Florida Cardinal Health to Buy Viasys for $1.5 Billion

DUBLIN, Ohio–Cardinal Health announced Monday that it will
acquire Viasys Healthcare for about $1.5 billion, including the
assumption of outstanding debt.

Under the agreement, Cardinal will make a cash offer to acquire
all outstanding shares of Viasys common stock for $42.75 per
share.

With 2006 revenue of $610 million, Viasys focuses on respiratory
care systems used to diagnose and treat pulmonary disease and sleep
disorders. The company also manufactures neurological, audio and
vascular diagnostics, disposable medical products used in surgical
procedures and enteral feeding, orthopedic implant manufacturing
and clinical services.

Cardinal said the acquisition would help solidify its presence
in the respiratory care market. Additionally, the deal will expand
Cardinal’s clinical and medical product offerings and supplement
its hospital selling organization.

With more than 7,000 hospital customers in 100 countries and 40
percent of its revenue generated from customers outside the U.S.,
the addition of Conshohocken, Pa.-based Viasys will also bolster
the company’s international presence, Cardinal said.

“With a strong platform and excellent momentum in our clinical
and medical products businesses, we think the timing is ideal to
broaden our offering,” said R. Kerry Clark, Cardinal Health
CEO.

An $80-billion company, Cardinal includes a DME division,
manufactures medical and surgical products and distributes
pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. The company employs more than
40,000 people on five continents.

The deal is expected to be completed this summer.