Biggest changeThe following table presents our estimated costs (based on selected operating expenses, which include salaries, wages and benefits, supplies and other operating expenses) of caring for our uninsured and charity patients: Years Ended December 31, 2022 2021 2020 Estimated costs for: Uninsured patients $ 537 $ 650 $ 617 Charity care patients 83 97 147 Total $ 620 $ 747 $ 764 52 Table of Contents RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022 COMPARED TO THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 The following tables present our consolidated net operating revenues, operating expenses and operating income, both in dollar amounts and as percentages of net operating revenues, on a continuing operations basis: Years Ended December 31, Increase (Decrease) 2022 2021 Net operating revenues: Hospital Operations $ 15,061 $ 15,982 $ (921) Ambulatory Care 3,248 2,718 530 Conifer 1,316 1,267 49 Inter-segment eliminations (451) (482) 31 Net operating revenues 19,174 19,485 (311) Grant income 194 191 3 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 216 218 (2) Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 8,844 8,878 (34) Supplies 3,273 3,328 (55) Other operating expenses, net 3,998 4,206 (208) Depreciation and amortization 841 855 (14) Impairment and restructuring charges, and acquisition-related costs 226 85 141 Litigation and investigation costs 70 116 (46) Net gains on sales, consolidation and deconsolidation of facilities (1) (445) 444 Operating income $ 2,333 $ 2,871 $ (538) Years Ended December 31, Increase (Decrease) 2022 2021 Net operating revenues 100.0 % 100.0 % — % Grant income 1.0 % 1.0 % — % Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 1.1 % 1.1 % — % Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 46.1 % 45.6 % 0.5 % Supplies 17.0 % 17.1 % (0.1) % Other operating expenses, net 20.8 % 21.6 % (0.8) % Depreciation and amortization 4.4 % 4.4 % — % Impairment and restructuring charges, and acquisition-related costs 1.2 % 0.4 % 0.8 % Litigation and investigation costs 0.4 % 0.6 % (0.2) % Net gains on sales, consolidation and deconsolidation of facilities — % (2.3) % 2.3 % Operating income 12.2 % 14.7 % (2.5) % 53 Table of Contents The following tables present our net operating revenues, operating expenses and operating income, both in dollar amounts and as percentages of net operating revenues, by operating segment on a continuing operations basis: Year Ended December 31, 2022 Year Ended December 31, 2021 Hospital Operations Ambulatory Care Conifer Hospital Operations Ambulatory Care Conifer Net operating revenues $ 14,610 $ 3,248 $ 1,316 $ 15,500 $ 2,718 $ 1,267 Grant income 190 4 — 142 49 — Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 10 206 — 25 193 — Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 7,333 822 689 7,511 690 677 Supplies 2,398 871 4 2,640 684 4 Other operating expenses, net 3,302 438 258 3,586 389 231 Depreciation and amortization 692 112 37 722 95 38 Impairment and restructuring charges, and acquisition-related costs 180 21 25 39 27 19 Litigation and investigation costs 53 3 14 100 14 2 Net gains on sales, consolidation and deconsolidation of facilities (1) — — (411) (34) — Operating income $ 853 $ 1,191 $ 289 $ 1,480 $ 1,095 $ 296 Year Ended December 31, 2022 Year Ended December 31, 2021 Hospital Operations Ambulatory Care Conifer Hospital Operations Ambulatory Care Conifer Net operating revenues 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % Grant income 1.3 % 0.1 % — % 0.9 % 1.8 % — % Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 0.1 % 6.3 % — % 0.2 % 7.1 % — % Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 50.2 % 25.3 % 52.4 % 48.5 % 25.4 % 53.4 % Supplies 16.4 % 26.8 % 0.3 % 17.0 % 25.2 % 0.3 % Other operating expenses, net 22.7 % 13.5 % 19.5 % 23.2 % 14.3 % 18.2 % Depreciation and amortization 4.7 % 3.4 % 2.8 % 4.7 % 3.5 % 3.0 % Impairment and restructuring charges, and acquisition-related costs 1.2 % 0.6 % 1.9 % 0.3 % 1.0 % 1.5 % Litigation and investigation costs 0.4 % 0.1 % 1.1 % 0.6 % 0.5 % 0.2 % Net gains on sales, consolidation and deconsolidation of facilities — % — % — % (2.7) % (1.3) % — % Operating income 5.8 % 36.7 % 22.0 % 9.5 % 40.3 % 23.4 % Consolidated net operating revenues decreased by $311 million, or 1.6%, for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021.
Biggest changeThe following tables present our net operating revenues, operating expenses and operating income, both in dollar amounts and as percentages of net operating revenues, by segment on a continuing operations basis: Year Ended December 31, 2022 Year Ended December 31, 2021 Hospital Operations Ambulatory Care Hospital Operations Ambulatory Care Net operating revenues $ 15,926 $ 3,248 $ 16,767 $ 2,718 Grant income 190 4 142 49 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 10 206 25 193 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 8,022 822 8,188 690 Supplies 2,402 871 2,644 684 Other operating expenses, net 3,560 438 3,817 389 Depreciation and amortization 729 112 760 95 Impairment and restructuring charges, and acquisition-related costs 205 21 58 27 Litigation and investigation costs 67 3 102 14 Net gains on sales, consolidation and deconsolidation of facilities (1) — (411) (34) Operating income $ 1,142 $ 1,191 $ 1,776 $ 1,095 Net operating revenues 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % Grant income 1.2 % 0.1 % 0.8 % 1.8 % Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates 0.1 % 6.3 % 0.1 % 7.1 % Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 50.4 % 25.3 % 48.8 % 25.4 % Supplies 15.1 % 26.8 % 15.8 % 25.2 % Other operating expenses, net 22.4 % 13.5 % 22.8 % 14.3 % Depreciation and amortization 4.6 % 3.4 % 4.5 % 3.5 % Impairment and restructuring charges, and acquisition-related costs 1.3 % 0.6 % 0.3 % 1.0 % Litigation and investigation costs 0.3 % 0.1 % 0.6 % 0.5 % Net gains on sales, consolidation and deconsolidation of facilities — % — % (2.5) % (1.3) % Operating income 7.2 % 36.7 % 10.6 % 40.3 % Consolidated net operating revenues decreased by $311 million, or 1.6%, for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021.
See Note 10 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about our defined benefit plans. Information Technology Contracts— We enter into various non‑cancellable contracts for information technology services and licenses as a normal part of our business.
See Note 10 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information about our defined benefit plans. Information Technology Services Contracts— We enter into various non‑cancellable contracts for information technology services and licenses as a normal part of our business.
Cost reports generally must be filed within five months after the end of the annual cost reporting period. After the cost report is filed, the accrual and corresponding valuation allowance may need to be adjusted.
Cost reports must generally be filed within five months after the end of the annual cost report reporting period. After the cost report is filed, the accrual and corresponding valuation allowance may need to be adjusted.
Contractual allowance estimates are periodically reviewed for accuracy by taking into consideration known contract terms, as well as payment history. We believe our estimation and review process enables us to identify instances on a timely basis where such estimates need to be revised.
Contractual allowance estimates are periodically reviewed for accuracy by taking into consideration known contract terms, as well as payment history. We believe our estimation and review process enables us to identify instances on a timely basis where such estimates need to be revised.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the valuation allowance increased by $120 million, including an increase of $123 million due to limitations on the tax deductibility of interest expense, a decrease of $1 million due to the expiration or worthlessness of unutilized net operating loss carryovers, and a decrease of $2 million due to changes in the expected realizability of deferred tax assets.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the valuation allowance increased by $120 million, including an increase of $123 million due to limitations on the tax deductibility of interest expense, a decrease of $1 million due to the expiration or worthlessness of unutilized net operating loss carryovers, and a decrease of $2 million due to changes in the expected realizability of deferred tax assets.
Subsequently, the FFY 2021 DSH reduction was eliminated entirely and the remaining $8 billion of DSH reductions were delayed until FFY 2024. • The COVID Acts expanded the Medicare accelerated payment program, which provides prepayment of claims to providers in certain circumstances, such as national emergencies or natural disasters.
Subsequently, the FFY 2021 DSH reduction was eliminated entirely, and the remaining $8 billion of DSH reductions were delayed until March 8, 2024. • The COVID Acts expanded the Medicare accelerated payment program, which provides prepayment of claims to providers in certain circumstances, such as national emergencies or natural disasters.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS The purpose of this section, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”), is to provide a narrative explanation of our financial statements that enables investors to better understand our business, to enhance our overall financial disclosures, to provide context to the analysis of our financial information, and to provide information about the quality of, and potential variability of, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS The purpose of this section, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”), is to provide a narrative explanation of our financial statements that enables investors to better understand our business, to enhance our overall financial disclosures, to give context to the analysis of our financial information, and to provide information about the quality of, and potential variability of, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
However, we continue to have to provide uninsured discounts and charity care due to the failure of certain states to expand Medicaid coverage and for persons living in the country who are not permitted to enroll in a health insurance exchange or government healthcare insurance program.
However, we continue to provide uninsured discounts and charity care due to the failure of certain states to expand Medicaid coverage and for persons living in the country who are not permitted to enroll in a health insurance exchange or government healthcare insurance program.
Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, providers could retain the accelerated payments for one year from the date of receipt before CMS commenced recoupment. During the year ended December 31, 2020, our hospitals and other providers applied for and received approximately $1.5 billion of accelerated payments.
Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, providers could retain the accelerated payments for one year from the date of receipt before CMS commenced recoupment. During the year ended December 31, 2020, our hospitals and other providers applied for and received approximately $1.5 billion of accelerated payments.
Our sources of earnings from each facility consist of: • management and administrative services revenues from the facilities USPI operates through management services contracts, computed as a percentage of each facility’s net revenues; and • our share of each facility’s net income (loss), which is computed by multiplying the facility’s net income (loss) times the percentage of each facility’s equity interests owned by USPI.
Our sources of earnings from each facility consist of: • management and administrative services revenues from the facilities USPI operates through management services contracts, usually computed as a percentage of each facility’s net revenues; and • our share of each facility’s net income (loss), which is computed by multiplying the facility’s net income (loss) times the percentage of each facility’s equity interests owned by USPI.
Defined Benefit Plan Obligations— We maintain three frozen, non‑qualified defined benefit plans that provide supplemental retirement benefits to certain of our current and former executives. These plans are unfunded, and plan obligations are paid from our working capital. We also maintain a frozen, qualified defined benefit plan that benefits certain of our current and former employees in Detroit.
Defined Benefit Plan Obligations— We maintain three frozen, non‑qualified defined benefit plans that provide supplemental retirement benefits to certain of our current and former executives. These plans are unfunded, and plan obligations are paid from our working capital. We also maintain a frozen, qualified defined benefit plan for certain of our current and former employees in Detroit.
IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS We evaluate our long‑lived assets for possible impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable from estimated future undiscounted cash flows.
IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS We evaluate our long‑lived assets for possible impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable from estimated future undiscounted cash flows (“UDCF”).
Our Hospital Operations segment also recognized grant income from federal, state and local grants totaling $190 million and $142 million in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which is not included in net operating revenues.
Our Hospital Operations segment also recognized income from federal, state and local grants totaling $190 million and $142 million in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which is not included in net operating revenues.
These fluctuations result in material intra-quarter net operating and investing uses of cash that have caused, and in the future may cause, us to use our Credit Agreement as a source of liquidity.
These fluctuations can result in material intra-quarter net operating and investing uses of cash that have caused, and in the future may cause, us to use our Credit Agreement as a source of liquidity.
We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is a useful measure, in part, because certain investors and analysts use both historical and projected Adjusted EBITDA, in addition to GAAP and other non‑GAAP measures, as factors in determining the estimated fair value of shares of our common stock. Company management also regularly reviews the Adjusted EBITDA performance for each operating segment.
We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is a useful measure, in part, because certain investors and analysts use both historical and projected Adjusted EBITDA, in addition to GAAP and other non‑GAAP measures, as factors in determining the estimated fair value of shares of our common stock. Company management also regularly reviews the Adjusted EBITDA performance for each reporting segment.
Some of the factors that can contribute to changes in the contractual allowance estimates include: (1) changes in reimbursement levels for procedures, supplies and drugs when threshold levels are triggered; (2) changes in reimbursement levels when stop‑loss or outlier limits are reached; (3) changes in the admission status of a patient due to physician orders subsequent to initial diagnosis or testing; (4) final coding of in‑house and discharged‑not‑final‑billed 50 Table of Contents patients that change reimbursement levels; (5) secondary benefits determined after primary insurance payments; and (6) reclassification of patients among insurance plans with different coverage and payment levels.
Some of the factors that can contribute to changes in the contractual allowance estimates include: (1) changes in reimbursement levels for procedures, supplies and drugs when threshold levels are triggered; (2) changes in reimbursement levels when stop‑loss or outlier limits are reached; (3) changes in the admission status of a patient due to physician orders subsequent to initial diagnosis or testing; (4) final coding of in‑house and discharged‑not‑final‑billed patients that change reimbursement levels; (5) secondary benefits determined after primary insurance payments; and (6) reclassification of patients among insurance plans with different coverage and payment levels.
Furthermore, the healthcare industry, in general, and the acute care hospital business, in particular, continue to be subject to significant regulatory uncertainty. Changes in federal or state healthcare laws, regulations, funding policies or reimbursement practices, especially those involving reductions to government payment rates, could have a significant impact on our future revenues and operations.
Furthermore, the healthcare industry, in general, and the acute care hospital business, in particular, continue to be subject to significant regulatory uncertainty. Changes in federal or state healthcare laws, regulations, funding policies or reimbursement practices, especially those involving reductions to government payment rates, could have a significant impact on our future revenues and expenses.
As an alternative means of funding provider payments, many of the states in which we operate have adopted supplemental payment programs authorized under the Social Security Act. Continuing pressure on state budgets and other factors, including legislative and regulatory changes, could result in future reductions to Medicaid payments, payment delays or changes to Medicaid supplemental payment programs.
As an alternative means of funding provider payments, many of the states where we operate have adopted supplemental payment programs authorized under the Social Security Act. Continuing pressure on state budgets and other factors, including legislative and regulatory changes, could result in future reductions to Medicaid payments, payment delays or changes to Medicaid supplemental payment programs.
However, the managed Medicare and Medicaid insurance plans typically generate lower yields than commercial managed care plans, which have been experiencing an improved pricing trend.
However, Medicare and Medicaid managed care insurance plans typically generate lower yields than commercial managed care plans, which have been experiencing an improved pricing trend.
These factors, many of which have been affected by the pandemic, continuously change and can have an impact on collection trends and our estimation process. We also typically experience ongoing managed care payment delays and disputes; however, we continue to work with these payers to obtain adequate and timely reimbursement for our services.
These factors, many of which were affected by the pandemic, continuously change and can have an impact on collection trends and our estimation process. We also typically experience ongoing managed care payment delays and disputes; however, we continue to work with these payers to obtain adequate and timely reimbursement for our services.
We do not believe there were any adjustments to estimates of patient bills that were material to our revenues during the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 or 2020. In addition, on a corporate‑wide basis, we do not record any general provision for adjustments to estimated contractual allowances for managed care plans.
We do not believe there were any adjustments to estimates of patient bills that were material to our revenues during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 or 2021. In addition, on a corporate‑wide basis, we do not record any general provision for adjustments to estimated contractual allowances for managed care plans.
Over the past several years, we have undertaken enterprise‑wide cost-efficiency measures, and we continue to transition certain support operations to our Global Business Center (“GBC”) in the Philippines. We incurred restructuring charges in conjunction with these initiatives in the year ended December 31, 2022, and we could incur additional restructuring charges in the future.
Over the past several years, we have undertaken enterprise‑wide cost‑efficiency measures, and we continue to transition certain support operations to our Global Business Center (“GBC”) in the Philippines. We incurred restructuring charges in conjunction with these initiatives in the year ended December 31, 2023, and we could incur additional restructuring charges in the future.
Supplies Same‑hospital supplies expense decreased $147 million, or 5.8%, in the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to 2021.
Supplies Same‑hospital supplies expense decreased by $147 million, or 5.8%, in the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to 2021.
These losses primarily related to the redemption in full of our 7.500% senior secured first lien notes due 2025 (“2025 Senior Secured First Lien Notes”) in February 2022 and open market purchases and the subsequent redemption in full of our 6.750% senior unsecured notes due 2023 (the “2023 Senior Unsecured Notes”) during the six months ended June 30, 2022.
The net losses primarily related to the redemption in full of our 7.500% senior secured first lien notes due 2025 (“2025 Senior Secured First Lien Notes”) in February 2022 and open market purchases and the subsequent redemption in full of our 6.750% senior unsecured notes due 2023 (the “2023 Senior Unsecured Notes”) during the six months ended June 30, 2022.
The amount of 67 Table of Contents collateral required is primarily dependent upon the level of claims activity and our creditworthiness. The insurers require the collateral in case we are unable to meet our obligations to claimants within the deductible or self‑insured retention layers.
The amount of 69 Table of Contents collateral required is primarily dependent upon the level of claims activity and our creditworthiness. The insurers require the collateral in case we are unable to meet our obligations to claimants within the deductible or self‑insured retention layers.
The updates generally become effective October 1, the beginning of the FFY. In August 2022, CMS issued final changes to the Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals and Fiscal Year 2023 Rates (“Final IPPS Rule”).
The updates generally become effective October 1, the beginning of the FFY. In August 2023, CMS issued final changes to the Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals and Fiscal Year 2024 Rates (“Final IPPS Rule”).
All disputed issues with respect to these audits have been resolved and all related tax assessments (including interest) have been paid. Our tax returns for years ended after December 31, 2007 and USPI’s tax returns for years ended after December 31, 2018 remain subject to audit by the IRS.
All disputed issues with respect to these audits have been resolved and all related tax assessments (including interest) have been paid. Our tax returns for years ended after December 31, 2007 and USPI’s tax returns for years ended after December 31, 2020 remain subject to audit by the IRS.
DEBT INSTRUMENTS, GUARANTEES AND RELATED COVENANTS Credit Agreement— At December 31, 2022, our Credit Agreement provided for revolving loans in an aggregate principal amount of up to $1.500 billion with a $200 million subfacility for standby letters of credit.
DEBT INSTRUMENTS, GUARANTEES AND RELATED COVENANTS Credit Agreement— At December 31, 2023, our Credit Agreement provided for revolving loans in an aggregate principal amount of up to $1.500 billion with a $200 million subfacility for standby letters of credit.
Grant income recognized by our Hospital Operations and Ambulatory Care segments is presented in grant income, and grant income recognized through our unconsolidated affiliates is presented in equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, in each case in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020.
Grant income recognized by our Hospital Operations and Ambulatory Care segments is presented in grant income, and grant income recognized through our unconsolidated affiliates is presented in equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, in each case in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Patient advocates from Conifer’s Eligibility and Enrollment Services program (“EES”) screen patients in the hospital to determine whether those patients meet eligibility requirements for financial assistance programs. They also expedite the process of applying for these government programs.
Patient advocates from our Eligibility and Enrollment Services program (“EES”) screen patients in the hospital to determine whether those patients meet eligibility requirements for financial assistance programs. They also expedite the process of applying for these government programs.
Payment and Policy Changes to the Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgery Center Payment Systems— In November 2022, CMS released the final policy changes and payment rates for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System for calendar year (“CY”) 2023 (“Final OPPS/ASC Rule”).
Payment and Policy Changes to the Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgery Center Payment Systems— In November 2023, CMS released the final policy changes and payment rates for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment System for calendar year (“CY”) 2024 (“Final OPPS/ASC Rule”).
In December 2021, we repaid half of the outstanding deferred Social Security tax payments, and the remainder was repaid in December 2022. 49 Table of Contents CMS Innovation Models The CMS Innovation Center develops and tests innovative payment and service delivery models that have the potential to reduce Medicare, Medicaid or CHIP expenditures while preserving or enhancing the quality of care for beneficiaries.
In December 2021, we repaid half of the outstanding deferred Social Security tax payments, and the remainder was repaid in December 2022. CMS Innovation Models The CMS Innovation Center develops and tests innovative payment and service delivery models that have the potential to reduce Medicare, Medicaid or CHIP expenditures while preserving or enhancing the quality of care for beneficiaries.
Moreover, due in part to advancements in surgical techniques, medical technology and anesthesia, as well as the lower cost structure and greater efficiencies that are attainable at a specialized outpatient site, we believe the volume and complexity of surgical cases performed in an outpatient setting will continue to increase over time.
Moreover, due in part to advancements in surgical techniques, medical technology 35 Table of Contents and anesthesia, as well as the lower cost structure and greater efficiencies that are attainable at a specialized outpatient site, we believe the volume and complexity of surgical cases performed in an outpatient setting will continue to increase over time.
Facility Growth The following table summarizes the year-over-year changes in our same‑facility revenue and cases on a pro forma systemwide basis, which includes both consolidated and unconsolidated (equity method) facilities.
Facility Growth The following table presents year-over-year changes in our same‑facility revenue and cases on a pro forma systemwide basis, which includes both consolidated and unconsolidated (equity method) facilities.
While we do not record the revenues of unconsolidated facilities, we believe this information is important in understanding the financial performance of our Ambulatory Care segment because these revenues are the basis for calculating our management services revenues and, together with the expenses of our unconsolidated facilities, are the basis for our equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates.
While we do not record the revenues of unconsolidated facilities, we believe this information is important in understanding the financial performance of our 58 Table of Contents Ambulatory Care segment because these revenues are the basis for calculating our management services revenues and, together with the expenses of our unconsolidated facilities, are the basis for our equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates.
While we believe we have adequately provided for our income tax receivables or liabilities and our deferred tax assets or liabilities, adverse determinations by taxing authorities or changes in tax laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
While we believe we have adequately provided for our income tax receivables or liabilities and our deferred tax assets or liabilities, adverse determinations by taxing authorities or changes in tax laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. 78 Table of Contents
Because we cannot predict what actions the federal government or the states may take under existing or future legislation and/or regulatory changes to address budget gaps, deficits, Medicaid expansion, provider fee programs or Medicaid Section 1115 waivers, we are unable to assess the effect that any such legislation or regulatory action might have on our business; however, the impact on our future financial position, results of operations or cash flows could be material.
Because we cannot predict what actions the federal government or the states may take under existing or future legislation and/or regulatory changes to address budget gaps, deficits, Medicaid expansion, Medicaid eligibility redeterminations, provider fee programs, state‑directed payment programs or Medicaid Section 1115 waivers, we are unable to assess the effect that any such legislation or regulatory action might have on our business; however, the impact on our future financial position, results of operations or cash flows could be material.
The MPFS Final Rule includes updates to payment policies, payment rates and other provisions for services reimbursed under the MPFS from January 1 through December 31, 2023.
The MPFS Final Rule includes updates to payment policies, payment rates and other provisions for services reimbursed under the MPFS from January 1 through December 31, 2024.
If these projections are not met, or negative trends occur that impact our future outlook, future impairments of long-lived assets and goodwill may occur, and we may incur additional restructuring charges, which could be material. Litigation and Investigation Costs Litigation and investigation costs for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 were $70 million and $116 million, respectively.
If these projections are not met, or negative trends occur that impact our future outlook, future impairments of long-lived assets and goodwill may occur, and we may incur additional restructuring charges, which could be material. Litigation and Investigation Costs Litigation and investigation costs for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $47 million and $70 million, respectively.
The 2022 error rate for Hospital IPPS payments is approximately 3%. CMS has identified the FFS program as a program at risk for significant erroneous payments, and one of the agency’s stated key goals is to pay claims properly the first time.
The 2023 error rate for Hospital IPPS payments is approximately 3.4%. CMS has identified the FFS program as a program at risk for significant erroneous payments, and one of the agency’s stated key goals is to pay claims properly the first time.
Funding for the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund— The COVID Acts authorized $178 billion in payments to be distributed to providers through the PRF.
Funding for the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund— The COVID Acts authorized $178 billion in payments to be distributed to providers through the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund (“PRF”).
If the presumed level of performance does not occur as expected, impairment may result. We report long‑lived assets to be disposed of at the lower of their carrying amounts or fair values less costs to sell.
If the presumed level of performance does not occur as expected, impairment may result. 76 Table of Contents We report long‑lived assets to be disposed of at the lower of their carrying amounts or fair values less costs to sell.
This increase was primarily due to the impact of higher contract labor and premium pay costs, decreased patient volumes, and the Cybersecurity Incident on our patient revenues during the 2022 period. Salaries, wages and benefits expense for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 included stock‑based compensation expense of $43 million and $41 million, respectively.
This increase was primarily due to the impact of higher contract labor and premium pay costs, decreased patient volumes, and the effect of the Cybersecurity Incident on our patient revenues during 2022. Salaries, wages and benefits expense for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 included stock‑based compensation expense of $45 million and $43 million, respectively.
Our finance leases are primarily for medical equipment and information technology and telecommunications assets. As of December 31, 2022, we had fixed payment obligations of $1.517 billion under non‑cancellable lease agreements. Future payments due in connection with our operating and finance leases, including imputed interest, are summarized in the table above.
Our finance leases are primarily for medical equipment and information technology and telecommunications assets. As of December 31, 2023, we had fixed payment obligations of $1.415 billion under non‑cancellable lease agreements. Future payments due in connection with our operating and finance leases, including imputed interest, are summarized in the table above.
We determine our estimate of implicit price concessions based on our historical collection experience with these classes of patients using a portfolio approach as a practical expedient to account for patient contracts as collective groups rather than individually. The financial statement effects of using this practical expedient are not materially different from an individual contract approach.
We determine our estimate of implicit price concessions based on our historical collection experience using a portfolio approach as a practical expedient to account for patient contracts as collective groups rather than individually. The financial statement effects of using this practical expedient are not materially different from an individual contract approach.
At December 31, 2022, our Hospital Operations segment collection rate on self‑pay accounts was approximately 29.5%. Our self‑pay collection rate includes payments made by patients, including co‑pays, co‑insurance amounts and deductibles paid by patients with insurance.
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, our Hospital Operations segment collection rate on self‑pay accounts was approximately 29.9% and 29.5%, respectively. Our self‑pay collection rate includes payments made by patients, including co‑pays, co‑insurance amounts and deductibles paid by patients with insurance.
Our inpatient admissions have been constrained in recent years by the pandemic, increased competition, utilization pressure by managed care organizations, new delivery models that are designed to lower the utilization of acute care hospital services, the effects of higher patient co‑pays, co‑insurance amounts and deductibles, changing consumer 36 Table of Contents behavior, and adverse economic conditions and demographic trends in certain areas where we operate.
Our inpatient admissions have been constrained in recent years by the COVID‑19 pandemic, increased competition, utilization pressure by managed care organizations, new delivery models that are designed to lower the utilization of acute care hospital services, the effects of higher patient co‑pays, co‑insurance amounts and deductibles, changing consumer behavior, and adverse economic conditions and demographic trends in certain areas where we operate.
Based on our accounts receivable from uninsured patients and co‑pays, co‑insurance amounts and deductibles owed to us by patients with insurance at December 31, 2022, a 10% decrease or increase in our self‑pay collection rate, or approximately 3.0%, which we 56 Table of Contents believe could be a reasonably likely change, would result in an unfavorable or favorable adjustment to patient accounts receivable of approximately $11 million.
Based on our accounts receivable from uninsured patients and co‑pays, co‑insurance amounts and deductibles owed to us by patients with insurance at December 31, 2023, a 10% decrease or increase in our self‑pay collection rate, or approximately 3.0%, which we believe could be a reasonably likely change, would result in an unfavorable or favorable adjustment to patient accounts receivable of approximately $11 million.
The expansion of Medicaid in 39 states (including four of the nine states in which we operate acute care hospitals) and the District of Columbia is currently financed through: • negative “productivity adjustments” to the annual market basket updates, which began in 2011 and do not expire under current law; and • reductions to Medicare and Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (“DSH”) payments, which began for Medicare payments in FFY 2014 and, under current law, are scheduled to commence for Medicaid payments in FFY 2024.
The expansion of Medicaid in 41 states (including four of the nine states in which we operate acute care hospitals) and the District of Columbia is currently financed through: • negative “productivity adjustments” to the annual market basket updates, which began in 2011 and do not expire under current law; and • reductions to Medicare and Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (“DSH”) payments, which began for Medicare payments in FFY 2014 and, under current law, are scheduled to commence for Medicaid payments on March 9, 2024.
We are also continuing to pursue new opportunities to enhance efficiency, including further integration of enterprise‑wide centralized support functions, outsourcing additional functions unrelated to direct patient care, and reducing clinical and vendor contract variation.
We are also continuing to pursue new opportunities to enhance efficiency, including 36 Table of Contents further integration of enterprise‑wide centralized support functions, outsourcing additional functions unrelated to direct patient care, and reducing clinical and vendor contract variation.
With the recent announcement that the public health emergency will end on May 11, 2023, and the subsequent unwinding of federal flexibilities and funding, there is no assurance or expectation that we will continue to receive or remain eligible for significant funding or assistance under the COVID Acts or similar measures in the future.
With the expiration of the public health emergency on May 11, 2023, and the subsequent unwinding of federal flexibilities and funding, there is no assurance or expectation that we will continue to receive or remain eligible for significant funding or assistance under the COVID Acts or similar measures in the future.
The impact of the Sequester Cuts Act on our operations was an increase of approximately $39 million of revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2022, after which the sequestration was fully reinstated. • The COVID Acts instituted a 20% increase in the Medicare MS‑DRG payment for COVID-19 hospital admissions for the duration of the public health emergency. • The COVID Acts initially eliminated the scheduled nationwide reduction of $4 billion in federal Medicaid DSH allotments in FFY 2020 mandated by the Affordable Care Act and decreased the FFY 2021 DSH reduction from $8 billion to $4 billion effective December 1, 2020.
The impact of the Sequester Cuts Act on our operations was an increase of approximately $39 million of revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2022, after which the sequestration was fully reinstated. • The COVID Acts instituted a 20% increase in the Medicare MS‑DRG payment for COVID-19 hospital admissions through the public health emergency period, which expired May 11, 2023. • The COVID Acts initially eliminated the scheduled nationwide reduction of $4 billion in federal Medicaid DSH allotments in FFY 2020 mandated by the Affordable Care Act and decreased the FFY 2021 DSH reduction from $8 billion to $4 billion effective December 1, 2020.
These contracts generally relate to information technology infrastructure support and services, software licenses for certain operational and administrative systems, and cybersecurity‑related software and services. Purchase Orders— We had outstanding short‑term purchase commitments of $369 million at December 31, 2022, which we expect to pay within 12 months.
These contracts generally relate to information technology infrastructure support and services, software licenses for certain operational and administrative systems, and cybersecurity‑related software and services. Purchase Orders— We had outstanding short‑term purchase commitments of $386 million at December 31, 2023, which we expect to pay within 12 months.
Impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2021 were comprised of $5 million from our Ambulatory Care segment, primarily related to the impairment of certain management contract intangible assets, and $3 million from our Conifer segment.
Impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2021 were comprised of $5 million from our Ambulatory Care segment, primarily related to the impairment of certain management contract intangible assets, and $3 million from our Hospital Operations segment.
Restructuring charges during the year ended December 31, 2021 consisted of $14 million of employee severance costs, $19 million related to the transition of various administrative functions to our GBC and $24 million of other restructuring costs. Acquisition‑related costs during 2021 consisted entirely of transaction costs.
Restructuring charges during the year ended December 31, 2021 consisted of $14 million of employee severance costs, $19 million related to the transition of various administrative functions to our GBC and $24 million of other restructuring costs.
The additional NPC work required will not change the timing or general nature of our ongoing or currently planned NPC or SCP work on our buildings. Income Taxes— Income tax payments, net of tax refunds, were $161 million and $92 million in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
The additional NPC work required will not change the timing or general nature of our ongoing or currently planned NPC or SCP work on our buildings. Income Taxes— Income tax payments, net of tax refunds, were $243 million, and $161 million in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We recognized an additional $14 million and $17 million of PRF grant income from our unconsolidated affiliates during 2021 and 2020, respectively. Our Hospital Operations and Ambulatory Care segments combined also recognized $56 million, $15 million and $14 million of grant income from state and local grant programs during the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
We recognized an additional $14 million of PRF grant income from our unconsolidated affiliates during the year ended December 31, 2021. Our Hospital Operations and Ambulatory Care segments combined also recognized $15 million, $56 million and $15 million of grant income from state and local grant programs during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
No additional accelerated payment funds were applied for or received in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
No additional accelerated payment funds were applied for or received in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 or 2021.
We believe the most significant factors contributing to the adverse financial trends included decreased revenues and lower patient volumes due to the pandemic and competition, as well as higher labor costs as a result of the pandemic.
We believe the most significant factors contributing to the adverse financial trends included decreased revenues and lower patient volumes due to the pandemic and competition, as well as higher labor costs because of the pandemic.
We also recorded $12 million of other impairment charges. For additional discussion, see Note 6 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. Impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2022 were comprised of $86 million from our Hospital Operations segment, $6 million from our Ambulatory Care segment and $2 million from our Conifer segment.
We also recorded $12 million of other impairment charges. For additional discussion, see Note 6 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. Impairment charges for the year ended December 31, 2022 were comprised of $88 million from our Hospital Operations segment and $6 million from our Ambulatory Care segment.
Our estimated Hospital Operations segment collection rate from managed care payers was approximately 95.7% at December 31, 2022. We manage our implicit price concessions using hospital‑specific goals and benchmarks such as (1) total cash collections, (2) point‑of‑service cash collections, (3) AR Days and (4) accounts receivable by aging category.
Our estimated Hospital Operations segment collection rate from managed care payers was approximately 96.7% and 95.7% at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. 55 Table of Contents We manage our implicit price concessions using hospital‑specific goals and benchmarks such as (1) total cash collections, (2) point‑of‑service cash collections, (3) AR Days and (4) accounts receivable by aging category.
Net income available to noncontrolling interests in 2022 was comprised of $469 million related to our Ambulatory Care segment, $77 million related to our Conifer segment and $44 million related to our Hospital Operations segment. Of the portion related to our Ambulatory Care segment, $9 million related to the minority interest Baylor held in USPI until June 30, 2022.
Net income available to noncontrolling interests in 2022 was comprised of $469 million related to our Ambulatory Care segment and $121 million related to our Hospital Operations segment. Of the portion related to our Ambulatory Care segment, $9 million related to the minority interest Baylor held in USPI until June 30, 2022.
At December 31, 2022, we had $116 million of standby letters of credit outstanding under the LC Facility. The timing of reimbursement payments is uncertain, as we cannot foresee when, or if, a standby letter of credit will be drawn upon.
At December 31, 2023, we had $111 million of standby letters of credit outstanding under the LC Facility. The timing of reimbursement payments is uncertain, as we cannot foresee when, or if, a standby letter of credit will be drawn upon.
We do not believe there were any adjustments to estimates of patient bills that were material to our revenues during the year ended December 31, 2022. In addition, on a corporate‑wide basis, we do not record any general provision for adjustments to estimated contractual allowances for managed care plans.
We do not believe there were any adjustments to estimates of patient bills that were material to our revenues during the year ended December 31, 2023. In addition, on a corporate‑wide basis, we do not record any general provision for adjustments 74 Table of Contents to estimated contractual allowances for managed care plans.
The change was driven by an increase from acquisitions of $161 million, as well as an increase in same‑facility supplies expense of $32 million due primarily to an increase in surgical cases at our consolidated centers and higher pricing of certain supplies as a result of the pandemic, the impact of general market conditions and inflation.
The change was driven by an increase from acquisitions of $103 million, as well as an increase in same‑facility supplies expense of $81 million due primarily to an increase in surgical cases at our consolidated centers and higher pricing of certain supplies as a result of the impact of general market conditions and inflation.
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Net revenues 4.6% Cases 2.0% Net revenue per case 2.5% Joint Ventures with Health System Partners USPI’s business model is to jointly own its facilities with local physicians and, in many of these facilities, a health system partner.
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Net revenues 9.2 % Cases 5.6 % Net revenue per case 3.4 % Joint Ventures with Health System Partners USPI’s business model is to jointly own its facilities with local physicians and, in many of these facilities, a health system partner.
The accrual for estimated cost report settlements for periods for which a cost report is yet to be filed is recorded based on estimates of what we expect to report on the filed cost reports and a corresponding valuation allowance is recorded as previously described.
The accrual for estimated cost report settlements for periods for which a cost report is yet to be filed is recorded based on estimates of what we expect to report on the filed cost reports and a corresponding valuation allowance is recorded, if necessary, based on the method previously described.
We had $858 million of cash and cash equivalents on hand at December 31, 2022 to fund our operations and capital expenditures, and our borrowing availability under our Credit Agreement was $1.500 billion based on our borrowing base calculation at December 31, 2022. Our primary source of operating cash is the collection of accounts receivable.
We had $1.228 billion of cash and cash equivalents on hand at December 31, 2023 to fund our operations and capital expenditures, and our borrowing availability under our Credit Agreement was $1.500 billion based on our borrowing base calculation at December 31, 2023. Our primary source of operating cash is the collection of accounts receivable.
Estimated revenues under various state Medicaid programs, including state‑funded Medicaid managed care programs, constituted approximately 19.4%, 18.7% and 17.8% of the total net patient service revenues of our acute care hospitals and related outpatient facilities for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We also receive DSH and other supplemental revenues under various state Medicaid programs.
Estimated revenues under various state Medicaid programs, including state‑funded Medicaid managed care programs, constituted approximately 19.1%, 19.4% and 18.7% of the total net patient service revenues of our hospitals and related outpatient facilities for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. We also receive DSH and other supplemental revenues under various state Medicaid programs.
Total Medicaid and Managed Medicaid net patient service revenues from continuing operations recognized by the hospitals and related outpatient facilities in our Hospital Operations segment for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 were $2.692 billion, $2.760 billion and $2.427 billion, respectively.
Total Medicaid and Medicaid managed care net patient service revenues from continuing operations recognized by the hospitals and related outpatient facilities in our Hospital Operations segment for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were $2.776 billion, $2.692 billion and $2.760 billion, respectively.
At December 31, 2022, the undiscounted aggregate future estimated payments related to these obligations was $184 million. We are unable to predict the timing of these payments due to the uncertainty and long timeframes inherent in these obligations.
At December 31, 2023, the undiscounted aggregate future estimated payments related to these obligations was $206 million. We are unable to predict the timing of these payments due to the uncertainty and long timeframes inherent in these obligations.
We anticipate this ratio will fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on earnings performance and other factors, including the use of our Credit Agreement as a source of liquidity and acquisitions that involve the assumption of long‑term debt.
We anticipate this ratio will fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on earnings performance and other factors, including in the event we use our Credit Agreement as a source of liquidity or enter into acquisitions that involve the assumption of long‑term debt.
The IPF-PPS is based on prospectively determined per‑diem rates and includes an outlier policy that authorizes additional payments for extraordinarily costly cases. As of December 31, 2022, 19 of our general hospitals operated IPF units.
The IPF-PPS is based on prospectively determined per‑diem rates and includes an outlier policy that authorizes additional payments for extraordinarily costly cases. As of December 31, 2023, 18 of our hospitals operated IPF units.
Over the past several years, we have had to rely on higher‑cost temporary and contract labor, which we compete with other healthcare providers to secure, and pay premiums above standard compensation for essential workers.
Over the past several years, we have had to rely on higher-cost contract labor, which we compete with other healthcare providers to secure, and pay premiums above standard compensation for 34 Table of Contents essential workers.
All advances received by our hospitals and other providers were either repaid or recouped during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021. • A 6.2% increase in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (“FMAP”) matching funds was instituted to help states respond to the COVID‑19 pandemic.
All advances received by our hospitals and other providers were either repaid or recouped during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021. • A 6.2% increase in the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (“FMAP”) matching funds was instituted to help states respond to the COVID‑19 pandemic. The additional funds became available to states effective January 1, 2020.
Cost reports must generally be filed within five months after the end of the annual cost report reporting period. After the cost report is filed, the accrual and corresponding valuation allowance may need to be adjusted. Medicare Claims Reviews HHS estimates that the overall 2022 Medicare FFS improper payment rate for the program is approximately 7.46%.
Cost reports must generally be filed within five months after the end of the annual cost report reporting period. After the cost report is filed, the accrual and corresponding valuation allowance may need to be adjusted. 44 Table of Contents Medicare Claims Reviews HHS estimates that the overall 2023 Medicare FFS improper payment rate for the program is approximately 7.38%.
At December 31, 2022 and 2021, 66% and 67%, respectively, of our net accounts receivable for our Hospital Operations segment were due from managed care payers. Revenues under managed care plans are based primarily on payment terms involving predetermined rates per diagnosis, per‑diem rates, discounted FFS rates and/or other similar contractual arrangements.
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, 68% and 66%, respectively, of our Hospital Operations segment’s net accounts receivable were due from managed care payers. Revenues under managed care plans are based primarily on payment terms involving predetermined rates per diagnosis, per‑diem rates, discounted FFS rates and/or other similar contractual arrangements.
According to CMS, the combined impact of the payment and policy changes in the Final IPPS Rule for operating costs will yield an average 2.6% increase in Medicare operating MS‑DRG FFS payments for hospitals in urban areas and an average 3.3% increase in such payments for proprietary hospitals in FFY 2023.
According to CMS, the combined impact of the payment and policy changes in the Final IPPS Rule for operating costs will yield an average 3.1% increase in Medicare operating MS‑DRG FFS payments for hospitals in urban areas and an average 3.8% increase in such payments for proprietary hospitals in FFY 2024.
ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL NON-GAAP DISCLOSURES The financial information provided throughout this report, including our Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto, has been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
The financial information provided throughout this report, including our Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto, has been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
We seek to manage this ratio and increase the efficiency of our balance sheet by following our business plan and managing our cost structure, including through possible asset divestitures, and through other changes in our capital structure.
We seek to manage this ratio and increase the efficiency of our balance sheet by following our business plan and managing our cost structure, including through currently planned and potential future asset divestitures, and through other changes in our capital structure.