The earnings call presented a mix of positive outcomes and challenges. Despite strong revenue growth, effective cost management, and robust cash flow, the impact of recent hurricanes on operations and ongoing challenges with payer denials posed significant concerns. The company's ability to generate strong volumes and manage costs effectively provided a solid foundation, but the adverse effects of natural disasters and payer challenges could not be overlooked.
Company Guidance
During the HCA Healthcare Q3 2024 earnings call, executives provided substantial guidance on several key metrics and future expectations. Adjusted EBITDA showed a 13% year-over-year increase, and diluted earnings per share as adjusted rose by 25% to $4.90, despite a $0.15 per share impact from hurricanes. The company reported a 7.9% revenue growth for the quarter and an adjusted EBITDA margin improvement of 90 basis points. Looking ahead to 2025, HCA anticipates volume growth of 3% to 4%, driven by continued strong demand and a stable operating environment. The company reaffirmed its 2024 guidance but expects results to be in the lower half of the range due to an anticipated $200 million to $300 million impact from hurricane-related expenses and lost revenue in Q4. Additionally, HCA plans to add approximately 600 inpatient beds and 100 new outpatient facilities by the end of the year, aiming to enhance its network with $6 billion in projects under development.
Strong Revenue Growth
The third quarter reflected solid revenue growth of 7.9% over the prior year, driven by strong volumes and margin improvement.
Volume Growth Across Service Lines
Inpatient admissions and adjusted admissions both grew by 4.5%. Emergency room visits increased by 4.6%, and inpatient surgeries were up by 1.6%.
Effective Cost Management
Labor costs as a percentage of revenue improved by 160 basis points from the prior year. Contract labor costs decreased by 18% from the prior year.
Strong Cash Flow and Share Repurchases
Cash flow from operations was $3.5 billion for the quarter. The company repurchased $1.79 billion of its outstanding shares.
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HCA Healthcare (HCA) Earnings, Revenues Date & History
The upcoming earnings date is based on a company’s previous reporting, and may be updated when the actual date is announced
The table shows recent earnings report dates and whether the forecast was beat or missed. See the change in forecast and EPS from the previous year.
Beat
Missed
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HCA Earnings-Related Price Changes
Report Date
Price 1 Day Before
Price 1 Day After
Percentage Change
Oct 25, 2024
$398.06
$362.78
-8.86%
Jul 23, 2024
$324.15
$338.88
+4.54%
Apr 26, 2024
$312.32
$304.94
-2.36%
Jan 30, 2024
$284.51
$299.25
+5.18%
Earnings announcements can affect a stock’s price. This table shows the stock's price the day before and the day after recent earnings reports, including the percentage change.
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FAQ
When does HCA Healthcare (HCA) report earnings?
HCA Healthcare (HCA) is schdueled to report earning on Feb 04, 2025, TBA Not Confirmed.
What is HCA Healthcare (HCA) earnings time?
HCA Healthcare (HCA) earnings time is at Feb 04, 2025, TBA Not Confirmed.
Where can I see when companies are reporting earnings?
You can see which companies are reporting today on our designated earnings calendar.