OraSure Technologies (OSUR): Medical testing made easy

When it comes to medical testing, convenience of sample collection is an important factor. A leading provider of test kits designed to work with easily obtainable oral fluid specimens is headquartered in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

OraSure Technologies (NASDAQ: OSUR) offers specimen kits and other diagnostic tests designed to detect HIV and drugs. The firm's products use oral specimens, rather than traditional blood- or urine-based methods, a factor making them attractive to OraSure's widespread client base of clinical laboratories, hospitals, clinics, public health organizations, government agencies, physicians' offices, and commercial/industrial entities. The company also provides immunoassays, in vitro diagnostic tests, and wart removal systems.

OraSure pleased investors earlier in the month, when it announced Q2 EPS of two cents and revenues of $21.4 million. Analysts had been looking for a penny and $20.5 million. The CEO attributed the solid numbers to continued growth in infectious disease testing, substance abuse testing and OTC cryosurgical sales. Management also guided Q3 EPS to 0-1 cent (penny consensus), Q3 revenues to $21.0-$21.5 million ($20.51M consensus) and FY07 EPS to five cents (nickel consensus).

OSUR shares popped on the news and then moved into a bullish "flag" consolidation pattern. Prices frequently exit flags moving in the same direction they were traveling when they entered them. In this case, that would be to the upside.

Brokers recommend the issue with two "strong buys" and two "buys". Analysts see a 160% growth rate, through the next year. The OSUR Price to Book ratio (3.13) and Sales Growth rate (21.59%) compare favorably with industry, sector and S&P 500 averages.

Institutional investors hold about 70% of the outstanding shares. Over the past 52 weeks, the stock has traded between $6.36 and $10.16. A stop-loss of $7.95 looks good here.

Larry Schutts is a contributing editor for Theflyonthewall.com and the Vice-President of Stockwinners.com.