Pediatrix Medical Group Inc

Previous wording

We are undertaking a transformation of our revenue cycle management function from an outsourced provider to a hybrid function that utilizes both our corporate personnel as well as one or more third-party service providers. This transition will involve significant time and resources, and our failure to execute this transition efficiently and effectively may have a material impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

We undertook a transformation of our revenue cycle management function from an outsourced provider to a hybrid function that utilizes both our corporate personnel as well as one or more third-party service providers. Our failure to execute a hybrid revenue cycle management function efficiently and effectively may have a material impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Our operations and performance depend significantly on economic conditions. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the percentage of our patient service revenue being reimbursed under GHC Programs remained relatively stable as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. If, however, economic conditions in the United States deteriorate, we could experience shifts toward GHC Programs, and patient volumes and reimbursement for services we provide could decline. Further, we could experience and have experienced shifts toward GHC Programs if changes occur in population demographics within geographic locations in which we provide services. Adverse economic conditions could also lead to additional increases in the number of unemployed and under-employed workers and a decline in the number of private employers that offer healthcare insurance coverage to their employees. Employers that do offer healthcare coverage may increase the required contributions from employees to pay for their coverage and increase patient responsibility amounts. In addition, certain private payors’ poor experience with the healthcare insurance exchanges and any uncertainty around the future of the ACA, and healthcare insurance exchanges may result in those payors exiting the healthcare insurance exchange marketplaces or the cessation of the healthcare insurance exchanges. As a consequence, the number of patients who participate in GHC Programs or who are uninsured or underinsured could increase. Payments received from GHC Programs are substantially less than payments received from private healthcare insurance programs (managed care and other third-party payors). Payments under policies issued through the healthcare insurance exchanges may be less than payments from private healthcare insurance programs and in some cases, patients’ responsibility for costs related to healthcare plans obtained through the healthcare insurance exchanges may be high and could increase in the future, and we may experience increased bad debt due to patients’ inability to pay for certain services. A payor mix shift from private healthcare insurance programs to GHC Programs or to healthcare insurance exchanges has resulted and may continue to result in an increase in our estimated provision for contractual adjustments and uncollectibles and a corresponding decrease in our net revenue, as well as a significant reduction in our average reimbursement rates. While we have developed a number of strategic initiatives across our organization, in both our shared services functions and our operational infrastructure, to address some of the effects of changes in economic conditions, there is no assurance that these initiatives will be successful in generating improvements in our general and administrative expenses and our operational infrastructure. If these initiatives are unsuccessful, it could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our s…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Current wording

Our operations and performance depend significantly on economic conditions. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the percentage of our patient service revenue being reimbursed under GHC Programs decreased as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. If, however, economic conditions in the United States deteriorate, we could experience shifts toward GHC Programs, and patient volumes and reimbursement for services we provide could decline. Further, we could experience and have experienced shifts toward GHC Programs if changes occur in population demographics within geographic locations in which we provide services. Adverse economic conditions could also lead to additional increases in the number of unemployed and under-employed workers and a decline in the number of private employers that offer healthcare insurance coverage to their employees. Employers that do offer healthcare coverage may increase the required contributions from employees to pay for their coverage and increase patient responsibility amounts. In addition, certain private payors’ poor experience with the healthcare insurance exchanges and any uncertainty around the future of the ACA, and healthcare insurance exchanges may result in those payors exiting the healthcare insurance exchange marketplaces or the cessation of the healthcare insurance exchanges. As a consequence, the number of patients who participate in GHC Programs or who are uninsured or underinsured could increase. Payments received from GHC Programs are substantially less than payments received from private healthcare insurance programs (managed care and other third-party payors). Payments under policies issued through the healthcare insurance exchanges may be less than payments from private healthcare insurance programs and in some cases, patients’ responsibility for costs related to healthcare plans obtained through the healthcare insurance exchanges may be high and could increase in the future, and we may experience increased bad debt due to patients’ inability to pay for certain services. A payor mix shift from private healthcare insurance programs to GHC Programs or to healthcare insurance exchanges has resulted and may continue to result in an increase in our estimated provision for contractual adjustments and uncollectibles and a corresponding decrease in our net revenue, as well as a significant reduction in our average reimbursement rates. While we have developed a number of strategic initiatives across our organization, in both our shared services functions and our operational infrastructure, to address some of the effects of changes in economic conditions, there is no assurance that these initiatives will be successful in generating improvements in our general and administrative expenses and our operational infrastructure. If these initiatives are unsuccessful, it could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

The erosion in the tax base caused by a general economic downturn can cause restrictions on the federal and state governments’ abilities to obtain financing and a decline in spending. If the economy were to contract into a recession (for example, as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, or as a result of a significant increase in prevailing interest rates), our government payors or other counterparties that owe us money could be delayed in obtaining, or may not be able to obtain, necessary funding and/or financing to meet their cash flow needs. As a result, we may face increased pricing pressure, termination of contracts, reimbursement rate cuts or reimbursement delays from Medicare and Medicaid and other governmental payors, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

An erosion in the tax base caused by a general economic downturn can cause restrictions on the federal and state governments’ abilities to obtain financing and a decline in spending. If the economy were to contract (for example, as a result of a future global pandemic, international or domestic conflict, inflation, or as a result of a significant increase in prevailing interest rates), our government payors or other counterparties that owe us money could be delayed in obtaining, or may not be able to obtain, necessary funding and/or financing to meet their cash flow needs. As a result, we may face increased pricing pressure, termination of contracts, reimbursement rate cuts or reimbursement delays from Medicare and Medicaid and other governmental payors, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Preliminary birth data for 2022 indicate that total births in the United States remained effectively flat as compared to 2021. Provisional data for 2023 is not yet available. The flat birth rate suggests the rebound in births in 2021, the first increase in the number of births since 2014, was likely transient. Future declines in births are possible, particularly if there is an economic recession, and could have an adverse effect on our patient volumes, net revenue, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

Birth data for 2023 indicate that total births in the United States decreased compared to 2022. Provisional data for 2024 is not yet available. Future declines in births are possible, particularly if there is an economic recession, and could have an adverse effect on our patient volumes, net revenue, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

The foregoing and other continued disruptions to our business as a result of COVID-19 or any future pandemic or outbreak could result in a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, prospects and the trading prices of our securities.

Current wording

A future pandemic or outbreak, and any government response thereto, could result in a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, prospects and the trading prices of our securities, and could heighten many of the other risks associated with our business and indebtedness, including those described in this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Another potentially existential challenge to the ACA is advancing in federal courts. Specifically, in Braidwood Management v. Becerra, the plaintiffs argue that the ACA’s requirement that insurance cover certain preventive services without cost sharing is unconstitutional. In September 2022, a federal district court in Texas ruled partly in favor of the plaintiffs and partly in favor of the Department of Health and Human Services, which is defending the ACA, finding, among other things, that the requirement that self-funded plans and insurers cover certain preventive services violates the plaintiffs' rights under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The federal government appealed this decision to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which subsequently issued an administrative stay of the district court’s ruling, thereby allowing the federal government to continue enforcing the preventive services requirement while the 5th Circuit considers the case. The case may ultimately be resolved by the United States Supreme Court. If the case succeeds, millions of Americans could lose access to preventive care guaranteed by the ACA or be forced to pay out of pocket for these services, and such an outcome could materially impact our business.

Current wording

While there have been multiple attempts to repeal or amend the ACA through legislative action and legal challenges, legislative attempts to completely repeal the ACA have been unsuccessful to date. However, another significant challenge to the ACA is advancing in federal courts. Specifically, in Braidwood Management v. Becerra, the plaintiffs argue that the ACA’s requirement that insurance cover certain preventive services without cost sharing is unconstitutional. On September 7, 2022, a federal district court in Texas ruled partly in favor of the plaintiffs and partly in favor of the Department of Health and Human Services, which is defending the ACA, finding, among other things, that the requirement that self-funded plans and insurers cover certain preventive services violates the plaintiffs' rights under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The federal government appealed this decision to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which subsequently issued an administrative stay of the district court’s ruling, thereby allowing the federal government to continue enforcing the preventive services requirement while the 5th Circuit considers the case. On June 21, 2024, the 5th Circuit issued a limited decision applicable only to the plaintiffs, finding that HHS exceeded its constitutional authority by delegating decision-making power to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force ("USPSTF"). But the 5th Circuit overturned the district court’s decision to vacate the entire rule nationally, which reinstated the requirement for health plans to continue covering ACA-mandated preventive care services without cost sharing. On September 19, 2024, plaintiffs filed a petition for a writ of certiorari with the United States Supreme Court, arguing that HHS’ delegation to USPSTF violates the U.S. Constitution Appointments Clause, and seeking to have the preventive services coverage requirement thrown out. If the Supreme Court decides to hear the case and the plaintiffs succeed, millions of Americans could lose access to preventive care guaranteed by the ACA or be forced to pay out of pocket for these services, and such an outcome could materially impact our business.

Previous wording

We expect the current Administration to continue to advance changes to the U.S. healthcare system, including changes to the ACA and further expanding government-funded health insurance options and potentially replacing current healthcare financing mechanisms with systems that would be entirely administered by the federal government. We cannot say for certain whether there will be additional future challenges to the ACA or what impact, if any, such challenges may have on our business. Changes resulting from these proceedings, and any legislative or administrative change to the current healthcare financing system, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

The second Trump Administration may seek to advance changes to the U.S. healthcare system, including changes to the ACA that would eliminate or reduce certain subsidies, modify certain benefits and allow competition from short-term limited duration insurance products, all of which could result in fewer people with insurance, or fewer people with ACA compliant insurance, and these changes could have a material impact on our business. We cannot say for certain whether there will be additional future challenges to the ACA or what impact, if any, such challenges may have on our business. Changes resulting from these proceedings, and any legislative or administrative change to the current healthcare financing system, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Many states have transitioned a substantial portion of their Medicaid program beneficiaries into Managed Medicaid Plans, which are administered by commercial insurance companies. Managed Medicaid Plans have some flexibility to set rates for providers, but many states require minimum provider rates in their contracts with such plans. In July of each year, CMS releases the annual Medicaid Managed Care Rate Development Guide which provides federal baseline rules for setting reimbursement rates in managed care plans. We could be affected by lower reimbursement rates in some or all of the Managed Medicaid Plans with which we participate. We could also be materially impacted if we are dropped from the provider network in one or more of the Managed Medicaid Plans with which we currently participate. In Florida, more than 75% of the Medicaid population participates in a Managed Medicaid Plan, with even higher participation rates for children.

Current wording

Many states have transitioned a substantial portion of their Medicaid program beneficiaries into Managed Medicaid Plans, which are administered by commercial insurance companies. Managed Medicaid Plans have some flexibility to set rates for providers, but many states require minimum provider rates in their contracts with such plans. Each year, CMS releases the annual Medicaid Managed Care Rate Development Guide which provides federal baseline rules for setting reimbursement rates in managed care plans. We could be affected by lower reimbursement rates in some or all of the Managed Medicaid Plans with which we participate. We could also be materially impacted if we are dropped from the provider network in one or more of the Managed Medicaid Plans with which we currently participate. In Florida, more than 75% of the Medicaid population participates in a Managed Medicaid Plan, with even higher participation rates for children.

Previous wording

Moreover, certain potentially material changes seem likely with respect to government reimbursement and the healthcare industry in general. For instance, the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule decreased the 2024 conversion factor (i.e., the amount Medicare pays per relative value unit (wRVU)) by nearly 3.4% from the 2023 amount. Congress may pass legislation to absorb some of these cuts, but Medicare payments to physicians are expected to decrease in 2024. This reduction will adversely affect reimbursement for physician services and could also negatively impact other GHC Program reimbursement and commercial payor reimbursement. These changes could materially impact our business.

Current wording

Moreover, certain potentially material changes seem likely with respect to government reimbursement and the healthcare industry in general. For instance, the 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule decreased the 2024 conversion factor (i.e., the amount Medicare pays per relative value unit (wRVU)) by nearly 3.4% from the 2023 amount. Congress enacted legislation to moderate some of these cuts, but Medicare payments to physicians still decreased in 2024. For 2025, Medicare payments to physicians may again decrease. These reductions adversely affect reimbursement for physician services and could also negatively impact other GHC Program reimbursement and commercial payor reimbursement. These changes could materially impact our business.

Previous wording

In an effort to address shelter-in-place, quarantine, executive order or related measures to combat the spread of COVID-19, as well as the perceived need by individuals to continue such practices to avoid infection and to provide safe access to care for our patients, we converted certain in-person visits to telehealth visits and have continued to provide services in this manner. There is significant variation in demand, consumer acceptance, and market adoption of telehealth services. The provision of telehealth is largely regulated at the state level and can include, among other things, variations in the definition of telehealth, physician/patient relationship requirements, informed consent for telehealth services, licensure, scope of practice, covered modalities, electronic prescribing, coverage and reimbursement, and privacy and security requirements. Our ability to conduct telehealth services and provide medical services in a particular jurisdiction is directly dependent upon the applicable laws governing remote healthcare, the practice of medicine and healthcare delivery in general in such location, which are subject to changing political, regulatory and other influences. While numerous federal agencies released waivers to ease regulatory obstacles to the adoption of telehealth, many of these waivers do not override applicable state laws. States have adopted waivers as well but differ in the scope and application of such waivers and also on the time period the waiver is available. Many state waivers in relation to COVID-19 have already expired. On a federal level, CMS created flexibilities for the provision and reimbursement of telehealth for Medicare beneficiaries during the PHE. While some of these flexibilities have been permanently extended, recent federal legislation authorized the extension of many of the Medicare telehealth flexibilities through December 31, 2024.

Current wording

In an effort to address shelter-in-place, quarantine, executive order or related measures to combat the spread of COVID-19, as well as the perceived need by individuals to continue such practices to avoid infection and to provide safe access to care for our patients, we converted certain in-person visits to telehealth visits and have continued to provide services in this manner. There is significant variation in demand, consumer acceptance, and market adoption of telehealth services. The provision of telehealth is largely regulated at the state level and can include, among other things, variations in the definition of telehealth, physician/patient relationship requirements, informed consent for telehealth services, licensure, scope of practice, covered modalities, electronic prescribing, coverage and reimbursement, and privacy and security requirements. Our ability to conduct telehealth services and provide medical services in a particular jurisdiction is directly dependent upon the applicable laws governing remote healthcare, the practice of medicine and healthcare delivery in general in such location, which are subject to changing political, regulatory and other influences. While numerous federal agencies released waivers to ease regulatory obstacles to the adoption of telehealth, many of these waivers do not override applicable state laws. States have adopted waivers as well but differ in the scope and application of such waivers and also on the time period the waiver is available. Many state waivers in relation to COVID-19 have already expired. On a federal level, CMS created flexibilities for the provision and reimbursement of telehealth for Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 PHE. While some of these flexibilities have been permanently extended, others are still permitted subject to temporally limited authorizations. For example, in the calendar year 2025 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule, CMS authorized Medicare coverage of certain telehealth services on a provisional basis through 2025. If Congress or a federal agency does not act to again extend these flexibilities, they could expire, and these changes could materially impact our business.

Previous wording

The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (“MACRA”) and potential changes to it may have a significant effect on our business.

Current wording

The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (“MACRA”) and potential changes to it may have an adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

The Transparency in Coverage Final Rule, published November 12, 2020, aims to put health pricing information into the hands of consumers and allow them to select their providers based, in part, on cost. The final rule imposes two main requirements. First, as of July 1, 2022, certain health plans and insurers are required to publish on a public website machine-readable files containing information on their in-network negotiated rates, billed charges and allowed amounts paid for out-of-network providers, and the negotiated rate and historical net price for prescription drugs. Second, as of January 1, 2023, certain health plans and issuers must report to their covered members certain pricing information (including the in-network rate and out-of-network allowed amounts) and cost-sharing obligations for covered items and services. These requirements remain subject to change, and we cannot predict how the availability of this health pricing information may impact our business operations and patient volumes. Moreover, Congress is considering legislation that imposes additional transparency requirements on providers. If patients choose to use services of less costly providers, we could see a reduction in patient volumes or decide to reduce the prices of our services to compensate, either of which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

The Transparency in Coverage Final Rule, published November 12, 2020, aims to put health pricing information into the hands of consumers and allow them to select their providers based, in part, on cost. The final rule was phased in between July 2022 and January 2024 and imposed two main requirements. First certain health plans and insurers are required to publish on a public website machine-readable files containing information on their in-network negotiated rates, billed charges and allowed amounts paid for out-of-network providers, and the negotiated rate and historical net price for prescription drugs. Second certain health plans and issuers must report to their covered members, through a self-service pricing tool, certain pricing information (including the in-network rate and out-of-network allowed amounts) and cost-sharing obligations for all covered items and services. These requirements remain subject to change, and we cannot predict how the availability of this health pricing information may impact our business operations and patient volumes. Moreover, Congress is considering legislation that imposes additional transparency requirements on providers. If patients choose to use services of less costly providers, we could see a reduction in patient volumes or decide to reduce the prices of our services to compensate, either of which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Congress and the Biden Administration may also seek substantial reforms to Medicaid law and the ability of states to design Medicaid programs. Any changes, if enacted, could reduce or eliminate eligibility for certain individuals or reduce payments to providers of services. As a result, we could experience an increase in the number of uninsured patients and delayed or reduced Medicaid payment for services furnished to program enrollees.

Current wording

Congress and the second Trump Administration may also seek substantial reforms to Medicaid law and the ability of states to design Medicaid programs. Any changes, if enacted, could reduce or eliminate eligibility for certain individuals or reduce payments to providers of services. As a result, we could experience an increase in the number of uninsured patients and delayed or reduced Medicaid payment for services furnished to program enrollees.

Previous wording

In late 2020, Congress enacted legislation intended to protect patients from “surprise” medical bills when services are furnished by providers who are not in network with the patient’s insurer (the “No Surprises Act” or the NSA). Effective January 1, 2022, if the patient’s insurance plan is subject to the NSA, providers are not permitted to send patients an unexpected or “surprise” medical bill that arises from out-of-network emergency care provided at certain out-of-network facilities or at certain in-network facilities by out-of-network emergency providers, as well as out-of-network nonemergency care provided at certain in-network facilities without the patient’s informed consent. Many states have legislation on this topic and will continue to modify and review their laws pertaining to surprise billing.

Current wording

In late 2020, Congress enacted legislation intended to protect patients from “surprise” medical bills when services are furnished by providers who are not in network with the patient’s insurer (the “No Surprises Act” or the "NSA"). Effective January 1, 2022, if a patient’s insurance plan is subject to the NSA, the patient generally may not be balance billed in excess of their plan’s in-network cost-sharing amount for the provision of emergency care rendered by an out-of-network provider at certain in-network or out-of-network facilities. The NSA also prohibits an out-of-network provider from balance billing a patient for the provision of non-emergency services rendered in connection with a patient’s visit at certain in-network facilities, unless, for certain services, the patient is notified in advance and provides consent to being balance billed in accordance with technical requirements set forth in the NSA. Notably, however, there are certain services for which a balance billing is always prohibited and consent to do so may never be obtained, including emergency, anesthesia, pathology, radiology, laboratory, and neonatology services. Providers that violate these surprise billing prohibitions may be subject to enforcement action by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) or by states, one or both of which may be tasked with investigating potential non-compliance as a result of patient complaints, as well as federal civil monetary penalties and any state-specific penalties. To that end, many states have similar legislation on this topic that continue to evolve.

Previous wording

For claims subject to the NSA, including many emergency care services, out of network providers are paid an amount determined by the patient’s insurer; if a provider is not satisfied with the amount paid for the services, the provider can pursue recourse through an independent dispute resolution (“IDR”) process. The outcome of each IDR dispute is generally binding on both the provider and payor with respect to the particular claims at issue in that dispute but may not affect an insurer’s future offers of payment. The interim final rules establishing the IDR process were subject to legal challenges that resulted in the Eastern District of Texas vacating certain provisions of such rules and related guidance documents in August 2023. In response, on December 18, 2023, CMS issued a final rule that included new provisions governing payments associated with the IDR process.

Current wording

For claims subject to the NSA, including many emergency care services, out-of-network providers (and facilities, in the emergency care context) are paid an initial payment by the plan. If a provider (or facility, in the emergency care context) receives a payment denial or is unsatisfied with the out-of-network rate paid by the plan and the parties are unable to resolve the dispute, either party can initiate an Independent Dispute Resolution (“IDR”) process, which is essentially an arbitration process whereby a certified IDR entity evaluates proposed offers from both the provider/facility and the plan and makes a determination based on several factors, including, but not limited to, the QPA. The outcome of each IDR dispute is generally binding on both the provider/facility and plan with respect to the particular claims at issue in that dispute but may not affect an insurer’s future offers of payment. The NSA interim final rules establishing the IDR process have been subject to a series of legal challenges that resulted in the Eastern District of Texas vacating certain provisions of such rules and related guidance documents in 2023, with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals affirming several of these holdings. In October 2023, CMS issued a proposed rule that included new provisions governing the IDR process. That and other rulemaking remains ongoing, and litigation related to the QPA also remains ongoing.

Previous wording

These measures could limit the amount we can charge and recover for services we furnish where we have not contracted with the patient’s insurer, and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Moreover, these measures could affect our ability to contract with certain payors and under historically similar terms and may cause, and the prospect of these changes may have caused, payors to terminate their contracts with us and our affiliated practices, further affecting our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

The NSA balance billing prohibitions, coupled with the complexity and uncertainty of the IDR process, could limit the amount Pediatrix can charge and recover for items and services we furnish where we have not contracted with the patient’s insurer, and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Moreover, these measures could affect our ability to contract with certain payors under historically similar terms and may cause (and the prospect of these changes may have caused) payors to terminate their contracts with us and our affiliated physician practices, further affecting our business, financial condition, operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Under the NSA, patients are required to be charged no more than the in-network cost-sharing amount. Certain providers, including Pediatrix, are required to develop and disclose a “Good Faith Estimate” (“GFE”) that details the expected charges for furnishing an item or service to an uninsured or self-pay patient. The GFE will be required to include certain specific information such as, among other things, co-provider service cost estimates, and is subject to certain format, availability and dispute resolution requirements. Insurers are required to calculate the patient’s total cost-sharing amount pursuant to rules set forth in the NSA and its implementing regulations which, in some cases, can be calculated by reference to the applicable qualifying payment amount for the items or services received. Patient cost-sharing amounts for items and services subject to the NSA count toward the patient’s health plan deductible and out-of-pocket cost-sharing limits. For claims subject to the NSA, providers are generally not permitted to balance bill patients beyond this cost-sharing amount. An out-of-network provider is only permitted to bill a patient more than the cost-sharing amount allowed under the NSA for certain types of services if the provider satisfies all aspects of an informed consent process set forth in the NSA’s implementing regulations. Providers that violate these surprise billing prohibitions may be subject to state enforcement action or federal civil monetary penalties. The impact of the GFE requirements on the Company remains uncertain at this time, in part due to ongoing rulemaking around the NSA, as well as the delayed effective date of certain provisions of the GFE framework, uncertainty around operational timeframes, potential penalties and patient reaction, among other things.

Current wording

In addition to the balance billing prohibitions, the NSA also requires certain providers, including Pediatrix, and facilities, to develop and furnish a “Good Faith Estimate” (“GFE”) to individuals that details the expected charges for a scheduled item or service (although this requirement is currently only being partially enforced with respect to self-pay or uninsured patients). The GFE must include certain specific information such as, among other things, a detailed list of all items/services to be furnished and the amount the patient should be expected to pay for those items/services (which should not ultimately exceed $400 more than the estimated amount set forth on the GFE, or else patients can enter a designated arbitration process with the provider) and co-provider and co-facility cost estimates (though this requirement has not yet become enforceable). The GFE is also subject to certain highly technical formatting, timing, and dispute resolution requirements. The impact of the GFE requirements on the Company remains uncertain at this time, in part due to ongoing rulemaking around the NSA, as well as the delayed effective date of certain provisions of the GFE framework (as noted above related to co-providers and co-facilities and patients other than self-pay and uninsured), uncertainty around operational timeframes, potential penalties and patient reaction, among other things.

Previous wording

Additionally, the new federal law, as well as some of the existing state laws, require providers to make certain disclosures about these protections, as well as disclosures about expected charges. These requirements impose administrative burdens that could increase our cost of doing business and expose us to compliance risk.

Current wording

Additionally, the NSA, as well as some of existing state laws, require providers and facilities to make certain disclosures and post certain signage advising patients of their rights under the NSA, as well as disclosures about expected charges (when seeking consent to balance bill or when furnishing a GFE). These requirements impose administrative burdens that could increase our cost of doing business and expose us to compliance risk.

Previous wording

In recent years, legislative and regulatory changes have resulted in limitations and reductions in payments to healthcare providers for certain services under the Medicare program. For example, Congress established automatic spending reductions under the Budget Control Act of 2011 (the “BCA”), resulting in a 2% reduction in Medicare payments that began in 2013 and extend through the first six months of the FY 2032 sequestration order. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, this reduction was temporarily suspended from May 1, 2020 through March 31, 2022, with subsequent reductions to 1% from April 1, 2022 until June 30, 2022. The 2% reduction was then reinstated and has been in effect since June 30, 2022. In addition, as a result of ARPA, an additional Medicare payment reduction of up to 4% was requested to take effect in January 2022; however, Congress has delayed implementation of this reduction until 2025. Any adjustment in Medicare reimbursement rates may have a detrimental impact on our reimbursement rates not only for Medicare patients, but also for patients covered under Medicaid and other third-party payors, because a state’s Medicaid payments cannot exceed the payments it would have made had those patients been enrolled in traditional Medicare, and other third-party payors often base their reimbursement rates on a percentage of Medicare rates. It is difficult to predict whether, when or what other deficit reduction initiatives may be proposed by Congress. We anticipate that the federal deficit will continue to place pressures on GHC Programs.

Current wording

In recent years, legislative and regulatory changes have resulted in limitations and reductions in payments to healthcare providers for certain services under the Medicare program. For example, Congress established automatic spending reductions under the Budget Control Act of 2011 (the “BCA”), resulting in a 2% reduction in Medicare payments that began in 2013 and extend through the first six months of the FY 2032 sequestration order. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, this reduction was temporarily suspended from May 1, 2020 through March 31, 2022, with subsequent reductions to 1% from April 1, 2022 until June 30, 2022. The 2% reduction was then reinstated and has been in effect since June 30, 2022. In addition, as a result of ARPA, an additional Medicare payment reduction of up to 4% was to take effect in January 2022; however, Congress delayed implementation of this reduction until 2025. Any downward adjustment in Medicare reimbursement rates may have a detrimental impact on our reimbursement rates not only for Medicare patients, but also for patients covered under Medicaid and other third-party payors, because a state’s Medicaid payments cannot exceed the payments it would have made had those patients been enrolled in traditional Medicare, and other third-party payors often base their reimbursement rates on a percentage of Medicare rates. It is difficult to predict whether, when or what other deficit reduction initiatives may be proposed by Congress. We anticipate that the federal deficit will continue to place pressures on GHC Programs.

Previous wording

Our business may also be materially affected by limitations on, or reductions in, reimbursement amounts or rates or elimination of coverage for certain individuals or treatments. Our business may also be materially affected by changes in medical codes for services that our affiliated clinicians provide if services under a new code are reimbursed at a lower rate. For example, the medical code for certain of our hearing screen services was recently changed by CMS to a code that could provide for lower reimbursement rates. While we have not yet experienced any material decrease in reimbursement rates as a result of this coding change, we are still evaluating the result of this change on our hearing screen contracts and ultimate effect of this coding change is not known at this time. Moreover, because government-funded programs generally provide for reimbursements on a fee-schedule basis rather than on a charge-related basis, we generally cannot increase our revenue from these programs through increases in the amount we charge for our services. To the extent our costs increase, we may not be able to recover our increased costs from these programs, and cost containment measures and market changes in non-government-funded insurance plans have generally restricted our ability to recover, or shift to non-governmental payors, these increased costs. In addition, funds we receive from third-party payors are subject to audit with respect to the proper billing for physician and ancillary services and, accordingly, our revenue from these programs may be adjusted retroactively. Any retroactive adjustments to our reimbursement amounts could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

Our business may also be materially affected by limitations on, or reductions in, reimbursement amounts or rates or elimination of coverage for certain individuals or treatments. Our business may also be materially affected by changes in medical codes for services that our affiliated clinicians provide if services under a new code are reimbursed at a lower rate. Moreover, because government-funded programs generally provide for reimbursements on a fee-schedule basis rather than on a charge-related basis, we generally cannot increase our revenue from these programs through increases in the amount we charge for our services. To the extent our costs increase, we may not be able to recover our increased costs from these programs, and cost containment measures and market changes in non-government-funded insurance plans have generally restricted our ability to recover, or shift to non-governmental payors, these increased costs. In addition, funds we receive from third-party payors are subject to audit with respect to the proper billing for physician and ancillary services and, accordingly, our revenue from these programs may be adjusted retroactively. Any retroactive adjustments to our reimbursement amounts could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Adverse economic developments in the United States could lead to a reduction in federal government expenditures, including GHC Programs in which we participate, such as Medicare and Medicaid. In addition, if at any time the federal government is not able to meet its debt payments unless the federal debt ceiling is raised, and legislation increasing the debt ceiling is not enacted, the federal government may stop or delay making payments on its obligations, including funding for government programs in which we participate, such as Medicare and Medicaid. Failure of the government to make payments under these programs could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Further, if a federal government shutdown were to occur for a prolonged period of time, federal government payment obligations, including its obligations under Medicare and Medicaid, may be delayed. Similarly, if state government shutdowns were to occur, state payment obligations may be delayed. If the federal or state governments fail to make payments under these programs on a timely basis, our business could suffer, and our financial position, results of operations or cash flows may be materially affected.

Current wording

Adverse economic developments in the United States could lead to a reduction in federal government expenditures, including GHC Programs in which we participate, primarily Medicaid. In addition, if at any time the federal government is not able to meet its debt payments unless the federal debt ceiling is raised, and legislation increasing the debt ceiling is not enacted, the federal government may stop or delay making payments on its obligations, including funding for government programs in which we participate, primarily Medicaid. Failure of the government to make payments under these programs could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Further, if a federal government shutdown were to occur for a prolonged period of time, federal government payment obligations, including its obligations under Medicare and Medicaid, may be delayed. Similarly, if state government shutdowns were to occur, state payment obligations may be delayed. If the federal or state governments fail to make payments under these programs on a timely basis, our business could suffer, and our financial position, results of operations or cash flows may be materially affected.

Previous wording

We may become subject to billing investigations by federal and state government authorities and private insurers, and government authorities may determine that we have failed to comply with applicable laws, rules or regulations.

Current wording

We may become subject to billing investigations by federal and state government authorities and private insurers.

Previous wording

We may in the future become the subject of regulatory or other investigations, audits or proceedings, and our interpretations of applicable laws, rules and regulations may be challenged, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. For example, in some states, we are dependent on our relationship with affiliated practices, which we do not own, to provide physician and other clinical services, and our business would be adversely affected if those relationships were disrupted or if our arrangements with our providers are found to violate state laws prohibiting the corporate practice of medicine or fee splitting, or if our contractual relationships with such entities cease to continue. Our contracts include management services agreements among other agreements with such affiliated practices, to which these practices reserve exclusive control and responsibility for all aspects of the practice of medicine and delivery of medical services. While we seek to substantially comply with the applicable state prohibitions on the corporate practice of medicine and fee splitting, these laws could impact our business operations, and state officials who administer these laws or other third parties may successfully challenge our contractual arrangements, which could subject us to civil and criminal penalties and require us to restructure our relationships with providers to comply with these statutes, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operations. Additionally, state corporate practice of medicine doctrines often impose penalties on physicians themselves for aiding the corporate practice of medicine, which could impact physicians participating with our affiliated practices. See Item 1. Business—“Government Regulation—Fee Splitting; Corporate Practice of Medicine.”

Current wording

We may in the future become the subject of regulatory or other investigations, audits or proceedings, and our interpretations of applicable laws, rules and regulations may be challenged, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. For example, in some states, we are dependent on our relationship with affiliated physician practices, which we do not own, to provide physician and other clinical services, and our business would be adversely affected if those relationships were disrupted or if our arrangements with our providers are found to violate state laws prohibiting the corporate practice of medicine or fee splitting, or if our contractual relationships with such entities cease to continue. Our contracts include management services agreements among other agreements with such affiliated physician practices, to which these practices reserve exclusive control and responsibility for all aspects of the practice of medicine and delivery of medical services. While we seek to substantially comply with the applicable state prohibitions on the corporate practice of medicine and fee splitting, these laws could impact our business operations, and state officials who administer these laws or other third parties may successfully challenge our contractual arrangements, which could subject us to civil and criminal penalties and require us to restructure our relationships with providers to comply with these statutes, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and operations. Additionally, state corporate practice of medicine doctrines often impose penalties on physicians themselves for aiding the corporate practice of medicine, which could impact physicians participating with our affiliated physician practices. See Item 1. Business—“Government Regulation—Fee Splitting; Corporate Practice of Medicine.”

Previous wording

Further, regulatory authorities or other parties also could assert that our relationships, including fee arrangements, among our affiliated professional contractors, hospital clients or referring physicians violate the anti-kickback, fee splitting, EKRA, or self-referral laws and regulations or that we have submitted false claims or otherwise failed to comply with government program reimbursement requirements. See Item 1. Business—“Government Regulation—Fraud and Abuse Provisions” and “—Government Regulatory Requirements.” In addition, violations of these laws are punishable by monetary fines, civil and criminal penalties, exclusion from participation in GHC Programs, and forfeiture of amounts collected in violation of such laws and regulations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Additionally, federal and state fraud and abuse laws, rules and regulations are not static and amendments, clarifications, revisions, or other modifications to these laws may occur from time to time. For instance, on December 2, 2020, both CMS and OIG issued Final Rules revising the federal anti-kickback statute, the CMPL, EKRA, and the Stark Law regulations to foster arrangements that would promote care coordination, advance the delivery of value-based care, and protect consumers from harms caused by fraud and abuse through additional new statutory definitions, safe harbors, and exceptions. Compliance with federal fraud and abuse laws such as the anti-kickback statute, the CMPL, and the Stark Law involves constant monitoring for regulatory changes, agency and court interpretations, and revisiting of arrangements based on new interpretations or clarifications, all of which will require ongoing compliance costs. In addition, these laws and their exceptions and safe harbors are complex and clear interpretations are not always available. Despite our efforts to comply, we cannot guarantee that a government agency will necessarily agree with our interpretations or that one or more of our arrangements will not be subject to challenge, nor can we provide any assurance that they will not have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

Further, regulatory authorities or other parties also could assert that our relationships, including fee arrangements, among our affiliated professional contractors, hospital clients or referring physicians violate the anti-kickback, fee splitting, EKRA, or self-referral laws and regulations or that we have submitted false claims or otherwise failed to comply with government program reimbursement requirements. See Item 1. Business—“Government Regulation—Fraud and Abuse Provisions” and “—Government Regulatory Requirements.” In addition, violations of these laws are punishable by monetary fines, civil and criminal penalties, exclusion from participation in GHC Programs, and forfeiture of amounts collected in violation of such laws and regulations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Additionally, federal and state fraud and abuse laws, rules and regulations are not static and amendments, clarifications, revisions, or other modifications to these laws may occur from time to time. For instance, on December 2, 2020, both CMS and OIG issued Final Rules revising the federal anti-kickback statute, the CMPL, and the Stark Law regulations to foster arrangements that would promote care coordination, advance the delivery of value-based care, and protect consumers from harms caused by fraud and abuse through additional new statutory definitions, safe harbors, and exceptions. Compliance with federal fraud and abuse laws such as the anti-kickback statute, the CMPL, and the Stark Law involves constant monitoring for regulatory changes, agency and court interpretations, and revisiting of arrangements based on new interpretations or clarifications, all of which will require ongoing compliance costs. In addition, these laws and their exceptions and safe harbors are complex and clear interpretations are not always available. Despite our efforts to comply, we cannot guarantee that a government agency will necessarily agree with our interpretations or that one or more of our arrangements will not be subject to challenge, nor can we provide any assurance that they will not have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

The healthcare industry is subject to close antitrust scrutiny. The FTC, the Antitrust Division of the DOJ and state Attorneys General all actively review and, in some cases, take enforcement action against businesses, particularly in the healthcare industry, and can also bring antitrust suits. Violations of antitrust laws may be punishable by substantial penalties, including significant monetary fines and treble damages, civil penalties, criminal sanctions, and consent decrees and injunctions prohibiting certain activities or requiring divestiture or discontinuance of business operations. Any of these penalties could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

The healthcare industry is subject to close antitrust scrutiny. The FTC, the Antitrust Division of the DOJ and state Attorneys General all actively review and, in some cases, take enforcement action against businesses, particularly in the healthcare industry. Private parties can also bring antitrust suits. Violations of antitrust laws may be punishable by substantial penalties, including significant monetary fines and treble damages, civil penalties, criminal sanctions, and consent decrees and injunctions prohibiting certain activities or requiring divestiture or discontinuance of business operations. Any of these penalties could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Programs and in private insurance, and for appropriately recording and documenting the services that they provide. We use this information to seek reimbursement for their services from third-party payors. In addition, we utilize third-party contractors to perform certain revenue cycle management functions for healthcare providers, including medical coding. If our affiliated physicians or other individual providers and third-party contractors do not appropriately document, or where applicable, code for their services or our customers’ services, we could be subjected to administrative, regulatory, civil, or criminal investigations or sanctions and our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. We are further obligated under the federal FCA to timely report and return any identified overpayments and to maintain reasonable internal audit mechanisms to identify overpayments. Failure to timely report and return overpayments to Medicare or Medicaid could subject us to liability under the federal FCA, and also equivalent false claims acts on the state level.

Current wording

Our affiliated physicians and other individual providers are responsible for maintaining all required professional licensures or certifications in good standing, which is generally a condition of reimbursement in GHC Programs and in private insurance, and for appropriately recording and documenting the services that they provide. We use this information to seek reimbursement for their services from third-party payors. In addition, we utilize third-party contractors to perform certain revenue cycle management functions for healthcare providers, including medical coding. If our affiliated physicians or other individual providers and third-party contractors do not appropriately document, or where applicable, code for their services or our customers’ services, we could be subjected to administrative, regulatory, civil, or criminal investigations or sanctions and our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. We are further obligated under the federal overpayment statute and FCA to timely report and return any identified overpayments and to maintain reasonable internal audit mechanisms to identify overpayments. Failure to timely report and return overpayments to Medicare or Medicaid could subject us to liability under the federal FCA, and also equivalent false claims acts on the state level.

Previous wording

Following the termination of the Services Agreement, we are undertaking a transformation of our revenue cycle management function from R1RCM, as an outsourced provider, to a hybrid function that utilizes both our corporate personnel as well as one or more third-party service providers that we intend to engage to support these activities. The success of this plan depends, in part, on our ability to scale our internal operations to handle certain revenue cycle management functions internally, to engage one or more third-party service providers to handle other revenue cycle management functions, and to integrate those service providers with our systems in a timely and efficient manner. If we are not able to successfully achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of this transformation may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected. These activities may be complex and time consuming and involve delays or additional and unforeseen expenses. The process of transitioning to these third-party service providers, the integration process and other disruptions may also disrupt our ongoing businesses or cause inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that could adversely affect our relationships with payors, patients, hospitals and others. The transformation may entail significant management and staff personnel time and a complicated phase-in process, where difficulties in training personnel in new technology can frequently occur. In connection with the transformation of our revenue cycle management function, we could experience a further reduction in revenue due to delays in collection efforts or the inability to collect from patients or third-party payors, claim denials, recoupments, or governmental and third-party audits, all of which may impact our profitability and cash flow. Further, the costs associated with the transformation of our revenue cycle management function, as well as the additional costs and risks associated with any operational problems, delays in collections from payors, and errors and control issues during the termination and transition process, may impact our ability to realize the intended benefits from transforming our revenue cycle management function and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

We undertook a transformation of our revenue cycle management function from an outsourced provider to a hybrid function that utilizes both our corporate personnel as well as third-party service providers that we engaged to support these activities. The success of this plan depends, in part, on our ability for our internal operations to handle certain revenue cycle management functions internally and to integrate the third-party service providers that we have engaged with our systems in a timely and efficient manner. If we are not able to successfully achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of this transformation may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected. These activities may be complex and time consuming and involve delays or additional and unforeseen expenses. In connection with this hybrid revenue cycle management function, we could experience a further reduction in revenue due to delays in collection efforts or the inability to collect from patients or third-party payors, claim denials, recoupments, or governmental and third-party audits, all of which may impact our profitability and cash flow. Further, the costs associated with any operational problems, delays in collections from payors, and errors and control issues may impact our ability to realize the intended benefits from this transformation and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

Outsourcing internal business functions has significant risks, and our failure to manage these risks successfully could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

We currently outsource, and from time to time in the future may outsource, a portion of our internal business functions to third-party providers. Outsourcing these functions has significant risks, and our failure to successfully manage these risks could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

We currently, and from time to time in the future may, outsource portions of internal business functions, including our revenue cycle management functions, to third-party service providers. These functions are performed both domestically and in offshore locations, with our oversight. If our outsourcing partners fail to perform their obligations in a timely manner at satisfactory quality levels, in compliance with regulatory requirements, or if they are unable to attract or retain sufficient personnel with the necessary skill sets to meet our outsourcing needs, the efficiency, effectiveness and quality of our services could suffer. Reliance on third-party providers could have significant negative consequences, including significant disruptions in our operations and significantly increased costs to undertake such operations, either of which could damage our relationships with our patients and customers. In connection with the transition of our revenue cycle management function, we have and could experience a further reduction in revenue due to delays in collection efforts or the inability to collect from patients or third-party payors, claim denials, recoupments, or governmental and third-party audits, all of which have and may further impact our profitability and cash flow. In addition, our reliance on a workforce in other countries exposes us to disruptions in the business, political and economic environment in those regions. Further, any changes to existing laws or the enactment of new legislation restricting offshore outsourcing in the United States may adversely affect our ability to outsource functions to third-party offshore service providers. Our ability to manage any difficulties encountered could be largely outside of our control. In addition, federal government and third-party payors may have prohibitions or restrictions on the use of third-party service providers outside of the United States and/or require notice for the use of such third-party service providers. Diminished service quality from outsourcing, our inability to utilize offshore service providers or the failure to comply with restrictions on the use of third-party service providers could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

For example, our results of operations were previously negatively impacted by the performance of a third-party provider we used in connection with our revenue cycle management function, leading to our decision to transform our revenue cycle management function. In connection with the previous transition of our revenue cycle management function, we experienced a reduction in revenue due to delays in collection efforts or the inability to collect from patients or third-party payors, claim denials, recoupments, or governmental and third-party audits, all of which impacted our profitability and cash flow. The current or any future transitions in connection with our revenue cycle management function may have similar impacts on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, our reliance on a workforce in other countries exposes us to disruptions in the business, political and economic environment in those regions. Further, any changes to existing laws or the enactment of new legislation restricting offshore outsourcing in the United States, or increasing the cost of using offshore services may adversely affect our ability to outsource functions to third-party offshore service providers. Our ability to manage any difficulties encountered could be largely outside of our control. In addition, federal government and third-party payors may have prohibitions or restrictions on the use of third-party service providers outside of the United States and/or require notice for the use of such third-party service providers. Diminished service quality from outsourcing, our inability to utilize offshore service providers or the failure to comply with restrictions on the use of third-party service providers could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

We have expanded and continue to seek to expand our presence in new and existing metropolitan areas by acquiring established physician group practices. Also, both independently and in collaboration with our hospital partners, we may seek to expand into new specialties and subspecialties. In addition, we have acquired physician and other healthcare services companies that are complementary to our physician practices.

Current wording

We have expanded and continue to seek to expand our presence in new and existing metropolitan areas by acquiring established physician group practices. Our acquisition strategy involves numerous risks and uncertainties, including:

Previous wording

Acquisitions of practices and services companies could entail financial and operating risks not fully anticipated. Such acquisitions could divert management's attention and our resources.

Current wording

Acquisitions of practices could entail financial and operating risks not fully anticipated. Such acquisitions could divert management's attention and our resources.

Previous wording

If we are not successful in integrating an acquisition, we may decide to dispose of such acquisition and may do so at a loss or record impairments in connection with such a disposition, such as in our disposition of our anesthesiology and radiology medical groups in 2020.

Current wording

If we are not successful in integrating an acquisition, we may decide to dispose of such acquisition and may do so at a loss or record impairments in connection with such a disposition.

Previous wording

We may not be able to expand the services that our affiliated physicians provide to our hospital partners or the services provided by our services companies to their customers.

Current wording

We may not be able to expand the services that our affiliated physicians provide to our hospital partners.

Previous wording

We may not be able to work with our hospital partners to develop integrated services programs for which we become a multi-specialty provider of solutions within the maternal-fetal, newborn, pediatric continuum of care.

Current wording

We may not be able to work with our hospital partners to develop integrated services programs for which we become a multi-specialty provider of solutions within the maternal-fetal, newborn and pediatric continuum of care.

Previous wording

We are dependent upon our key management personnel for our future success.

Current wording

We are dependent upon our key management personnel for our future success and loss of our key management and other personnel or an inability to attract new management and other personnel could impact our business.

Previous wording

Our success depends to a significant extent on the continued contributions of our key management personnel for the management of our business and implementation of our business strategy. Any losses of or changes in key management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

Our success depends to a significant extent on the continued contributions of our key management personnel for the management of our business and implementation of our business strategy. We experienced significant management turnover in 2024 and the further loss of or changes in key management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities. Management transition is often difficult and inherently causes some loss of institutional knowledge and a learning curve for new executives, which could negatively affect our results of operations and financial condition. Our ability to execute our business strategies may be adversely affected by the uncertainty associated with any such transition, and the time and attention from the board and management needed to fill vacant roles and train new employees could disrupt our business. Competition is intense for qualified employees, and the loss of qualified employees or an inability to attract, retain and motivate additional highly skilled employees required for the operation and growth of our business could hinder our ability to successfully carry out our strategy.

Previous wording

The carrying value of our intangible assets, which consists primarily of goodwill related to our acquisitions, is subject to testing at least annually, and more frequently if impairment indicators exist. Under current accounting standards, goodwill is tested for impairment on at least an annual basis and more frequently if impairment indicators exist, and we have been subject to impairment losses as circumstances have changed after acquisition. For example, during the fourth quarter of 2023, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $148.3 million. If we record additional impairment losses related to our goodwill in the future, it could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Current wording

The carrying value of our intangible assets, which consists primarily of goodwill related to our acquisitions, is subject to testing at least annually, and more frequently if impairment indicators exist. Under current accounting standards, goodwill is tested for impairment on at least an annual basis and more frequently if impairment indicators exist, and we have been subject to impairment losses as circumstances have changed after acquisition. For example, during 2024, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $150.6 million. If we record additional impairment losses related to our goodwill in the future, it could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our net revenue is derived from reimbursements from various third-party payors, including GHC Programs, private insurance plans and managed care plans, for services provided by our affiliated professional contractors. We are responsible for submitting reimbursement requests to these payors and collecting the reimbursements, and we assume the financial risks relating to uncollectible and delayed reimbursements. In the current healthcare environment, payors continue efforts to control expenditures for healthcare, including revisions to coverage and reimbursement policies. Due to the nature of our business and our participation in government-funded and private reimbursement programs, we are involved from time to time in inquiries, reviews, audits and investigations by governmental agencies and private payors of our business practices, including assessments of our compliance with coding, billing and documentation requirements. We may be required to repay these agencies or private payors if a finding is made that we were incorrectly reimbursed within a certain time period, or we may become involved in disputes with payors and could be subjected to pre-payment and post-payment reviews, which can be time-consuming and result in non-payment or delayed payment for the services we provide. We may also experience difficulties in collecting reimbursements because third-party payors may seek to reduce or delay reimbursements to which we are entitled for services that our affiliated physicians have provided, they experience administrative issues that result in a delay in reimbursements, or pursuant to binding arbitration proceedings for out-of-network items or services. In addition, GHC Programs may deny or revoke our application to become a participating provider if we do not disclose certain events relating to our affiliates or for other reasons that could cause us to not be able to provide services to patients or prohibit us from billing for such services. GHC Programs may also suspend our payments pending an audit or investigation, which could last for an extended period of time. If we are not reimbursed fully or in a timely manner for such services or there is a finding that we were incorrectly reimbursed, our revenue, cash flows and financial condition could be materially, adversely affected. In addition, we may choose to challenge certain GHC reimbursement decisions through administrative appeal mechanisms. Any backlog in appeals may further affect our ability to collect reimbursement for services rendered.

Current wording

A significant portion of our net revenue is derived from reimbursements from various third-party payors, including GHC Programs, private insurance plans and managed care plans, for services provided by our affiliated professional contractors. We are responsible for submitting reimbursement requests to these payors and collecting the reimbursements, and we assume the financial risks relating to uncollectible and delayed reimbursements. In the current healthcare environment, payors continue efforts to control expenditures for healthcare, including revisions to coverage and reimbursement policies. Due to the nature of our business and our participation in government-funded and private reimbursement programs, we are involved from time to time in inquiries, reviews, audits and investigations by governmental agencies and private payors of our business practices, including assessments of our compliance with coding, billing and documentation requirements. We may be required to repay these agencies or private payors if a finding is made that we were incorrectly reimbursed within a certain time period, or we may become involved in disputes with payors and could be subjected to pre-payment and post-payment reviews, which can be time-consuming and result in non-payment or delayed payment for the services we provide. We may also experience difficulties in collecting reimbursements because third-party payors may seek to reduce or delay reimbursements to which we are entitled for services that our affiliated physicians have provided, they experience administrative issues that result in a delay in reimbursements, or pursuant to binding arbitration proceedings for out-of-network items or services. Further, GHC Programs, private insurance plans and managed care plans are increasingly requiring that services we provide be reviewed and approved prior to provision of such services. These prior authorization reviews increase our administrative costs and delay payments, which materially impact our business. In addition, GHC Programs may deny or revoke our application to become a participating provider if we do not disclose certain events relating to our affiliates or for other reasons that could cause us to not be able to provide services to patients or prohibit us from billing for such services. GHC Programs may also suspend our payments pending an audit or investigation, which could last for an extended period of time. If we are not reimbursed fully or in a timely manner for such services or there is a finding that we were incorrectly reimbursed, our revenue, cash flows and financial condition could be materially, adversely affected. In addition, we may choose to challenge certain GHC reimbursement decisions through administrative appeal mechanisms. Any backlog in appeals may further affect our ability to collect reimbursement for services rendered.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our total indebtedness was $628.1 million, of which $400.0 million was at fixed interest rates and $228.1 million was at variable rates. We also had $450.0 million of additional borrowing capacity under our revolving line of credit which was subject to a variable interest rate. Other debt we incur also could be variable rate debt. In addition, United States tax law places certain limitations on the deductibility of interest expense at a percentage of taxable income. If interest rates continue to increase, any variable rate debt will create higher debt service requirements, and if interest expense increases beyond a specified percentage of taxable income, a portion of that interest expense may not be deductible for income tax purposes, which could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our total indebtedness was $615.6 million, of which $400.0 million was at fixed interest rates and $215.6 million was at variable rates. We also had $450.0 million of additional borrowing capacity under our revolving line of credit which was subject to a variable interest rate. Other debt we incur also could be variable rate debt. In addition, United States tax law places certain limitations on the deductibility of interest expense at a percentage of taxable income. If interest rates continue to increase, any variable rate debt will create higher debt service requirements, and if interest expense increases beyond a specified percentage of taxable income, a portion of that interest expense may not be deductible for income tax purposes, which could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

We are dependent upon our ability to recruit and retain a sufficient number of qualified physicians and other clinicians and other personnel to service existing units at hospitals and our affiliated practices and expand our business. We compete with many types of healthcare providers, including teaching, research and government institutions, hospitals and health systems and other practice and services groups, for the services of qualified clinicians. The U.S. is currently experiencing and is expected to continue to experience a nationwide healthcare professional shortage. Due to this increased exit from healthcare practice and lack of sufficient new talent to replace them, our recruiting efforts have become increasingly more competitive. We may not be able to continue to recruit new clinicians or other personnel or renew contracts with existing clinicians or other personnel on acceptable terms. We have and may seek to renew clinician contracts prior to their existing renewal date for various reasons, including to move clinicians to a different compensation structure. We may not be successful in these early renewal efforts, and further, clinical compensation may increase as a result of incremental compensation incentives that may be required by clinicians to agree to the change in compensation structure. In addition, the recruiting and onboarding process for certain of our physicians and other clinicians can take several months, or longer, to complete due to various requirements, including state licensing and hospital credentialing. Further, if the demand exceeds the supply for physicians and other clinicians and personnel either in general or in specific markets, we could experience an increase in compensation expense, including premium pay and agency labor costs. If we are unable to recruit new physicians, renew contracts on acceptable terms or onboard physicians, clinicians and other personnel in a reasonable period of time, our ability to service existing or new hospital units and staff existing or new office-based practices could be adversely affected. In addition, if we experience a higher rate of growth in compensation expense, our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities could be adversely affected.

Current wording

We are dependent upon our ability to recruit and retain a sufficient number of qualified physicians and other clinicians and other personnel to service existing units at hospitals and our affiliated physician practices and expand our business. We compete with many types of healthcare providers, including teaching, research and government institutions, hospitals and health systems and other practice and services groups, for the services of qualified clinicians. The U.S. is currently experiencing and is expected to continue to experience a nationwide healthcare professional shortage. Due to this increased exit from healthcare practice and lack of sufficient new talent to replace them, our recruiting efforts have become increasingly more competitive. We may not be able to continue to recruit new clinicians or other personnel or renew contracts with existing clinicians or other personnel on acceptable terms. We have and may seek to renew clinician contracts prior to their existing renewal date for various reasons, including to move clinicians to a different compensation structure. We may not be successful in these early renewal efforts, and further, clinical compensation may increase as a result of incremental compensation incentives that may be required by clinicians to agree to the change in compensation structure. In addition, the recruiting and onboarding process for certain of our physicians and other clinicians can take several months, or longer, to complete due to various requirements, including state licensing and hospital credentialing. Further, if the demand exceeds the supply for physicians and other clinicians and personnel either in general or in specific markets, we could experience an increase in compensation expense, including premium pay and agency labor costs. If we are unable to recruit new physicians, renew contracts on acceptable terms or onboard physicians, clinicians and other personnel in a reasonable period of time, our ability to service existing or new hospital units and staff existing or new office-based practices could be adversely affected. In addition, if we experience a higher rate of growth in compensation expense, our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and the trading price of our securities could be adversely affected.