ANTIFRAUD AND ABUSE LAWS A number of federal statutes, and the regulations implementing them, govern our participation in the Medicare and Medicaid payment programs, including: • the anti‑kickback and antifraud and abuse amendments codified under Section 1128B(b) of the Social Security Act (the “Anti‑kickback Statute”), which prohibit the knowing and willful remuneration of anything of value intended to induce or reward patient referrals or the generation of business involving any item or service payable by federal healthcare programs, subject to certain government-established “safe harbor” exceptions; • the False Claims Act (“FCA”), which prohibits the submission of claims for payment to government programs that are known to be, or should be known to be, fraudulent; • the Stark law, which generally restricts physician referrals of Medicare or Medicaid patients to entities the physician or an immediate family member has a financial relationship with, regardless of any intent to violate the law, unless one of several exceptions applies; and 10 Table of Contents • the Civil Monetary Penalties Law, which authorizes the Secretary of the U.S.
ANTIFRAUD AND ABUSE LAWS A number of federal statutes, and the regulations implementing them, govern our participation in the Medicare and Medicaid payment programs, including: • the anti‑kickback and antifraud and abuse amendments codified under Section 1128B(b) of the Social Security Act (the “Anti‑kickback Statute”), which prohibit the knowing and willful remuneration of anything of value intended to induce or reward patient referrals or the generation of business involving any item or service payable by federal healthcare programs, subject to certain government-established “safe harbor” exceptions; • the False Claims Act (“FCA”), which prohibits the submission of claims for payment to government programs that are known to be, or should be known to be, fraudulent; • the Stark law, which generally restricts physician referrals of Medicare or Medicaid patients to entities the physician or an immediate family member has a financial relationship with, regardless of any intent to violate the law, unless one of several exceptions applies; and 9 Table of Contents • the Civil Monetary Penalties Law, which authorizes the Secretary of the U.S.
Violations of federal or state antitrust laws can result in various sanctions, including criminal and civil penalties. Antitrust enforcement in the healthcare industry is a priority of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and analogous state regulatory agencies. In recent years, the FTC has filed multiple administrative complaints and public comments challenging hospital transactions in several states.
Violations of federal or state antitrust laws can result in various sanctions, including criminal and civil penalties. Antitrust enforcement in the healthcare industry is a priority of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and analogous state regulatory agencies. In recent years, the FTC has filed multiple administrative complaints and public comments challenging hospital and other healthcare transactions in several states.
We also continue to engage in contracting strategies that create shared value with payers. The market for our revenue cycle management services is also competitive. To be successful, we must respond more quickly and effectively than our competitors to new or changing opportunities, technologies, standards, regulations and client requirements.
We also continue to engage in contracting strategies that create shared value with payers and patients. The market for our revenue cycle management services is also competitive. To be successful, we must respond more quickly and effectively than our competitors to new or changing opportunities, technologies, standards, regulations and client requirements.
The initial expansion of health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act resulted in an increase in the number of patients using our facilities with either private or public program coverage and a decrease in uninsured and charity care admissions, along with reductions in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement to healthcare providers, including us.
The expansion of health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act resulted in an increase in the number of patients using our facilities with either private or public program coverage and a decrease in uninsured and charity care admissions, along with reductions in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement to healthcare providers, including us.
These agencies may initiate enforcement actions, including actions to seek restitution and monetary penalties from, or to require changes in business practices of, regulated entities. In addition, affected consumers may bring suits, including class action suits, to seek monetary remedies (including statutory damages) for violations of the federal and state provisions discussed above.
These agencies may initiate enforcement actions, including actions to seek restitution and monetary penalties from, or to require changes in business practices of, regulated entities. In addition, affected consumers may bring lawsuits, including class action suits, to seek monetary remedies (including statutory damages) for violations of the federal and state provisions discussed above.
In addition, the competitive positions of hospitals and outpatient facilities depend in large part on the number, quality, specialties, and admitting and scheduling practices of the licensed physicians who are members of the medical staffs of those facilities, as well as physicians who affiliate with and use outpatient centers as an extension of their practices.
In addition, the competitive positions of hospitals and outpatient facilities depend in part on the number, quality, specialties, and admitting and scheduling practices of the licensed physicians who are members of the medical staffs of those facilities, as well as physicians who affiliate with and use outpatient centers as an extension of their practices.
These legal and regulatory standards relate to, among other topics: ownership and operation of facilities and physician practices; licensure, certification and enrollment in government programs; the necessity and adequacy of medical care; quality of medical equipment and services; relationships with and qualifications of physicians and employees; operating conduct, policies and procedures; screening, stabilization and transfer of individuals who have emergency medical conditions; rate-setting, billing and coding for services; the preparation and filing of cost reports; the handling of overpayments; contractual arrangements; relationships with referral sources and referral recipients; privacy and security; maintenance of adequate records; construction, acquisition, expansion and closure of healthcare facilities or services; 9 Table of Contents environmental protection; compliance with fire prevention and building codes; debt collection; and communications with patients and consumers.
These legal and regulatory standards relate to, among other topics: ownership and operation of facilities and physician practices; licensure, certification and enrollment in government programs; the necessity and adequacy of medical care; quality of medical equipment and services; relationships with and qualifications of physicians and employees; operating conduct, policies and procedures; screening, stabilization and transfer of individuals who have emergency medical conditions; rate-setting, billing and coding for services; the preparation and filing of cost reports; the handling of overpayments; contractual arrangements; relationships with referral sources and referral recipients; privacy and security; maintenance of adequate records; construction, acquisition, expansion and closure of healthcare facilities or services; environmental protection; compliance with fire prevention and building codes; debt collection; and communications with patients and consumers.
From time to time, we also capitalize on opportunities to refine our portfolio of hospitals and other healthcare facilities when we believe such refinements will help us improve profitability, allocate capital more effectively in areas where we have a stronger presence, deploy proceeds on higher‑return investments across our business, enhance cash flow generation and reduce our debt, among other things.
From time to time, we also capitalize on opportunities to refine our portfolio of hospitals and other healthcare facilities when we believe such refinements will help us improve profitability, allocate capital more effectively in areas where we have a stronger presence, deploy proceeds toward higher-return investments across our business, enhance cash flow generation or reduce our debt, among other things.
At December 31, 2023, the majority of the surgical hospitals and ASCs in our Ambulatory Care segment were owned by joint ventures with physicians and/or health systems. In addition, we have contracts with physicians and non‑physician referral sources providing for a variety of financial arrangements, including employment agreements, leases and professional service contracts, such as medical director agreements.
At December 31, 2024, the majority of the surgical hospitals and ASCs in our Ambulatory Care segment were owned by joint ventures with physicians and/or health systems. In addition, we have contracts with physicians and non‑physician referral sources providing for a variety of financial arrangements, including employment agreements, leases and professional service contracts, such as medical director agreements.
All statements, other than statements of historical or present facts, that 15 Table of Contents address activities, events, outcomes, business strategies and other matters that we plan, expect, intend, assume, believe, budget, predict, forecast, project, target, estimate or anticipate (and other similar expressions) will, should or may occur in the future are forward‑looking statements, including (but not limited to) disclosures regarding (1) our future earnings, financial position, and operational and strategic initiatives, (2) developments in the healthcare industry, and (3) the anticipated impacts of economic and public health conditions on our business.
All statements, other than statements of historical or present facts, that address activities, events, outcomes, business strategies and other matters that we plan, expect, intend, assume, believe, budget, predict, forecast, project, target, estimate or anticipate (and other similar expressions) will, should or may occur in the future are forward‑looking statements, including (but not limited to) disclosures regarding (1) our future earnings, financial position, and operational and strategic initiatives, (2) developments in the healthcare industry, and (3) the anticipated impacts of economic and public health conditions on our business.
Moreover, we expect to encounter additional competition from system‑affiliated hospitals and healthcare companies, as well as health insurers and private equity companies seeking to acquire providers, in certain regions in the future. Another major factor in the competitive position of a hospital or outpatient facility is the scope of its relationships with managed care plans.
Moreover, we expect to encounter additional competition from system‑affiliated hospitals and healthcare companies, as well as health insurers and private equity companies seeking to acquire providers, in certain regions in the future. Another factor in the competitive position of a hospital or outpatient facility is the scope and terms of its relationships with managed care plans.
Our operations also generate medical waste that must be 12 Table of Contents discarded in compliance with statutes and regulations that vary from state to state. In addition, our operating expenses could be adversely affected if legal and regulatory developments related to climate change or other initiatives result in increased energy or other costs.
Our operations also generate medical waste that must be 11 Table of Contents discarded in compliance with statutes and regulations that vary from state to state. In addition, our operating expenses could be adversely affected if legal and regulatory developments related to climate change or other initiatives result in increased energy or other costs.
Also, we provide standby letters of credit to some of our insurers, which can be drawn upon under certain circumstances, to collateralize the deductible and self‑insured retentions under a select number of our professional and general liability insurance programs. We also purchase property, cyber-liability and other insurance coverage from third parties.
We provide standby letters of credit to some of our insurers, which can be drawn upon under certain circumstances, to collateralize the deductible and self‑insured retentions under a select number of our professional and general liability insurance programs. We also purchase property, business interruption, cyber-liability and other insurance coverage from third parties.
Our ability to employ physicians is closely regulated, with a number of states prohibiting the corporate practice of medicine or otherwise regulating what types of entities may employ physicians, and we structure our arrangements with healthcare providers to comply with these state laws. In 2023, we continued to experience challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians.
Our ability to employ physicians is closely regulated, with a number of states prohibiting the corporate practice of medicine or otherwise regulating what types of entities may employ physicians, and we structure our arrangements with healthcare providers to comply with these state laws. In 2024, we continued to experience challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians.
Various state laws 11 Table of Contents and regulations may also require us to notify the applicable state agency and affected individuals in the event of a data breach involving personally identifiable information (“PII”). Violations of the HIPAA privacy and security regulations may result in criminal penalties and in substantial civil penalties per violation.
Various state laws 10 Table of Contents and regulations may also require us to notify the applicable state agency and affected individuals in the event of a data breach involving personally identifiable information (“PII”). Violations of the HIPAA privacy and security regulations may result in criminal penalties and in substantial civil penalties per violation.
Operations of USPI —USPI acquires and develops its facilities primarily through the formation of joint ventures with physicians and health system partners. USPI’s subsidiaries hold ownership interests in the facilities directly or indirectly and operate the majority of its facilities on a day‑to‑day basis through management services contracts.
Operations of USPI —USPI acquires and develops its facilities primarily through the formation of joint ventures with physicians and/or health system partners. USPI’s subsidiaries hold ownership interests in the facilities directly or indirectly, and we operate the facilities on a day‑to‑day basis through management services contracts.
Moreover, we could be affected by climate change and other environmental issues to the extent such issues adversely affect the general economy or result in severe weather affecting the communities in which our facilities are located.
Moreover, we could be affected by climate change and other environmental issues to the extent such issues adversely affect the general economy or result in severe weather or natural disasters affecting the communities in which our facilities are located.
They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which we are unable to predict or control, that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward‑looking statements.
They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which we are unable to predict 14 Table of Contents or control, that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward‑looking statements.
All such persons are required to report incidents that they believe in 14 Table of Contents good faith may be in violation of the Code of Conduct or our policies, and all are encouraged to contact our Ethics Action Line when they have questions about any aspect of our Code of Conduct or any ethics concerns.
All such persons are required to report incidents that they believe in good faith may be in violation of the Code of Conduct or our policies, and all are encouraged to contact our Ethics Action Line when they have questions about any aspect of our Code of Conduct or any ethics concerns.
COMPETITION We believe our hospitals and outpatient facilities compete within local communities on the basis of many factors, including: quality of care; location and ease of access; the scope and breadth of services offered; reputation; and the caliber of the facilities, equipment and employees.
COMPETITION We believe our hospitals and outpatient facilities compete within local areas and regions on the basis of many factors, including: quality of care; location and ease of access; the scope and breadth of services offered; reputation; and the caliber of the facilities, equipment and employees.
Retaliation against anyone in connection with reporting ethical concerns is considered a serious violation of our Code of Conduct , and, if it occurs, it will result in discipline, up to and including termination of employment.
Retaliation against anyone in connection with reporting 13 Table of Contents ethical concerns is considered a serious violation of our Code of Conduct , and, if it occurs, it will result in discipline, up to and including termination of employment.
In recent years, the number of freestanding specialty hospitals, surgery centers, EDs, imaging centers and UCCs in the geographic areas where we operate has increased significantly. Some of these facilities are 8 Table of Contents physician‑owned.
In recent years, the number of freestanding specialty hospitals, surgery centers, EDs, imaging centers and UCCs in the geographic areas where we operate has increased significantly. Some of these facilities are physician‑owned.
LAWS AND REGULATIONS AFFECTING OUR GBC Our operations at our GBC in the Philippines are subject to certain U.S. healthcare industry-specific requirements, as well as U.S. and foreign laws applicable to businesses generally, including anti-corruption laws.
LAWS, REGULATIONS AND OTHER MATTERS AFFECTING OUR GBC Our GBC operations in the Philippines are subject to certain U.S. healthcare industry-specific requirements, as well as U.S. and foreign laws applicable to businesses generally, including anti-corruption laws.
One such law, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), regulates U.S. companies in their dealings with foreign officials, prohibiting bribes and similar practices, and requires that they maintain records that fairly and accurately reflect transactions and appropriate internal accounting controls. FCPA enforcement actions continue to be a high priority for the SEC and the U.S. Department of Justice.
One such law, the Foreign Corrupt 12 Table of Contents Practices Act (“FCPA”), regulates U.S. companies in their dealings with foreign officials, prohibiting bribes and similar practices, and requires that they maintain records that fairly and accurately reflect transactions and appropriate internal accounting controls. FCPA enforcement actions continue to be a high priority for the SEC and the U.S.
The Tenet Care Fund (the “Care Fund”) is a 501(c)(3) public charity that provides financial assistance to our employees who have experienced hardship due to, among other things, fires, natural disasters, catastrophic injuries and extended illnesses. The Care Fund is funded primarily by our employees for our employees.
The Tenet Care Fund (the “Care Fund”) is a 501(c)(3) public charity that provides financial assistance to our employees who have experienced hardship due to, among other things, fires, natural disasters, catastrophic injuries and extended illnesses.
Each of our general hospitals offers acute care services, operating and recovery rooms, radiology services, respiratory therapy services, clinical laboratories and pharmacies; in addition, most have: intensive care, critical care and/or coronary care units; cardiovascular, digestive disease, neurosciences, musculoskeletal and obstetrics services; and outpatient services, including physical therapy.
Our general hospitals offer acute care services, operating and recovery rooms, radiology services, respiratory therapy services, clinical laboratories and pharmacies; in addition, most have: intensive care, critical care and/or coronary care units; cardiovascular, digestive disease, neurosciences, musculoskeletal and obstetrics services; and outpatient services, including physical therapy.
In addition to hospital merger enforcement, the FTC has given increased attention to the effect of combinations involving other healthcare providers, including physician practices, as well as to the use of restrictive covenants that limit the ability of employees and others to engage in certain competitive activities.
In addition, the FTC has given increased attention to the effect of combinations involving other healthcare providers, including physician practices, as well as to the use of restrictive covenants that limit the ability of owners, employees and others to engage in certain competitive activities.
Through these efforts, we have reduced onboarding and training time of some of our new nurses, and we have reduced certain of our expenses related to new-hire training. Union Activity and Labor Relations —At December 31, 2023, approximately 23% of the employees in our Hospital Operations segment were represented by labor unions.
Through these efforts, we have streamlined onboarding and training time of some of our new nurses, and we have reduced certain of our expenses related to new-hire training. Union Activity and Labor Relations —At December 31, 2024, approximately 21% of the employees in our Hospital Operations segment were represented by labor unions.
Of the nine states in which we operate hospitals, four have taken action in accordance with the Affordable Care Act to expand their Medicaid programs; however, over half of our licensed beds at December 31, 2023 were located in five states, namely Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, that have not expanded Medicaid under the law.
Of the eight states in which we operate hospitals, four have taken action in accordance with the Affordable Care Act to expand their Medicaid programs; however, over half of our licensed beds at December 31, 2024 were located in four states, namely Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, that have not expanded Medicaid under the law.
Health maintenance organizations (“HMOs”), preferred provider organizations (“PPOs”), third‑party administrators, and other third‑party payers use managed care contracts to encourage patients to use certain hospitals in exchange for discounts from the hospitals’ established charges.
Health maintenance organizations (“HMOs”), preferred provider organizations (“PPOs”), third‑party administrators and other third‑party payers use managed care contracts to encourage patients to use certain facilities in exchange for discounts from the facilities’ established charges.
The HR Committee also provides, among other things, its perspectives regarding performance management, succession planning, leadership development, diversity, recruiting, 6 Table of Contents retention and employee training. The board’s environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) committee provides oversight with respect to our ESG strategy and guidance on ESG matters that are relevant to our business.
The HR Committee also provides, among other things, its perspectives regarding performance management, succession planning, leadership development, equality of opportunity, recruiting, retention and employee training. The board’s environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) committee provides oversight with respect to our ESG strategy and guidance on ESG matters that are relevant to our business.
The FTC has focused its enforcement efforts on preventing hospital mergers that may, in the government’s view, leave insufficient local options for patient services, which could result in increased costs to consumers.
The FTC has focused its enforcement efforts on preventing hospital transactions that may, in the government’s view, leave insufficient local options for patient services, which could result in higher costs to consumers.
Such factors include, but are not limited to, the following: • Our ability to enter into or renew managed care provider arrangements on acceptable terms; changes in service mix, revenue mix and surgical volumes, including potential declines in the population covered under managed care agreements; and the impact of the industry trends toward value‑based purchasing and alternative payment models; • The impacts on our business from the enactment of, or changes in, statutes and regulations affecting the healthcare industry generally; and regulatory developments, including reductions to Medicare and Medicaid payment rates or changes in reimbursement practices or to Medicaid supplemental payment programs; • Our success in recruiting and retaining physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals; • The effect of competition generally, and clinical and price transparency regulations, on our business; • The timing, outcome and impact of: government investigations and litigation; changes in federal tax laws, regulations and policies; and future tax audits, disputes and litigation associated with our tax positions; • The future course and impact of COVID-19, or the potential emergence and effects of a future pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease, on our operations, financial condition and liquidity; • Security threats, catastrophic events and other disruptions that affect our information technology and related information systems and confidential business data; • Our ability to achieve operating and financial targets, attain expected levels of patient volumes, and identify and execute on measures designed to save or control costs or streamline operations; • Operational and other risks associated with acquisitions, divestitures and joint venture arrangements, including the integration of newly acquired businesses and the risk that transactions may not receive necessary government clearances; • The impact of our significant indebtedness; the availability and terms of capital to refinance existing debt, fund our operations and expand our business; and our ability to comply with our debt covenants and, over time, reduce leverage; • The effect that inflation, consumer behavior and other economic factors have on our volumes and our ability to collect outstanding receivables on a timely basis, among other things; and increases in the amount of uninsured accounts, as well as deductibles, co‑insurance amounts and co‑pays for insured accounts; and • Other factors and risks referenced in this report and our other public filings.
Such factors include, but are not limited to, the following: • Our ability to enter into or renew managed care provider arrangements on acceptable terms; changes in service mix, revenue mix and surgical volumes, including potential declines in the population covered under managed care agreements; and the impact of alternative payment models and value-based purchasing initiatives; • The impacts on our business from the enactment, amendment or expiration of statutes and regulations affecting the healthcare industry, and potential reductions to Medicare and Medicaid payment rates, changes in reimbursement practices or funding levels, or modification of Medicaid supplemental payment programs; • Our success in recruiting and retaining physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals; • The effect of competition generally, and clinical and price transparency regulations, on our business; • The timing, outcome and impact of: government investigations and litigation; changes in federal tax laws, regulations and policies (including those related to tariffs and trade restrictions); and future tax audits, disputes and litigation associated with our tax positions; • The potential emergence and effects of a future pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease on our operations, financial condition and liquidity; • Security threats, catastrophic events and other disruptions that affect our information technology and related information systems and confidential business data; • Our ability to achieve operating and financial targets, attain expected levels of patient volumes, and identify and execute on measures designed to save or control costs or streamline operations; • Operational and other risks associated with acquisitions, divestitures and joint venture arrangements, including the integration of newly acquired businesses and the risk that transactions may not receive necessary government clearances; • The impact of our indebtedness; the availability and terms of capital, if needed, to refinance existing debt, fund our operations and expand our business; and our ability to comply with our debt covenants and effectively manage our capital structure and leverage ratio; • The effect that inflation, consumer behavior and other economic factors have on our volumes and our ability to collect outstanding receivables on a timely basis, among other things; and increases in the number of uninsured accounts, as well as deductibles, co‑insurance amounts and co‑pays for insured accounts; and • Other factors and risks referenced in this report and our other public filings.
We have a Diversity Council, which consists of leaders representing different facets of our enterprise, to support our overall diversity and inclusion efforts, including in the areas of recruiting, talent development, new‑hire mentoring, community partnerships, and educational opportunities. The Diversity Council works to provide tools, guidelines and training with respect to best practices in these areas.
We have a Community Healthcare Engagement Council, which consists of leaders representing different facets of our enterprise, to support our efforts in the areas of recruiting, talent development, new‑hire mentoring, community partnerships, and educational opportunities. The Council works to provide tools, guidelines and training with respect to best practices in these areas.
For example, some of our competitors may negotiate exclusivity provisions with managed care plans or otherwise restrict the ability of managed care companies to contract with us. Vertical integration efforts involving third‑party payers and healthcare providers, among other factors, may increase competitive challenges.
For example, some of our competitors may negotiate exclusivity provisions with managed care plans or otherwise restrict the ability of managed care companies to contract with us through the formation of narrow networks or other similar structures. Vertical integration efforts involving third‑party payers and healthcare providers, among other factors, may increase competitive challenges.
The Quality Improvement Organization program established under the Social Security Act seeks: to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, economy and quality of services delivered to Medicare beneficiaries; to preserve the Medicare Trust Fund by ensuring that Medicare pays only for services that are reasonable and necessary and that are provided in the most appropriate setting; and to protect Medicare beneficiaries by expeditiously addressing complaints, violations under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, and other quality‑related issues.
The Quality Improvement Organization program established under the Social Security Act seeks: to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, economy and quality of services delivered to Medicare beneficiaries; to use data to track healthcare quality improvements at the local level; to preserve the Medicare Trust Fund by ensuring that Medicare pays only for services that are reasonable and necessary and that are provided in the most appropriate setting; and to protect Medicare beneficiaries by expeditiously addressing complaints, violations under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, and other quality‑related issues.
Conifer is also subject to both federal and state regulatory agencies who have the authority to investigate consumer complaints relating to unfair, deceptive and abusive acts and practices, as well as a variety of consumer protection laws, 13 Table of Contents including but not limited to the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and all applicable state equivalents.
Conifer is also subject to laws under which both federal and state regulatory agencies have the authority to investigate consumer complaints relating to unfair, deceptive and abusive acts and practices, as well as a variety of consumer protection laws, including but not limited to the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and all applicable state equivalents.
None of the employees in our Ambulatory Care segment belong to a union. Unionized employees – primarily registered nurses and service, technical and maintenance workers – are located at 33 of our hospitals, the majority of which are in California, Florida and Michigan.
None of the employees in our Ambulatory Care segment belong to a 6 Table of Contents union. Unionized employees – primarily registered nurses and service, technical and maintenance workers – are located at 27 of our hospitals, the majority of which are in California, Florida and Michigan.
(8) Owned by a limited liability company formed as part of a joint venture with John Muir Health (“John Muir”), a not‑for‑profit health system in the San Francisco Bay area; a Tenet subsidiary owned a 51% interest in the entity at December 31, 2023, and John Muir owned a 49% interest.
(5) Owned by a limited liability company formed as part of a joint venture with John Muir Health, a not‑for‑profit health system in the San Francisco Bay area; a Tenet subsidiary owned a 51% interest in the entity at December 31, 2024, and John Muir Health owned a 49% interest.
To bolster our competitive position, we have sought to include all of our hospitals and other healthcare businesses in the related geographic area or nationally when negotiating new managed care contracts, which may result in additional volumes at facilities that were not previously a part of such managed care networks.
To bolster our competitive position, we have sought to include all of our hospitals, outpatient centers and physician practices in the related geographic area or nationally when negotiating new managed care contracts, which may result in additional volumes at facilities that were not previously a part of such managed care networks.
We had employees in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, as well as approximately 3,250 employees providing support across our entire network at our GBC, at December 31, 2023. Approximately 33% of our employees are nurses. Board Oversight —Our board of directors and its committees oversee human capital matters through regular reports from management and advisors.
We had employees in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, as well as approximately 4,000 GBC employees providing support across our entire network, at December 31, 2024. Approximately 32% of our employees are nurses. Board Oversight —Our board of directors and its committees oversee human capital matters through regular reports from management and advisors.
In addition, we maintain administrative offices in regions where we operate hospitals and other businesses, as well as our GBC in Manila. We believe that all of our properties are suitable for their respective uses and are, in general, adequate for our present needs.
In addition, we maintain administrative offices in regions where we operate hospitals and other businesses, as well as our GBC 4 Table of Contents in the Philippines. We believe that all of our properties are suitable for their respective uses and are, in general, adequate for our present needs.
Although we have no contractual relationship with most of the physicians who practice at our hospitals and outpatient centers, at December 31, 2023, we owned nearly 770 physician practices, and our subsidiaries employed (where permitted by state law) or otherwise affiliated with nearly 1,320 physicians.
Although we have no contractual relationship with most of the physicians who practice at our hospitals and outpatient centers, at December 31, 2024, we owned over 650 physician practices, and our subsidiaries employed (where permitted by state law) or were otherwise affiliated with nearly 1,135 physicians.
Other competing health systems may implement similar strategies. In addition, we have significantly increased our focus on operating our outpatient centers with improved accessibility and more convenient service for patients, increased predictability and efficiency for physicians, and (for most services) lower costs for payers than would be incurred with a hospital visit.
In addition, we have significantly increased our focus on operating our outpatient centers with improved accessibility and more convenient service for patients, increased predictability and efficiency for physicians, and (for most services) lower costs for payers and patients than would be incurred with a hospital visit.
At our hospitals, outpatient facilities, and other care sites, we align staffing to need in our nursing units, and we invest in appropriate training to improve the competency of our caregivers. In addition, we have heightened infection-prevention protocols, we maintain availability of personal protective equipment and disinfection supplies, and we regularly provide concise and current infection prevention guidance.
At our hospitals, outpatient facilities and other care sites, we align staffing to need in our nursing units, and we invest in appropriate training to improve the competency of our caregivers. In addition, we maintain up‑to‑date infection-prevention protocols and availability of personal protective equipment and disinfection supplies.
Moreover, government regulations often change, and we may have to make adjustments to our facilities, equipment, personnel and services to remain in compliance.
Moreover, as discussed in greater detail below, government regulations often change, and we may have to make adjustments to our facilities, equipment, personnel and services to remain in compliance.
The FTC has also entered into numerous consent decrees in the past several years settling allegations of price‑fixing among providers. Moreover, a number of states have recently enacted antitrust laws requiring state agency notification and review of proposed healthcare industry transactions that are below federal reporting thresholds. The potential impact and future enforcement of these recently enacted laws remain uncertain.
The FTC has also entered into numerous consent decrees in the past several years settling allegations of price‑fixing among providers. Moreover, a number of states, including California and Massachusetts, have enacted antitrust laws requiring state agency notification and review of proposed healthcare industry transactions that are below federal reporting thresholds.
However, these concentrations increase the risk that, should any adverse economic, regulatory, environmental, competitive or other condition (including surges of COVID‑19 or other illnesses) occur in these areas, our overall business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected.
However, these concentrations increase the risk that, should any adverse economic, regulatory, environmental, competitive or other condition (including an epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease) occur in these areas, our overall business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS OVERVIEW Tenet Healthcare Corporation (“Tenet”) is a diversified healthcare services company with its headquarters in Dallas, Texas, and a Global Business Center (“GBC”) supporting various administrative functions in Manila, Philippines.
ITEM 1. BUSINESS OVERVIEW Tenet Healthcare Corporation (“Tenet”) is a diversified healthcare services company with its headquarters in Dallas, Texas, and a Global Business Center (“GBC”) in the Philippines, that supports various enterprise-wide administrative functions.
Mary’s Medical Center West Palm Beach 420 Owned West Boca Medical Center Boca Raton 195 Owned Massachusetts MetroWest Medical Center – Framingham Union Campus Framingham 136 Owned MetroWest Medical Center – Leonard Morse Campus (3) Natick 103 Owned Saint Vincent Hospital Worcester 290 Owned Michigan Children’s Hospital of Michigan Detroit 228 Owned Detroit Receiving Hospital Detroit 273 Owned Harper University Hospital Detroit 470 Owned Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital Commerce Township 158 Owned Hutzel Women’s Hospital Detroit 114 Owned Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (3) Detroit 69 Owned Sinai-Grace Hospital Detroit 404 Owned South Carolina Coastal Carolina Hospital (9) Hardeeville 44 Owned East Cooper Medical Center (9) Mount Pleasant 140 Owned Hilton Head Hospital (9) Hilton Head Island 93 Owned Piedmont Medical Center Rock Hill 294 Owned Piedmont Medical Center Fort Mill Fort Mill 100 Owned Tennessee Saint Francis Hospital Memphis 479 Owned Saint Francis Hospital – Bartlett Bartlett 196 Owned Texas Baptist Medical Center San Antonio 607 Owned The Hospitals of Providence East Campus El Paso 218 Owned The Hospitals of Providence Memorial Campus El Paso 480 Owned The Hospitals of Providence Sierra Campus El Paso 306 Owned The Hospitals of Providence Transmountain Campus El Paso 108 Owned Mission Trail Baptist Hospital San Antonio 114 Owned Nacogdoches Medical Center Nacogdoches 161 Owned North Central Baptist Hospital San Antonio 443 Owned Northeast Baptist Hospital San Antonio 347 Owned Resolute Baptist Hospital New Braunfels 128 Owned St.
Mary’s Medical Center West Palm Beach 420 Owned West Boca Medical Center Boca Raton 195 Owned Massachusetts MetroWest Medical Center – Framingham Union Campus Framingham 136 Owned MetroWest Medical Center – Leonard Morse Campus (1) Natick 103 Owned Saint Vincent Hospital Worcester 290 Owned Michigan Children’s Hospital of Michigan Detroit 228 Owned Detroit Receiving Hospital Detroit 273 Owned Harper University Hospital Detroit 470 Owned Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital Commerce Township 158 Owned Hutzel Women’s Hospital Detroit 114 Owned Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (1) Detroit 69 Owned Sinai-Grace Hospital Detroit 404 Owned South Carolina Piedmont Medical Center Rock Hill 294 Owned Piedmont Medical Center Fort Mill Fort Mill 100 Owned Tennessee Saint Francis Hospital Memphis 479 Owned Saint Francis Hospital – Bartlett Bartlett 196 Owned 2 Table of Contents Hospital Location Licensed Beds Status Texas Baptist Medical Center San Antonio 607 Owned The Hospitals of Providence East Campus El Paso 218 Owned The Hospitals of Providence Memorial Campus El Paso 480 Owned The Hospitals of Providence Rehabilitation Hospital East (1) El Paso 36 JV/Owned The Hospitals of Providence Sierra Campus El Paso 306 Owned The Hospitals of Providence Transmountain Campus El Paso 108 Owned Mission Trail Baptist Hospital San Antonio 114 Owned Nacogdoches Medical Center Nacogdoches 161 Owned North Central Baptist Hospital San Antonio 443 Owned Northeast Baptist Hospital San Antonio 351 Owned Resolute Baptist Hospital New Braunfels 128 Owned St.
Commercial insurance we purchase is subject to per‑claim and policy period aggregate limits. If the policy period aggregate limit of any of these policies is exhausted, in whole or in part, it could deplete or reduce the limits available to pay other material claims applicable to that policy period.
If the policy period aggregate limit of any of these policies is exhausted, in whole or in part, it could deplete or reduce the limits available to pay other material claims applicable to that policy period.
Some of the hospitals that compete with our hospitals are owned by tax‑supported government agencies, and many others are owned by not‑for‑profit organizations that may have financial advantages not available to our facilities, including (1) support through endowments, charitable contributions and tax revenues, (2) access to tax‑exempt financing, and (3) exemptions from sales, property and income taxes.
Some competing healthcare facilities are owned by tax‑supported government agencies, and many others are owned by not‑for‑profit organizations that may have financial advantages not available to our facilities, including (1) support through endowments, charitable contributions and tax revenues, (2) access to tax‑exempt financing, (3) exemptions from sales, property and income taxes, and (4) discounted prescription drug pricing.
Employee Safety and Welfare —We believe our employees comprise a community built on care, and we place a high priority on maintaining a secure and healthy workplace for them. We promote a culture of well‑being and reporting by connecting employee safety policies with patient safety policies, and we review and refine the policies regularly.
Employee Safety and Welfare —We place a high priority on maintaining a secure and healthy workplace. We promote a culture of well‑being and reporting by connecting employee safety policies with patient safety policies, and we review and refine the policies regularly.
Our subsidiaries operate acute care hospitals in five states that require a form of state approval under certificate of need programs applicable to those hospitals. Approximately 34% of our licensed hospital beds are located in these states (namely, Alabama, Massachusetts, Michigan, South Carolina and Tennessee).
Approximately 27% of our licensed hospital beds are located in four states (namely, Massachusetts, Michigan, South Carolina and Tennessee) that currently require a form of state approval under certificate of need programs applicable to acute care hospitals.
Mary’s Hospital Tucson 400 Owned California Desert Regional Medical Center (5) Palm Springs 385 Leased Doctors Hospital of Manteca Manteca 73 Owned Doctors Medical Center Modesto 461 Owned Emanuel Medical Center Turlock 209 Owned Fountain Valley Regional Hospital and Medical Center (6) Fountain Valley 400 Owned Hi-Desert Medical Center (7) Joshua Tree 179 Leased John F.
Joseph’s Hospital Tucson 451 Owned St. Mary’s Hospital Tucson 400 Owned California Desert Regional Medical Center (3) Palm Springs 385 Leased Doctors Hospital of Manteca Manteca 73 Owned Doctors Medical Center Modesto 461 Owned Emanuel Medical Center Turlock 209 Owned Hi-Desert Medical Center (4) Joshua Tree 179 Leased John F.
Diversity and Inclusion —We continue to focus on the hiring, advancement and retention of underrepresented populations to further our objective of fostering an engaging culture with a workforce and leadership teams that represent the communities we serve.
Culture —We continue to focus on fostering an engaging culture through the hiring, advancement and retention of a workforce and leadership teams that represent the communities we serve.
Moreover, we participate in various value‑based programs to improve quality and cost of care. We believe the use of these practices will promote the most effective and efficient utilization of resources and result in more appropriate lengths of stay, as well as reductions in readmissions for hospitalized patients.
We believe the use of these practices will promote the most effective and efficient utilization of resources and result in more appropriate lengths of stay, as well as reductions in readmissions for hospitalized patients.
In addition to the hospitals and outpatient facilities discussed above, our Hospital Operations segment now includes our Conifer JV’s revenue cycle management and value‑based care service offerings. At December 31, 2023, we owned 76.2% of the Conifer JV, and Catholic Health Initiatives (“CHI”) had a 23.8% ownership position.
In addition to the hospitals and outpatient facilities discussed above, our Hospital Operations segment includes physician practices and other associated healthcare businesses, as well as our Conifer JV’s revenue cycle management and value‑based care service offerings. At December 31, 2024, we owned 76.2% of the Conifer JV, and CommonSpirit Health held a 23.8% ownership position.
Lucie, Florida that is expected to include a 54-bed hospital, as well as medical office space. We expect to complete construction of the Port St. Lucie medical campus in late 2025.
In addition, we continued construction in 2024 on a new medical campus located in Port St. Lucie, which will include the 54‑bed Florida Coast Surgical Hospital, as well as medical office space. We expect to complete construction of the Port St. Lucie medical campus in late 2025.
The following table lists, by state, the hospitals wholly owned, operated as part of a joint venture, or leased and operated by our wholly owned subsidiaries at December 31, 2023 : Hospital Location Licensed Beds Status Alabama Brookwood Baptist Medical Center (1) Homewood 595 JV/Owned Citizens Baptist Medical Center (1)(2) Talladega 122 JV/Leased Princeton Baptist Medical Center (1)(2) Birmingham 505 JV/Leased Shelby Baptist Medical Center (1)(2) Alabaster 252 JV/Leased Walker Baptist Medical Center (1)(2) Jasper 267 JV/Leased Arizona Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital (3) Phoenix 59 Owned Abrazo Arrowhead Campus Glendale 215 Owned Abrazo Central Campus Phoenix 206 Owned Abrazo Scottsdale Campus Phoenix 120 Owned Abrazo West Campus Goodyear 216 Owned Holy Cross Hospital (4) Nogales 25 Owned St.
Table of Contents The following table lists, by state, the hospitals wholly owned, operated as part of a joint venture, or leased and operated by our wholly owned subsidiaries at December 31, 2024 : Hospital Location Licensed Beds Status Arizona Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital (1) Phoenix 59 Owned Abrazo Arrowhead Campus Glendale 229 Owned Abrazo Central Campus Phoenix 206 Owned Abrazo Scottsdale Campus Phoenix 120 Owned Abrazo West Campus Goodyear 216 Owned Holy Cross Hospital (2) Nogales 25 Owned St.
Competition; Staffing and Labor Trends —Our operations are dependent on the availability, efforts, abilities and experience of management and medical support personnel, including nurses, therapists, pharmacists and lab technicians, among others. We have always competed with other healthcare providers in recruiting and retaining qualified employees; however, over the past several years, our industry has faced considerable workforce challenges.
Competition; Staffing and Labor Trends —Our operations are dependent on the availability, efforts, abilities and experience of management and medical support personnel, including nurses, therapists, pharmacists and lab technicians, among others. We compete with other healthcare providers in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel responsible for the operation of our facilities.
All of the hospitals in our Hospital Operations segment are licensed under appropriate state laws, and each is accredited by The Joint Commission. With such accreditation, our hospitals are deemed to meet the Medicare Conditions of Participation and Conditions for Coverage, and they are eligible to participate Medicare, Medicaid and other government‑sponsored provider programs.
With such accreditation, our hospitals are deemed to meet the Medicare Conditions of Participation and Conditions for Coverage, and they are eligible to participate in Medicare, Medicaid and other government‑sponsored provider programs.
Our commercial insurance does not cover all claims against us and may not offset the financial impact of a material loss event. Moreover, commercial insurance may not continue to be available at a reasonable cost for us to maintain at adequate levels.
Commercial insurance may not continue to be available at a reasonable cost for us to maintain at adequate levels in the future. In addition, our insurance against cybersecurity risks and cyber-attacks may not provide the coverage we anticipate or offset the financial impact of a material loss event.
Approximately 60% of the outpatient centers in our Hospital Operations segment at December 31, 2023 were in Arizona and Texas. Strong concentrations of facilities within operating areas may help us expand our managed care payer network, reduce management, marketing and other expenses, and more efficiently utilize resources.
Strong concentrations of facilities within operating areas may help us expand our managed care payer network, reduce management, marketing and other expenses, and more efficiently utilize resources.
We also offer value‑based care services, including clinical integration, financial risk management and population health management, all of which aim to assist clients in improving the cost and quality of their healthcare delivery, as well as their patient outcomes.
We also offer value‑based care services, including clinical integration, financial risk management and population health management, all of which aim to assist clients in improving the cost and quality of their healthcare delivery, as well as their patient outcomes. 3 Table of Contents At December 31, 2024, we provided one or more of the business process services described above to approximately 620 Tenet and non‑Tenet hospitals and other clients nationwide.
At this time, based on current climate conditions and our assessment of existing and pending environmental rules and regulations, as well as treaties and international accords relating to climate change, we do not believe that the costs of complying with environmental laws, including regulations relating to climate change issues, will have a material adverse effect on our future capital expenditures, results of operations or cash flows.
At this time, we do not believe that the costs of complying with environmental laws, including regulations relating to climate change issues, will have a material adverse effect on our future capital expenditures, results of operations or cash flows. There were no material capital expenditures for environmental matters in the year ended December 31, 2024.
In some of our communities, employers across various industries have increased their minimum wage, which has created more competition and, in some cases, higher labor costs for this sector of employees. Furthermore, we expect that state-mandated minimum wage increases in California will result in an increase in compensation costs for certain of our employees and vendors beginning in 2024.
In some of our communities, employers across various industries have increased their minimum wage, which has created more competition and, in some cases, higher labor costs for this sector of employees. Furthermore, state-mandated minimum wage increases in California became effective for healthcare workers in October 2024, with further annual increases anticipated through 2028.
To that end, we have made significant investments in equipment, technology, education and operational strategies designed to improve clinical quality at all of our facilities. In addition, we continually collaborate with physicians to implement the most current evidence‑based medicine techniques to improve the way we provide care, while using labor management tools and supply‑chain initiatives to reduce variable costs.
In addition, we continually collaborate with physicians to implement the most current evidence‑based medicine techniques to improve the way we provide care, while using labor management tools and supply‑chain initiatives to reduce variable costs. Moreover, we participate in various value‑based programs to improve quality and cost of care.
Many of our hospitals provide tertiary care services, such as cardiothoracic surgery, complex spinal surgery, neonatal intensive care and neurosurgery, and some also offer quaternary care in areas such as heart and kidney transplants.
Many of our hospitals provide tertiary care services, such as cardiothoracic surgery, complex spinal surgery, neonatal intensive care and neurosurgery, and our Children’s Hospital of Michigan also offers pediatric quaternary care through its heart, kidney and liver transplant programs.
(9) These hospitals, their affiliated physician practices and other related hospital operations were sold on January 31, 2024. Information regarding the utilization of licensed beds and other operating statistics at December 31, 2023 and 2022 can be found in MD&A.
Information regarding the utilization of licensed beds and other operating statistics at December 31, 2024 and 2023 can be found in MD&A.
HEALTHCARE REFORM The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (the “Affordable Care Act”), extended health coverage to millions of uninsured legal U.S. residents through a combination of private sector health insurance reforms and public program expansion.
Any of the aforementioned consequences could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. 8 Table of Contents POTENTIAL CHANGES IN HEALTHCARE POLICY The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (the “Affordable Care Act”), extended health coverage to millions of uninsured legal U.S. residents through a combination of private sector health insurance reforms and public program expansion.
Our Medicare and Medicaid payments may be suspended pending even an investigation of what the government determines to be a credible allegation of fraud. Any of the aforementioned consequences could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Our Medicare and Medicaid payments may be suspended pending even an investigation of what the government determines to be a credible allegation of fraud.
Our business is now classified into two separate reporting segments: • Hospital Operations and Services (“Hospital Operations”), including: (i) 61 acute care and specialty hospitals, a network of employed physicians, and 164 outpatient facilities, including imaging centers, urgent care centers (each, a “UCC”), ancillary emergency facilities and micro‑hospitals, at December 31, 2023; and (ii) the revenue cycle management and value‑based care services that our Conifer Health Solutions, LLC joint venture (“Conifer JV”) provides to hospitals, health systems, physician practices, employers and other clients; and • Ambulatory Care, which is comprised of the operations of our subsidiary USPI Holding Company, Inc.
At December 31, 2024, our Hospital Operations segment was comprised of: (1) 49 acute care and specialty hospitals, a network of employed physicians, and 135 outpatient facilities, including urgent care centers (each, a “UCC”), imaging centers, off-campus hospital emergency departments (“EDs”) and micro‑hospitals; and (2) the revenue cycle management and value‑based care services we provide to hospitals, health systems, physician practices, employers and other clients through our Conifer Health Solutions, LLC joint venture (“Conifer JV”).
In general, we believe that quality of care improvements may have the effects of: (1) reducing costs; (2) increasing payments from Medicare and certain managed care payers for our services as governmental and private payers continue to move to pay‑for‑performance models, and the commercial market continues to move to more narrow networks and other methods designed to encourage covered individuals to use certain facilities over others; and (3) increasing physician and patient satisfaction, which may improve our volumes.
In general, we believe that quality of care improvements may have the effects of: (1) reducing costs; (2) increasing payments from Medicare and certain managed care payers for our services; and (3) increasing physician and patient satisfaction, which may improve our volumes. Other competing health systems may implement similar strategies.
The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (“FDCPA”) regulates persons who regularly collect or attempt to collect, directly or indirectly, consumer debts owed or asserted to be owed to another person.
We cannot predict the outcome of current or future legal actions against Conifer or the effect that judgments, penalties or settlements in such matters may have. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (“FDCPA”) regulates persons who regularly collect or attempt to collect, directly or indirectly, consumer debts owed or asserted to be owed to another person.
Human Resources Practices —We have established – and continue to enhance and refine – a comprehensive set of practices for recruiting, managing and optimizing the human resources of our organization. In many cases, we utilize objective benchmarking and other tools in our efforts in such areas as organizational effectiveness, engagement, voluntary turnover and staffing efficiencies.
Human Resources Practices —We have established – and continue to enhance and refine – a comprehensive set of practices for recruiting, managing and optimizing the human resources of our organization.
Our subsidiaries had sole ownership of 53 of these hospitals, six were owned or leased by entities that are majority owned by a Tenet subsidiary, and two were owned by third parties and leased by our wholly owned subsidiaries.
At December 31, 2024, our subsidiaries operated 49 acute care and specialty hospitals serving primarily urban and suburban communities in eight states. Our subsidiaries had sole ownership of 45 of these hospitals, two were owned by entities that are majority owned by a Tenet subsidiary, and two were owned by third parties and leased by our wholly owned subsidiaries.
More recent healthcare-related reform efforts at the federal and state levels include initiatives, requirements and proposals that could have a positive effect on our business, as well as others that may increase our operating costs, negatively impact our case mix, adversely affect the reimbursement we receive for our services or require us to expend resources to modify certain aspects of our operations.
Some federal and state changes, initiatives and requirements could, among other things, negatively impact our patient volumes, case mix and revenue mix, increase our operating costs, adversely affect the reimbursement we receive for our services, impact our competitive position or require us to expend resources to modify certain aspects of our operations.
There were no material capital expenditures for environmental matters in the year ended December 31, 2023. Additional information regarding our approach to environmental matters can be found in our most recent ESG Report, which is available on our website.
ESG Report —Additional information on matters relating to human capital resources can be found in our most recent ESG Report, which is available on our website.
INSURANCE The healthcare industry has seen significant increases in the cost of professional and general liability insurance due to increased claims and lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. We maintain captive insurance companies to self‑insure for the majority of our professional and general liability claims, and we purchase insurance from third parties to cover catastrophic claims.
INSURANCE We maintain captive insurance companies to self‑insure for the majority of our professional and general liability claims, and we purchase insurance from third parties to cover catastrophic claims. Commercial insurance we purchase is subject to per‑claim and policy period aggregate limits.