedule of restructuring reserve by segment

			Technology and
	Health Care		Value-Added
	Distribution		Services		Total
Balance, December 26, 2015	$	12,062	$	3	$	12,065
Provision		44,082		1,809		45,891
Payments and other adjustments		(30,906)		(1,347)		(32,253)
Balance, December 31, 2016	$	25,238	$	465	$	25,703
Provision		-		-		-
Payments		(11,849)		(142)		(11,991)
Balance, April 01, 2017	$	13,389	$	323	$	13,712

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Reconciliation of basic and diluted shares used to calculate earnings per share

		Three Months Ended
		April 1,	March 26,
		2017	2016
Basic		78,858	81,568
Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units	1,021	1,171
Diluted		79,879	82,739

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Summary of the stock option activity under the plans

				Weighted
				Average
		Weighted		Remaining
		Average		Contractual	Aggregate
		Exercise		Life in	Intrinsic
	Shares	Price		Years	Value
Outstanding at beginning of period	177	$	57.19
Granted	-		-
Exercised	(76)		54.60
Forfeited	-		-
Outstanding at end of period	101	$	59.16	0.9	$	11,099

Options exercisable at end of period	101	$	59.16	0.9	$	11,099

Status of non-vested restricted shares/units

	Time-Based Restricted Stock/Units
		Weighted Average
		Grant Date Fair		Intrinsic Value
	Shares/Units	Value Per Share		Per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	670	$	121.08
Granted	138		170.92
Vested	(172)		93.86
Forfeited	(5)		140.63
Outstanding at end of period	631	$	139.23	$	169.97


	Performance-Based Restricted Stock/Units
		Weighted Average
		Grant Date Fair		Intrinsic Value
	Shares/Units	Value Per Share		Per Share
Outstanding at beginning of period	925	$	108.09
Granted	197		166.18
Vested	(424)		109.72
Forfeited	(3)		155.03
Outstanding at end of period	695	$	125.70	$	169.97

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]

Cash paid for interest and income taxes

	Three Months Ended
	April 1,		March 26,
	2017		2016
Interest	$	10,852	$	7,109
Income taxes		29,018		12,490

Segment Data (Details)
$ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

USD ($)

number

Mar. 26, 2016

USD ($)

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Number of reportable segments | number

Number of countries served globally | number

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

Net sales

$ 2,922,948

$ 2,712,956

Operating income

193,968

176,194

Health Care Distribution [Member]

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

Net sales

^[1]

2,816,983

2,611,285

Operating income

162,707

148,101

Health Care Distribution [Member] | Dental [Member]

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

Net sales

^[1]

1,405,158

1,301,755

Health Care Distribution [Member] | Animal Health [Member]

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

Net sales

^[1]

812,939

771,413

Health Care Distribution [Member] | Medical [Member]

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

Net sales

^[1]

598,886

538,117

Technology and Value-Added Services [Member]

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

Net sales

^[2]

105,965

101,671

Operating income

$ 31,261

$ 28,093

[1]	Consists of consumable products, small equipment, laboratory products, large equipment, equipment repair services, branded and generic pharmaceuticals, vaccines, surgical products, diagnostic tests, infection-control
[2]	Consists of practice management software and other value-added products, which are distributed primarily to health care providers, and financial services on a non-recourse basis, e-services, continuing education services for practitioners, consulting and other services.

Debt - Bank Credit Lines (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	4 Months Ended
Debt - Bank Credit Lines (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Apr. 18, 2017	Apr. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate on borrowings under credit lines at period end (in hundredths)		1.74%	1.61%
Revolving credit facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility borrowing capacity	$ 750.0	$ 500.0
Revolving credit facility expiration date	Apr. 18, 2022
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding		210.0	$ 65.0
Outstanding letters of credit provided to third parties		12.7	13.0
Various other short-term bank credit lines [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding		$ 461.7	$ 372.5

- Definition

The carrying value as of the balance sheet date of the current and noncurrent portions of long-term obligations drawn from a line of credit, which is a bank's commitment to make loans up to a specific amount. Examples of items that might be included in the application of this element may consist of letters of credit, standby letters of credit, and revolving credit arrangements, under which borrowings can be made up to a maximum amount as of any point in time conditional on satisfaction of specified terms before, as of and after the date of drawdowns on the line. Includes short-term obligations that would normally be classified as current liabilities but for which (a) postbalance sheet date issuance of a long term obligation to refinance the short term obligation on a long term basis, or (b) the enterprise has entered into a financing agreement that clearly permits the enterprise to refinance the short-term obligation on a long term basis and the following conditions are met (1) the agreement does not expire within 1 year and is not cancelable by the lender except for violation of an objectively determinable provision, (2) no violation exists at the BS date, and (3) the lender has entered into the financing agreement is expected to be financially capable of honoring the agreement.

+ References + Details

Debt - Private Placement Facilities (Details) - Private placement facilities [Member] $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017 USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, maximum borrowing capacity	$ 975
Debt instrument, maturity date	Sep. 22, 2017
Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Term of issuances under private placement facilities	5 years
Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Term of issuances under private placement facilities	15 years
Average term of issuances under private placement facilities	12 years

Debt - Private Placement Borrowings (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

Apr. 01, 2017

Dec. 31, 2016

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Total long-term debt

$ 727,026

$ 781,380

Private Placement Facilities [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Total long-term debt

$ 335,714

$ 342,857

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

Sep. 22, 2017

Private Placement Facilities [Member] | Private placement facilities maturing in September 2020 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Issuance Date

Sep. 02, 2010

Total long-term debt

$ 100,000

Borrowing Rate

3.79%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

Sep. 02, 2020

Private Placement Facilities [Member] | Private placement facilities maturing in January 2024 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Issuance Date

Jan. 20, 2012

Total long-term debt

$ 50,000

Borrowing Rate

3.45%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

Jan. 20, 2024

Private Placement Facilities [Member] | Private placement facilities maturing in January 2022 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Issuance Date

^[1]

Jan. 20, 2012

Total long-term debt

^[1]

$ 35,714

Borrowing Rate

^[1]

3.09%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

^[1]

Jan. 20, 2022

Private placement facility, frequency of periodic payment

Annual

Private placement facility annual payment

$ 7,100

Debt Instrument, Date of First Required Payment

Jan. 20, 2016

Private Placement Facilities [Member] | Private placement facilities maturing in December 2024 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Issuance Date

Dec. 24, 2012

Total long-term debt

$ 50,000

Borrowing Rate

3.00%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

Dec. 24, 2024

Private Placement Facilities [Member] | Private placement facilities maturing in June 2021 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt Instrument, Issuance Date

Jun. 02, 2014

Total long-term debt

$ 100,000

Borrowing Rate

3.19%

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

Jun. 02, 2021

[1]	Annual repayments of approximately $7.1 million for this borrowing commenced on January 20, 2016.

Debt - U.S. Trade Accounts Receivable Securitization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		5 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016	Jun. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Apr. 17, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt	$ 56,367	$ 7,554
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities	$ 727,026			$ 781,380
U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Pricing commitment period	3 years
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date			Apr. 29, 2019
Debt Instrument Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 350,000		$ 350,000	350,000	$ 300,000
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities	$ 350,000			$ 350,000
Commitment fee for facility usage - facility limit greater than or equal to fifty percent usage (as a percent)	0.30%
Commitment fee for facility usage - facility limit less than fifty percent usage (as a percent)	0.35%
Debt instrument borrowing percentage of facility used for calculating commitment fee (as a percent)	50.00%
U.S. trade accounts receivable securitization [Member] \| Average Asset Backed Commercial Paper Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, variable rate basis at period end	1.05%			1.01%
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	0.75%			0.75%
Debt instrument, interest rate at period end	1.80%			1.76%

Debt - Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities	$ 727,026	$ 781,380
Less current maturities	(18,604)	(65,923)
Total long-term debt	708,422	715,457
Private Placement Facilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities	335,714	342,857
U S Trade Accounts Receivable Securitization [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities	350,000	350,000
Notes Payable to Banks [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities	0	$ 47,957
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate		21.37%
Loans Payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities	$ 35,810	$ 35,150
Loans Payable [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.56%	2.56%
Loans Payable [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	12.90%	12.90%
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations including current maturities	$ 5,502	$ 5,416
Capital Lease Obligations [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	0.84%	0.84%
Capital Lease Obligations [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	19.15%	19.15%

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Components of the change in the redeemable noncontrolling interests [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of period	$ 607,636	$ 542,194
Decrease in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to redemptions	0	(72,729)
Increase in redeemable noncontrolling interests due to business acquisitions	0	58,172
Net income attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	9,395	48,760
Dividends declared	(1,830)	(32,973)
Effect of foreign currency translation gain (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	3,363	(2,652)
Change in fair value of redeemable securities	100,826	66,864
Balance, end of period	$ 719,390	$ 607,636

Comprehensive Income - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income and Comprehensive Income Components (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	$ (9,662)		$ (13,025)
Attributable to noncontrolling interests:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(23)		(113)
Attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.:
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	(258,213)		(296,212)
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	(2,914)		(53)
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	(20,692)		(20,776)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(281,819)		(317,041)
Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(291,504)		$ (330,179)
Components of comprehensive income [Abstract]
Net income	150,253	$ 124,533
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	41,452	9,990
Tax effect	0	0
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	41,452	9,990
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	(3,078)	2,168
Tax effect	217	(551)
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	(2,861)	1,617
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	55	(492)
Tax effect	29	99
Pension adjustment gain (loss)	84	(393)
Comprehensive income	$ 188,928	$ 135,747

Comprehensive Income - Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Components (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017 USD ($)	Mar. 26, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 26, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 41,452	$ 9,990
Euro
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 11,848	$ 11,170
FX rate into USD	1.07	1.12	1.05	1.1
British Pound
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 4,606	$ (14,772)
FX rate into USD	1.25	1.41	1.23	1.49
Australian Dollar
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 10,716	$ 5,071
FX rate into USD	0.76	0.75	0.72	0.73
Canadian Dollar
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 812	$ 4,956
FX rate into USD	0.75	0.75	0.74	0.72
Polish Zloty
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 2,639	$ 499
FX rate into USD	0.25	0.26	0.24	0.26
Swiss Franc
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 1,156	$ 921
FX rate into USD	1	1.02	0.98	1.01
Brazilian Real
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 5,638	$ 930
FX rate into USD	0.32	0.27	0.31	0.25
All other currencies
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	$ 4,037	$ 1,215

Comprehensive Income - Total Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Comprehensive Income Net Of Applicable Taxes [Abstract]
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Henry Schein, Inc.	$ 175,970	$ 123,994
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	200	72
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Redeemable noncontrolling interests	12,758	11,681
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 188,928	$ 135,747

Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 26, 2015
Attributable To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 719,390	$ 607,636	$ 542,194
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Fair value of debt	1,398,800	1,218,900
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - assets	668	1,240
Total assets	668	1,240
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - liabilities	5,189	931
Total liabilities	5,189	931
Attributable To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	719,390	607,636
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member] \| Level 1 [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - assets	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - liabilities	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Attributable To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member] \| Level 2 [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - assets	668	1,240
Total assets	668	1,240
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - liabilities	5,189	931
Total liabilities	5,189	931
Attributable To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0
Fair value, measurements, recurring [Member] \| Level 3 [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - assets	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative contracts - liabilities	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Attributable To Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 719,390	$ 607,636

Plan of Restructuring - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
Plan of Restructuring - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017 USD ($)	Mar. 26, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) positions	Dec. 26, 2015 USD ($)	Nov. 06, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Charges, pre-tax	$ 0	$ 4,058	$ 45,891
November 2014 restructuring initiative [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated, Inception to Date \| positions			900
Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated, Inception to Date Percent			4.00%
Restructuring Charges, pre-tax	$ 0	$ 4,100	$ 45,891	$ 34,900
November 2014 restructuring initiative [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring And Related Cost Expected Percentage Of Workforce Eliminated					2.00%
November 2014 restructuring initiative [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring And Related Cost Expected Percentage Of Workforce Eliminated					3.00%

Plan of Restructuring - Restructuring Reserve Roll Forward by Expense and Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance	$ 25,703	$ 12,065	$ 12,065
Provision	0	4,058	45,891
Payments and other adjustments	(11,991)		(32,253)
Restructuring Reserve, ending balance	13,712		25,703
Healthcare Distribution [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance	25,238	12,062	12,062
Provision	0		44,082
Payments and other adjustments	(11,849)		(30,906)
Restructuring Reserve, ending balance	13,389		25,238
Technology [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance	465	3	3
Provision	0		1,809
Payments and other adjustments	(142)		(1,347)
Restructuring Reserve, ending balance	323		465
Employee Severance [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance	22,354	9,103	9,103
Provision	0		40,728
Payments and other adjustments	(10,700)		(27,477)
Restructuring Reserve, ending balance	11,654		22,354
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance	2,454	2,151	2,151
Provision	0		3,587
Payments and other adjustments	(478)		(3,284)
Restructuring Reserve, ending balance	1,976		2,454
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, beginning balance	895	$ 811	811
Provision	0		1,576
Payments and other adjustments	(813)		(1,492)
Restructuring Reserve, ending balance	$ 82		$ 895

Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	78,858	81,568
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units (in shares)	1,021	1,171
Diluted (in shares)	79,879	82,739

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective tax rate (in hundredths)	2070.00%	3050.00%
Unrecognized tax benefits	$ 96,500
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect the effective tax rate if recognized	71,100
Total interest	12,300
Total penalties	$ 0
Other Information Pertaining to Income Taxes	The tax years subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions include the years 2012 and forward by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), as well as the years 2008 and forward for certain states and certain foreign jurisdictions. We are currently under audit for the years 2012 and 2013. During the quarter ended December 31, 2016, we reached a settlement on a portion of the IRS audit of tax years 2012 and 2013. Additionally, during the quarter ended December 31, 2016 we filed a Mutual Agreement Procedure request with the IRS for assistance from the U.S. Competent Authority for an open transfer pricing matter. We received a 30-Day Letter from the IRS during the quarter ended April 1, 2017 for the remaining open audit matters for the years 2012 and 2013. We anticipate filing a protest with the Appellate Division regarding these matters during the second quarter of 2017. We do not expect this to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, liquidity or results of operations.
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 38,630	$ 53,533
Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (17,000)

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details)	3 Months Ended
Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details)	Apr. 01, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Maximum duration of foreign currency forward contracts	18 months

Stock-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Pre-tax share-based compensation expense	$ 8.5	$ 14.1
After-tax share-based compensation expense	6.7	$ 9.8
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards	$ 124.2
Weighted-average period of recognition for unrecognized compensation costs on nonvested awards (in years)	2 years 7 months 6 days
Time Based Restricted Stock Restricted Units [Member] \| 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	4 years
Time Based Restricted Stock Restricted Units [Member] \| 2015 Non-Employee Director Stock Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	12 months
Performance Based Restricted Stock Restricted Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	3 years
Period Over Which Earnings Per Share Performance Is Measured Against Specified Targets	3 years

Stock-Based Compensation - Stock Option Activity (Details) - Employee and director stock options [Member] $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) \| shares	177
Granted (in shares) \| shares	0
Exercised (in shares) \| shares	(76)
Forfeited (in shares) \| shares	0
Outstanding at end of period (in shares) \| shares	101
Ending balance, options exercisable (in shares) \| shares	101
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	$ 57.19
Granted (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	0
Exercised (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	54.6
Forfeited (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	0
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	59.16
Ending balance, options exercisable (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	$ 59.16
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Weighted average remaining contractual life, options outstanding (in years)	10 months 24 days
Weighted average remaining contractual life, options exercisable (in years)	10 months 24 days
Stock option outstanding aggregate intrinsic value as of period end \| $	$ 11,099
Stock option exercisable aggregate intrinsic value as of period end \| $	$ 11,099

Stock-Based Compensation - Resticted Stock Activity (Details) shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017 $ / shares shares
Time Based Restricted Stock Restricted Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance outstanding (in shares) \| shares	670
Granted (in shares) \| shares	138
Vested (in shares) \| shares	(172)
Forfeited (in shares) \| shares	(5)
Ending balance outstanding (in shares) \| shares	631
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning balance outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 121.08
Granted (in dollars per share)	170.92
Vested (in dollars per share)	93.86
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	140.63
Ending balance outstanding (in dollars per share)	139.23
Intrinsic value (in dollars per share)	$ 169.97
Performance Based Restricted Stock Restricted Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance outstanding (in shares) \| shares	925
Granted (in shares) \| shares	197
Vested (in shares) \| shares	(424)
Forfeited (in shares) \| shares	(3)
Ending balance outstanding (in shares) \| shares	695
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Beginning balance outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 108.09
Granted (in dollars per share)	166.18
Vested (in dollars per share)	109.72
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	155.03
Ending balance outstanding (in dollars per share)	125.7
Intrinsic value (in dollars per share)	$ 169.97

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 01, 2017	Mar. 26, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest	$ 10,852	$ 7,109
Income taxes	29,018	12,490
Unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency hedging activities	$ (3,078)	$ 2,168

Legal Proceedings (Details)	3 Months Ended
Legal Proceedings (Details)	Apr. 01, 2017
Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract]
Loss Contingency, Management's Assessment and Process	As of April 1, 2017, we had accrued our best estimate of potential losses relating to claims that were probable to result in liability and for which we were able to reasonably estimate a loss. This accrued amount, as well as related expenses, was not material to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Our method for determining estimated losses considers currently available facts, presently enacted laws and regulations and other factors, including probable recoveries from third parties.
SourceOne Dental, Inc. v. Patterson Companies, Inc., Henry Schein, Inc. and Benco Dental Supply Company [Member]
Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract]
Loss Contingency, Lawsuit Filing Date	September 2015
Loss Contingency, Name of Defendant	Patterson Companies, Inc., Henry Schein, Inc. and Benco Dental Supply Company
Loss Contingency, Name of Plaintiff	SourceOne Dental, Inc.
Loss Contingency, Allegations	Plaintiff alleges that, through its website, it markets and sells dental supplies and equipment to dentists. Plaintiff alleges, among other things, that defendants conspired to eliminate plaintiff as a viable competitor and to exclude plaintiff from the market for the marketing, distribution and sale of dental supplies and equipment in the United States and that defendants unlawfully agreed with one another to boycott dentists, manufacturers and state dental associations that deal with, or considered dealing with, plaintiff. Plaintiff asserts the following claims: (i) unreasonable restraint of trade in violation of state and federal antitrust laws; (ii) tortious interference with prospective business relations; (iii) civil conspiracy; and (iv) aiding and abetting the other defendants’ ongoing tortious and anticompetitive conduct.
Class Action Complaints Against Patterson Companies, Inc., Benco Dental Supply Co. and Henry Schein, Inc. [Member]
Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract]
Loss Contingency, Lawsuit Filing Date	January 2016
Loss Contingency, Name of Defendant	Patterson Companies, Inc., Benco Dental Supply Co. and Henry Schein, Inc
Loss Contingency, Name of Plaintiff	class action complaints
Loss Contingency, Allegations	Each of these complaints allege, among other things, that defendants conspired to fix prices, allocate customers and foreclose competitors by boycotting manufacturers, state dental associations and others that deal with defendants’ competitors.