Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

 

 

x

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2014

OR

 

¨

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                     to                    

Commission File Number: 0-24260

 

 

 

LOGO

AMEDISYS, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   11-3131700

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

5959 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816

(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(225) 292-2031 or (800) 467-2662

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share

 

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

The NASDAQ Global Select Market

(Title of each class)   (Name of each exchange on which registered)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the issuer is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes   x     No   ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.    Yes   ¨     No   x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes   x     No   ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes   x     No   ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨

   Accelerated filer   x    Non-accelerated filer   ¨    Smaller reporting company   ¨
      (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes   ¨     No   x

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, based on the last sale price as quoted by the NASDAQ Global Select Market on June 30, 2014 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was $335,134,716. For purposes of this determination shares beneficially owned by executive officers, directors and ten percent stockholders have been excluded, which does not constitute a determination that such persons are affiliates.

As of February 27, 2015, the registrant had 33,673,039 shares of Common Stock outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for its 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2015 Proxy Statement”) to be filed pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of December 31, 2014 are incorporated herein by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

SPECIAL CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     1   

PART I.

     

ITEM 1.

   BUSINESS      2   

ITEM 1A.

   RISK FACTORS      13   

ITEM 1B.

   UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS      29   

ITEM 2.

   PROPERTIES      29   

ITEM 3.

   LEGAL PROCEEDINGS      29   

ITEM 4.

   MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES      29   

PART II.

     

ITEM 5.

   MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES      30   

ITEM 6.

   SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA      32   

ITEM 7.

   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS      33   

ITEM 7A.

   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK      53   

ITEM 8.

   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA      53   
ITEM 9.    CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE      93   

ITEM 9A.

   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES      93   
ITEM 9B.    OTHER INFORMATION      96   

PART III.

     
ITEM 10.    DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE      96   
ITEM 11.    EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION      96   
ITEM 12.    SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS      96   
ITEM 13.    CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE      96   
ITEM 14.    PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES      96   

PART IV.

     

ITEM 15.

   EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES      97   

SIGNATURES

     98   

EXHIBIT INDEX

     99   

EX-21.1 LIST OF SUBSIDIAIRES

  

EX-23.1 CONSENT OF KPMG LLP

  
EX-31.1 SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION OF PEO   
EX-31.2 SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION OF PFO   
EX-32.1 SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION OF PEO   
EX-32.2 SECTION 906 CERTIFICATION OF PFO   
EX-101 INTERACTIVE DATA FILE   


Table of Contents

SPECIAL CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

When included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, or in other documents that we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) or in statements made by or on behalf of the Company, words like “believes,” “belief,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “may,” “might,” “would,” “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described therein. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the following: changes in Medicare and other medical payment levels, our ability to open care centers, acquire additional care centers and integrate and operate these care centers effectively, changes in or our failure to comply with existing Federal and state laws or regulations or the inability to comply with new government regulations on a timely basis, competition in the home health industry, changes in the case mix of patients and payment methodologies, changes in estimates and judgments associated with critical accounting policies, our ability to maintain or establish new patient referral sources, our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, changes in payments and covered services due to the economic downturn and deficit spending by Federal and state governments, future cost containment initiatives undertaken by third-party payors, our access to financing due to the volatility and disruption of the capital and credit markets, our ability to meet debt service requirements and comply with covenants in debt agreements, business disruptions due to natural disasters or acts of terrorism, our ability to integrate and manage our information systems, our ability to comply with requirements stipulated in our corporate integrity agreement and changes in law or developments with respect to any litigation relating to the Company, including various other matters, many of which are beyond our control.

Because forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified, you should not rely on any forward-looking statement as a prediction of future events. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking and we do not intend to release publicly any updates or changes in our expectations concerning the forward-looking statements or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances upon which any forward-looking statement may be based, except as required by law. For a discussion of some of the factors discussed above as well as additional factors, see Part I, Item 1A., “Risk Factors” and Part II, Item 7, “Critical Accounting Estimates” within “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

Unless otherwise provided, “Amedisys,” “we,” “us,” “our,” and the “Company” refer to Amedisys, Inc. and our consolidated subsidiaries and when we refer to 2014, 2013 and 2012, we mean the twelve month period then ended December 31, unless otherwise provided.

A copy of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 as filed with the SEC, including all exhibits, is available on our internet website at http://www.amedisys.com on the “Investors” page under the “SEC Filings” link.

 

1


Table of Contents

PART I

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

Overview

Amedisys, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMED) is a “health care at home” company delivering home health and hospice care to more than 360,000 patients each year. Amedisys is focused on delivering patient-centered care, whether that is home-based recovery and rehabilitation after an operation or injury, care focused on empowering them to manage a chronic disease, palliative care for those with a terminal illness, or hospice care at the end of life.

As a recognized innovator in our industry, we were one of the first to equip clinicians with point-of-care laptop technology and referring physicians with an internet portal that enables seamless, real-time coordination of patient care. Our advanced chronic care management programs enable us to deliver care in accordance with the latest evidence-based practices. Our nationwide Care Transitions program is designed to reduce unnecessary hospital readmissions through patient and caregiver health coaching and care coordination, which starts in the hospital and continues through completion of the patient’s home health plan of care.

We have a strong care network across 34 states and our focus continues to be on improving patient outcomes, reducing operating costs and keeping our patients where they want to be, at home. As of December 31, 2014, we owned and operated 316 Medicare-certified home health care centers and 80 Medicare-certified hospice care centers.

Our services are primarily paid for by Medicare due to the age demographics of our patient base (average age 81). Medicare represented approximately 82% to 84% of our net service revenue over the last three years. We are working to diversify our sources of payment by increasing our relationships with managed care providers. We remain focused on developing and maintaining a profitable and strategically important managed care contract portfolio.

Amedisys was originally incorporated in Louisiana in 1982, transferred our operations to a Delaware corporation, which was incorporated in 1994, and became a publicly traded company in August of that year. Our common stock is currently traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the trading symbol “AMED”.

Home Health Care:

There is no place like home to provide a healing environment when recovering from a surgery or illness or living with a chronic disease. It is the place where family, friends and familiar surroundings make patients feel most comfortable and may enable faster recovery. The Medicare home health benefit is available to homebound patients who require ongoing intermittent skilled care. Our services are provided by dedicated, highly trained and skilled home health care professionals, working closely with physicians to coordinate all aspects of care and comfort to our patients.

Our Care Team of professionals includes:

 

   

Skilled Nurses

 

   

Nurse Practitioners

 

   

Home Health Aides

 

   

Physical Therapists

 

   

Occupational Therapists

 

   

Speech Therapists

 

   

Medical Social Workers

 

2


Table of Contents

Our chronic care clinical programs incorporate evidence-based best practices for patients with chronic diseases. These programs incorporate national clinical standards and use patient education to empower patients and their caregivers with self-care management skills. Our chronic care management includes programs for cardiovascular, respiratory, diabetes, behavioral health, rehabilitative and medical surgical conditions. Our care team also utilizes a Care Transitions program that helps patients move safely from the hospital to their homes with the appropriate post-acute care. Our hospital and health system partners want to ensure their patients have a smooth transition home as well as prevent avoidable readmissions.

Hospice Care:

Hospice is a special form of care that is designed to provide comfort and support for those who are dealing with a terminal illness. It is a compassionate form of care that promotes dignity and affirms quality of life for the patient, family members and other loved ones.

Individuals with a terminal illness such as heart disease, pulmonary disease, Alzheimer’s, HIV/AIDS or cancer may be eligible for hospice care, if they have a life expectancy of six months or less.

Amedisys’ specialized team of hospice professionals works with the patient, family members and attending physician to develop a plan of care that will best meet the patient’s and family’s needs.

Our Team is a dedicated support network for the patient and includes:

 

   

The Patient and Family

 

   

Attending Physician

 

   

Hospice Physician

 

   

Nurses

 

   

Social Workers

 

   

Home Health Aides

 

   

Volunteers

 

   

Bereavement Counselors

 

   

Spiritual Counselors

Other Business Lines:

We have invested in and are exploring new business lines that are complementary to our existing home health and hospice businesses. These new business lines consist of (i) palliative care, which is designed to relieve pain and suffering for patients who do not qualify for, or have not elected, the hospice benefit, (ii) house calls medical practices and (iii) outpatient therapy services. To date these businesses are not meaningful contributors to our operating results.

Responding to Changing Regulatory and Reimbursement Environment:

Effective October 2012, Medicare began to impose a financial penalty upon hospitals that have excessive rates of patient readmissions within 30 days after hospital discharge. We believe this new regulation provides opportunities for providers of post-acute care who can demonstrate the ability to maintain or reduce patient acute care hospital readmission rates at or below an acceptable level. We are working to take advantage of this opportunity by striving to further improve the quality of care we provide, as well as implementing disease management programs designed to be responsive to the needs of patients served by the hospitals we call upon, so as to expand our business by garnering more referrals from hospitals.

 

3


Table of Contents

The passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“PPACA”) has resulted in several programs being introduced by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) that offer the opportunity to participate in initiatives that align home health providers with hospitals, physicians, managed care payors and other referral sources to coordinate care and/or pilot alternative reimbursement structures. One such program is the CMS Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Initiative (“BPCI”). We participated in a “Model 3 – 90-Day Post-Acute” BPCI bundle across two regions during 2014. This is an at-risk model in which CMS sets a bundle target price based on historical costs. On October 29, 2014, we notified CMS of our plan to withdraw from the two Model 3 bundles. We will continue to evaluate the results of our bundle participation and determine any future participation in CMS Bundle programs.

In addition to the BPCI program, PPACA introduced Accountable Care Organization (“ACO”) programs. An ACO is a group of doctors, hospitals and other health care providers who come together voluntarily to give coordinated high-quality care to Medicare patients. The goal of coordinated care is to ensure that patients, especially the chronically ill, get the right care at the right time, while avoiding unnecessary duplication of services and preventing medical errors. While these programs are presently not material to our business, we are currently participating in several ACOs and monitoring their results.

AMS3 Development:

AMS3 is our third generation, proprietary operating system. We installed the system in our first care center in May 2014 and currently have 15 care centers using the system. We continue to make improvements to the system and will evaluate the results of the improvements made and planned over the new few months. The results of this evaluation and the implementation of the 10 th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (“ICD-10”), effective October 1, 2015, may cause us to alter our currently proposed implementation schedule, up to and including postponing further implementation until after the implementation of ICD-10.

Financial Information:

Financial information for our home health and hospice segments can be found in our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Our Employees

As of February 27, 2015, we employed approximately 13,200 employees, consisting of approximately 10,100 home health care employees, 2,200 hospice care employees and 900 corporate and divisional support employees.

Payment for Our Services

Home Health Medicare

The Medicare home health benefit is available both for patients who need care following discharge from a hospital and patients who suffer from chronic conditions that require ongoing but intermittent care. As a condition of participation under Medicare, beneficiaries must be homebound (meaning that the beneficiary is unable to leave his/her home without a considerable and taxing effort), require intermittent skilled nursing, physical therapy or speech therapy services, and receive treatment under a plan of care established and periodically reviewed by a physician. Medicare rates are based on the severity of the patient’s condition, his or her service needs and other factors relating to the cost of providing services and supplies, bundled into 60-day episodes of care. An episode starts with the first day a billable visit is performed and ends 60 days later or upon discharge, if earlier. If a patient is still in treatment on the 60 th day, a recertification assessment is undertaken to determine whether the patient needs additional care. If the patient’s physician determines that further care is necessary, another episode begins on the 61 st day (regardless of whether a billable visit is rendered on that day) and ends 60 days later. The first day of a consecutive episode, therefore, is not necessarily the new episode’s first billable visit.

 

4


Table of Contents

Annually, the Medicare program base episodic rates are set through Federal legislation, as follows:

 

Period

   Base episode
payment
 

January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012

     2,139  

January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2013

     2,138  

January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014

     2,869  

January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015

     2,961  

Payments can be adjusted for: (a) an outlier payment if our patient’s care was unusually costly (capped at 10% of total reimbursement per provider number); (b) a low utilization payment adjustment (“LUPA”) if the number of visits during the episode was fewer than five; (c) a partial payment if our patient transferred to another provider or we received a patient from another provider before completing the episode; (d) a payment adjustment based upon the level of therapy services required (with various incremental adjustments made for additional visits, with larger payment increases associated with the sixth, fourteenth and twentieth visit thresholds); (e) a payment adjustment if we are unable to perform periodic therapy assessments; (f) the number of episodes of care provided to a patient, regardless of whether the same home health provider provided care for the entire series of episodes; (g) changes in the base episode payments established by the Medicare program; (h) adjustments to the base episode payments for case mix and geographic wages; and (i) recoveries of overpayments. Medicare can also make various adjustments to payments received if we are unable to produce appropriate billing documentation or acceptable authorizations. In addition, we make adjustments to Medicare revenue if we find that we are unable to obtain appropriate billing documentation, authorizations or face to face documentation.

Home Health Non-Medicare

Payments from Medicaid and private insurance carriers are based on episodic-based rates (60-day episode of care) or per visit rates depending upon the terms and conditions established with such payors. Episodic-based rates paid by our non-Medicare payors are paid in a similar manner and subject to the same adjustments as discussed above for Medicare; however, these rates can vary based upon negotiated terms.

Hospice Medicare

The Medicare hospice benefit is also available to Medicare-eligible patients with terminal illnesses, certified by a physician, where life expectancy is six months or less. Medicare rates are based on standard prospective rates for delivering care over a base 90-day or 60-day period (90-day episodes of care for the first two episodes and 60-day episodes of care for any subsequent episodes). Payments are based on daily rates for each day a beneficiary is enrolled in the hospice benefit. Rates are set based on specific levels of care, are adjusted by a wage index to reflect health care labor costs across the country and are established annually through Federal legislation. We make adjustments to Medicare revenue when we find we are unable to obtain appropriate billing documentation, authorizations or face to face documentation and other reasons unrelated to credit risk. The levels of care are routine care, general inpatient care, continuous home care and respite care.

We bill Medicare for hospice services on a monthly basis and our payments are subject to two fixed annual caps, which are assessed on a provider number basis. Generally, each hospice care center has its own provider number. However, where we have created branch care centers to help our parent care centers serve a geographic location, the parent and branch may have the same provider number. The annual caps per patient, known as hospice caps, are calculated and published by the Medicare fiscal intermediary on an annual basis and cover the twelve month period from November 1 through October 31. The caps can be subject to annual and retroactive adjustments, which can cause providers to owe money back to Medicare if such caps are exceeded.

 

5


Table of Contents

The two caps are detailed below:

 

   

Inpatient Cap. This cap limits the number of days of inpatient care (both respite and general) under a provider number to 20% of the total number of days of hospice care (both inpatient and in-home) furnished to all patients served. The daily payment rate for any inpatient days of service in excess of the cap amount is calculated at the routine home care rate, with excess amounts due back to Medicare; and

 

   

Overall Payment Cap. This cap is calculated by the Medicare fiscal intermediary at the end of each hospice cap period to determine the maximum allowable payments per provider number. We estimate our potential cap exposure using information available for both inpatient day limits as well as per beneficiary cap amounts. The total cap amount for each provider is calculated by multiplying the number of beneficiaries electing hospice care during the period by a statutory amount that is indexed for inflation.

Our ability to stay within these limitations depends on a number of factors, each determined on a provider number basis, including the average length of stay and mix in level of care.

Hospice Non-Medicare

Non-Medicare payors pay at rates different from established Medicare rates for hospice services, which are based on separate, negotiated agreements. We bill and are paid based on these agreements.

Controls over Our Business System Infrastructure

We establish and maintain processes and controls over coding, clinical operations, billing, patient recertifications and compliance to help monitor and promote compliance with Medicare requirements.

 

   

Coding – Specified diagnosis codes are assigned to each of our patients based on their particular health condition and ailment (such as diabetes, coronary artery disease or congestive heart failure). Because coding regulations are complex and are subject to frequent change, we maintain controls surrounding our coding process. In order to reduce associated risk, we provide coding training and annual update training for new care center directors and clinical managers; provide coding training during orientation for new employees; provide monthly specialized coding education; obtain outside expert coding instruction; utilize coding software in our POC system; and have automated coding edits based on pre-defined compliance metrics in our POC system.

 

   

Clinical Operations – Regulatory requirements allow patients to be admitted to home health care if they are considered homebound and require certain clinical services. These clinical services include: educating the patient about their disease; assessment and observation of disease status; delivery of clinical skills such as wound care; administration of injections or intravenous fluids; and management and evaluation of a patient’s plan of care. In order to help monitor and promote compliance with regulatory requirements, we complete audits of patient charts; administer survey guideline education; hold recurrent homecare regulatory education; utilize outside expert regulatory services; and have a toll-free hotline to offer additional assistance.

 

   

Billing – We maintain controls over our billing processes to help promote accurate and complete billing. In order to promote the accuracy and completeness of our billing, we have annual billing compliance testing; use formalized billing attestations; limit access to billing systems; hold weekly operational meetings; use automated daily billing operational indicators; and take prompt corrective action with employees who knowingly fail to follow our billing policies and procedures in accordance with a well-publicized “Zero Tolerance Policy”.

 

   

Patient Recertification – In order to be recertified for an additional episode of care, a patient must continue to meet qualifying criteria and have a continuing medical need. This could be caused by

 

6


Table of Contents
 

changes in the patient’s condition requiring changes to the patient’s medical regimen or by modified care protocols within the episode of care. The patient’s progress towards goals is evaluated prior to recertification. As with the initial episode of care, a recertification requires orders from the patient’s physician. Before any employee recommends recertification to a physician, we conduct a care center level, multidisciplinary care team conference. We also monitor centralized automated compliance recertification metrics to identify, monitor, and, where we deem appropriate, audit care centers that have relatively high recertification levels.

 

   

Compliance – The quality and reputation of our personnel and operations are critical to our success. We develop, implement and maintain ethics, compliance and quality improvement programs as a component of the centralized corporate services provided to our home health and hospice care centers. Our ethics and compliance program includes a Code of Ethical Business Conduct for our employees, officers, directors and affiliates and a process for reporting regulatory or ethical concerns to our Chief Compliance Officer through a confidential hotline, which is augmented by exit interviews of departing employees and monthly interviews with randomly-selected, current employees. We promote a culture of compliance within our company through persistent messages from our senior leadership concerning the necessity of strict compliance with legal requirements and company policies and procedures. We also employ a comprehensive compliance training program that includes mandatory compliance training and testing for all new employees upon hire and annually for all staff thereafter. In addition to our compliance training, we also conduct numerous proactive, compliance audits focusing on key risk areas, which are conducted by clinical auditors who work for our Compliance Department.

Our Regulatory Environment

We are highly regulated by Federal, state and local authorities. Regulations and policies frequently change, and we monitor changes through trade and governmental publications and associations. Our home health and hospice subsidiaries are certified by CMS and therefore are eligible to receive payment for services through the Medicare system.

We are also subject to Federal, state and local laws and regulations dealing with issues such as occupational safety, employment, medical leave, insurance, civil rights, discrimination, building codes, environmental issues and adverse event reporting and recordkeeping. Federal, state and local governments are expanding the number of regulatory requirements on businesses.

We have set forth below a discussion of the regulations that we believe most significantly affect our home health and hospice businesses.

Licensure, Certificates of Need (CON) and Permits of Approval (POA)

Home health and hospice care centers operate under licenses granted by the health authorities of their respective states. Additionally, certain states, including a number in which we operate, carefully restrict new entrants into the market based on demographic and/or competitive changes. In such states, expansion by existing providers or entry into the market by new providers is permitted only where a given amount of unmet need exists, resulting either from population increases or a reduction in competing providers. These states ration the availability of markets through a CON process, which is periodically evaluated. Currently, state health authorities in 17 states and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico require a CON or, in the State of Arkansas, a POA, in order to establish and operate a home health care center, and state health authorities in 12 states and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico require a CON to operate a hospice care center.

We operate home health care centers in the following CON states: Alabama, Arkansas (POA), Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We provide hospice related services in the following CON states: Alabama, Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia.

 

7


Table of Contents

In every state where required, our locations possess a license and/or CON or POA issued by the state health authority that determines the local service areas for the home health or hospice care center. In general, the process for opening a home health or hospice care center begins by a provider submitting an application for licensure and certification to the state and Federal regulatory bodies, which is followed by a testing period of transmitting data from the applicant to CMS. Once this process is complete, the care center receives a provider agreement and corresponding number and can begin billing for services that it provides. For those states that require a CON or POA, the provider must also complete a separate application process before billing can commence. In addition, states with CON and POA laws place limits on the construction and acquisition of health care facilities and operations and the expansion of existing facilities and services. In these states, approvals are required for capital expenditures exceeding amounts above the prescribed thresholds.

State CON and POA laws generally provide that, prior to the addition of new capacity, the construction of new facilities or the introduction of new services, a designated state health planning agency must determine that a need exists for those beds, facilities or services. The process is intended to promote comprehensive health care planning, assist in providing high-quality health care at the lowest possible cost and avoid unnecessary duplication by ensuring that only those health care facilities and operations that are needed will be built and opened.

Professional Licensure, Certification, Accreditation and Related Laws and Guidelines

We have invested in new business lines that are complementary to our existing home health and hospice businesses, but require compliance with additional regulatory requirements. These new business lines consist of (i) palliative care, which is designed to relieve pain and suffering for patients who do not qualify for, or have not elected, the hospice benefit, and (ii) house calls medical practices. These new practices are billed pursuant to Medicare Part B, rather than Medicare Part A which governs both home health and hospice, and utilize house calls nurse practitioners (“NPs”), physician assistants (“PAs”) and physicians (collectively with NPs and PAs, “Clinical Professionals”). Our Clinical Professionals are subject to numerous federal, state and local licensing laws and regulations, relating to, among other things, professional credentialing and professional ethics. Clinical Professionals are also subject to state and Federal regulation regarding prescribing medication and controlled substances. Each state defines the scope of practice of Clinical Professionals through legislation and through the respective Boards of Medicine and Nursing, and many states require that NPs and PAs work in collaboration with or under the supervision of a physician. These requirements may vary significantly from state to state. There are penalties for non-compliance with these laws and standards, including loss of professional license, civil or criminal fines and penalties, federal health care program disenrollment, loss of billing privileges, and exclusion from participation in various governmental and other third-party healthcare programs.

Reimbursement for palliative care and house calls services is generally conditioned on our Clinical Professionals providing the correct procedure and diagnosis codes and properly documenting both the service itself and the medical necessity for the service. Incorrect or incomplete documentation and billing information, or the incorrect selection of codes for the level and type of service provided, could result in non-payment for services rendered or lead to allegations of billing fraud.

Medicare Participation

Our care centers must comply with regulations promulgated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services in order to participate in the Medicare program and receive Medicare payments. Among other things, these regulations, known as “conditions of participation,” relate to the type of facility, its personnel and its standards of medical care, as well as its compliance with state and local laws and regulations. In 2012, CMS adopted alternative sanction enforcement options which allow CMS (i) effective July 1, 2013, to impose temporary management, direct plans of correction, or direct training, and (ii) effective July 1, 2014, to impose payment suspensions and civil monetary penalties in each case on providers out of compliance with the conditions of participation. CMS has issued a proposed rule on October 1, 2014, revising the current home health

 

8


Table of Contents

conditions of participation. We provided public comments on the proposed changes, but we cannot predict the content or effective date of any final rule revising the home health conditions of participation.

CMS has engaged a number of third party firms, including Recovery Audit Contractors (“RACs”), Program Safeguard Contractors (“PSCs”), Zone Program Integrity Contractors (“ZPICs”) and Medicaid Integrity Contributors (“MICs”), to conduct extensive reviews of claims data and state and Federal government health care program laws and regulations applicable to healthcare providers. These audits evaluate the appropriateness of billings submitted for payment. In addition to identifying overpayments, audit contractors can refer suspected violations of law to government enforcement authorities.

Federal and State Anti-Fraud and Anti-Kickback Laws

As a provider under the Medicare and Medicaid systems, we are subject to various anti-fraud and abuse laws, including the Federal health care programs’ anti-kickback statute and, where applicable, its state law counterparts. Subject to certain exceptions, these laws prohibit any offer, payment, solicitation or receipt of any form of remuneration to induce or reward the referral of business payable under a government health care program or in return for the purchase, lease, order, arranging for, or recommendation of items or services covered under a government health care program. Affected government health care programs include any health care plans or programs that are funded by the United States government (other than certain Federal employee health insurance benefits/programs), including certain state health care programs that receive Federal funds, such as Medicaid. A related law forbids the offer or transfer of anything of value, including certain waivers of co-payment obligations and deductible amounts, to a beneficiary of Medicare or Medicaid that is likely to influence the beneficiary’s selection of health care providers, again subject to certain exceptions. Violations of the anti-fraud and abuse laws can result in the imposition of substantial civil and criminal penalties and, potentially, exclusion from furnishing services under any government health care program. In addition, the states in which we operate generally have laws that prohibit certain direct or indirect payments or fee-splitting arrangements between health care providers where they are designed to obtain the referral of patients from a particular provider.

Stark Laws

Congress adopted legislation in 1989, known as the “Stark Law,” that generally prohibited a physician from ordering clinical laboratory services for a Medicare beneficiary where the entity providing that service has a financial relationship (including direct or indirect ownership or compensation relationships) with the physician (or a member of his/her immediate family), and further prohibits such entity from billing for or receiving payment for such services, unless a specified exception is available. The Stark Law was amended through additional legislation, known as “Stark II,” which became effective January 1, 1993. That legislation extended the Stark Law prohibitions beyond clinical laboratory services to a more extensive list of statutorily defined “designated health services,” which includes, among other things, home health services, durable medical equipment and outpatient prescription drugs. Violations of the Stark Law result in payment denials and may also trigger civil monetary penalties and program exclusion. Several of the states in which we conduct business have also enacted statutes similar in scope and purpose to the Federal fraud and abuse laws and the Stark Laws. These state laws may mirror the Federal Stark Laws or may be different in scope. The available guidance and enforcement activity associated with such state laws varies considerably.

Federal and State Privacy and Security Laws

The Administrative Simplification provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as amended (“HIPAA”), directed that the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”) promulgate regulations prescribing standard requirements for electronic health care transactions and establishing protections for the privacy and security of individually identifiable health information, known as “protected health information.” The HIPAA transactions regulations establish form, format and data content

 

9


Table of Contents

requirements for most electronic health care transactions, such as health care claims that are submitted electronically. The HIPAA privacy regulations establish comprehensive requirements relating to the use and disclosure of protected health information. The HIPAA security regulations establish minimum standards for the protection of protected health information that is stored or transmitted electronically. Violations of the privacy and security regulations are punishable by civil and criminal penalties.

The American Recovery and Economic Reinvestment Act of 2009 (“ARRA”), signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009, contained significant changes to the privacy and security provisions of HIPAA, including major changes to the enforcement provisions. Among other things, ARRA significantly increased the amount of civil monetary penalties that can be imposed for violations of HIPAA. ARRA also authorized state attorneys general to bring civil enforcement actions under HIPAA. These enhanced penalties and enforcement provisions went into effect immediately upon enactment of ARRA. ARRA also required that HHS promulgate regulations requiring that certain notifications be made to individuals, to HHS and potentially to the media in the event of breaches of the privacy of protected health information. These breach notification regulations went into effect on September 23, 2009, and HHS began to enforce violations on February 22, 2010. Violations of the breach notification provisions of HIPAA can trigger the increased civil monetary penalties described above.

ARRA’s numerous other changes to HIPAA have delayed effective dates and require the issuance of implementing regulations by HHS. On July 14, 2010, the HHS Office for Civil Rights (“OCR”) published proposed regulations designed to implement a number of changes called for by ARRA, but the proposed regulations have not yet been finalized. The changes to HIPAA enacted as part of ARRA reflect a Congressional intent that HIPAA’s privacy and security provisions be more strictly enforced. It is likely that these changes will stimulate increased enforcement activity and enhance the potential that health care providers will be subject to financial penalties for violations of HIPAA.

In addition to the Federal HIPAA regulations, most states also have laws that protect the confidentiality of health information. Also, in response to concerns about identity theft, many states have adopted so-called “security breach” notification laws that may impose requirements regarding the safeguarding of personal information, such as social security numbers and bank and credit card account numbers, and that impose an obligation to notify persons when their personal information has or may have been accessed by an unauthorized person. Some state security breach notification laws may also impose physical and electronic security requirements. Violation of state security breach notification laws can trigger significant monetary penalties.

The False Claims Act

The Federal False Claims Act gives the Federal government an additional way to police false bills or requests for payment for health care services. Under the False Claims Act, the government may fine any person who knowingly submits, or participates in submitting, claims for payment to the Federal government which are false or fraudulent, or which contain false or misleading information. Any person who knowingly makes or uses a false record or statement to avoid paying the Federal government, or knowingly conceals or avoids an obligation to pay money to the Federal government, may also be subject to fines under the False Claims Act. Under the False Claims Act, the term “person” means an individual, company, or corporation. The Federal government has widely used the False Claims Act to prosecute Medicare and other governmental program fraud in areas such as violations of the Federal anti-kickback statute or the Stark Laws, coding errors, billing for services not provided, and submitting false cost reports. The False Claims Act has also been used to prosecute people or entities that bill services at a higher reimbursement rate than is allowed and that bill for care that is not medically necessary. In addition to government enforcement, the False Claims Act authorizes private citizens to bring qui tam or “whistleblower” lawsuits, greatly extending the practical reach of the False Claims Act. The penalty for violation of the False Claims Act is a minimum of $5,500 for each fraudulent claim plus three times the amount of damages caused to the government as a result of each fraudulent claim.

The Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act of 2009 (“FERA”) amended the False Claims Act with the intent of enhancing the powers of government enforcement authorities and whistleblowers to bring False Claims Act

 

10


Table of Contents

cases. In particular, FERA attempts to clarify that liability may be established not only for false claims submitted directly to the government, but also for claims submitted to government contractors and grantees. FERA also seeks to clarify that liability exists for attempts to avoid repayment of overpayments, including improper retention of Federal funds. FERA also included amendments to False Claims Act procedures, expanding the government’s ability to use the Civil Investigative Demand process to investigate defendants, and permitting government complaints in intervention to relate back to the filing of the whistleblower’s original complaint. FERA is likely to increase both the volume and liability exposure of False Claims Act cases brought against health care providers.

In addition to the False Claims Act, the Federal government may use several criminal statutes to prosecute the submission of false or fraudulent claims for payment to the Federal government. Many states have similar false claims statutes that impose liability for the types of acts prohibited by the False Claims Act. As part of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (the “DRA”), Congress provided states an incentive to adopt state false claims acts consistent with the Federal False Claims Act. Additionally, the DRA required providers who receive $5 million or more annually from Medicaid to include information on Federal and state false claims acts, whistleblower protections and the providers’ own policies on detecting and preventing fraud in their written employee policies.

Civil Monetary Penalties

The United States Department of Health and Human Services may impose civil monetary penalties upon any person or entity who presents, or causes to be presented, certain ineligible claims for medical items or services. The amount of penalties varies, depending on the offense, from $2,000 to $50,000 per violation. In addition, persons who have been excluded from the Medicare or Medicaid program and still retain ownership in a participating entity, or who contract with excluded persons, may be penalized. Penalties also are applicable in certain other cases, including violations of the Federal anti-kickback statute, payments to limit certain patient services and improper execution of statements of medical necessity.

FDA Regulation

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) regulates medical device user facilities, which include home health care providers. FDA regulations require user facilities to report patient deaths and serious injuries to FDA and/or the manufacturer of a device used by the facility if the device may have caused or contributed to the death or serious injury of any patient. FDA regulations also require user facilities to maintain files related to adverse events and to establish and implement appropriate procedures to ensure compliance with the above reporting and recordkeeping requirements. User facilities are subject to FDA inspection, and noncompliance with applicable requirements may result in warning letters or sanctions including civil monetary penalties, injunction, product seizure, criminal fines and/or imprisonment.

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

In March 2010, comprehensive health care reform legislation was signed into law in the United States through the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (collectively, “PPACA”). Even as of December 31, 2014, it is difficult to predict the full impact of PPACA due to the law’s complexity and phased in effective dates, as well our inability to foresee how CMS and other participants in the health care industry will respond to the choices available to them under the law. PPACA calls for a number of changes to be made over time that will likely have a significant impact upon the health care delivery system. For example, PPACA mandates decreases in home health reimbursement rates, including a four-year phased rebasing of the home health payment system that began in 2014 and will continue through 2017. These reimbursement changes are described in detail in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations: Overview—Economic and Industry Factors.” PPACA has established a number of new requirements impacting our business operations, and promises to give rise to other changes that could significantly impact our businesses in the future. For example, PPACA also mandates the

 

11


Table of Contents

creation of a home health value-based purchasing program, the development of quality measures, and the testing of alternative payment and delivery models, including ACOs and the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative. See Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors: Risks Related to Laws and Government Regulations” for a more complete discussion of PPACA and the risks it presents to our businesses.

Our Competitors

There are few barriers to entry in the home health and hospice jurisdictions that do not require certificates of need or permits of approval. Our primary competition in these jurisdictions comes from local privately and publicly-owned and hospital-owned health care providers. We compete based on the availability of personnel, the quality of services, expertise of visiting staff, and, in certain instances, on the price of our services. In addition, we compete with a number of non-profit organizations that finance acquisitions and capital expenditures on a tax-exempt basis or receive charitable contributions that are unavailable to us.

Available Information

Our company website address is www.amedisys.com . We use our website as a channel of distribution for important company information. Important information, including press releases, analyst presentations and financial information regarding our company, is routinely posted on and accessible on the Investor Relations subpage of our website, which is accessible by clicking on the tab labeled “Investors” on our website home page. We also use our website to expedite public access to time-critical information regarding our company in advance of or in lieu of distributing a press release or a filing with the SEC disclosing the same information. Therefore, investors should look to the “Investors” subpage of our website for important and time-critical information. Visitors to our website can also register to receive automatic e-mail and other notifications alerting them when new information is made available on the “Investors” subpage of our website. In addition, we make available on the Investors subpage of our website (under the link “SEC Filings”), free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, ownership reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5 and any amendments to those reports as soon as practicable after we electronically file such reports with the SEC. Further, copies of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, our Code of Ethical Business Conduct, our Corporate Governance Guidelines and the charters for the Audit, Compensation, Nominating and Corporate Governance and Quality of Care Committees of our Board are also available on the Investors subpage of our website (under the link “Corporate Governance”).

Additionally, the public may read and copy any of the materials we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at (800) SEC-0330. Our electronically filed reports can also be obtained on the SEC’s internet site at http://www.sec.gov .

 

12


Table of Contents
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

The risks described below, and risks described elsewhere in this Form 10-K, could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this Form 10-K. The risk factors described below and elsewhere in this Form 10-K are not the only risks faced by Amedisys. Our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows may also be materially adversely affected by factors that are not currently known to us, by factors that we currently consider immaterial or by factors that are not specific to us, such as general economic conditions.

If any of the following risks are actually realized, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. In that case, the trading price of our common stock could decline.

You should refer to the explanation of the qualifications and limitations on forward-looking statements under “Special Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements.” All forward-looking statements made by us are qualified by the risk factors described below.

Risks Related to Reimbursement

Because a high percentage of our revenue is derived from Medicare, reductions in Medicare rates, rate increases that do not cover cost increases and/or significant changes to the Medicare payment methodology or eligibility requirements could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our net service revenue is primarily derived from Medicare, which accounted for 82%, 84% and 82% of our revenue during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Payments received from Medicare are subject to changes made through Federal legislation. These changes, as further detailed in Part I, Item 1, “Business: Payment for Our Services,” can include changes to base episode payments and adjustments for home health services, changes to cap limits and per diem rates for hospice services and changes to Medicare eligibility and documentation requirements or changes designed to restrict utilization. When such changes are implemented, we must also modify our internal billing processes and procedures accordingly, which can require significant time and expense. Any similar changes, including retroactive adjustments, adopted in the future by CMS could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

There are continuing efforts to reform governmental health care programs that could result in major changes in the health care delivery and reimbursement system on a national and state level, including changes directly impacting the reimbursement systems for our home health and hospice care centers. Though we cannot predict what, if any, reform proposals will be adopted, health care reform and legislation may have a material adverse effect on our business and our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows through decreasing payments made for our services. We could be affected adversely by the continuing efforts of governmental and private third party payors to contain health care costs. We cannot assure you that reimbursement payments under governmental and private third party payor programs, including Medicare supplemental insurance policies, will remain at levels comparable to present levels or will be sufficient to cover the costs allocable to patients eligible for reimbursement pursuant to these programs. These changes could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our hospice operations are subject to two annual Medicare caps. If such caps were to be exceeded by any of our hospice providers, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

With respect to our hospice operations, overall payments made by Medicare to each provider number (generally corresponding to a hospice care center) are subject to an inpatient cap amount and an overall payment cap, which

 

13


Table of Contents

are calculated and published by the Medicare fiscal intermediary on an annual basis covering the period from November 1 through October 31. If payments received by any one of our hospice provider numbers exceeds either of these caps, we may be required to reimburse Medicare for payments received in excess of the caps, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Any economic downturn, deepening of an economic downturn, continued deficit spending by the Federal government or state budget pressures may result in a reduction in payments and covered services.

Adverse developments in the United States could lead to a reduction in Federal government expenditures, including governmentally funded programs in which we participate, such as Medicare and Medicaid. In addition, if at any time the Federal government is not able to meet its debt payments unless the Federal debt ceiling is raised, and legislation increasing the debt ceiling is not enacted, the Federal government may stop or delay making payments on its obligations, including funding for government programs in which we participate, such as Medicare and Medicaid. Failure of the government to make payments under these programs could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Further, any failure by the United States Congress to complete the Federal budget process and fund government operations may result in a Federal government shutdown, potentially causing us to incur substantial costs without reimbursement under the Medicare program, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. As an example, the failure of the 2011 Joint Select Committee to meet its Deficit Reduction goal resulted in an automatic reduction in Medicare home and hospice payments of 2% beginning April 1, 2013.

Historically, state budget pressures have resulted in reductions in state spending. Given that Medicaid outlays are a significant component of state budgets, we can expect continuing cost containment pressures on Medicaid outlays for our services. In addition, continued unfavorable economic conditions may affect the number of patients enrolled in managed care programs and the profitability of managed care companies, which could result in reduced payment rates and could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Future cost containment initiatives undertaken by private third party payors may limit our future revenue and profitability.

Our non-Medicare revenue and profitability are affected by continuing efforts of third party payors to maintain or reduce costs of health care by lowering payment rates, narrowing the scope of covered services, increasing case management review of services and negotiating pricing. There can be no assurance that third party payors will make timely payments for our services, and there is no assurance that we will continue to maintain our current payor or revenue mix. We are continuing our efforts to develop our non-Medicare sources of revenue and any changes in payment levels from current or future third party payors could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Risks Related to Laws and Government Regulations

We are operating under a Corporate Integrity Agreement. Violations of this agreement could result in substantial penalties or exclusion from participation in the Medicare program.

On April 23, 2014, with no admissions of liability on our part, we entered into a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice relating to certain of our clinical and business operations. Concurrently with our entry into this agreement, we entered into a Corporate Integrity Agreement (“CIA”) with the Office of Inspector General-HHS. The CIA, which has a term of five years, formalizes various aspects of our already existing ethics and compliance programs and contains other requirements designed to help ensure our ongoing compliance with federal health care program requirements. Among other things, the CIA requires us to maintain our existing

 

14


Table of Contents

compliance program, compliance committee and compliance committee of the Board of Directors; provide certain compliance training; continue screening new and current employees against certain lists to ensure they are not ineligible to participate in federal health care programs; engage an independent review organization (“IRO”) to perform certain auditing and reviews and prepare certain reports regarding our compliance with federal health care programs, our billing submissions to federal health care programs and our compliance and risk mitigation programs; and provide certain reports and management certifications to the Office of Inspector General-HHS. Among other things, the CIA requires that we report substantial overpayments that we discover we have received from the federal health care programs, as well as probable violations of federal health care laws. Upon breach of the CIA, we could become liable for payment of certain stipulated penalties, or could be excluded from participation in federal health care programs. Although we believe that we are currently in compliance with the CIA, any violations of the agreement could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Pending civil litigation could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

We and certain of our current and former directors, senior executives and other employees are defendants in a Federal securities class action. We are also a defendant in several wage and hour law putative collective and class action lawsuits. See Part II, Item 8, Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies for a more detailed description of these proceedings. These actions remain in preliminary stages and it is not yet possible to assess their probable outcome or our potential liability, if any. We cannot provide any assurances that the legal and other costs associated with the defense of these actions, the amount of time required to be spent by management on these matters and the ultimate outcome of these actions will not have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our insurance may not cover all of the costs associated with defending the pending Federal securities class action, and any potential liability costs associated with this matter, and we maintain no insurance that covers any portion of the pending wage and hour putative collective and class action lawsuits.

With respect to the pending securities class action, we maintain directors’ and officers’ liability insurance that we believe should cover a portion of the legal costs and potential liability costs associated with this matter. However, such insurance coverage does not extend to all of these expenditures, and the insurance limits may be insufficient even with respect to expenditures that would otherwise be covered. In addition, we may be obligated to indemnify (and advance legal expenses to) both current and former officers, employees and directors in connection with this matter. Furthermore, our insurance carriers may seek to deny coverage in this matter, in which case we may have to fund the indemnification amounts owed to such directors and officers ourselves. If our insurance coverage for this matter is denied or is not adequate, it may have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We do not maintain any insurance that will cover any part of the wage and hour putative collective and class action lawsuits in which we are defendants.

We are subject to extensive government regulation. Any changes to the laws and regulations governing our business, or to the interpretation and enforcement of those laws or regulations, could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our industry is subject to extensive Federal and state laws and regulations. See Part I, Item 1, “Our Regulatory Environment” for additional information on such laws and regulations. Federal and state laws and regulations impact how we conduct our business, the services we offer and our interactions with patients, our employees and the public and impose certain requirements on us such as:

 

   

licensure and certification;

 

   

adequacy and quality of health care services;

 

   

qualifications of health care and support personnel;

 

15


Table of Contents
   

quality and safety of medical equipment;

 

   

confidentiality, maintenance and security issues associated with medical records and claims processing;

 

   

relationships with physicians and other referral sources;

 

   

operating policies and procedures;

 

   

policies and procedures regarding employee relations;

 

   

addition of facilities and services;

 

   

billing for services;

 

   

requirements for utilization of services;

 

   

documentation required for billing and patient care; and

 

   

reporting and maintaining records regarding adverse events.

These laws and regulations, and their interpretations, are subject to change. Changes in existing laws and regulations, or their interpretations, or the enactment of new laws or regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows by:

 

   

increasing our administrative and other costs;

 

   

increasing or decreasing mandated services;

 

   

causing us to abandon business opportunities we might have otherwise pursued;

 

   

decreasing utilization of services;

 

   

forcing us to restructure our relationships with referral sources and providers; or

 

   

requiring us to implement additional or different programs and systems.

Additionally, we are subject to various routine and non-routine reviews, audits and investigations by the Medicare and Medicaid programs and other Federal and state governmental agencies, which have various rights and remedies against us if they assert that we have overcharged the programs or failed to comply with program requirements. Violation of the laws governing our operations, or changes in interpretations of those laws, could result in the imposition of fines, civil or criminal penalties, and the termination of our rights to participate in Federal and state-sponsored programs and/or the suspension or revocation of our licenses. If we become subject to material fines, or if other sanctions or other corrective actions are imposed on us, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Our developing (i) palliative care, (ii) medical house calls and (iii) outpatient therapy services business lines are subject to rules, prohibitions, regulations and reimbursement requirements that differ from those that govern our primary home health and hospice operations.

Three lines of business that we continue to develop are (i) palliative care, a type of care focused upon relieving pain and suffering in patients who do not quality for, or who have not yet elected, the hospice benefit, (ii) medical house calls and (iii) outpatient therapy services. The continued development of these businesses exposes us to additional risks, in part because these business lines require us to comply with additional Federal and state laws and regulations that differ from those that govern our home health and hospice businesses. These lines of business require compliance with different Federal and state requirements governing licensure, enrollment, documentation, prescribing, coding, billing and collection of coinsurance and deductibles, among other requirements. For example, these practices are billed to Medicare Part B, rather than Medicare Part A, which covers home health and hospice, and utilize nurse practitioners (“NPs”), physician assistants (“PAs”), physicians, physical therapists (“PTs”), occupational therapists (“OTs”) and qualified speech-language therapists

 

16


Table of Contents

(collectively, with NPs, PAs, physicians, PTs and OTs, “Clinical Professionals”). Part B differs in many respects from Part A, including by requiring the payment and collection of patient deductibles and co-insurance. Additionally, some states have prohibitions on the corporate practice of medicine and fee-splitting, which generally prohibit business entities from owning or controlling medical practices or may limit the ability of Clinical Professionals to share professional service income with non-professional or business interests. These requirements may vary significantly from state to state. Reimbursement for palliative care, medical house calls and outpatient therapy services is generally conditioned on our Clinical Professionals providing the correct procedure and diagnosis codes and properly documenting both the service itself and the medical necessity for the service. Incorrect or incomplete documentation and billing information, or the incorrect selection of codes for the level and type of service provided, could result in non-payment for services rendered or lead to allegations of billing fraud. Further, compliance with applicable regulations may cause us to incur expenses that we have not anticipated, and if we are unable to comply with these additional legal requirements, we may incur liability, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We face periodic and routine reviews, audits and investigations under our contracts with Federal and state government agencies and private payors, and these audits could have adverse findings that may negatively impact our business .

As a result of our participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs, we are subject to various governmental reviews, audits and investigations to verify our compliance with these programs and applicable laws and regulations. We also are subject to audits under various government programs, including the RAC, ZPIC, PSC and MIC programs, in which third party firms engaged by CMS conduct extensive reviews of claims data and medical and other records to identify potential improper payments under the Medicare program. Private pay sources also reserve the right to conduct audits. If billing errors are identified in the sample of reviewed claims, the billing error can be extrapolated to all claims filed which could result in a larger overpayment than originally identified in the sample of reviewed claims. Our costs to respond to and defend reviews, audits and investigations may be significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Moreover, an adverse review, audit or investigation could result in:

 

   

required refunding or retroactive adjustment of amounts we have been paid pursuant to the Federal or state programs or from private payors;

 

   

state or Federal agencies imposing fines, penalties and other sanctions on us;

 

   

loss of our right to participate in the Medicare program, state programs, or one or more private payor networks; or

 

   

damage to our business and reputation in various markets.

These results could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

If a care center fails to comply with the conditions of participation in the Medicare program, that care center could be subjected to sanctions or terminated from the Medicare program.

Each of our care centers must comply with required conditions of participation in the Medicare program. If we fail to meet the conditions of participation at a care center, we may receive a notice of deficiency from the applicable state surveyor. If that care center then fails to institute an acceptable plan of correction to remediate the deficiency within the correction period provided by the state surveyor, that care center could be terminated from the Medicare program or subjected to alternative sanctions. CMS outlined its alternative sanction enforcement options for home health care centers through a regulation published in 2012; under the regulation, CMS may impose temporary management, direct a plan of correction, direct training or impose payment suspensions and civil monetary penalties, in each case, upon providers who fail to comply with the conditions of

 

17


Table of Contents

participation. Termination of one or more of our care centers from the Medicare program for failure to satisfy the program’s conditions of participation, or the imposition of alternative sanctions, could disrupt operations, require significant attention by management, or have a material adverse effect on our business and reputation and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. CMS issued a proposed rule on October 7, 2014, revising the Medicare conditions of participation for home health care centers across the industry, with an unknown effective date. We provided public comments on the proposed changes, but do not know at this time what effect the finalized revisions will have on our operations, and there can be no assurances that the revisions will not have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We are subject to Federal and state laws that govern our financial relationships with physicians and other health care providers, including potential or current referral sources.

We are required to comply with Federal and state laws, generally referred to as “anti-kickback laws,” that prohibit certain direct and indirect payments or other financial arrangements between health care providers that are designed to encourage the referral of patients to a particular provider for medical services. In addition to these anti-kickback laws, the Federal government has enacted specific legislation, commonly known as the “Stark Law,” that prohibits certain financial relationships, specifically including ownership interests and compensation arrangements, between physicians (and the immediate family members of physicians) and providers of designated health services, such as home health care centers, to whom the physicians refer patients. Some of these same financial relationships are also subject to additional regulation by states. Although we believe we have structured our relationships with physicians and other potential referral sources to comply with these laws where applicable, we cannot assure you that courts or regulatory agencies will not interpret state and Federal anti-kickback laws and/or the Stark Law and similar state laws regulating relationships between health care providers and physicians in ways that will adversely implicate our practices or that isolated instances of noncompliance will not occur. Violations of Federal or state Stark or “anti-kickback” laws could lead to criminal or civil fines or other sanctions, including denials of government program reimbursement or even exclusion from participation in governmental health care programs, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We may face significant uncertainty in the industry due to government health care reform.

The health care industry in the United States is subject to fundamental changes due to ongoing health care reform efforts and related political, economic and regulatory influences. In March 2010, comprehensive health care reform legislation was signed into law in the United States through the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (collectively, “PPACA”). However, it is difficult to predict the full impact of PPACA due to the law’s complexity and phased-in effective dates, as well as our inability to foresee how CMS and other participants in the health care industry will respond to the choices available to them under the law.

PPACA makes a number of changes to Medicare payment rates and also calls for a rebasing of the home health payment system that began in 2014 and will continue through 2017. These reimbursement changes are described in detail in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations: Overview – Economic and Industry Factors.”

For example, as a result of the PPACA, CMS added two regulations that became effective April 1, 2011: (1) a face-to-face encounter requirement for home health and hospice services and (2) changes to the home health therapy assessment schedule, which requires additional patient evaluations and certifications. These and other regulations implementing the provisions of the PPACA may similarly increase our costs, decrease our revenues, expose us to expanded liability or require us to revise the ways in which we conduct our business.

 

18


Table of Contents

PPACA also calls for a number of other changes to be made over time that will likely have a significant impact upon the health care delivery system. For example, PPACA mandates creation of a home health value-based purchasing program, the development of quality measures, and decreases in home health reimbursement rates, including rebasing, as further described in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations: Overview – Economic and Industry Factors.” In addition, PPACA requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to test different models for delivery of care, some of which will involve home health services. It also requires the Secretary to establish a national pilot program for integrated care for patients with certain conditions, bundling payment for acute hospital care, physician services, outpatient hospital services (including emergency department services) and post-acute care services, which would include home health. PPACA created the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (“CMMI”), which has launched the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement initiative designed to encourage doctors, hospitals and other health care providers, including home health providers, to work together to better coordinate care for patients both when they are in the hospital and after they are discharged. In October 2011 CMS published final Medicare Shared Savings Program regulations, which use accountable care organizations (“ACOs”) to facilitate coordination and cooperation among providers to improve the quality of care for Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries and reduce unnecessary costs. PPACA further directs the Secretary to conduct a study to evaluate cost and quality of care among efficient home health care centers and specifically focusing on access to care and treating Medicare beneficiaries with varying severity levels of illness, and provide a report to Congress, no later than March 1, 2014, which report was issued in 2014 after the March 1 deadline. At this time, it is not possible to predict with any certainty how these initiatives will be implemented and what impact they may have on our business.

In addition, various health care reform proposals similar to the Federal reforms described above have also emerged at the state level, including in several states which we operate. Moreover, in January 2011, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission voted to recommend to Congress that it make additional changes to the home health payment system, noting that such recommendations may include further payment reductions and/or a beneficiary copayment obligation. We cannot predict with certainty what health care initiatives, if any, will be implemented at the state level, or what the ultimate effect of Federal health care reform or any future legislation or regulation may have on us or on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Finally, in addition to impacting our Medicare businesses, PPACA may also significantly affect our non-Medicare businesses. PPACA makes many changes to the underwriting and marketing practices of private payors. The resulting economic pressures could prompt these payors to seek to lower their rates of reimbursement for the services we provide. At this time, it is not possible to estimate what impact PPACA may have on our non-Medicare businesses.

Risks Related to our Growth Strategies

Our growth strategies may not be successful.

Focusing on our managed care contract portfolio and a renewed focus on potential acquisitions are among our growth strategies. These growth strategies require attention from our management team, and if events occur in the course of pursuing these and other growth strategies that distract our management team’s attention and resources, our business performance could be negatively impacted.

Focusing on our managed care portfolio involves seeking new favorable contracts from managed care providers, as well as maintaining in place current contracts. In order for this growth strategy to be successful, our management team must convince managed care providers that our services are attractive, as well as negotiate and maintain contractual relationships with such providers on favorable terms to us. Further, in order for a renewed focus on potential acquisitions to be a successful growth strategy, suitable acquisitions must be identified, negotiated, completed and successfully integrated into our current operations. If our growth strategies are not successful, it could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flow.

 

19


Table of Contents

State efforts to regulate the establishment or expansion of health care providers could impair our ability to expand our operations.

Some states require health care providers (including skilled nursing facilities, hospice care centers, home health care centers and assisted living facilities) to obtain prior approval, known as a CON or POA, in order to commence operations. See Part I, Item 1, “Our Regulatory Environment” for additional information on CONs and POAs. If we are not able to obtain such approvals, our ability to expand our operations could be impaired, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Federal regulation may impair our ability to consummate acquisitions or open new care centers.

Changes in Federal laws or regulations may materially adversely impact our ability to acquire care centers or open new start-up care centers. For example, PPACA authorized CMS to impose temporary moratoria on the enrollment of new Medicare providers, if deemed necessary to combat fraud, waste or abuse under government programs. The moratoria on new enrollments may be applied to categories of providers or to specific geographic regions. For example, in 2014, CMS adopted a temporary moratorium on new provider locations in certain regions of Texas, Michigan, Florida and Illinois. If a moratorium is imposed on the enrollment of new home health or hospice providers in a geographic area we desire to service, it could have a material impact on our ability to open new care centers. Additionally, in 2010, CMS implemented and amended a regulation known as the “36 Month Rule” that is applicable to home health care center acquisitions. Subject to certain exceptions, the 36 Month Rule prohibits buyers of certain home health care centers – those that either enrolled in Medicare or underwent a change in majority ownership fewer than 36 months prior to the acquisition – from assuming the Medicare billing privileges of the acquired care center. These changes in Federal laws and regulations, and similar future changes, may further increase competition for acquisition targets and could have a material detrimental impact on our acquisition strategy.

Risks Related to our Operations

Because we are limited in our ability to control rates received for our services, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected if we are not able to maintain or reduce our costs to provide such services.

As Medicare is our primary payor and rates are established through Federal legislation, we have to manage our costs of providing care to achieve a desired level of profitability. Additionally, non-Medicare rates are difficult for us to negotiate as such payors are under pressure to reduce their own costs. As a result, we manage our costs in order to achieve a desired level of profitability including, but not limited to, centralization of various processes, the use of technology and management of the number of employees utilized. If we are not able to continue to streamline our processes and reduce our costs, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Our industry is highly competitive, with few barriers to entry.

There are few barriers to entry in home health markets that do not require a CON or POA. Our primary competition comes from local privately-owned and hospital-owned health care providers. We compete based on the availability of personnel; the quality of services, expertise of visiting staff; and in certain instances, on the price of our services. Increased competition in the future may limit our ability to maintain or increase our market share.

Further, the introduction of new and enhanced service offerings by others, in combination with industry consolidation and the development of strategic relationships by our competitors, could cause a decline in revenue or loss of market acceptance of our services or make our services less attractive. Additionally, we compete with a

 

20


Table of Contents

number of non-profit organizations that can finance acquisitions and capital expenditures on a tax-exempt basis or receive charitable contributions that are unavailable to us.

Managed care organizations and other third party payors continue to consolidate, which enhances their ability to influence the delivery of health care services. Consequently, the health care needs of patients in the United States are increasingly served by a smaller number of managed care organizations. These organizations generally enter into service agreements with a limited number of providers. Our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected if these organizations terminate us as a provider and/or engage our competitors as a preferred or exclusive provider. In addition, should private payors, including managed care payors, seek to negotiate additional discounted fee structures or the assumption by health care providers of all or a portion of the financial risk through prepaid capitation arrangements, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

If we are unable to react competitively to new developments, our operating results may suffer. Further, if states remove existing CONs or POAs, we would face increased competition in these states. For example, in 2013, the Governor of South Carolina vetoed funding for that state’s CON program, effectively shutting down the program. Following a judicial challenge, the South Carolina Supreme Court ruled in April 2014 that the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control was statutorily obligated to administer the CON program, regardless of the Governor’s veto. Following this ruling, legislation has been introduced in the South Carolina House of Representatives for the purpose of limiting the application of that state’s CON program. We do not know at this time what the outcome of this matter will be in South Carolina, and whether this will have any impact upon our operations. Similarly, there can be no assurances that other states will not seek to eliminate or limit their existing CON or POA programs in a similar manner, leading to increased competition in these states, Further, we cannot assure you that we will be able to compete successfully against current or future competitors, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

If we are unable to maintain relationships with existing patient referral sources, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Our success depends on referrals from physicians, hospitals and other sources in the communities we serve and on our ability to maintain good relationships with existing referral sources. Our referral sources are not contractually obligated to refer patients to us and may refer their patients to other providers. Our growth and profitability depends, in part, on our ability to establish and maintain close working relationships with these patient referral sources and to increase awareness and acceptance of the benefits of home health and hospice care by our referral sources and their patients. Our loss of, or failure to maintain, existing relationships or our failure to develop new referral relationships could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

If we are unable to provide consistently high quality of care, our business will be adversely impacted.

Providing quality patient care is the cornerstone of our business. Hospitals, physicians and other referral sources refer patients to us in large part because of the quality of care we provide. Clinical quality is becoming increasingly important within our industry. Effective October 2012, Medicare began to impose a financial penalty upon hospitals that have excessive rates of patient readmissions within 30 days from hospital discharge. We believe this new regulation provides a competitive advantage to home health providers who can differentiate themselves based upon quality, particularly by achieving low patient acute care hospitalization readmission rates and by implementing disease management programs designed to be responsive to the needs of patients served by referring hospitals. We are focused intently upon improving our patient outcomes, particularly our patient acute care hospitalization readmission rates. If we should fail to attain our goals regarding acute care hospitalization readmission rates and other quality metrics, we expect our ability to generate referrals would be adversely impacted, which could have a material adverse effect upon our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

 

21


Table of Contents

Our business depends on our information systems. Our inability to effectively integrate, manage and keep our information systems secure and operational could disrupt our operations.

Our business depends on effective, secure and operational information systems which include software that is developed in-house and systems provided by external contractors and other service providers. We have developed and use a proprietary Windows™-based clinical software system with our POC system to collect assessment data, schedule and log patient visits, communicate with patients’ physicians regarding their plan of care and monitor treatments and outcomes in accordance with established medical standards. Our clinical software system integrates several of the key processes critical to our business: billing and collections functionality; accounting; human resources; payroll; and employee benefits programs provided by third parties. We are currently preparing to implement a major multi-year rollout of a new proprietary clinical software system. Problems with, or the failure of, our technology and systems or any system upgrades or programming changes associated with such technology and systems, including any problems we may experience with the implementation of the new proprietary clinical software system, could have a material adverse effect on data capture, medical documentation, billing, collections, assessment of internal controls and management and reporting capabilities. Any such problems or failures and the costs incurred in correcting any such problems or failures, could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Further, to the extent our external information technology contractors or other service providers become insolvent or fail to support the software or systems we have licensed from them, our operations could be materially adversely affected.

Our care centers also depend upon our information systems for accounting, billing, collections, risk management, quality assurance, human resources, payroll and other information. If we experience a reduction in the performance, reliability, or availability of our information systems, our operations and ability to produce timely and accurate reports could be materially adversely affected.

Our information systems and applications require continual maintenance, upgrading and enhancement to meet our operational needs. Our acquisition activity requires transitions and integration of various information systems. We regularly upgrade and expand our information systems’ capabilities. If we experience difficulties with the transition and integration of information systems or are unable to implement, maintain, or expand our systems properly, we could suffer from, among other things, operational disruptions, regulatory problems and increases in administrative expenses.

We may be required to expend significant capital and other resources to protect against the threat of security breaches or to alleviate problems caused by breaches, including unauthorized access to patient data and personally identifiable information stored in our information systems, and the introduction of computer viruses to our systems. Our security measures may be inadequate to prevent security breaches and our business operations could be materially adversely affected by Federal and state fines and penalties, cancellation of contracts and loss of patients if security breaches are not prevented.

We have installed privacy protection systems and devices on our network and POC laptops in an attempt to prevent unauthorized access to information in our database. However, our technology may fail to adequately secure the confidential health information and personally identifiable information we maintain in our databases. In such circumstances, we may be held liable to our patients and regulators, which could result in fines, litigation or adverse publicity that could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Even if we are not held liable, any resulting negative publicity could harm our business and distract the attention of management.

Further, our information systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from fire, flood, power loss, telecommunications failure, break-ins and similar events. A failure to restore our information systems after the occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Because of the confidential health information we store and

 

22


Table of Contents

transmit, loss of electronically stored information for any reason could expose us to a risk of regulatory action and litigation and possible liability and loss.

We believe we have all the necessary licenses from third parties to use technology and software that we do not own. A third party could, however, allege that we are infringing its rights and we may not be able to obtain licenses on commercially reasonable terms from the third party, if at all, or the third party may commence litigation against us. In addition, we may find it necessary to initiate litigation to protect our trade secrets, to enforce our intellectual property rights and to determine the scope and validity of any proprietary rights of others. Any such litigation, or the failure to obtain any necessary licenses or other rights, could materially and adversely affect our business.

Our inability to effectively and timely transition to the new ICD-10 coding system could disrupt our operations and adversely impact our revenue.

CMS has mandated that all providers implement the use of new patient codes for medical coding, referred to as ICD-10 codes, on or before October 1, 2015. This mandate substantially increases the number of medical billing codes by which providers will seek reimbursement, increasing the complexity of submitting claims for reimbursement. Claims submitted after October 1, 2015 must use ICD-10 codes or they will not be paid. Transition to the new ICD-10 system requires changes to our clinical software system as well as the training of staff involved in the coding and billing processes. In addition to these upfront costs of transition to ICD-10, it is possible that we could experience disruption or delays in payment due to implementation issues, including software errors, coding errors or a decrease in the productivity of our staff involved in the coding and billing processes. Any such delays in payment could disrupt our operations and materially and adversely affect our business. In addition, the implementation of ICD-10 could result in a material and adverse impact upon our revenue and operating results.

Possible changes in the case mix of patients, as well as payor mix and payment methodologies, could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our revenue is determined by a number of factors, including our mix of patients and the rates of payment among payors. Changes in the case mix of our patients, payment methodologies or the payor mix among Medicare, Medicaid and private payors could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our failure to negotiate favorable managed care contracts, or our loss of existing favorable managed care contracts, could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

One of our strategies is to diversify our payor sources by increasing the business we do with managed care companies, and we strive to put in place favorable contracts with managed care payors. However, we may not be successful in these efforts. Additionally, there is a risk that the favorable managed care contracts that we put in place may be terminated, and managed care contracts typically permit the payor to terminate the contract without cause, on very short notice, typically 60 days, which can provide payors leverage to reduce volume or obtain favorable pricing. Our failure to negotiate and put in place favorable managed care contracts, or our failure to maintain in place favorable managed care contracts, could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

A write off of a significant amount of intangible assets or long-lived assets could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

A significant and sustained decline in our stock price and market capitalization or a significant decline in our expected future cash flows or a significant adverse change in the business climate or slower growth rates could

 

23


Table of Contents

result in the need to perform an impairment analysis under Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) Topic 350 “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other” in future periods in addition to our annual impairment test. If we were to conclude that a future write down of goodwill is necessary, then we would record the appropriate charge, which could result in material charges that are adverse to our consolidated financial condition and results of operations. See Part II, Item 8, Note 4 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

Because we have grown in part through acquisitions, goodwill and other acquired intangible assets represent a substantial portion of our assets. Goodwill was approximately $205.6 million as of December 31, 2014 and if we make additional acquisitions, it is likely that we will record additional intangible assets in our consolidated financial statements. We also have long-lived assets consisting of property and equipment and other identifiable intangible assets of $170.6 million as of December 31, 2014, which we review both on a periodic basis for indefinite lived intangible assets as well as when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If a determination that a significant impairment in value of our unamortized intangible assets or long-lived assets occurs, such determination could require us to write off a substantial portion of our assets. A write off of these assets could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

A shortage of qualified registered nursing staff and other clinicians, such as therapists and nurse practitioners, could materially impact our ability to attract, train and retain qualified personnel and could increase operating costs.

We compete for qualified personnel with other healthcare providers. Our ability to attract and retain clinicians depends on several factors, including our ability to provide these personnel with attractive assignments and competitive salaries and benefits. We cannot be assured we will succeed in any of these areas. In addition, there are shortages of qualified health care personnel in some of our markets. As a result, we may face higher costs of attracting clinicians and providing them with attractive benefit packages than we originally anticipated which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, if we expand our operations into geographic areas where health care providers historically have been unionized, or if any of our care center employees become unionized, being subject to a collective bargaining agreement may have a negative impact on our ability to timely and successfully recruit qualified personnel and may increase our operating costs. Generally, if we are unable to attract and retain clinicians, the quality of our services may decline and we could lose patients and referral sources, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our insurance liability coverage may not be sufficient for our business needs.

As a result of operating in the home health industry, our business entails an inherent risk of claims, losses and potential lawsuits alleging incidents involving our employees that are likely to occur in a patient’s home. We maintain professional liability insurance to provide coverage to us and our subsidiaries against these risks. However, we cannot assure you claims will not be made in the future in excess of the limits of our insurance, nor can we assure you that any such claims, if successful and in excess of such limits, will not have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Our insurance coverage also includes fire, property damage and general liability with varying limits. We cannot assure you that the insurance we maintain will satisfy claims made against us or that insurance coverage will continue to be available to us at commercially reasonable rates, in adequate amounts or on satisfactory terms. Any claims made against us, regardless of their merit or eventual outcome, could damage our reputation and business.

We may be subject to substantial malpractice or other similar claims.

The services we offer involve an inherent risk of professional liability and related substantial damage awards. As of February 27, 2015, we had approximately 13,200 employees ( 10,100 home health, 2,200 hospice and 900 corporate

 

24


Table of Contents

employees). In addition, we employ direct care workers on a contractual basis to support our existing workforce. Due to the nature of our business, we, through our employees and caregivers who provide services on our behalf, may be the subject of medical malpractice claims. A court could find these individuals should be considered our agents, and, as a result, we could be held liable for their acts or omissions. We cannot predict the effect that any claims of this nature, regardless of their ultimate outcome, could have on our business or reputation or on our ability to attract and retain patients and employees. While we maintain malpractice liability coverage that we believe is appropriate given the nature and breadth of our operations, any claims against us in excess of insurance limits, or multiple claims requiring us to pay deductibles could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

If we are unable to maintain our corporate reputation, our business may suffer.

Our success depends on our ability to maintain our corporate reputation, including our reputation for providing quality patient care and for compliance with Medicare requirements and the other laws to which we are subject. Adverse publicity surrounding any aspect of our business, including the death or disability of any of our patients due to our failure to provide proper care, or due to any failure on our part to comply with Medicare requirements or other laws to which we are subject, could negatively affect our Company’s overall reputation and the willingness of referral sources to refer patients to us.

We depend on the services of our executive officers and other key employees.

We depend greatly on the efforts of our executive officers and other key employees to manage our operations. The loss or departure of any one of these executives or other key employees could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our operations could be impacted by natural disasters.

The occurrence of natural disasters in the markets in which we operate could not only impact the day-to-day operations of our care centers, but could also disrupt our relationships with patients, employees and referral sources located in the affected areas and, in the case of our corporate office, our ability to provide administrative support services, including billing and collection services. In addition, any episode of care that is not completed due to the impact of a natural disaster will generally result in lower revenue for the episode. For example, our corporate office and a number of our care centers are located in the southeastern United States and the Gulf Coast Region, increasing our exposure to hurricanes. Future hurricanes or other natural disasters may have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Risks Related to Liquidity

Delays in payment may cause liquidity problems.

Our business is characterized by delays from the time we provide services to the time we receive payment for these services. If we have difficulty in obtaining documentation, such as physician orders, experience information system problems or experience other issues that arise with Medicare or other payors, we may encounter additional delays in our payment cycle.

In addition, timing delays may cause working capital shortages. Working capital management, including prompt and diligent billing and collection, is an important factor in achieving our financial results and maintaining liquidity. It is possible that documentation support, system problems, Medicare or other provider issues or industry trends may extend our collection period, which may materially adversely affect our working capital, and our working capital management procedures may not successfully mitigate this risk.

Additionally, our hospice operations may experience payment delays. We have experienced payment delays when attempting to collect funds from state Medicaid programs in certain instances. Delays in receiving payments from these programs may also materially adversely affect our working capital.

 

25


Table of Contents

The volatility and disruption of the capital and credit markets and adverse changes in the United States and global economies could impact our ability to access both available and affordable financing, and without such financing, we may be unable to achieve our objectives for strategic acquisitions and internal growth.

The United States and global capital and credit markets have recently experienced extreme volatility and disruption at unprecedented levels. Many financial institutions have recorded significant write-downs of asset values and these write-downs have caused many financial institutions to seek additional capital, to merge with larger and stronger institutions and, in some cases, to fail. Many lenders and institutional investors have reduced, and in some cases, ceased to provide funding to borrowers, including other financial institutions, or have increased their rates significantly.

While we intend to finance strategic acquisitions and internal growth with cash flows from operations and borrowings under our revolving credit facility, we may require sources of capital in addition to those presently available to us. Uncertainty in the capital and credit markets may impact our ability to access capital on terms acceptable to us (i.e. at attractive/affordable rates) or at all, and this may result in our inability to achieve present objectives for strategic acquisitions and internal growth. Further, in the event we need additional funds, and we are unable to raise the necessary funds on acceptable terms, our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Our indebtedness could impact our financial condition and impair our ability to fulfill other obligations.

As of December 31, 2014, we had total outstanding indebtedness of approximately $118.0 million, comprised mainly of indebtedness incurred in connection with our April 23, 2014 settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice relating to certain of our clinical and business operations. Our level of indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows and impair our ability to fulfill other obligations in several ways, including:

 

   

it could require us to dedicate a portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, which could reduce the availability of cash flow to fund acquisitions, start-ups, working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes;

 

   

it could limit our ability to borrow money or sell stock for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements and other purposes;

 

   

it could limit our flexibility in planning for, and reacting to, changes in our industry or business;

 

   

it could make us more vulnerable to unfavorable economic or business conditions; and

 

   

it could limit our ability to make acquisitions or take advantage of other business opportunities.

In the event we incur additional indebtedness, the risks described above could increase.

The agreements governing our indebtedness contain various covenants that limit our discretion in the operation of our business and our failure to satisfy requirements in these agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

The agreements governing our indebtedness (the “Debt Agreements”) contain certain obligations, including restrictive covenants that require us to comply with or maintain certain financial covenants and ratios and restrict our ability to:

 

   

incur additional debt;

 

   

redeem or repurchase stock, pay dividends or make other distributions;

 

   

make certain investments;

 

   

create liens;

 

   

enter into transactions with affiliates;

 

26


Table of Contents
   

make acquisitions;

 

   

enter into joint ventures;

 

   

merge or consolidate;

 

   

invest in foreign subsidiaries;

 

   

amend acquisition documents;

 

   

enter into certain swap agreements;

 

   

make certain restricted payments;

 

   

transfer, sell or leaseback assets; and

 

   

make fundamental changes in our corporate existence and principal business.

In addition, events beyond our control could affect our ability to comply with the Debt Agreements. Any failure by us to comply with or maintain all applicable financial covenants and ratios and to comply with all other applicable covenants could result in an event of default with respect to the Debt Agreements. If we are unable to obtain a waiver from our lenders in the event of any non-compliance, our lenders could accelerate the maturity of any outstanding indebtedness and terminate the commitments to make further extensions of credit (including our ability to borrow under our revolving credit facility). Any failure to comply with these covenants could have a material adverse effect on our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock

The price of our common stock may be volatile.

The price at which our common stock trades may be volatile. The stock market from time to time experiences significant price and volume fluctuations that impact the market prices of securities, particularly those of health care companies. The market price of our common stock may be influenced by many factors, including:

 

   

our operating and financial performance;

 

   

variances in our quarterly financial results compared to research analyst expectations;

 

   

the depth and liquidity of the market for our common stock;

 

   

future sales of common stock by the Company or large stockholders or the perception that such sales could occur;

 

   

investor, analyst and media perception of our business and our prospects;

 

   

developments relating to litigation or governmental investigations;

 

   

changes or proposed changes in health care laws or regulations or enforcement of these laws and regulations, or announcements relating to these matters;

 

   

departure of key personnel;

 

   

changes in the Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance payment rates for home health and hospice;

 

   

announcements by us or our competitors of significant contracts, acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures or capital commitments; or

 

   

general economic and stock market conditions.

In addition, the stock market in general, and the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) in particular, has experienced price and volume fluctuations that we believe have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of health care provider companies. These broad market and industry factors may

 

27


Table of Contents

materially reduce the market price of our common stock, regardless of our operating performance. Securities class-action cases have often been brought against companies following periods of volatility in the market price of their securities.

The activities of short sellers could reduce the price or prevent increases in the price of our common stock. “Short sale” is defined as the sale of stock by an investor that the investor does not own. Typically, investors who sell short believe the price of the stock will fall, and anticipate selling shares at a higher price than the purchase price at which they will buy the stock. As of December 31, 2014, investors held a short position of approximately 1.9 million shares of our common stock which represented 5.6% of our outstanding common stock. The anticipated downward pressure on our stock price due to actual or anticipated sales of our stock by some institutions or individuals who engage in short sales of our common stock could cause our stock price to decline.

Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock or preferred stock, or the availability of those shares for future sale, could materially impact our stock price and limit our ability to raise capital.

The following table presents information about our outstanding common and preferred stock and our outstanding securities exercisable for or convertible into shares of common stock:

 

     As of December 31,
2014
 

Common stock outstanding

     33,594,572  

Preferred stock outstanding

     —    

Common stock available under 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

     1,265,614  

Stock options outstanding

     277,536   

Stock options exercisable

     27,536  

Non-vested stock outstanding

     917,959  

Non-vested stock units outstanding

     225,745  

If we were to sell substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market or if there was a public perception that substantial sales could occur, the market price of our common stock could decline. These sales or the perception of substantial future sales may also make it difficult for us to sell common stock in the future to raise capital.

Our Board of Directors may use anti-takeover provisions or issue stock to discourage a change of control.

Our certificate of incorporation currently authorizes us to issue up to 60,000,000 shares of common stock and 5,000,000 shares of undesignated preferred stock. Our Board of Directors may cause us to issue additional stock to discourage an attempt to obtain control of our company. For example, shares of stock could be sold to purchasers who might support our Board of Directors in a control contest or to dilute the voting or other rights of a person seeking to obtain control. In addition, our Board of Directors could cause us to issue preferred stock entitling holders to vote separately on any proposed transaction, convert preferred stock into common stock, demand redemption at a specified price in connection with a change in control, or exercise other rights designed to impede a takeover.

The issuance of additional shares may, among other things, dilute the earnings and equity per share of our common stock and the voting rights of common stockholders.

We have implemented other anti-takeover provisions or provisions that could have an anti-takeover effect, including advance notice requirements for director nominations and stockholder proposals. These provisions, and others that our Board of Directors may adopt hereafter, may discourage offers to acquire us and may permit our Board of Directors to choose not to entertain offers to purchase us, even if such offers include a substantial premium to the market price of our stock. Therefore, our stockholders may be deprived of opportunities to profit from a sale of control.

 

28


Table of Contents
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

Our corporate headquarters are located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in an 110,000 square feet building that we own. As of December 31, 2014, we believe we have adequate space to accommodate our corporate staff located in the Baton Rouge area for the foreseeable future.

In addition to our corporate headquarters, we also lease facilities for our home health and hospice care centers. Generally, these leases have an initial term of five years with a three year early termination option, but range from one to seven years. Most of these leases also contain an option to extend the lease period. The following table shows the location of our 316 Medicare-certified home health care centers and 80 hospice care centers at December 31, 2014:

 

State

   Home Health      Hospice     

State

   Home Health      Hospice  

Alabama

     30        7     

New Jersey

     2        1  

Arkansas

     5        —       

New York

     4        —    

Arizona

     3        —       

New Hampshire

     2        2  

California

     4        —       

North Carolina

     8        7  

Connecticut

     4        2     

Ohio

     —          1  

Delaware

     2        —       

Oklahoma

     6        —    

Florida

     13        —       

Oregon

     4        1  

Georgia

     62        6     

Pennsylvania

     7        6  

Illinois

     3        —       

Rhode Island

     1        2  

Indiana

     5        1     

South Carolina

     19        7  

Kansas

     1        1     

Tennessee

     43        10  

Kentucky

     18        —       

Texas

     —          1  

Louisiana

     11        4     

Virginia

     14        1  

Massachusetts

     5        8     

West Virginia

     11        6  

Maine

     2        4     

Wisconsin

     1        —    

Maryland

     8        2     

Washington, D.C.

     1        —    

Mississippi

     10        —       

Carolina, Puerto Rico

     1        —    
           

 

 

    

 

 

 

Missouri

     6        —        

        Total

     316        80  
           

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

See Part II, Item 8, Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies for information concerning our legal proceedings.

 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

 

29


Table of Contents

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Market Information and Holders

Our common stock trades on the NASDAQ under the trading symbol “AMED.” The following table presents the range of high and low sales prices for our common stock for the periods indicated as reported on NASDAQ:

 

     Price Range of
Common Stock
 
     High      Low  

Year Ended December 31, 2014:

     

First Quarter

   $ 17.61      $ 13.85  

Second Quarter

     18.20        12.86  

Third Quarter

     22.58        15.31  

Fourth Quarter

     30.48        19.03  

Year Ended December 31, 2013:

     

First Quarter

   $ 13.36      $ 10.42  

Second Quarter

     14.89        8.81  

Third Quarter

     18.70        10.49  

Fourth Quarter

     18.50        12.60  

As of February 27, 2015, there were approximately 538 holders of record of our common stock.

Dividend Policy

We have not declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock or any other of our securities and do not expect to pay cash dividends for the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain our future earnings, if any, to fund the development and growth of our business. Future decisions concerning the payment of dividends will depend upon our results of operations, financial condition, capital expenditure plans and debt service requirements, as well as such other factors as our Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, may consider relevant. In addition, our outstanding indebtedness restricts, and we anticipate any additional future indebtedness may restrict, our ability to pay cash dividends.

Purchases of Equity Securities

The following table provides the information with respect to purchases made by us of shares of our common stock during each of the months during the three-month period ended December 31, 2014:

 

Period

  (a)
Total Number  of
Share (or Units)
Purchased
    (b)
Average Price
Paid  per Share (or Unit)
    (c)
Total Number  of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
    (d)
Maximum Number (or
Approximate Dollar
Value) of Shares (or
Units) That May Yet Be
Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs
 

October 1, 2014 to October 31, 2014

    9,588     $ 21.76       —       $ —    

November 1, 2014 to November 30, 2014

    3,469       26.10       —           —    

December 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014

    2,872       26.81       —         —    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
    15,929  (1)    $ 23.62       —       $ —    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) Includes shares of common stock surrendered to us by certain employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of stock previously awarded to such employees under our 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan.

 

30


Table of Contents

Stock Performance Graph

The Performance Graph below compares the cumulative total stockholder return on our common stock, $0.001 par value per share, for the five-year period ended December 31, 2014, with the cumulative total return on the NASDAQ composite index and an industry peer group over the same period (assuming the investment of $100 in our common stock, the NASDAQ composite index and the industry peer group) on December 31, 2009 and the reinvestment of dividends. The peer group we selected is comprised of: Gentiva Health, Inc. (“GTIV”), LHC Group, Inc. (“LHCG”) and Almost Family, Inc. (“AFAM”). The cumulative total stockholder return on the following graph is historical and is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance. No cash dividends have been paid on our common stock.

 

LOGO

 

     12/31/2009      12/31/2010      12/31/2011      12/31/2012      12/31/2013      12/31/2014  

Amedisys, Inc.

   $ 100.00      $ 68.93      $ 22.45      $ 23.27      $ 30.10      $ 60.39  

NASDAQ Composite

   $ 100.00      $ 117.61      $ 118.70      $ 139.00      $ 196.83      $ 223.74  

Peer Group

   $ 100.00      $ 94.99      $ 33.02      $ 50.19      $ 63.74      $ 81.81  

This stock performance information is “furnished” and shall not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or subject to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, and shall not be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, whether made before or after the date of this report and irrespective of any general incorporation by reference language in any such filing, except to the extent we specifically incorporate the information by reference.

 

31


Table of Contents

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The selected consolidated financial data presented below is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements for the five-year period ended December 31, 2014, based on our continuing operations. The financial data for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and the information included in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” herein.

 

    2014 (1)     2013 (2)     2012 (3)     2011 (4)     2010 (5)  
    (Amounts in thousands, except per share data)  

Income Statement Data:

         

Net service revenue

  $ 1,204,554     $ 1,249,344     $ 1,440,836     $ 1,418,464     $ 1,540,974  

Operating income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 24,047     $ (154,971   $ (108,855   $ (469,190   $ 204,079  

Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Amedisys, Inc.

  $ 12,992     $ (93,105   $ (80,262   $ (374,430   $ 118,984  

Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Amedisys, Inc. per basic share

  $ 0.40     $ (2.98   $ (2.68   $ (13.05   $ 4.24  

Net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Amedisys, Inc. per diluted share

  $ 0.40     $ (2.98   $ (2.68   $ (13.05   $ 4.18  

 

(1)

During 2014, we recorded charges for relators’ fees and exit and restructuring activity in the amount of $13.9 million ($8.5 million, net of tax) and recognized non-cash other intangibles impairment charges of $3.1 million ($2.0 million, net of tax).

(2)

During 2013, we recorded a charge for the accrual for the U.S. Department of Justice settlement, which amounted to $150.0 million ($93.9 million, net of tax) and recognized non-cash goodwill and other intangibles impairment charges of $9.5 million ($5.8 million, net of tax).

(3)

During 2012, we recorded a $162.1 million ($110.2 million, net of tax and non-controlling interests) charge for the impairment of goodwill and other intangibles and incurred certain costs associated with our exit activities in the amount of $2.7 million ($1.6 million, net of tax).

(4)

During 2011, we recorded a $579.9 million ($438.4 million, net of tax) charge for the impairment of goodwill and other intangibles and incurred certain costs associated with our exit activities in the amount of $6.6 million ($4.0 million, net of tax).

(5)

During 2010, we incurred certain costs associated with our exit activities of $14.8 million ($9.1 million, net of tax).

 

     2014      2013      2012      2011      2010  
     (Amounts in thousands)  

Balance Sheet Data:

              

Total assets

   $ 669,742      $ 726,406      $ 730,595      $ 858,285      $ 1,299,863  

Total debt, including current portion

   $ 116,372      $ 46,904      $ 102,711      $ 145,439      $ 181,866  

Total Amedisys, Inc. stockholders’ equity

   $ 397,167      $ 372,201      $ 452,340      $ 518,868      $ 877,857  

Cash dividends declared per common share

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —    

 

32


Table of Contents
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis provides information we believe is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our results of operations and financial condition for 2014, 2013 and 2012. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and Part I, Item 1, “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following analysis contains forward-looking statements about our future revenues, operating results and expectations. See “Special Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” for a discussion of the risks, assumptions and uncertainties affecting these statements as well as Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors.”

Overview

We are a provider of high-quality, low-cost home health services to the chronic, co-morbid, aging American population, with approximately 82%, 84% and 82% of our revenue derived from Medicare for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Our operations involve servicing patients through our two reportable business segments: home health and hospice. Our home health segment delivers a wide range of services in the homes of individuals who may be recovering from an illness, injury or surgery. Our hospice segment provides care that is designed to provide comfort and support for those who are facing a terminal illness. As of December 31, 2014, we owned and operated 316 Medicare-certified home health care centers and 80 Medicare-certified hospice care centers in 34 states within the United States, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

2014 Developments

 

   

Entered into and paid $150 million settlement agreement to resolve U.S. Department of Justice investigation and Stark Law Self-Referral matter (described below in this Item 7 under the heading “Governmental Inquiries and Investigations and Other Litigation”).

 

   

Amended our senior secured Credit Agreement.

 

   

Entered into a second lien Credit Agreement.

 

   

Reduced debt balance and DOJ obligation by $79 million.

 

   

Began beta testing of AMS3.

 

   

Exited 63 care centers (11 sold).

 

   

Returned to profitability in second quarter of 2014.

 

   

Board of Directors named Paul B. Kusserow as President, Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors.

2015 Outlook

 

   

Estimated no change in home health reimbursement.

 

   

Preparation for compliance with the 10 th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (“ICD-10”).

 

   

Focus on managed care contract portfolio.

 

   

Renewed focus on potential acquisitions.

Executive Leadership

As previously mentioned, William F. Borne stepped down from his position as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and member of the Board of Directors during February 2014. As a result of his departure, Ronald A.

 

33


Table of Contents

LaBorde moved from his role as President and Chief Financial Officer to President and Interim Chief Executive Officer. Dale E. Redman, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer from 2007 – 2011 was named Interim Chief Financial Officer. On December 16, 2014, the Board of Directors named Paul. B. Kusserow as President and Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors. Ronald A. LaBorde remains a member of senior management in the role of Vice Chairman. Dale E. Redman continues to serve in the role of Interim Chief Financial Officer.

Care Center Closures/Consolidations

As part of our ongoing management of our portfolio of care centers, we review each care center’s current financial performance, market penetration, forecasted market growth and the impact of proposed CMS payment revisions. Once we decide to close a care center, we first determine whether we can consolidate the care center with a care center servicing the same market. If a consolidation is not viable, we evaluate whether we have the opportunity to sell the care center. As a result of this process, we exited 63 care centers during 2014. The details are as follows:

 

     Home Health      Hospice  
       Sold      Closed      Consolidated      Total      Sold      Closed      Consolidated      Total  

Quarter Ended March 31, 2014

     1        4        4        9        —          1        —          1  

Quarter Ended June 30, 2014

     6        18        18        42        4        3        4        11  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     7        22        22        51        4        4        4        12  

Additionally, we exited our one hospice inpatient unit during the three months ended September 30, 2014.

For the care centers that we closed and consolidated, we recorded non-cash charges of $2.2 million in other intangibles impairment expense related to the write-off of intangible assets, $2.1 million in other general and administrative expenses related to lease termination costs and $2.1 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs during 2014.

In conjunction with the closure and consolidation of care centers, we restructured our regional leadership and corporate support functions. As such, we recorded charges of $3.4 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs during 2014. In addition, on February 20, 2014, William F. Borne stepped down from his positions as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and a member of our Board of Directors and we recorded charges of $2.3 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs.

Owned and Operated Care Centers

 

     Home Health      Hospice  

At December 31, 2011

     439        87  

Acquisitions/Startups

     4        14  

Closed/Consolidated

     (8      (4
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31, 2012

     435        97  

Acquisitions

     2        1  

Closed/Consolidated/Sold

     (70      (6
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31, 2013

     367        92  

Closed/Consolidated/Sold

     (51      (12

At December 31, 2014

     316        80  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

When we refer to “same store business,” we mean home health and hospice care centers that we have operated for at least the last twelve months; when we refer to “acquisitions,” we mean home health and hospice care centers that we acquired within the last twelve months; and when we refer to “start-ups,” we mean home health

 

34


Table of Contents

or hospice care centers opened by us in the last twelve months. Once a care center has been in operation for a twelve month period, the results for that particular care center are included as part of our same store business from that date forward. Non-Medicare revenue, admissions, recertifications or completed episodes, includes home health revenue, admissions, recertifications or completed episodes of care for those payors that pay on an episodic or per visit basis, which includes Medicare Advantage programs and private payors.

Economic and Industry Factors

Home health and hospice services are a highly fragmented, highly competitive industry. The degree of competiveness varies depending upon whether our care centers operate in states that require a certificate of need (CON) or permit of approval (POA). In such states, expansion by existing providers or entry into the market by new providers is permitted only where determination is made by state health authorities that a given amount of unmet need exists. Currently, 70% and 40% of our home health and hospice care centers, respectively operate in CON/POA states.

As the Federal government continues to debate a reduction in expenditures and a reform of the Medicare system, our industry continues to face reimbursement pressures. Specifically, the industry has been impacted by a 2% sequestration payment reduction beginning April 1, 2013. In addition to the sequestration cut, CMS instituted a rebasing cut of approximately $81 (2.7%) per year for 2014 – 2017; however, we do expect some offset from a market basket updated in each of these years. The following payment adjustments are effective for 2015 based on CMS’s final rules relative to Medicare reimbursement:

 

     Home Health(1)     Hospice(2)  

Market Basket Update

     2.60      2.90 

Rebasing

     (2.82 )%      —      

PPACA Adjustment

     —         (0.30

Productivity Adjustment

     (0.50 )%      (0.50 )% 

Budget Neutrality Adjustment Factor

     0.42      (0.70 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (0.30 )%      1.40 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Our impact could differ depending on differences in the wage index and coding changes. Our 2015 pricing is expected to be relatively unchanged from 2014.

(2)

Effective for services provided from October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2015.

Governmental Inquiries and Investigations and Other Litigation

On September 27, 2010, we received a Civil Investigative Demand (“CID”) issued by the U.S. Department of Justice pursuant to the federal False Claims Act. The CID required the delivery of a wide range of documents and information relating to the Company’s clinical and business operations, including reimbursement and billing claims submitted to Medicare for home health services, and related compliance activities. The CID generally covered the period from January 1, 2003. On April 26, 2011, we received a second CID related to the CID issued in September 2010, which generally covered the same time period as the previous CID and required the production of additional documents. Such CIDs are often associated with previously filed qui tam actions, or lawsuits filed under seal under the False Claims Act (“FCA”), 31 U.S.C. § 3729 et seq. Qui tam actions are brought by private plaintiffs suing on behalf of the federal government for alleged FCA violations. Subsequently, the Company and certain current and former employees received additional CIDs for additional documents and/or testimony.

In May 2012, we made a disclosure to CMS under the agency’s Stark Law Self-Referral Disclosure Protocol relating to certain services agreements between a subsidiary of ours and a large physician group (the “Stark Law Self-Referral Matter”). During some period of time since December 2007, the arrangements appear not to have

 

35


Table of Contents

complied in certain respects with an applicable exemption to the Stark Law referral prohibition. Medicare revenue earned as a result of referrals from the physician group from May 2008 to May 2012, the relevant four year “lookback” period under the Stark Law Self-Referral Disclosure Protocol, was approximately $4 million. On January 11, 2013, one of our subsidiaries received a CID from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia seeking certain information relating to that subsidiary’s relationship with this physician group

On April 23, 2014, with no admission of liability on our part, we entered into a settlement agreement to resolve both the U.S. Department of Justice investigation and the Stark Law Self-Referral matter. Pursuant to the settlement agreement, on May 2, 2014, we paid the United States an initial payment in the amount of $116.5 million representing the first installment of $115 million plus interest thereon due under the settlement agreement, and on October 23, 2014, we paid the United States an additional payment in the amount of $35.8 million, representing the second and final installment of $35 million plus interest thereon due under the settlement agreement.

The settlement agreement also resolves allegations made against us by various qui tam relators, who are required to dismiss their claims with prejudice. We accrued and paid various relators’ attorneys’ fees and expenses in the aggregate sum of approximately $3.9 million during 2014.

In connection with the settlement agreement, on April 23, 2014, we entered into a corporate integrity agreement (“CIA”) with the Office of Inspector General-HHS. The CIA formalizes various aspects of our already existing ethics and compliance programs and contains other requirements designed to help ensure our ongoing compliance with federal health care program requirements. Among other things, the CIA requires us to maintain our existing compliance program, compliance committee and compliance committee of the Board of Directors; provide certain compliance training; continue screening new and current employees against certain lists to ensure they are not ineligible to participate in federal health care programs; engage an independent review organization to perform certain auditing and reviews and prepare certain reports regarding our compliance with federal health care programs, our billing submissions to federal health care programs and our compliance and risk mitigation programs; and provide certain reports and management certifications to the Office of Inspector General-HHS. Among other things, the CIA requires that we report substantial overpayments that we discover we have received from federal health care programs, as well as probable violations of federal health care laws. Upon breach of the CIA, we could become liable for payment of certain stipulated penalties, or could be excluded from participation in federal health care programs. The CIA has a term of five years. We expect the CIA to impact operating expenses by approximately $1 to $2 million annually beginning in 2015.

See Item 8, Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our CIA and for a discussion of and updates regarding class action litigation we are involved in. No assurances can be given as to the timing or outcome of these items.

 

36


Table of Contents

Results of Operations

Consolidated

The following table summarizes our results from continuing operations (amounts in millions):

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2014     2013     2012  

Net service revenue

   $ 1,204.5     $ 1,249.3     $ 1,440.8  

Gross margin, excluding depreciation and amortization

     513.4       531.3       630.1  

% of revenue

     42.6     42.5     43.7

Other operating expenses

     486.3       526.8       576.9  

% of revenue

     40.4     42.2     40.0

U.S. Department of Justice settlement

     —         150.0       —    

Goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge

     3.1       9.5       162.1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

     24.0       (155.0     (108.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other income (expense), net

     (3.1     1.5       (6.4

Income tax (expense) benefit

     (7.7     58.8       20.0  

Effective income tax rate

     36.6     (38.3 %)      (17.4 %) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     13.3       (94.7     (95.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss from discontinued operations

     (0.2     (3.1     (3.3

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (0.3     1.6       15.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Amedisys, Inc.

   $ 12.8     $ (96.2   $ (83.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2013

During the first quarter of 2014, we committed to a plan to consolidate 21 operating home health care centers and four operating hospice care centers with care centers servicing the same markets and close 23 home health care centers and six hospice care centers. As a result of this exit activity, we reduced our regional leadership structure and corporate support functions. Separate from the restructuring costs, we also recorded severance costs associated with the departure of our former Chief Executive Officer, a charge for relator fees associated with our U.S. Department of Justice settlement during the first quarter of 2014 and a non-cash other intangibles impairment charge during the fourth quarter of 2014. The following details the costs associated with these activities (amounts in millions):

 

     For the Year Ended December 31, 2014      For the Year
Ended
December 31,
2013
 
     Home Health      Hospice      Corporate      Total      Total  

Severance(a)

   $ 2.0      $ 0.1      $ —        $ 2.1      $ —    

Restructuring severance

     2.1        0.6        3.0        5.7        —    

Lease terminations

     1.9        0.2        —          2.1        —    

Other intangibles impairment

     1.6        1.5        —          3.1        9.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Exit and restructuring activities cost

     7.6        2.4        3.0        13.0        9.5  

U.S. Department of Justice Settlement/Relator Fees

     —          —          3.9        3.9        150.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 7.6      $ 2.4      $ 6.9      $ 16.9      $ 159.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(a)

Includes $0.8 million and $0.1 million for severance included in cost of service for home health and hospice, respectively.

 

37


Table of Contents

Our operating results have been impacted by the sale, closure and consolidation of 54 care centers mentioned above as well as the closure of an additional 9 care centers since December 31, 2013. Additionally, 76 care centers were exited during 2013. Accordingly, our results for the year ended December 31, 2014 are not fully comparable to the year ended December 31, 2013.

Our operating income, excluding the $17 million in costs noted above and the U.S. Department of Justice settlement and the goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge in 2013, increased $36 million as our home health operating income increased $27 million, our hospice operating income increased $5 million and corporate expenses decreased $4 million. Additionally, the first quarter of 2013 was not impacted by sequestration as it was not in effect until April 1, 2013. The estimated impact of sequestration was $21 million for 2014 compared to $18 million in 2013.

Income tax expense for 2014 and 2013 includes a favorable adjustment of $2 million related to various tax credits for state employment and training and state and federal research development.

Year Ended December 31, 2013 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2012

Our 2013 results were impacted by an accrual of $150 million and recognition of a deferred tax benefit of $56 million for the tentative settlement to resolve both the U.S. Department of Justice investigation and the Stark Law Self-Referral matter recorded during the third quarter. See Item 8, Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements for additional information.

During 2012, we recorded a $162 million impairment charge of goodwill and other intangibles as a result of the decline in our market capitalization and forecasts. We recognized a deferred tax benefit of $37 million as a result of the impairment charges during 2012.

Our operating income, excluding the $150 million U.S. Department of Justice settlement and the goodwill and other intangibles impairment charges in 2013 and 2012, declined $48 million which is inclusive of an $18 million impact due to sequestration. Excluding the impact of sequestration, our home health operating income decreased $31 million, hospice operating income decreased $8 million and corporate expenses decreased $9 million. Our home health and hospice operating income declined primarily as a result of lower volumes with our home health operations experiencing an additional impact related to lower revenue per episode. Our corporate expense decrease is comprised of a $9 million decrease in professional and legal fees and travel and training expenses. In addition, other income increased $8 million primarily as a result of insurance proceeds for the reimbursement of legal expenses related to our litigation activities and a decrease in interest expense.

Income tax expense includes a favorable adjustment of approximately $2 million related to a net increase in the statutory tax rate from 39.0% to 39.5% for 2013. In addition to the $37 million deferred tax benefit discussed above, tax expense for 2012 includes a favorable adjustment of $2 million related to various credits for state employment and training and state and federal research and development.

 

38


Table of Contents

Home Health Division

The following table summarizes our home health segment results from continuing operations:

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2014     2013     2012  

Financial Information (in millions):

      

Medicare

   $ 751.5     $ 803.8     $ 915.3  

Non-Medicare

     205.4       183.9       236.8  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net service revenue

     956.9       987.7       1,152.1  

Cost of service

     559.4       578.9       661.4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross margin

     397.5       408.8       490.7  

Other operating expenses

     292.8       325.3       361.9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income before impairment (1)

   $ 104.7     $ 83.5     $ 128.8  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Key Statistical Data:

      

Medicare:

      

Same Store Volume (2):

      

Revenue

     1     (10 %)      (7 %) 

Admissions

     0     0     0

Recertifications

     1     (18 %)      (8 %) 

Total (3):

      

Admissions

     175,476       188,566       192,375  

Recertifications

     102,263       107,908       134,515  

Completed episodes

     271,217       290,780       317,346  

Visits

     4,794,609       5,177,976       6,076,170  

Average revenue per completed episode (4)

   $ 2,827     $ 2,817     $ 2,867  

Average revenue per episode including sequestration (5)

   $ 2,770     $ 2,775     $ 2,867  

Visits per completed episode (6)

     17.3       17.5       18.8  

Non-Medicare:

      

Same Store Volume (2):

      

Revenue

     19     (20 %)      18

Admissions

     17     (13 %)      28

Recertifications

     13     (24 %)      11

Total (3):

      

Admissions

     83,759       76,551       90,017  

Recertifications

     32,074       30,304       41,268  

Visits

     1,651,745       1,531,781       2,011,684  

Total (3):

      

Cost per Visit

   $ 86.77     $ 86.27     $ 81.78  

Visits

     6,446,354       6,709,757       8,087,854  

 

(1)

Operating income of $103.1 million, $75.0 million and operating loss of $32.8 million on a GAAP basis for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

(2)

Same store Medicare and Non-Medicare revenue, admissions or recertifications growth is the percent increase (decrease) in our Medicare and Non-Medicare revenue, admissions or recertifications for the period as a percent of the Medicare and Non-Medicare revenue, admissions or recertifications of the prior period.

(3)

Based on continuing operations for all periods presented.

(4)

Average Medicare revenue per completed episode is the average Medicare revenue earned for each Medicare completed episode of care which excludes the impact of sequestration.

(5)

Average Medicare revenue per completed episode including sequestration is the average Medicare revenue earned for each Medicare completed episode of care which includes the impact of sequestration.

(6)

Medicare visits per completed episode are the home health Medicare visits on completed episodes divided by the home health Medicare episodes completed during the period.

 

39


Table of Contents

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2013

Overall, our operating income, excluding the $8 million in exit activity costs in 2014 and the impairment charge in 2013, increased $27 million on an $11 million decline in gross margin offset by a $38 million decline in other operating expenses.

Net Service Revenue

Our Medicare revenue decline of approximately $52 million consisted of $53 million due to lower volumes and $2 million due to sequestration offset by a $3 million increase related to revenue per episode. The decrease in volumes is primarily due to the sale, closure and consolidation of 51 care centers since December 31, 2013, as we experienced an increase in same store revenue and recertifications.

Our non-Medicare revenue increased $21 million which is primarily due to increases in volumes and an increase in our revenue per visit. We are experiencing significant growth in our non-Medicare business as we have focused on contract payors with significant concentrations in our markets.

As mentioned above, we have closed numerous care centers since December 31, 2013. Accordingly, our results are not fully comparable to prior year. The following table summarizes our net service revenue for our operating care centers and those care centers that were closed, consolidated or sold.

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
     2014      2013      2012  

Revenue (in millions) :

        

Operating care centers

   $ 941.2      $ 895.6      $ 1,012.3  

Closed/Consolidated/Sold care centers

     15.7        92.1        139.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net service revenue

     956.9        987.7        1,152.1  

Cost of Service, Excluding Depreciation and Amortization

Our cost of service, excluding the $1 million in exit activity costs in 2014, decreased $20 million primarily as a result of our decrease in Medicare volumes which was offset by a 8% increase in non-Medicare visits as our cost per visit remained relatively flat.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, excluding the $7 million in exit activity costs in 2014 and the impairment charge in 2013, decreased $38 million due to a $43 million decrease in other care center related expenses as a result of our closure and consolidation strategy and the reduction in divisional leadership; the majority of the reductions were in salaries and benefits, rent expense and travel costs offset by a $5 million increase in our provision for doubtful accounts due to the increase in non-Medicare revenue.

Year Ended December 31, 2013 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2012

Overall, our operating income excluding the goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge declined $45 million on a $164 million decline in revenue. Sequestration impacted revenue and operating income by $14 million. Both Medicare and non-Medicare gross margin were impacted by lower volumes offset by a $37 million decrease in other operating expenses.

 

40


Table of Contents

Net Service Revenue

Our Medicare revenue decline of approximately $111 million consisted of $82 million due to lower volumes, $15 million due to lower revenue per episode and $14 million due to sequestration. The volume decline is primarily due to a 20% decline in recertifications, as admissions only declined 2%. Our revenue per episode declined 2%; however, this was offset by a 7% decrease in our visits per episode.

Our non-Medicare revenue decreased $53 million which is primarily due to a decline in admission volumes and the number of visits performed. A key driver in the volume decline is changes effective October 2012 in the terms of our Humana contract (episodic to per-visit reimbursement and reduction in market coverage).

Cost of Service, Excluding Depreciation and Amortization

Our cost of service decreased $82 million primarily as a result of our decrease in admission and recertification volumes and visits per episode offset by an increase in cost per visit. The increase in cost per visit is the result of wage inflation, increase in health and other benefits and the impact of lower visits due to the fixed nature of some of our care delivery costs.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, excluding the goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge, decreased $37 million with $30 million attributed primarily to salary and wages and other care center related expenses. Our strategy to consolidate care centers within overlapping markets is a major factor in this decrease. The remaining $7 million is primarily the result of a reduction in our provision for doubtful accounts, which is reflective of our decrease in non-Medicare revenue and our higher percentage of contracted payors.

Hospice Division

The following table summarizes our hospice segment results from continuing operations:

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
     2014     2013     2012  

Financial Information (in millions):

      

Medicare

   $ 232.6     $ 246.4     $ 272.7  

Non-Medicare

     15.0       15.2       16.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net service revenue

     247.6       261.6       288.7  

Cost of service

     131.7       139.1       149.3  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross margin

     115.9       122.5       139.4  

Other operating expenses

     61.9       72.5       77.2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income before impairment(1)

   $ 54.0     $ 50.0     $ 62.2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Key Statistical Data:

      

Same store Medicare revenue growth(2)

     (2 %)      (9 %)      13

Same store Non-Medicare revenue growth(2)

     6     (3 %)      3

Hospice admits

     17,081       18,335       18,999  

Average daily census

     4,618       4,964       5,406  

Revenue per day

   $ 146.93     $ 144.43     $ 145.89  

Cost of service per day

   $ 77.93     $ 76.45     $ 75.34  

Average length of stay

     100       100       99  

 

(1)

Operating income of $52.5 million, $49.0 million and $61.7 million on a GAAP basis for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

(2)

Same store Medicare and Non-Medicare revenue growth is the percent increase in our Medicare and Non-Medicare revenue for the period as a percent of the Medicare and Non-Medicare revenue of the prior period.

 

41


Table of Contents

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2013

Overall, our operating income, excluding the $2 million in exit activity costs in 2014 and the impairment charge in 2013, increased $5 million on a $14 million decline in revenue, an $8 million decline in cost of service and an $11 million decline in other operating expenses.

Net Service Revenue

Our hospice revenue decreased $14 million, primarily as the result of a decrease in our average daily census. The decrease in average daily census is primarily due to the sale, closure and consolidation of 12 care centers since December 31, 2013. The decrease in revenue was offset by a $2 million decrease in our hospice cap expense as our decline in average daily census and a decrease in admissions has resulted in a decrease in our overall cap expense. We benefitted from a 1.0% hospice rate increase effective October 1, 2013, and beginning October 1, 2014, the fiscal year 2015 hospice base rate increased approximately 1.4%.

As mentioned above, we have closed numerous care centers since December 31, 2013. Accordingly, our results are not fully comparable to prior year. The following table summarizes our net service revenue for our operating care centers and those care centers that were closed, consolidated or sold.

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
     2014      2013      2012  

Revenue (in millions) :

        

Operating care centers

   $ 243.4      $ 243.7      $ 264.6  

Closed/Consolidated/Sold care centers

     4.2        17.9        24.1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net service revenue

     247.6        261.6        288.7  

Cost of Service, Excluding Depreciation and Amortization

Our hospice cost of service decreased $8 million, or 5%, as the result of a 7% decrease in average daily census offset by an increase in cost of service per day. Our cost of service per day has been negatively impacted by an increase in pharmacy costs as a result of new CMS guidance which became effective on May 1, 2014.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, excluding the $2 million in exit activity costs in 2014 and the impairment charge in 2013, decreased $11 million due to a $7 million decrease in other care center related expenses due to our care center closure and consolidation strategy and a $4 million decrease in our provision for doubtful accounts.

Year Ended December 31, 2013 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2012

Our operating income, excluding the goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge, decreased $12 million primarily due to a decrease in admissions which resulted in a lower average daily census.

Net Service Revenue

Our hospice revenue decreased $27 million, primarily as the result of a decrease in our average daily census and $4 million due to sequestration. We benefitted from a 0.9% hospice rate increase effective October 1, 2012 and beginning October 1, 2013, the fiscal year 2014 hospice base rate increased approximately 1%.

 

42


Table of Contents

Cost of Service, Excluding Depreciation and Amortization

Our hospice cost of service decreased $10 million, or 7%, which corresponds to our 8% decrease in average daily census. Our hospice clinicians are generally paid on a salaried basis, and our care centers are staffed based on their average census.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, excluding the goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge, decreased $5 million due to a $7 million decrease in salaries and wages and other care center related expenses, offset by a $2 million increase in our provision for doubtful accounts due to an increase in non-Medicare write-offs during 2013.

Corporate

The following table summarizes our corporate results from continuing operations:

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
     2014      2013      2012  

Financial Information (in millions):

        

Other operating expenses

   $ 114.4      $ 104.5      $ 113.3  

Depreciation and amortization

     17.2        24.5        24.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total before U.S. Department of Justice settlement (1)

   $ 131.6      $ 129.0      $ 137.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Total of $279.0 million on a GAAP basis for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Corporate expenses consist of cost relating to our executive management and corporate and administrative support functions that are not directly attributable to a specific segment. Corporate and administrative support functions represent primarily information services, accounting, finance, billing and collections, legal, compliance, risk management, procurement, marketing, clinical administration, training, human resources and administration.

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2013

Excluding the 2014 exit and restructuring activities costs and relator fees associated with our U.S. Department of Justice settlement agreement and the U.S. Department of Justice settlement in 2013, corporate expenses decreased $4 million primarily due to a decrease in depreciation and amortization. Our corporate salaries and wages experienced an increase due to the addition of resources for the roll-out of AMS3, our enhanced point of care system.

Year Ended December 31, 2013 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2012

Excluding the U.S. Department of Justice settlement in 2013, corporate expenses decreased $9 million primarily due to decreases in travel and training costs and legal and professional fees.

 

43


Table of Contents

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flows

The following table summarizes our cash flows for the periods indicated (amounts in millions):

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
     2014      2013      2012  

Cash (used in) provided by operating activities

   $ (65.5    $ 102.3      $ 69.5  

Cash used in investing activities

     (14.3      (46.5      (60.0

Cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     70.5        (53.0      (43.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (9.3      2.8        (33.5

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     17.3        14.5        48.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 8.0      $ 17.3      $ 14.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash used in operating activities increased $167.8 million during 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to the payment of the U.S. Department of Justice Settlement. Adjusting for the $152.3 million settlement payment, we have generated $86.8 million in cash from operating activities during 2014. Cash provided by operating activities increased $32.8 million during 2013 compared to 2012 primarily due to a 9.4 day decrease in our days revenue outstanding which increased our cash flow from operations by $32.5 million. For additional information regarding our operating performance and our days revenue outstanding, see “Results of Operations” and “Outstanding Patient Accounts Receivable”, respectively. The recognition of the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charge of $162.1 million, which resulted in the net loss for 2012 is a non-cash item and therefore had no impact on our cash flow from operations.

Cash used in investing activities decreased $32.2 million during 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to a decrease in capital expenditures of $29.7 million, primarily related to AMS3 development, and a $3.7 million decrease in the purchase of investments. Cash used in investing activities decreased $13.5 million during 2013 compared to 2012 primarily due to a decrease in acquisition activities, purchases of property and equipment and proceeds from the sale of care centers of $22.5 million offset by the purchase of investments of $10.1 million.

Cash provided by financing activities increased $123.5 million during 2014 compared to 2013 primarily due to an increase in our borrowings on our revolving line of credit and our Second Lien Loan. We increased our outstanding long-term obligations, net of repayments by $71.1 million from December 31, 2013, primarily to fund the U.S. Department of Justice settlement payment. Cash used in financing activities increased by $10.0 million during 2013 compared to 2012 due to an $11.4 million increase in our principal payments of long-term obligations, net of borrowings.

Liquidity

Typically, our principal source of liquidity is the collection of our patient accounts receivable, primarily through the Medicare program. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, we have experienced reimbursement reductions due to sequestration and the 2012 CMS rate cut, as well as lower recertification volumes which have impacted our business and consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In order to mitigate the impact of reimbursement reductions, we have executed a strategy to reduce the number of operating care centers and restructure our regional leadership and corporate support functions. This strategy has improved our operational performance; however, we did incur $12 million in closure and severance related costs which impacted our net income and cash flow. Additionally, CMS proposed to reduce reimbursement rates by 2.7% for rebasing in each year from calendar year 2015 to calendar year 2017; however, we do expect some offset from a market basket update. The impact of the 2015 payment adjustment is estimated to be minimal. For additional information regarding our reimbursement changes, see “Overview – Economic and Industry Factors”. In addition

 

44


Table of Contents

to our collection of patient accounts receivable, from time to time, we can and do obtain additional sources of liquidity by the incurrence of additional indebtedness or through sales of equity.

During 2014, we spent $7.0 million in routine capital expenditures compared to $6.5 million and $21.1 million during 2013 and 2012, respectively. Routine capital expenditures primarily include equipment and computer software and hardware. In addition, we spent $5.0 million in non-routine capital expenditures related to enhancements to our point of care software compared to $35.2 million and $27.2 million during 2013 and 2012. Our routine and non-routine capital expenditures for 2015 are expected to be approximately $10.4 million and $4.7 million, respectively.

On April 23, 2014, we entered into a settlement agreement to resolve both the U.S. Department of Justice investigation and the Stark Law Self-Referral matter. Pursuant to the settlement agreement, on May 2, 2014, we paid the United States an initial payment in the amount of $116.5 million, representing the first installment of $115 million plus interest thereon due under the settlement agreement, and on October 23, 2014, we paid the United States an additional payment in the amount of $35.8 million, representing the second and final installment of $35 million plus interest thereon due under the settlement agreement.

On July 28, 2014, we entered into a Second Lien Credit Agreement providing for a term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $70.0 million and amended our existing senior secured Credit Agreement dated as of October 26, 2012. The proceeds of the Second Lien Credit Agreement were used to pay down a portion of our Revolving Credit Facility.

Separately, on July 28, 2014, we entered into the fourth amendment to our Credit Agreement which amends our existing Credit Agreement dated as of October 26, 2012, to add certain covenants, representations and other provisions in the Credit Agreement to, among other things, allow for our entry into the Second Lien Credit Agreement. The fourth amendment also decreases the aggregate principal amount of the revolving credit facility under our existing senior secured Credit Agreement from up to $165.0 million to up to $120.0 million.

As of December 31, 2014, we had $8.0 million in cash and cash equivalents and $85.7 million in availability under our $120.0 million Revolving Credit Facility. Based on our operating forecasts and our new debt service requirements, we believe we will have sufficient liquidity to fund our operations, capital requirements and debt service requirements; however, our ongoing ability to comply with the debt covenants under our credit agreement depends largely on the achievement of adequate levels of operating performance and cash flow. We routinely review our capital requirements to make sure that we have a capital structure in place that meets the current and future needs of the Company. If our future operating performance and/or cash flows are less than expected, it could cause us to default on our financial covenants in the future. In the event we are not in compliance with our debt covenants in the future, we would pursue various alternatives in an attempt to successfully resolve the non-compliance, which might include, among other things, seeking debt covenant waivers or amendments. There can be no assurance that debt covenant waivers or amendments would be obtained, if needed.

Outstanding Patient Accounts Receivable

Our patient accounts receivable, net decreased $11.8 million from December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2014. Our cash collection as a percentage of revenue was 103.2% and 107.2% for December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Our days revenue outstanding, net at December 31, 2014 was 29.4 days which is a decrease of 2.7 days from December 31, 2013.

Our patient accounts receivable includes unbilled receivables and are aged based upon our initial service date. At December 31, 2014, our unbilled patient accounts receivable, as a percentage of gross patient accounts receivable, was 35.9%, or $41.9 million, compared to 34.7%, or $44.8 million, at December 31, 2013. We monitor unbilled receivables on a care center by care center basis to ensure that all efforts are made to bill claims within timely filing

 

45


Table of Contents

deadlines. The timely filing deadline for Medicare is one year from the date the episode was completed and varies by state for Medicaid-reimbursable services and among insurance companies and other private payors.

Our provision for estimated revenue adjustments (which is deducted from our service revenue to determine net service revenue) and provision for doubtful accounts were as follows for the periods indicated (amounts in millions). We fully reserve for both our Medicare and other patient accounts receivable that are aged over 365 days.

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
         2014             2013      

Provision for estimated revenue adjustments (1)

   $ 5.1     $ 9.4  

Provision for doubtful accounts (2)

     16.4       16.4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ 21.5     $ 25.8  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

As a percent of revenue

     1.8     2.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Includes $0.1 million and $0.4 million from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

(2)

Includes $0.1 million and $0.6 million from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

The following schedules detail our patient accounts receivable, net of estimated revenue adjustments, by payor class, aged based upon initial date of service (amounts in millions, except days revenue outstanding, net):

 

     0-90      91-180      181-365      Over 365      Total  

At December 31, 2014:

              

Medicare patient accounts receivable, net (1)

   $ 62.1      $ 6.3      $ —        $ —        $ 68.4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other patient accounts receivable:

              

Medicaid

     9.1        1.4        0.7        0.4        11.6  

Private

     23.4        5.4        2.5        2.3        33.6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 32.5      $ 6.8      $ 3.2      $ 2.7      $ 45.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Allowance for doubtful accounts (2)

                 (14.3
              

 

 

 

Non-Medicare patient accounts receivable, net

               $ 30.9  
              

 

 

 

Total patient accounts receivable, net

               $ 99.3  
              

 

 

 

Days revenue outstanding, net (3)

                 29.4  
              

 

 

 

 

     0-90      91-180      181-365      Over 365      Total  

At December 31, 2013:

              

Medicare patient accounts receivable, net (1)

   $ 66.7      $ 8.7      $ —        $ —        $ 75.4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other patient accounts receivable:

              

Medicaid

     11.4        2.6        1.3        0.3        15.6  

Private

     19.8        8.0        3.9        2.6        34.3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 31.2      $ 10.6      $ 5.2      $ 2.9      $ 49.9  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Allowance for doubtful accounts (2)

                 (14.2
              

 

 

 

Non-Medicare patient accounts receivable, net

               $ 35.7  
              

 

 

 

Total patient accounts receivable, net

               $ 111.1  
              

 

 

 

Days revenue outstanding, net (3)

                 32.1  
              

 

 

 

 

46


Table of Contents

 

(1)

The following table summarizes the activity and ending balances in our estimated revenue adjustments (amounts in millions), which is recorded to reduce our Medicare outstanding patient accounts receivable to their estimated net realizable value, as we do not estimate an allowance for doubtful accounts for our Medicare claims.

 

     For the Years  Ended
December 31,
 
         2014              2013      

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 3.9      $ 6.4  

Provision for estimated revenue adjustments (a)

     5.1        9.4  

Write offs

     (5.9      (11.9
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance at end of period

   $ 3.1      $ 3.9  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(a)

Includes $0.1 million and $0.4 million from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Our estimated revenue adjustments were 4.3% and 4.9% of our outstanding Medicare patient accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

 

(2)

The following table summarizes the activity and ending balances in our allowance for doubtful accounts (amounts in millions), which is recorded to reduce only our Medicaid and private payer outstanding patient accounts receivable to their estimated net realizable value.

 

     For the Years Ended
December 31,
 
         2014              2013      

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 14.2      $ 21.0  

Provision for doubtful accounts (a)

     16.4        16.4  

Write offs

     (16.3      (23.2
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance at end of period

   $ 14.3      $ 14.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(a)

Includes $0.1 million and $0.6 million from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 respectively.

Our allowance for doubtful accounts was 31.6% and 28.5% of our outstanding Medicaid and private patient accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

(3)

Our calculation of days revenue outstanding, net is derived by dividing our ending net patient accounts receivable (i.e., net of estimated revenue adjustments and allowance for doubtful accounts ) at December 31, 2014 and 2013 by our average daily net patient revenue for the three-month periods ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Indebtedness

Credit Agreement

On July 28, 2014, we entered into the fourth amendment to our Credit Agreement which amends our existing Credit Agreement dated as of October 26, 2012, to add certain covenants, representations and other provisions in the Credit Agreement to, among other things, allow for our entry into the Second Lien Credit Agreement and gain operational flexibility in terms of financial covenants and uses of capital. The original credit agreement provided for senior unsecured facilities in an initial aggregate principal amount of up to $225 million (the “Credit Facilities”). The Credit Facilities are comprised of (a) a term loan facility in an initial aggregate principal amount

 

47


Table of Contents

of $60 million (the “Term Loan”); and (b) a revolving credit facility in an initial aggregate principal amount of up to $165 million (the “Revolving Credit Facility), that was downsized to $120 million upon entering into the fourth amendment.

The Term Loan began amortizing December 31, 2012, in 20 equal quarterly installments of $3.0 million (subject to adjustment for prepayments), with the remaining balance due upon maturity. The final maturity of the Term Loan and the Revolving Credit Facility is October 26, 2017.

The interest rate in connection with the Credit Facilities as amended on July 28, 2014, shall be selected from the following by us: (i) the ABR Rate plus the Applicable Margin (the “Base Rate Advance”) or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate plus the Applicable Margin (the “Eurodollar Rate Advance”). The ABR Rate means the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% per annum and (c) the Eurodollar Rate for an interest period of one month plus 1% per annum. The “Eurodollar Rate” means the rate at which Eurodollar deposits in the London interbank market for an interest period of one, two, three or six months (as selected by us) are quoted. The “Applicable Margin” is based on the total leverage ratio and is presented in the table below. As of December 31, 2014, the Applicable Margin is 1.75% per annum for Base Rate Advances and 2.75% per annum for Eurodollar rate advances. We are also subject to a commitment fee under the terms of the Credit Facilities, as presented in the table below.

 

Total Leverage Ratio

   Margin for
ABR Loans
    Margin for
Eurodollar Loans
    Commitment
Fee
 

2.50

     2.25     3.25     0.50

< 2.50 and 2.00

     2.00     3.00     0.50

< 2.00 and 1.50

     1.75     2.75     0.50

< 1.50

     1.50     2.50     0.45

Our weighted average interest rate for our five year $60.0 million Term Loan, under our existing senior secured Credit Agreement was 3.4% for 2014 and 2.8% for 2013. Our weighted average interest rate for our $120.0 million Revolving Credit Facility, as amended by the fourth amendment to our Credit Agreement, was 3.4% for 2014.

Our existing senior secured Credit Agreement, as amended on July 28, 2014, as well as the Second Lien Credit Agreement requires us to meet three financial covenants including limiting total leverage and senior secured leverage and requiring minimum coverage of fixed charges. Total leverage is a ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) and senior secured leverage is a ratio of total senior secured debt to EBITDA. The final covenant is a fixed charge coverage ratio of adjusted EBITDA plus rent expense (“EBITDAR”) (less capital expenditures less cash taxes) to scheduled debt repayments plus interest expense plus rent expense. These thresholds vary over the term of the credit facility. As of December 31, 2014, our total leverage ratio was 1.5, our senior secured leverage ratio was 0.7 and our fixed charge coverage ratio was 2.3 and we are in compliance with the existing senior secured Credit Agreement. In the event we are not in compliance with our debt covenants in the future, we would pursue various alternatives in an attempt to successfully resolve the non-compliance, which might include, among other things, seeking debt covenant waivers or amendments.

Pursuant to the Security Agreement, as of the effective date of the Fourth Amendment, the Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of our and our wholly-owned subsidiaries’ non-real estate assets (subject to exceptions for certain immaterial subsidiaries), including all of the stock of our wholly-owned subsidiaries that are corporations, equity interests in our wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not corporations, our equity interests in our joint ventures and our investments. If an event of default occurs under the Credit Agreement, the Agent may, upon the request of a specified percentage of the Lenders, exercise remedies with respect to the collateral, including, in some instances, taking possession of or selling personal property assets, collecting accounts receivables, or exercising proxies to take control of the pledged stock and other equity interests.

 

48


Table of Contents

As of December 31, 2014, our availability under our $120.0 million Revolving Credit Facility as amended by the fourth amendment to our existing senior secured Credit Agreement, was $85.7 million as we had $19.3 million outstanding in letters of credit.

Second Lien Credit Agreement

On July 28, 2014, we entered into a Second Lien Credit Agreement (“Second Lien Agreement”) providing for a term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $70.0 million. The Agreement is among Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as Co-Borrower, Amedisys, Inc., as Lead Borrower, the several banks and other financial institutions or entities from time to time parties thereto as lenders (the “Second Lien Lenders”) and Cortland Capital Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent for the Second Lien Lenders (the “Second Lien Agent”). Various wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”) guaranteed our obligations under the Second Lien Agreement. In connection therewith, we, Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and the Guarantors also entered into a Second Lien Security Agreement dated as of July 28, 2014 (the “Second Lien Security Agreement”) with the Second Lien Agent for the purpose of securing the payment of our obligations under the Second Lien Agreement.

The proceeds of the Second Lien Agreement of $68.3 million were used to pay off a portion of the revolving credit balances under our existing senior secured Credit Agreement dated as of October 26, 2012 and related costs. The final maturity date of the term loan under the Second Lien Agreement is July 28, 2020. There is no amortization associated with the Second Lien Agreement, with the full $70.0 million due at final maturity. A prepayment penalty in the amount of 2.0% of the prepaid principal is required if the payment is made on or prior to the first anniversary of the agreement date. A prepayment penalty in the amount of 1.0% of the prepaid principal is required if the payment is made on or prior to the second year anniversary of the agreement date. There is no prepayment penalty during the remaining life of the loan.

The interest rate in connection with the Second Lien Agreement shall be selected from the following by us: (i) the ABR Rate plus 6.50% or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate plus 7.50%. The “ABR Rate” means the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% per annum, (c) the Eurodollar Rate for an interest period of one month plus 1% per annum, or (d) 2%. The “Eurodollar Rate” is based upon the rate at which Eurodollar deposits in the London interbank market for an interest period of one, two, three or six months (as selected by us) are quoted with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%.

Our weighted average interest rate for our Second Lien Loan under the Second Lien Credit Agreement was 8.5% for 2014.

Contractual Obligations and Medicare Liabilities

Our future contractual obligations and Medicare liabilities at December 31, 2014 were as follows (amounts in millions):

 

     Payments Due by Period  
     Total      Less than
1 Year
     1-3
Years
     4-5
Years
     After
5 Years
 

Long-term obligations

   $ 118.0      $ 12.0      $ 36.0      $ —        $ 70.0  

Interest on long-term obligations (1)

     36.4        7.3        13.3        11.9        3.9  

Operating leases (2)

     50.4        20.4        23.2        6.5        0.3  

Capital commitments

     5.7        5.7        —          —          —    

Purchase obligations

     12.1        5.3        5.8        1.0        —    

Medicare liabilities

     1.1        1.1        —          —          —    

Uncertain tax positions

     4.0        4.0        —          —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 227.7      $ 55.8      $ 78.3      $ 19.4      $ 74.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

49


Table of Contents

 

(1)

Interest on debt with variable rates was calculated using the current rate of that particular debt instrument at December 31, 2014.

(2)

Operating lease obligations for our discontinued operation locations amounted to $0.3 million at December 31, 2014.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to revenue recognition, collectability of accounts receivable, reserves related to insurance and litigation, goodwill, intangible assets, income taxes and contingencies. We base these estimates on our historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results experienced may vary materially and adversely from our estimates. To the extent there are material differences between our estimates and the actual results, our future results of operations may be affected.

We believe the following critical accounting policies represent our most significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

We earn net service revenue through our home health and hospice care centers by providing a variety of services almost exclusively in the homes of our patients. This net service revenue is earned and billed either on an episode of care basis, on a per visit basis or on a daily basis depending upon the payment terms and conditions established with each payor for services provided. We refer to home health revenue earned and billed on a 60-day episode of care as episodic-based revenue.

When we record our service revenue, we record it net of estimated revenue adjustments and contractual adjustments to reflect amounts we estimate to be realizable for services provided, as discussed below. We believe, based on information currently available to us and based on our judgment, that changes to one or more factors that impact the accounting estimates (such as our estimates related to revenue adjustments, contractual adjustments and episodes in progress) we make in determining net service revenue, which changes are likely to occur from period to period, will not materially impact our reported consolidated financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our future financial results.

Home Health Revenue Recognition

Medicare Revenue

Net service revenue is recorded under the Medicare prospective payment system (“PPS”) based on a 60-day episode payment rate that is subject to adjustment based on certain variables. We make adjustments to Medicare revenue on completed episodes to reflect differences between estimated and actual payment amounts, and our discovered inability to obtain appropriate billing documentation or authorizations and other reasons unrelated to credit risk. We estimate the impact of such adjustments based on our historical experience, which primarily includes a historical collection rate of over 99% on Medicare claims, and record this estimate during the period in which services are rendered as an estimated revenue adjustment and a corresponding reduction to patient accounts receivable. In addition, management evaluates the potential for revenue adjustments and, when appropriate, provides allowances based upon the best available information.

 

50


Table of Contents

In addition to revenue recognized on completed episodes, we also recognize a portion of revenue associated with episodes in progress. Episodes in progress are 60-day episodes of care that begin during the reporting period, but were not completed as of the end of the period. We estimate this revenue on a monthly basis based upon historical trends. The primary factors underlying this estimate are the number of episodes in progress at the end of the reporting period, expected Medicare revenue per episode and our estimate of the average percentage complete based on visits performed.

Non-Medicare Revenue

Episodic-based Revenue. We recognize revenue in a similar manner as we recognize Medicare revenue for episodic-based rates that are paid by other insurance carriers, including Medicare Advantage programs; however, these rates can vary based upon the negotiated terms.

Non-episodic Based Revenue. Gross revenue is recorded on an accrual basis based upon the date of service at amounts equal to our established or estimated per-visit rates, as applicable. Contractual adjustments are recorded for the difference between our standard rates and the contracted rates to be realized from patients, third parties and others for services provided and are deducted from gross revenue to determine net service revenue and are also recorded as a reduction to our outstanding patient accounts receivable.

Hospice Revenue Recognition

Hospice Medicare Revenue

Gross revenue is recorded on an accrual basis based upon the date of service at amounts equal to the estimated payment rates. The estimated payment rates are daily or hourly rates for each of the four levels of care we deliver. We make adjustments to Medicare revenue for our discovered inability to obtain appropriate billing documentation or authorizations and other reasons unrelated to credit risk. We estimate the impact of these adjustments based on our historical experience, which primarily includes our historical collection rate on Medicare claims, and record it during the period services are rendered as an estimated revenue adjustment and as a reduction to our outstanding patient accounts receivable.

Additionally, as Medicare hospice revenue is subject to an inpatient cap limit and an overall payment cap for each provider number, we monitor these caps and estimate amounts due back to Medicare if a cap has been exceeded. We record these adjustments as a reduction to revenue and an increase in other accrued liabilities. We have settled our Medicare hospice reimbursements for all fiscal years through October 31, 2012 as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, we have recorded $2.8 million for estimated amounts due back to Medicare in other accrued liabilities for the Federal cap years ended October 31, 2013 through October 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2013, we had recorded $4.0 million for estimated amounts due back to Medicare in other accrued liabilities for the Federal cap years ended October 31, 2012 through October 31, 2014.

Hospice Non-Medicare Revenue

We record gross revenue on an accrual basis based upon the date of service at amounts equal to our established rates or estimated per visit rates, as applicable. Contractual adjustments are recorded for the difference between our established rates and the amounts estimated to be realizable from patients, third parties and others for services provided and are deducted from gross revenue to determine our net service revenue and patient accounts receivable.

Patient Accounts Receivable – Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Our patient accounts receivable are uncollateralized and consist of amounts due from Medicare, Medicaid, other third-party payors and patients. We fully reserve for accounts which are aged at 365 days or greater. We write off accounts on a monthly basis once we have exhausted our collection efforts and deem an account to be

 

51


Table of Contents

uncollectible. We do not record an allowance for doubtful accounts for our Medicare patient accounts receivable, which are recorded at their net realizable value after recording estimated revenue adjustments as discussed above.

We believe there is a certain level of credit risk associated with non-Medicare payors. To provide for our non-Medicare patient accounts receivable that could become uncollectible in the future, we establish an allowance for doubtful accounts to reduce the carrying amount to its estimated net realizable value. We estimate an allowance for doubtful accounts based upon our assessment of historical and expected net collections, business and economic conditions, trends in payment and an evaluation of collectability based upon the date that the service was provided. Based upon our best judgment, we believe the allowance for doubtful accounts adequately provides for accounts that will not be collected due to credit risk.

Insurance

We are obligated for certain costs associated with our insurance programs, including employee health, workers’ compensation and professional liability. While we maintain various insurance programs to cover these risks, we are self-insured for a substantial portion of our potential claims. We recognize our obligations associated with these costs in the period in which a claim is incurred, including with respect to both reported claims and claims incurred but not reported, up to specified deductible limits. These costs have generally been estimated based on historical data of our claims experience. Such estimates, and the resulting reserves, are reviewed and updated by us on a quarterly basis.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the amount of the purchase price in excess of the fair values assigned to the underlying identifiable net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to an annual impairment test. Tests are performed more frequently if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. These events or circumstances include but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in the business environment; regulatory environment or legal factors; or a substantial decline in market capitalization of our stock. To determine whether goodwill is impaired, we perform a two-step impairment test. In the first step of the test, the fair values of the reporting units are compared to their aggregate carrying values, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we would proceed to step two of the test. In step two of the test, the implied fair value of the goodwill of the reporting unit is determined by a hypothetical allocation of the fair value calculated in step one to all of the assets and liabilities of that reporting unit (including any recognized and unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value was reflective of the price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The implied fair value of goodwill is the excess, if any, of the calculated fair value after hypothetical allocation to the reporting unit’s assets and liabilities. If the implied fair value of the goodwill is greater than the carrying amount of the goodwill at the analysis date, goodwill is not impaired and the analysis is complete. If the implied fair value of the goodwill is less than the carrying value of goodwill at the analysis date, goodwill is deemed impaired by the amount of that variance.

We calculate the estimated fair value of our reporting units using discounted cash flows as well as a market approach that compares our reporting units’ earnings and revenue multiples to those of comparable public companies. To determine fair value we must make assumptions about a wide variety of internal and external factors. Significant assumptions used in the impairment analysis include financial projections of free cash flow (including significant assumptions about operations, in particular expected organic growth rates, future Medicare reimbursement rates, capital requirements and income taxes), long-term growth rates for determining terminal value, and discount rates. Our estimates of discounted cash flows may differ from actual cash flows due to, among other things, economic conditions, changes to our business model or changes in operating performance. These factors increase the risk of differences between projected and actual performance that could impact future

 

52


Table of Contents

estimates of fair value of all reporting units. Significant differences between these estimates and actual cash flows could result in additional impairment in future periods.

Each of our operating segments described in the notes to our financial statements is considered to represent an individual reporting unit for goodwill impairment testing purposes. We consider each of our home health care centers to constitute an individual business for which discrete financial information is available. However, since these care centers have substantially similar operating and economic characteristics and resource allocation and significant investment decisions concerning these businesses are centralized and the benefits broadly distributed, we have aggregated these care centers and deemed them to constitute a single reporting unit. We have applied this same aggregation principle to our hospice care centers and have also deemed them to be a single reporting unit.

During 2014, we did not record any goodwill impairment charges and none of the goodwill associated with our various reporting units were considered at risk of impairment as of October 31, 2014. Since the date of our last annual goodwill impairment test, there have been no material developments, events, changes in operating performance or other circumstances that would cause management to believe it is more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units would be less than its carrying amount.

Intangible assets consist of Certificates of Need, licenses, acquired names, non-compete agreements and reacquired franchise rights. We amortize non-compete agreements, acquired names that we do not intend to use in the future and reacquired franchise rights on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, which is generally three years for non-compete agreements and up to five years for reacquired franchise rights and acquired names. During step one of our annual goodwill impairment test, we determined that the fair value of certain intangible assets was less than the carrying value and as a result recognized a non-cash other intangibles impairment charge of $0.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2014. These impairments did not have any impact on our compliance with our debt covenants or on our cash flows.

Income Taxes

We use the asset and liability approach for measuring deferred tax assets and liabilities based on temporary differences existing at each balance sheet date using currently enacted tax rates. Our deferred tax calculation requires us to make certain estimates about future operations. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when we believe it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The effect of a change in tax rate is recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013 our deferred tax assets were $122.4 and $145.5 million, respectively.

Management regularly assesses the ability to realize deferred tax assets recorded in the Company’s entities based upon the weight of available evidence, including such factors as the recent earnings history and expected future taxable income. In the event future taxable income is below management’s estimates or is generated in tax jurisdictions different than projected, we could be required to increase the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. This would result in an increase in our effective tax rate.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk from fluctuations in interest rates. Our Revolving Credit Facility, Term Loan and Second Lien Loan carry a floating interest rate which is tied to the Eurodollar rate ( i.e. LIBOR) and the Prime Rate and therefore, our consolidated statements of operations and our consolidated statements of cash flows will be exposed to changes in interest rates. As of December 31, 2014, the total amount of outstanding debt subject to interest rate fluctuations was $118.0 million. A 1.0% interest rate change would cause interest expense to change by approximately $1.2 million annually.

I TEM  8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

53


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Amedisys, Inc.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Amedisys, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Amedisys, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Amedisys Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992)  issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 4, 2015, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP        

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

March 4, 2015

 

54


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Amounts in thousands, except share data)

 

     As of December 31,  
     2014     2013  
ASSETS     

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 8,032     $ 17,303  

Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $14,317, and $14,231

     99,325       111,133  

Prepaid expenses

     8,493       10,669  

Deferred income taxes

     —         55,329  

Other current assets

     19,708       10,785  

Assets held for sale

     —         60  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

     135,558       205,279  

Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $146,438 and $129,891

     137,455       159,025  

Goodwill

     205,587       208,915  

Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $25,374 and $25,133

     33,193       36,690  

Deferred income taxes

     124,788       90,214  

Other assets, net

     33,161       26,283  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 669,742     $ 726,406  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY     

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 16,056     $ 20,139  

Accrued charge related to U.S. Department of Justice settlement

     —         150,000  

Payroll and employee benefits

     75,553       70,801  

Accrued expenses

     56,329       57,572  

Current portion of long-term obligations

     12,000       13,904  

Current portion of deferred income taxes

     2,385       —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     162,323       312,416  

Long-term obligations, less current portion

     104,372       33,000  

Other long-term obligations

     5,285       8,511  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     271,980       353,927  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies – Note 9

    

Equity:

    

Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding

     —         —    

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 60,000,000 shares authorized; 34,569,526, and 33,413,970 shares issued; and 33,594,572 and 32,538,971 shares outstanding

     35       33  

Additional paid-in capital

     481,762       467,890  

Treasury stock at cost 974,954, and 874,999 shares of common stock

     (19,860     (18,176

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     15       15  

Retained earnings

     (64,785     (77,561
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Amedisys, Inc. stockholders’ equity

     397,167       372,201  

Noncontrolling interests

     595       278  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity

     397,762       372,479  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

   $ 669,742     $ 726,406  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

55


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2014     2013     2012  

Net service revenue

   $ 1,204,554     $ 1,249,344     $ 1,440,836  

Cost of service, excluding depreciation and amortization

     691,061       717,996       810,704  

General and administrative expenses:

      

Salaries and benefits

     292,497       302,564       327,111  

Non-cash compensation

     5,597       6,519       7,217  

Other

     143,644       164,991       182,345  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     16,294       15,882       21,011  

Depreciation and amortization

     28,307       36,871       39,200  

U.S. Department of Justice settlement

     —         150,000       —    

Goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge

     3,107       9,492       162,103  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating expenses

     1,180,507       1,404,315       1,549,691  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

     24,047       (154,971     (108,855

Other income (expense):

      

Interest income

     94       54       65  

Interest expense

     (8,217     (4,412     (12,116

Equity in earnings from equity investments

     2,991       1,520       1,695  

Miscellaneous, net

     2,061       4,334       3,934  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other income (expense), net

     (3,071     1,496       (6,422
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     20,976       (153,475     (115,277

Income tax (expense) benefit

     (7,671     58,773       20,020  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     13,305       (94,702     (95,257

Discontinued operations, net of tax

     (216     (3,073     (3,326
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

     13,089       (97,775     (98,583

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (313     1,597       14,995  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Amedisys, Inc.

   $ 12,776     $ (96,178   $ (83,588
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Basic earnings per common share:

      

Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders

   $ 0.40     $ (2.98   $ (2.68

Discontinued operations, net of tax

     (0.01     (0.10     (0.11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders

   $ 0.39     $ (3.08   $ (2.79
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding

     32,301       31,247       29,896  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted earnings per common share:

      

Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders

   $ 0.40     $ (2.98   $ (2.68

Discontinued operations, net of tax

     (0.01     (0.10     (0.11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders

   $ 0.39     $ (3.08   $ (2.79
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding

     32,823       31,247       29,896  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Amounts attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders:

      

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 12,992     $ (93,105   $ (80,262

Discontinued operations, net of tax

     (216     (3,073     (3,326
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

   $ 12,776     $ (96,178   $ (83,588
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

56


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Amounts in thousands)

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2014     2013     2012  

Net income (loss)

   $ 13,089     $ (97,775   $ (98,583

Other comprehensive income (loss)

      

Unrealized gain (loss) on deferred compensation plan assets

     —         —         2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

     13,089       (97,775     (98,581

Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests

     (313     1,597       14,995  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Amedisys, Inc.

   $ 12,776     $ (96,178   $ (83,586
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

57


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Amounts in thousands, except common stock shares)

 

    Total     Common Stock     Additional
Paid-in

Capital
    Treasury
Stock
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive

Loss (Income)
    Retained
Earnings
    Noncontrolling
Interests
 
      Shares     Amount            

Balance, December 31, 2011

  $ 520,148       30,328,549       30       432,390       (15,770     13       102,205       1,280  

Issuance of stock – employee stock purchase plan

    3,913       360,114       —         3,913       —         —         —         —    

Issuance of stock – 401(k) plan

    9,324       729,915       1       9,323       —         —         —         —    

Exercise of stock options

    156       22,119       —         156       —         —         —         —    

Issuance of non-vested stock

    —         435,811       1       (1     —         —         —         —    

Non-cash compensation

    7,217       —         —         7,217       —         —         —         —    

Tax deficit from stock options cancelled or exercised, restricted stock vesting and employee stock purchase plan

    (3,045     —         —         (3,045     —         —         —         —    

Surrendered shares

    (1,346     —         —         —         (1,346     —         —         —    

Acquired noncontrolling interests

    15,931       —         —         —         —         —         —         15,931  

Noncontrolling interest distribution

    (323     —         —         —         —         —         —         (323

Assets contributed to equity investment

    839       —         —         839       —         —         —         —    

Net loss

    (98,583     —         —         —         —         —         (83,588     (14,995

Unrealized gain on deferred compensation plan assets

    2       —         —         —         —         2       —         —    
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2012

    454,233       31,876,508       32       450,792       (17,116     15       18,617       1,893  

Issuance of stock – employee stock purchase plan

    3,181       303,989       —         3,181       —         —         —         —    

Issuance of stock – 401(k) plan

    8,581       702,391       1       8,580       —         —         —         —    

Exercise of stock options

    261       37,558       —         261       —         —         —         —    

Issuance of non-vested stock

    —         493,524       —         —         —         —         —         —    

Non-cash compensation

    6,519       —         —         6,519       —         —         —         —    

Tax deficit from stock options cancelled or exercised, restricted stock vesting and employee stock purchase plan

    (2,152     —         —         (2,152     —         —         —         —    

Surrendered shares

    (1,060     —         —         —         (1,060     —         —         —    

Acquired noncontrolling interests

    145       —         —         —         —         —         —         145  

Noncontrolling interest distribution

    (163     —         —         —         —         —         —         (163

Assets contributed to equity investment

    709       —         —         709       —         —         —         —    

Net loss

    (97,775     —         —         —         —         —         (96,178     (1,597
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2013

    372,479       33,413,970       33       467,890       (18,176     15       (77,561     278  

Issuance of stock – employee stock purchase plan

    2,433       176,796       —         2,433       —         —         —         —    

Issuance of stock – 401(k) plan

    7,062       430,919       1       7,061       —         —         —         —    

Exercise of stock options

    564       28,229       —         564       —         —         —         —    

Issuance of non-vested stock

    —         519,612       1       (1     —         —         —         —    

Non-cash compensation

    5,597       —         —         5,597       —         —         —         —    

Tax deficit from stock options cancelled or exercised, restricted stock vesting and employee stock purchase plan

    (579     —         —         (579     —         —         —         —    

Surrendered shares

    (1,684     —         —         —         (1,684     —         —         —    

Sale of noncontrolling interest

    (1,549     —         —         (493     —         —         —         (1,056

Decrease in noncontrolling interest

    350       —         —         (710     —         —         —         1,060  

Net income

    13,089       —         —         —         —         —         12,776       313  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2014

  $ 397,762       34,569,526     $ 35     $ 481,762     $ (19,860   $ 15     $ (64,785   $ 595  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

58


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Amounts in thousands)

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
             2014                     2013                     2012          

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

      

Net income (loss)

   $ 13,089     $ (97,775   $ (98,583

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

      

Depreciation and amortization

     28,347       37,383       40,059  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     16,369       16,461       21,728  

Non-cash compensation

     5,597       6,519       7,217  

401(k) employer match

     6,216       7,998       10,013  

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

     4,592       2,742       1,471  

Gain on sale of care centers

     (2,967     (1,752     —    

Deferred income taxes

     22,561       (57,095     (31,161

Write off of deferred debt issuance costs

     488       121       573  

Equity in earnings of equity investments

     (2,991     (1,520     (1,695

Amortization of deferred debt issuance costs

     797       699       1,442  

Return on equity investment

     2,025       1,650       1,575  

Goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge

     3,107       9,492       162,103  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of impact of acquisitions:

      

Patient accounts receivable

     (5,290     41,578       (42,840

Other current assets

     (6,269     (501     10,622  

Other assets

     1,694       (1,596     (927

Accounts payable

     (3,168     (9,876     8,072  

U.S. Department of Justice settlement

     (150,000     150,000       —    

Accrued expenses

     3,495       (6,104     (19,994

Other long-term obligations

     (3,226     3,839       (181
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

     (65,534     102,263       69,494  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

      

Proceeds from sale of deferred compensation plan assets

     11       128       312  

Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment

     3       1,809       631  

Purchases of deferred compensation plan assets

     (132     (111     (175

Purchases of property and equipment

     (12,008     (41,736     (48,262

Purchases of investments

     (6,407     (10,067     —    

Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired

     —         (1,627     (12,499

Proceeds from disposition of care centers

     4,233       5,146       —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash (used in) investing activities

     (14,300     (46,458     (59,993
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

      

Proceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options and warrants

     564       261       156  

Proceeds from issuance of stock to employee stock purchase plan

     2,433       3,181       3,913  

Tax benefit from stock option exercises

     —         57       —    

Non-controlling interest distribution

     —         (163     (323

Proceeds from revolving line of credit

     241,800       25,500       —    

Repayments of revolving line of credit

     (226,800     (25,500     —    

Proceeds from issuance of long-term obligations

     68,250       —         60,000  

Debt issuance costs

     (1,780     (576     (2,265

Principal payments of long-term obligations

     (13,904     (55,807     (104,441
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     70,563       (53,047     (42,960
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (9,271     2,758       (33,459

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     17,303       14,545       48,004  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 8,032     $ 17,303     $ 14,545  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:

      

Cash paid for interest

   $ 7,602     $ 3,990     $ 7,779  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received

   $ (1,766   $ 3,385     $ 2,945  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental Disclosures of Non-Cash Financing and Investing Activities:

      

Notes payable issued for software licenses

     —         —         2,214  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Sale) acquisition of non-controlling interests

   $ (1,549   $ 145     $ 15,931  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

59


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

December 31, 2014

1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS, CONSOLIDATION AND PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Amedisys, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries (“Amedisys,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) are a multi-state provider of home health and hospice services with approximately 82%, 84% and 82% of our revenue derived from Medicare for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, we owned and operated 316 Medicare-certified home health care centers and 80 Medicare-certified hospice care centers in 34 states within the United States, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Use of Estimates

Our accounting and reporting policies conform with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”). In preparing the consolidated financial statements, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that impact the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates.

Reclassifications and Comparability

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior periods’ financial statements in order to conform to the current period’s presentation. Our exit activity during the last three years may affect the comparability of our operating results. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, the results of operations for the care centers closed, sold or classified as held for sale during 2012 and 2013 are presented in discontinued operations in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 3 – Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale for additional information regarding our discontinued operations.

Principles of Consolidation

These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Amedisys, Inc., and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in our accompanying consolidated financial statements, and business combinations accounted for as purchases have been included in our consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of acquisition. In addition to our wholly owned subsidiaries, we also have certain equity investments that are accounted for as set forth below.

Equity Investments

We consolidate investments when the entity is a variable interest entity and we are the primary beneficiary or if we have controlling interests in the entity, which is generally ownership in excess of 50%. During 2013, we recorded a $1.3 million goodwill impairment charge related to an investment we currently consolidate. Third party equity interests in our consolidated joint ventures are reflected as noncontrolling interests in our consolidated financial statements.

We account for investments in entities in which we have the ability to exercise significant influence under the equity method if we hold 50% or less of the voting stock and the entity is not a variable interest entity in which we are the primary beneficiary. The book value of investments that we accounted for under the equity method of accounting was $18.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and $11.9 million as of December 31, 2013. We account for investments in entities in which we have less than a 20% ownership interest under the cost method of accounting if we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the investee. The aggregate carrying amount of our cost method investment was $5.0 million as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

60


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Revenue Recognition

We earn net service revenue through our home health and hospice care centers by providing a variety of services almost exclusively in the homes of our patients. This net service revenue is earned and billed either on an episode of care basis, on a per visit basis or on a daily basis depending upon the payment terms and conditions established with each payor for services provided. We refer to home health revenue earned and billed on a 60-day episode of care as episodic-based revenue.

When we record our service revenue, we record it net of estimated revenue adjustments and contractual adjustments to reflect amounts we estimate to be realizable for services provided, as discussed below. We believe, based on information currently available to us and based on our judgment, that changes to one or more factors that impact the accounting estimates (such as our estimates related to revenue adjustments, contractual adjustments and episodes in progress) we make in determining net service revenue, which changes are likely to occur from period to period, will not materially impact our reported consolidated financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or our future financial results.

Home Health Revenue Recognition

Medicare Revenue

Net service revenue is recorded under the Medicare prospective payment system (“PPS”) based on a 60-day episode payment rate that is subject to adjustment based on certain variables including, but not limited to: (a) an outlier payment if our patient’s care was unusually costly (capped at 10% of total reimbursement per provider number); (b) a low utilization payment adjustment (“LUPA”) if the number of visits was fewer than five; (c) a partial payment if our patient transferred to another provider or we received a patient from another provider before completing the episode; (d) a payment adjustment based upon the level of therapy services required (with various incremental adjustments made for additional visits, with larger payment increases associated with the sixth, fourteenth and twentieth visit thresholds); (e) adjustments to payments if we are unable to perform periodic therapy assessments; (f) the number of episodes of care provided to a patient, regardless of whether the same home health provider provided care for the entire series of episodes; (g) changes in the base episode payments established by the Medicare Program; (h) adjustments to the base episode payments for case mix and geographic wages; and (i) recoveries of overpayments. In addition, we make adjustments to Medicare revenue if we find that we are unable to produce appropriate documentation of a face to face encounter between the patient and physician.

We make adjustments to Medicare revenue reflect differences between estimated and actual payment amounts, our discovered inability to obtain appropriate billing documentation or authorizations and other reasons unrelated to credit risk. We estimate the impact of such adjustments based on our historical experience, which primarily includes a historical collection rate of over 99% on Medicare claims, and record this estimate during the period in which services are rendered as an estimated revenue adjustment and a corresponding reduction to patient accounts receivable. Therefore, we believe that our reported net service revenue and patient accounts receivable will be the net amounts to be realized from Medicare for services rendered.

In addition to revenue recognized on completed episodes, we also recognize a portion of revenue associated with episodes in progress. Episodes in progress are 60-day episodes of care that begin during the reporting period, but were not completed as of the end of the period. We estimate this revenue on a monthly basis based upon historical trends. The primary factors underlying this estimate are the number of episodes in progress at the end

 

61


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

of the reporting period, expected Medicare revenue per episode and our estimate of the average percentage complete based on visits performed. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the difference between the cash received from Medicare for a request for anticipated payment (“RAP”) on episodes in progress and the associated estimated revenue was immaterial and, therefore, the resulting credits were recorded as a reduction to our outstanding patient accounts receivable in our consolidated balance sheets for such periods.

Non-Medicare Revenue

Episodic-based Revenue. We recognize revenue in a similar manner as we recognize Medicare revenue for episodic-based rates that are paid by other insurance carriers, including Medicare Advantage programs; however, these rates can vary based upon the negotiated terms.

Non-episodic based Revenue. Gross revenue is recorded on an accrual basis based upon the date of service at amounts equal to our established or estimated per-visit rates, as applicable. Contractual adjustments are recorded for the difference between our standard rates and the contracted rates to be realized from patients, third parties and others for services provided and are deducted from gross revenue to determine net service revenue and are also recorded as a reduction to our outstanding patient accounts receivable. In addition, we receive a minimal amount of our net service revenue from patients who are either self-insured or are obligated for an insurance co-payment.

Hospice Revenue Recognition

Hospice Medicare Revenue

Gross revenue is recorded on an accrual basis based upon the date of service at amounts equal to the estimated payment rates. The estimated payment rates are daily or hourly rates for each of the four levels of care we deliver. The four levels of care are routine care, general inpatient care, continuous home care and respite care. Routine care accounts for 98%, 99%, and 99% of our total net Medicare hospice service revenue for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We make adjustments to Medicare revenue for an inability to obtain appropriate billing documentation or acceptable authorizations and other reasons unrelated to credit risk. We estimate the impact of these adjustments based on our historical experience, which primarily includes our historical collection rate on Medicare claims, and record it during the period services are rendered as an estimated revenue adjustment and as a reduction to our outstanding patient accounts receivable.

Additionally, as Medicare hospice revenue is subject to an inpatient cap limit and an overall payment cap for each provider number, we monitor these caps and estimate amounts due back to Medicare if a cap has been exceeded. We record these adjustments as a reduction to revenue and an increase in other accrued liabilities. We have settled our Medicare hospice reimbursements for all fiscal years through October 31, 2012 as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, we have recorded $2.8 million for estimated amounts due back to Medicare in other accrued liabilities for the Federal cap years ended October 31, 2013 through October 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2013, we had recorded $4.0 million for estimated amounts due back to Medicare in other accrued liabilities for the Federal cap years ended October 31, 2012 through October 31, 2014.

Hospice Non-Medicare Revenue

We record gross revenue on an accrual basis based upon the date of service at amounts equal to our established rates or estimated per day rates, as applicable. Contractual adjustments are recorded for the difference between our established rates and the amounts estimated to be realizable from patients, third parties and others for services provided and are deducted from gross revenue to determine our net service revenue and patient accounts receivable.

 

62


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include certificates of deposit and all highly liquid debt instruments with maturities of three months or less when purchased.

Patient Accounts Receivable

Our patient accounts receivable are uncollateralized and consist of amounts due from Medicare, Medicaid, other third-party payors and patients. There is no single payor, other than Medicare, that accounts for more than 10% of our total outstanding patient receivables, and thus we believe there are no other significant concentrations of receivables that would subject us to any significant credit risk in the collection of our patient accounts receivable. We fully reserve for accounts which are aged at 365 days or greater. We write off accounts on a monthly basis once we have exhausted our collection efforts and deem an account to be uncollectible.

We believe the credit risk associated with our Medicare accounts, which represent 69% and 67% of our net patient accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, is limited due to our historical collection rate of over 99% from Medicare and the fact that Medicare is a U.S. government payor. Accordingly, we do not record an allowance for doubtful accounts for our Medicare patient accounts receivable, which are recorded at their net realizable value after recording estimated revenue adjustments as discussed above. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded $5.1 million, $9.0 million and $9.9 million, respectively, in estimated revenue adjustments to Medicare revenue.

We believe there is a certain level of credit risk associated with non-Medicare payors. To provide for our non-Medicare patient accounts receivable that could become uncollectible in the future, we establish an allowance for doubtful accounts to reduce the carrying amount to its estimated net realizable value.

Medicare Home Health

For our home health patients, our pre-billing process includes verifying that we are eligible for payment from Medicare for the services that we provide to our patients. Our Medicare billing begins with a process to ensure that our billings are accurate through the utilization of an electronic Medicare claim review. We submit a RAP for 60% of our estimated payment for the initial episode at the start of care or 50% of the estimated payment for any subsequent episodes of care contiguous with the first episode for a particular patient. The full amount of the episode is billed after the episode has been completed (“final billed”). The RAP received for that particular episode is then deducted from our final payment. If a final bill is not submitted within the greater of 120 days from the start of the episode, or 60 days from the date the RAP was paid, any RAPs received for that episode will be recouped by Medicare from any other claims in process for that particular provider number. The RAP and final claim must then be re-submitted.

Medicare Hospice

For our hospice patients, our pre-billing process includes verifying that we are eligible for payment from Medicare for the services that we provide to our patients. Our Medicare billing begins with a process to ensure that our billings are accurate through the utilization of an electronic Medicare claim review. Once each patient has been confirmed for eligibility, we will bill Medicare on a monthly basis for the services provided to the patient.

 

63


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Non-Medicare Home Health and Hospice

For our non-Medicare patients, our pre-billing process primarily begins with verifying a patient’s eligibility for services with the applicable payor. Once the patient has been confirmed for eligibility, we will provide services to the patient and bill the applicable payor. Our review and evaluation of non-Medicare accounts receivable includes a detailed review of outstanding balances and special consideration to concentrations of receivables from particular payors or groups of payors with similar characteristics that would subject us to any significant credit risk. We estimate an allowance for doubtful accounts based upon our assessment of historical and expected net collections, business and economic conditions, trends in payment and an evaluation of collectability based upon the date that the service was provided. Based upon our best judgment, we believe the allowance for doubtful accounts adequately provides for accounts that will not be collected due to credit risk.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost and we depreciate it on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Additionally, we have internally developed computer software for our own use; such software development costs are capitalized. We currently have $74.7 million of internally developed software costs related to the development of AMS3 Home Health which will be amortized over a period of 15 years. Additionally, we currently have $1.1 million of internally developed software costs related to the development of AMS3 Hospice which will be amortized over a period of 15 years once placed in service. Additions and improvements (including interest costs for construction of qualifying long-lived assets) are capitalized. Maintenance and repair expenses are charged to expense as incurred. The cost of property and equipment sold or disposed of and the related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the property and related accumulated depreciation accounts, and any gain or loss is credited or charged to other income (expense).

We consider our reporting units to represent asset groups for purposes of testing long-lived assets for impairment. We assess the impairment of a long-lived asset group whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset’s carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors we consider important that could trigger an impairment review include but are not limited to the following:

 

   

A significant change in the extent or manner in which the long-lived asset group is being used.

 

   

A significant change in the business climate that could affect the value of the long-lived asset group.

 

   

A significant change in the market value of the assets included in the asset group.

If we determine that the carrying value of long-lived assets may not be recoverable, we compare the carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset group. If the carrying value exceeds the undiscounted cash flows, an impairment charge is indicated. An impairment charge is recognized to the extent that the carrying value of the asset group exceeds its fair value.

We generally provide for depreciation over the following estimated useful service lives.

 

     Years

Building

   39

Leasehold improvements

   Lesser of life or lease or expected useful life

Equipment and furniture

   3 to 7

Vehicles

   5

Computer software

   3 to 7

 

64


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

The following table summarizes the balances related to our property and equipment for 2014 and 2013 (amounts in millions):

 

     As of December 31,  
     2014     2013  

Land

   $ 3.2     $ 3.2  

Building and leasehold improvements

     25.3       25.9  

Equipment and furniture

     97.2       106.6  

Computer software

     158.2       153.3  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     283.9       289.0  

Less: accumulated depreciation

     (146.4     (130.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 137.5     $ 159.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Depreciation expense for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $28.0 million, $35.2 million and $36.3 million, respectively.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the amount of the purchase price in excess of the fair values assigned to the underlying identifiable net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to an annual impairment test. Tests are performed more frequently if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. These events or circumstances include but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in the business environment; regulatory environment or legal factors; or a substantial decline in market capitalization of our stock. To determine whether goodwill is impaired, we perform a two-step impairment test. In the first step of the test, the fair values of the reporting units are compared to their aggregate carrying values, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, goodwill is not considered impaired and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we would proceed to step two of the test. In step two of the test, the implied fair value of the goodwill of the reporting unit is determined by a hypothetical allocation of the fair value calculated in step one to all of the assets and liabilities of that reporting unit (including any recognized and unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value was reflective of the price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The implied fair value of goodwill is the excess, if any, of the calculated fair value after hypothetical allocation to the reporting unit’s assets and liabilities. If the implied fair value of the goodwill is greater than the carrying amount of the goodwill at the analysis date, goodwill is not impaired and the analysis is complete. If the implied fair value of the goodwill is less than the carrying value of goodwill at the analysis date, goodwill is deemed impaired by the amount of that variance.

We calculate the estimated fair value of our reporting units using discounted cash flows as well as a market approach that compares our reporting units’ earnings and revenue multiples to those of comparable public companies. To determine fair value we must make assumptions about a wide variety of internal and external factors. Significant assumptions used in the impairment analysis include financial projections of free cash flow (including significant assumptions about operations, in particular expected organic growth rates, future Medicare reimbursement rates, capital requirements and income taxes), long-term growth rates for determining terminal value, and discount rates. Our estimates of discounted cash flows may differ from actual cash flows due to, among other things, economic conditions, changes to our business model or changes in operating performance. These factors increase the risk of differences between projected and actual performance that could impact future

 

65


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

estimates of fair value of all reporting units. Significant differences between these estimates and actual cash flows could result in additional impairment in future periods.

Each of our operating segments described in Note 13 – Segment Information is considered to represent an individual reporting unit for goodwill impairment testing purposes. We consider each of our home health care centers to constitute an individual business for which discrete financial information is available. However, since these care centers have substantially similar operating and economic characteristics and resource allocation and significant investment decisions concerning these businesses are centralized and the benefits broadly distributed, we have aggregated these care centers and deemed them to constitute a single reporting unit. We have applied this same aggregation principle to our hospice care centers and have also deemed them to be a single reporting unit.

During 2014, we did not record any goodwill impairment charges as a result of our annual impairment test and none of the goodwill associated with our various reporting units was considered at risk of impairment as of October 31, 2014. Since the date of our last annual goodwill impairment test, there have been no material developments, events, changes in operating performance or other circumstances that would cause management to believe it is more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units would be less than its carrying amount.

Intangible assets consist of Certificates of Need, licenses, acquired names, non-compete agreements and reacquired franchise rights. We amortize non-compete agreements, acquired names that we do not intend to use in the future and reacquired franchise rights on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, which is generally three years for non-compete agreements and up to five years for reacquired franchise rights and acquired names. During step one of our annual goodwill impairment test, we determined that the fair value of certain intangible assets was less than the carrying value and as a result recognized a non-cash other intangibles impairment charge of $0.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2014. These impairments did not have any impact on our compliance with our debt covenants or on our cash flows.

Debt Issuance Costs

We amortize deferred debt issuance costs related to our long-term obligations over its term through interest expense, unless the debt is extinguished, in which case unamortized balances are immediately expensed. We amortized $0.7 million, $0.7 million and $1.4 million in deferred debt issuance costs in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, we had unamortized debt issuance costs of $2.8 million and $2.2 million, respectively, recorded as other assets in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets. During the third quarter of 2014, we expensed $0.5 million of unamortized debt issuance costs when we entered into the Fourth amendment of the existing Credit Agreement. In connection with the Fourth Amendment to our Credit Agreement we recorded an additional $0.7 million in deferred debt issuance costs as other assets in our consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, in connection with the Second Lien Credit Agreement we recorded $1.1 million in deferred debt issuance costs as other assets in our consolidated balance sheet. The unamortized debt issuance costs of $2.8 million at December 31, 2014, will be amortized over a weighted-average amortization period of 3.8 years.

 

66


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following details our financial instruments where the carrying value and the fair value differ (amounts in millions):

 

    Fair Value at Reporting Date Using  

Financial Instrument

  As of
December 31,
2014
    Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Items

(Level 1)
    Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
 

Long-term obligations

  $ 116.4     $ —       $ 121.5     $ —    

The estimates of the fair value of our long-term debt are based upon a discounted present value analysis of future cash flows. Due to the existing uncertainty in the capital and credit markets the actual rates that would be obtained to borrow under similar conditions could materially differ from the estimates we have used.

The fair value hierarchy is based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value. The three levels of inputs are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.

 

   

Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

 

   

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

For our other financial instruments, including our cash and cash equivalents, patient accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, we estimate the carrying amounts’ approximate fair value. Our deferred compensation plan assets are recorded at fair value.

Income Taxes

We use the asset and liability approach for measuring deferred tax assets and liabilities based on temporary differences existing at each balance sheet date using currently enacted tax rates. Our deferred tax calculation requires us to make certain estimates about future operations. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when we believe it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The effect of a change in tax rate is recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013 our deferred tax assets were $122.4 million and $145.5 million, respectively.

Management regularly assesses the ability to realize deferred tax assets recorded in the Company’s entities based upon the weight of available evidence, including such factors as the recent earnings history and expected future taxable income. In the event future taxable income is below management’s estimates or is generated in tax jurisdictions different than projected, we could be required to increase the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. This would result in an increase in our effective tax rate.

Share-Based Compensation

We record all share-based compensation as expense in the financial statements measured at the fair value of the award. We recognize compensation cost on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each

 

67


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

separately vesting portion of the award. We reflect the excess tax benefits related to stock option exercises as financing cash flows. Share-based compensation expense for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $5.6 million, $6.5 million and $7.2 million, respectively, and the total income tax benefit recognized for these expenses was $2.0 million, $2.5 million and $1.3 million, respectively.

Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding

Net income (loss) per share attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders, calculated on the treasury stock method, is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, shares used in our computation of the weighted-average shares outstanding, which are used to calculate our basic and diluted net earnings attributable to Amedisys, Inc. common stockholders (amounts in thousands):

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
     2014      2013      2012  

Weighted average number of shares outstanding – basic

     32,301        31,247        29,896  

Effect of dilutive securities:

        

Stock options

     1        —          —    

Non-vested stock and stock units

     521        —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average number of shares outstanding – diluted

     32,823        31,247        29,896  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Anti-dilutive securities

     106        688        638  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Advertising Costs

We expense advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expense for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $4.7 million, $3.9 million and $4.4 million, respectively.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity changing the criteria for reporting discontinued operations. The ASU states that only those disposed components (or components held-for-sale) representing a strategic shift that have (or will have) a major effect on operations and financial results (or that are businesses or non-profit activities held-for-sale at acquisition) will be reported in discontinued operations. The ASU also required expanded disclosures about discontinued operations in the financial statement notes. The ASU is effective for disposals (or classifications as held-for-sale) that occur within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and interim periods within those annual periods. Early application is permitted, but only for those disposals (or classifications as held-for-sale) that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued or available for issuance. We have chosen to early adopt this ASU and have applied the new criteria in determining the accounting treatment for the care centers exited during 2014.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. The ASU will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective on January 1, 2017. Early application is not permitted. The standard

 

68


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. The Company has not yet selected a transition method nor has it determined the effect of the standard on its ongoing financial reporting.

3. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AND ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

As part of our ongoing management of our portfolio of care centers, we review each care center’s current financial performance, market penetration, forecasted market growth and the impact of proposed CMS payment revisions. As a result of our review, we consolidated 41 home health care centers and five hospice care centers with care centers servicing the same markets, sold 19 home health care centers and one hospice care center and closed 10 home health care centers during 2013. We had previously classified 28 of these care centers as held for sale during 2013 and three care centers remained classified as held for sale at December 31, 2013. During the three-month period ended March 31, 2014, we sold assets associated with one of these care centers and consolidated one of these care centers with a care center servicing the same market. During the three-month period ended June 30, 2014, we sold assets associated with the remaining care center; there are no care centers classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2014.

During 2012, we closed three home health care centers and consolidated five home health care centers and four hospice care centers with care centers servicing the same markets.

As we exited certain geographical areas and in accordance with applicable accounting guidance, the care centers which were closed, sold or classified as held for sale in 2013 (32 home health care centers and one hospice care center) and closed in 2012 (three home health care centers) are presented as discontinued operations in our consolidated financial statements. The care centers consolidated with care centers servicing the same markets are presented in continuing operations as we expect continuing cash flows from these markets. For additional information on the care centers consolidated with care centers servicing the same markets and the care centers sold see Note 11 – Exit Activities and Restructuring Activities.

Net revenues and operating results for the periods presented for those care centers classified as discontinued operations are as follows (dollars in millions):

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
         2014              2013              2012      

Net revenues

   $ (0.3    $ 31.2      $ 47.2  

(Loss) before income taxes

     (0.3      (5.3      (5.5

Income tax benefit

     0.1        2.2        2.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Discontinued operations, net of tax

   $ (0.2    $ (3.1    $ (3.3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

4. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

During 2014, we did not record any goodwill impairment charges as a result of our annual impairment test and none of the goodwill associated with our various reporting units were considered at risk of impairment as of October 31, 2014. Since the date of our last annual goodwill impairment test, there have been no material developments, events, changes in operating performance or other circumstances that would cause management to believe it is more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units would be less than its carrying amount.

 

69


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

During step one of our annual goodwill impairment test, we determined that the fair value of certain intangible assets was less than the carrying value and as a result recognized a non-cash other intangibles impairment charge of $0.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2014. In addition, we recorded impairment charges of $2.2 million related to intangibles associated with those care centers that were closed or consolidated during 2014 as discussed in Note 11 – Exit and Restructuring Activities. These impairments did not have any impact on our compliance with our debt covenant or on our cash flows.

During the fiscal year 2013, we recognized the following: a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $1.3 million and a non-cash other intangibles impairment charge of $8.2 million. The non-cash goodwill impairment charge related to an investment that we currently consolidate as discussed in Note 1– Nature of Operations, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements. Included in the non-cash other intangibles impairment charge discussed above is $4.6 million recognized during step one of our 2013 annual goodwill impairment test and $3.6 million related to intangibles associated with those care centers that were closed or consolidated during 2013 as discussed in Note 11 – Exit and Restructuring Activities.

During the fiscal year 2012, we recognized the following: a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $157.9 million, a non-cash other intangibles impairment charge of $4.2 million and a deferred tax benefit of $37.0 million. The goodwill impairment charge primarily resulted from a further decline in our market capitalization and the other intangibles impairment charge was due to a change in the fair value of various non-amortizable licenses and trade names. Included in the non-cash goodwill and other intangibles impairment charges discussed above is $17.4 million and $3.1 million, respectively, related to a consolidated investment as a result of a significant decline in the projected operating forecasts during the fourth quarter of 2012. These impairments did not have any impact on our compliance with our debt covenants or on our cash flows.

The following tables summarize the activity related to our goodwill for the 2014, 2013 and 2012 (amounts in millions):

 

     Goodwill  
     Home Health     Hospice     Total  

Balances at December 31, 2011

   $ 152.5     $ 182.2     $ 334.7  

Additions

     23.6       9.2       32.8  

Impairment

     (157.9     —         (157.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2012

     18.2       191.4       209.6  

Additions

     0.1       0.9       1.0  

Write-off (1)

     (0.4     —         (0.4

Impairment

     (1.3     —         (1.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2013

     16.6       192.3       208.9  

Write-off (1)

     (0.1     (3.2     (3.3
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2014

   $ 16.5     $ 189.1     $ 205.6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Write-off of goodwill related to the sale of care centers as discussed in Note 11 – Exit and Restructuring Activities.

 

70


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

The following summarizes the activity related to our other intangible assets, net for 2014, 2013 and 2012 (amounts in millions):

 

     Other Intangible Assets, Net  
     Certificates of
Need and
Licenses
    Acquired
Names of
Business(1)
    Non-Compete
Agreements &
Reacquired
Franchise
Rights
    Total  

Balances at December 31, 2011

   $ 34.0     $ 11.8     $ 4.2     $ 50.0  

Additions

     3.6       —         0.4       4.0  

Impairment

     (3.9     (0.3     —         (4.2

Amortization

     —         —         (2.8     (2.8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2012

     33.7       11.5       1.8       47.0  

Additions

     0.6       —         —         0.6  

Write-off (1)

     (1.1     —         —         (1.1

Impairment

     (7.8     (0.4     —         (8.2

Amortization

     —         —         (1.6     (1.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2013

     25.4       11.1       0.2       36.7  

Additions

     —         —         —         —    

Write-off (1)

     (0.2     —         —         (0.2

Impairment

     (2.1     (1.0     —         (3.1

Amortization

     —         —         (0.2     (0.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2014

   $ 23.1     $ 10.1     $ 0.0     $ 33.2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1)

Write-off of intangible assets related to the sale of care centers as discussed in Note 11 – Exit and Restructuring Activities.

Our amortizable intangible assets were fully amortized during 2014; only unamortized intangible assets remain as of December 31, 2014.

 

71


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

5. DETAILS OF CERTAIN BALANCE SHEET ACCOUNTS

Additional information regarding certain balance sheet accounts is presented below (amounts in millions):

 

     As of December 31,  
         2014              2013      

Other current assets:

     

Payroll tax escrow

   $ 1.0      $ 1.2  

Medicare withholds

     0.1        0.9  

Income tax receivable

     15.0        5.7  

Due from joint ventures

     1.4        1.5  

Other

     2.2        1.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 19.7      $ 10.8  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other assets:

     

Workers’ compensation deposits

   $ 0.3      $ 0.2  

Health insurance deposits

     1.2        1.2  

Other miscellaneous deposits

     0.7        0.9  

Deferred financing fees

     2.8        2.2  

Investments

     23.8        16.9  

Other

     4.4        4.9  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 33.2      $ 26.3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Accrued expenses:

     

Health insurance

   $ 11.2      $ 12.2  

Workers’ compensation

     19.8        16.5  

Legal and other settlements

     5.2        6.2  

Lease liability

     0.8        1.8  

Charity care

     0.7        0.6  

Estimated Medicare cap liability

     2.8        4.0  

Other

     15.8        16.3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 56.3      $ 57.6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other long-term obligations:

     

Reserve for uncertain tax positions

   $ 0.5      $ 3.9  

Deferred compensation plan liability

     3.3        3.4  

Other

     1.5        1.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 5.3      $ 8.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

72


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

6. LONG-TERM OBLIGATIONS

Long-term debt consisted of the following for the periods indicated (amounts in millions):

 

     As of December 31,  
         2014             2013      

$60.0 million Term Loan; $3.0 million principal payments plus accrued interest payable quarterly; interest rate at ABR Rate plus applicable percentage or Eurodollar Rate plus the applicable percentage (3.17% at December 31, 2014); due October 26, 2017

   $ 33.0     $ 45.0  

$120.0 million Revolving Credit Facility; interest only quarterly payments; interest rate at ABR Rate plus applicable percentage or Eurodollar Rate plus the applicable percentage (3.17% at December 31, 2014); due October 26, 2017

     15.0       —    

$70.0 million Second Lien Loan; interest only quarterly payments; interest rate at ABR Rate plus applicable percentage or Eurodollar Rate plus the applicable percentage (8.50% at December 31, 2014); due July 28, 2020

     70.0       —    

Discount on Second Lien Loan

     (1.6     —    

Promissory notes

     —         1.9  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     116.4       46.9  

Current portion of long-term obligations

     (12.0     (13.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

   $ 104.4     $ 33.0  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Maturities of debt as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (amounts in millions):

 

     Long-term
obligations
 

2015

   $ 12.0  

2016

     12.0  

2017

     24.0  

2018

     —    

2019

     —    

Future years

     70.0  
  

 

 

 
   $ 118.0  
  

 

 

 

Credit Agreement

On July 28, 2014, we entered into the fourth amendment to our Credit Agreement which amends our existing Credit Agreement dated as of October 26, 2012, to add certain covenants, representations and other provisions in the Credit Agreement to, among other things, allow for our entry into the Second Lien Credit Agreement and gain operational flexibility in terms of financial covenants and uses of capital. The original Credit Agreement provided for senior unsecured facilities in an initial aggregate principal amount of up to $225 million (the “Credit Facilities”). The Credit Facilities are comprised of (a) a term loan facility in an initial aggregate principal amount of $60 million (the “Term Loan”); and (b) a revolving credit facility in an initial aggregate principal amount of up to $165 million (the “Revolving Credit Facility), that was downsized to $120 million upon entering into the fourth amendment.

 

73


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

The Term Loan began amortizing December 31, 2012 in 20 equal quarterly installments of $3.0 million (subject to adjustment for prepayments), with the remaining balance due upon maturity. The final maturity of the Term Loan and the Revolving Credit Facility is October 26, 2017.

The interest rate in connection with the Credit Facilities as amended on July 28, 2014, shall be selected from the following by us: (i) the ABR Rate plus the Applicable Margin (the “Base Rate Advance”) or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate plus the Applicable Margin (the “Eurodollar Rate Advance”). The ABR Rate means the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% per annum and (c) the Eurodollar Rate for an interest period of one month plus 1% per annum. The “Eurodollar Rate” means the rate at which Eurodollar deposits in the London interbank market for an interest period of one, two, three or six months (as selected by us) are quoted. The “Applicable Margin” is based on the total leverage ratio and is presented in the table below. As of December 31, 2014, the Applicable Margin is 1.75% per annum for Base Rate Advances and 2.75% per annum for Eurodollar rate advances. We are also subject to a commitment fee under the terms of the Credit Facilities, as presented in the table below.

 

Total Leverage Ratio

   Margin for ABR
Loans
    Margin for Eurodollar
Loans
    Commitment Fee  

³  2.50

     2.25     3.25     0.50

< 2.50 and ³  2.00

     2.00     3.00     0.50

< 2.00 and ³  1.50

     1.75     2.75     0.50

< 1.50

     1.50     2.50     0.45

Our weighted average interest rate for our five year $60.0 million Term Loan, under our existing senior secured Credit Agreement, was 3.4% for 2014 and 2.8% for 2013. Our weighted average interest rate for our $120.0 million Revolving Credit Facility, as amended by the fourth amendment to our Credit Agreement, was 3.4% for 2014.

Our existing senior secured Credit Agreement, as amended on July 28, 2014, as well as the Second Lien Credit Agreement requires us to meet three financial covenants including limiting total leverage and senior secured leverage and requiring minimum coverage of fixed charges. Total leverage is a ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) and senior secured leverage is a ratio of total senior secured debt to EBITDA. The final covenant is a fixed charge coverage ratio of adjusted EBITDA plus rent expense (“EBITDAR”) (less capital expenditures less cash taxes) to scheduled debt repayments plus interest expense plus rent expense. These thresholds vary over the term of the credit facility. As of December 31, 2014, our total leverage ratio was 1.5, our senior secured leverage ratio was 0.7 and our fixed charge coverage ratio was 2.3 and we are in compliance with the existing senior secured Credit Agreement. In the event we are not in compliance with our debt covenants in the future, we would pursue various alternatives in an attempt to successfully resolve the non-compliance, which might include, among other things, seeking debt covenant waivers or amendments.

Pursuant to the Security Agreement, as of the effective date of the fourth amendment, the Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of our and our wholly-owned subsidiaries’ non-real estate assets (subject to exceptions for certain immaterial subsidiaries), including all of the stock of our wholly-owned subsidiaries that are corporations, equity interests in our wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not corporations, our equity interests in our joint ventures and our investments. If an event of default occurs under the Credit Agreement, the Agent may, upon the request of a specified percentage of the Lenders, exercise remedies with respect to the collateral, including, in some instances, taking possession of or selling personal property assets, collecting accounts receivables, or exercising proxies to take control of the pledged stock and other equity interests.

 

74


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

As of December 31, 2014, our availability under our $120.0 million Revolving Credit Facility as amended by the fourth amendment to our existing senior secured Credit Agreement, was $85.7 million as we had $19.3 million outstanding in letters of credit.

Second Lien Credit Agreement

On July 28, 2014, we entered into a Second Lien Credit Agreement (“Second Lien Agreement”) providing for a term loan in an aggregate principal amount of $70.0 million. The Agreement is among Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as Co-Borrower, Amedisys, Inc., as Lead Borrower, the several banks and other financial institutions or entities from time to time parties thereto as lenders (the “Second Lien Lenders”) and Cortland Capital Markets LLC, as Administrative Agent for the Second Lien Lenders (the “Second Lien Agent”). Various wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”) guaranteed our obligations under the Second Lien Agreement. In connection therewith, we, Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and the Guarantors also entered into a Second Lien Security Agreement dated as of July 28, 2014 (the “Second Lien Security Agreement”) with the Second Lien Agent for the purpose of securing the payment of our obligations under the Second Lien Agreement.

The arranger of the Second Lien Agreement was KKR Capital Markets LLC (the “Arranger”). Nathaniel M. Zilkha, a member of our Board, is a member of KKR Management LLC, which is an affiliate of each of the Arranger and KKR Asset Management LLC (“KAM”), a substantial shareholder of our Company. The Arranger received a fee of $0.7 million in connection with the closing of the Second Lien Agreement.

The proceeds of the Second Lien Agreement of $68.3 million were used to pay off a portion of the revolving credit balances under our existing senior secured Credit Agreement dated as of October 26, 2012 and related costs. The final maturity date of the term loan under the Second Lien Agreement is July 28, 2020. There is no amortization associated with the Second Lien Agreement, with the full $70.0 million due at final maturity. A prepayment penalty in the amount of 2.0% of the prepaid principal is required if the payment is made on or prior to the first anniversary of the agreement date. A prepayment penalty in the amount of 1.0% of the prepaid principal is required if the payment is made on or prior to the second year anniversary of the agreement date. There is no prepayment penalty during the remaining life of the loan.

The interest rate in connection with the Second Lien Agreement shall be selected from the following by us: (i) the ABR Rate plus 6.50% or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate plus 7.50%. The “ABR Rate” means the greatest of (a) the Prime Rate, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% per annum, (c) the Eurodollar Rate for an interest period of one month plus 1% per annum, or (d) 2%. The “Eurodollar Rate” is based upon the rate at which Eurodollar deposits in the London interbank market for an interest period of one, two, three or six months (as selected by us) are quoted with a LIBOR floor of 1.0%.

Our weighted average interest rate for our Second Lien Loan under the Second Lien Credit Agreement was 8.5% for 2014.

 

75


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

7. INCOME TAXES

Income taxes attributable to continuing operations consist of the following (amounts in millions):

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
         2014              2013              2012      

Current income tax expense/(benefit):

        

Federal

   $ (13.9    $ (2.0    $ 9.8  

State and local

     (1.1      0.3        1.4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     (15.0      (1.7      11.2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred income tax expense/(benefit):

        

Federal

     21.0        (43.2      (25.7

State and local

     1.6        (13.9      (5.5

Foreign

     0.1        —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     22.7        (57.1      (31.2
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income tax expense/(benefit)

   $ 7.7      $ (58.8    $ (20.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

A reconciliation of significant differences between the reported amount of income tax expense and the expected amount of income tax expense that would result from applying the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 35 percent to income before taxes from continuing operations is as follows:

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
         2014             2013             2012      

Income tax expense/(benefit) at U.S. federal statutory rate

     35.0      (35.0 )%      (35.0 )% 

State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit

     5.8       (4.4     (2.4

Valuation allowance

     1.5       —         0.1  

Tax credits

     (8.4     (1.2     (2.1

Goodwill impairment

     —         0.3       20.9  

Nondeductible expenses and other, net

     2.7       2.0       1.1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense/(benefit)

     36.6      (38.3 )%      (17.4 )% 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had income taxes receivable of $15.0 million and $5.7 million, respectively, included in other current assets. The $15.0 million receivable at December 31, 2014, primarily includes a U.S. federal tax receivable of $14.3 million from the carry back of U.S. federal net operating losses to December 31, 2011 and 2012.

 

76


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Deferred tax assets (liabilities) consist of the following components (amounts in millions):

 

     As of December 31,  
         2014             2013      

Deferred tax assets:

    

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   $ 5.6     $ 5.6  

Accrued expenses

     1.2       1.1  

Settlement Accrual

     —         59.3  

Workers’ compensation

     8.1       7.0  

Amortization of intangible assets

     89.2       102.6  

Share-based compensation

     3.3       3.9  

Net operating loss carryforwards

     59.3       5.3  

Tax credit carryforwards

     2.6       2.1  

Other

     1.8       1.4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross deferred tax assets

     171.1       188.3  

Less: valuation allowance

     (0.6     (0.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

     170.5       188.1  

Deferred tax (liabilities):

    

Property and equipment

     (31.3     (24.1

Deferred revenue

     (16.8     (18.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross deferred tax (liabilities)

     (48.1     (42.6
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

   $ 122.4     $ 145.5  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Classification in the consolidated balance sheet (amounts in millions):

 

     As of December 31,  
         2014              2013      

Current deferred tax assets

   $ —        $ 55.3  

Current deferred tax liabilities

     (2.4      —    

Noncurrent deferred tax assets

     124.8        90.2  

Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

   $ 122.4      $ 145.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2014, we have U.S. net operating loss (“NOL”) carry forwards of $139.0 million that are available to reduce future taxable income. In addition, we have $1.0 million of various U.S. tax credits available to reduce future taxable income. The U.S. NOL and tax credit carry forwards begin to expire in 2034.

As of December 31, 2014, we have state NOL carry forwards of $299.0 million that are available to reduce future taxable income. In addition, we have $2.9 million of various state tax credits available to reduce future taxable income. The state NOL and tax credit carry forwards begin to expire at various times.

As of December 31, 2014, we have Puerto Pico NOL carry forwards of $0.7 million that are available to reduce future taxable income. The Puerto Rico NOL carry forwards begin to expire in 2018.

Management has decided that a valuation allowance related to state NOL carry forwards and state tax credit carry forwards is necessary. As of December 31, 2014, the valuation allowance includes $0.1 million related to state

 

77


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

NOL carry forwards and $0.4 million related to state tax credit carry forwards. The valuation allowance included $0.2 million related to state NOL carry forwards as of December 31, 2013. The net change in the total valuation allowance for the year ended December 31, 2014 was an increase of $0.3 million; there was no change in the total valuation allowance for the year ended December 31, 2013.

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income in those jurisdictions during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities (including the impact of available carry back and carry forward periods), projected future taxable income, and tax-planning strategies in making this assessment. In order to fully realize the deferred tax assets, the Company will need to generate future taxable income before the expiration of the carry forwards governed by the tax code. Based on the current level of pretax earnings, the Company will generate the minimum amount of future taxable income to support the realization of the deferred tax assets. As a result, management believes that it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of these deferred tax assets, net of the existing valuation allowances at December 31, 2014. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carry forward period are reduced.

Uncertain Tax Positions

We account for uncertain tax positions in accordance with the authoritative guidance for uncertain tax positions. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (amounts in millions):

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,  
         2014              2013      

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 3.9      $ 0.4  

Additions for tax positions related to current year

     0.3        —    

Additions for tax positions related to prior year

     —          3.5  

Reductions for tax positions related to prior years

     —          —    

Lapse of statute of limitations

     (0.2      —    

Settlements

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance at end of period

   $ 4.0      $ 3.9  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2014, there are $0.5 million and $3.5 million of unrecognized tax benefits recorded in other long-term obligations and deferred income taxes, respectively, within the consolidated balance sheet.

Included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2014 is $4.0 million of tax benefits that, if recognized in future periods, would impact our effective tax rate.

During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, we recognized interest and penalties of $0.1 million and less than $0.1 million, respectively, as components of penalties or interest expense in connection with our reserve for uncertain tax positions. Interest and penalties, related to uncertain tax positions, included in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were less than $0.1 million for each year.

We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and in many of the 50 individual states, with significant operations in Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. In addition, we are subject to income taxes in Puerto Rico. We are

 

78


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

open to examination in the U.S. and in various individual states for tax years ended December 31, 2011 through December 31, 2014. We are also open to examination in various states for the years ended 2001 – 2014 resulting from net operating losses generated and available for carry forward from those years.

8. CAPITAL STOCK AND SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

We are authorized by our Certificate of Incorporation to issue 60,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.001 par value and 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock, $0.001 par value. As of December 31, 2014, there were 34,569,526 and 33,594,572 shares of common stock issued and outstanding, respectively, and no shares of preferred stock issued or outstanding. Our Board of Directors is authorized to fix the dividend rights and terms, conversion and voting rights, redemption rights and other privileges and restrictions applicable to our preferred stock.

Share-Based Awards

Our 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “Plan”) authorizes the grant of various types of equity-based awards, such as stock awards, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights and stock options to eligible participants, which include all of our employees and all employees of our 50% or more owned subsidiaries, our non-employee directors and certain consultants. The vesting terms of the awards may be tied to continued employment (or, for our non-employee directors, continued service on the Board of Directors) and/or achievement of certain pre-determined performance goals. We refer to stock awards subject to service-based vesting conditions as “non-vested stock” and restricted stock units subject to service-based and performance-based or market-based vesting conditions as “non-vested stock units.” The Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors, which determines, within the provisions of the Plan, those eligible employees to whom, and the times at which, awards shall be granted. The Compensation Committee, in its discretion, may delegate its authority and duties under the Plan to specified officers; however, only the Compensation Committee may approve the terms of awards to our executive officers.

Equity-based awards may be granted for a number of shares not to exceed, in the aggregate, approximately 4.0 million shares of common stock, and we had approximately 1.3 million shares available at December 31, 2014. The price per share for stock options shall be of no less than the greater of (a) 100% of the fair value of a share of common stock on the date the option is granted or (b) the aggregate par value of the shares of our common stock on the date the option is granted. If a stock option is granted to any owner of 10% or more of our total combined voting power of us and our subsidiaries, the price is to be at least 110% of the fair value of a share of our common stock on the date the award is granted. Each equity-based award vests ratably over a 12 month-to-five year period, with the exception of those issued under contractual arrangements that specify otherwise, that may be exercised during a period as determined by our Compensation Committee or as otherwise approved by our Compensation Committee. The contractual terms of stock options exercised shall not exceed ten years from the date such option is granted.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”)

We have a plan whereby our eligible employees may purchase our common stock at 85% of the market price at the time of purchase. On June 7, 2012, our stockholders ratified an amendment adopted by our Board of Directors to increase the total number of shares of our common stock authorized for the issuance under our ESPP

 

79


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

from 2,500,000 shares to 4,500,000 shares, and as of December 31, 2014, there were 1,600,472 shares available for future issuance. The following is a detail of the purchases that were made or pending Board of Director approval under the plan:

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan Period

   Shares Issued      Price  

2012 and Prior

     2,485,604      $ 13.95  

January 1, 2013 to March 31, 2013

     90,799        9.45  

April 1, 2013 to June 30, 2013

     75,126        9.86  

July 1, 2013 to September 30, 2013

     50,982        14.63  

October 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013

     52,826        12.44  

January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2014

     52,718        12.66  

April 1, 2014 to June 30, 2014

     38,679        14.23  

July 1, 2014 to September 30, 2014

     32,573        17.14  

October 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014

     20,221        24.95  
  

 

 

    
     2,899,528     
  

 

 

    

ESPP expense included in general and administrative expense in our accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $0.4 million, $0.5 million and $0.7 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Stock Options

We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of our stock options. There were no stock options granted during 2013 or 2012; there were 250,000 options granted during the fourth quarter of 2014. Stock option compensation expense included in general and administrative expense in our accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $0.1 million for 2014.

The fair value of the 2014 award was estimated using the following assumptions:

 

Risk Free Rate

   2.07%

Expected Volatility

   50.55%

Expected Term

   6.25 years

Fair Value

   $ 13.50

The following table presents our stock option activity for 2014:

 

     Number of
Shares
    Weighted
Average  Exercise
Price
     Weighted
Average  Contractual
Life (Years)
 

Outstanding options at January 1, 2014

     194,493     $ 22.62        0.83  

Granted

     250,000       26.65     

Exercised

     (28,229     19.97     

Canceled, forfeited or expired

     (138,728     22.86     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

Outstanding options at December 31, 2014

     277,536     $ 26.40        8.99  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Exercisable options at December 31, 2014

     27,536     $ 24.14        0.18  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The aggregate intrinsic value of our outstanding options and exercisable options at December 31, 2014 was $0.8 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Total intrinsic value of options exercised was $0.1 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

80


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

The following table presents our non-vested stock option award activity for 2014:

 

     Number of
Shares
     Weighted average
grant date fair
value
 

Non-vested stock options at January 1, 2014

     —        $ —    

Granted

     250,000        26.65  

Vested

     —          —    

Forfeited

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-vested stock options at December 31, 2014

     250,000      $ 26.65  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31, 2014, there was $3.3 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options that we expect to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years.

Non-Vested Stock

We issue shares of non-vested stock with vesting terms ranging from one to five years. The compensation expense is determined based on the market price of our common stock at the date of grant applied to the total number of shares that are anticipated to fully vest. Non-vested stock compensation expense included in general and administrative expenses in our accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $4.6 million, $5.2 million and $6.4 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

The following table presents our non-vested stock award activity for 2014:

 

     Number of Shares     Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Value
 

Non-vested stock at January 1, 2014

     773,491     $ 13.56  

Granted

     774,118       16.38  

Vested

     (375,144     15.68  

Canceled, forfeited or expired

     (254,506     13.20  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-vested stock at December 31, 2014

     917,959     $ 15.17  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The weighted average grant date fair value of non-vested stock granted was $16.38, $10.91 and $14.01 in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

At December 31, 2014, there was $8.7 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock award payments that we expect to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.8 years.

Non-Vested Stock Units – Service-Based and Performance-Based Awards

We issue non-vested stock unit awards that are service-based, performance-based or a combination of both with vesting terms ranging from three to four years. Based on the terms and conditions of these awards, we determine if the awards should be recorded as either equity or liability instruments. The compensation expense is determined based on the market price of our common stock at the date of grant, applied to the total number of units that are anticipated to vest, unless the award specifies differently. We did not recognize any compensation expense related to performance-based non-vested stock units during 2014 or 2013. Non-vested stock units

 

81


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

compensation expense included in general and administrative expenses in our accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $0.1 million for 2012. We account for such awards similar to our non-vested stock awards; however, no shares of stock are issued to the recipient until the stock unit awards have vested and after the pre-determined delivery date has occurred.

The weighted average grant date fair value of non-vested stock units granted was $56.99 in 2012. These non-vested stock units were granted as the result of the achievement of the performance-based objectives established by the 2010 performance-based awards. The performance-based objectives established by the 2013 and 2012 awards were not satisfied and as a result, there were no stock units awarded. At December 31, 2014, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to our performance-based non-vested stock units.

Non-Vested Stock Units – Service-Based and Market-Based Awards

During the second quarter of 2013, we awarded market-based awards to certain employees. The target level established by the award, which is based on our average December 2015 stock price, provided for the recipients to receive 417,330 non-vested stock units if the target is achieved. If the target objective is surpassed to the point of achieving the projected maximum payout, the recipients would receive 667,728 non-vested stock units. The target number of shares to be potentially awarded has been reduced by forfeitures as indicated in the table below.

For market-based awards, the effect of the market condition is reflected in the fair value of the awards at the date of grant using a Monte-Carlo simulation model. A Monte-Carlo simulation model estimates the fair value of the market-based award based upon the expected term, risk-free interest rate and expected volatility. Compensation expense for market-based awards is recognized over the vesting period regardless of whether the market conditions are expected to be achieved. Non-vested stock units compensation expense included in general and administrative expenses in our accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $0.5 and $0.8 million for 2014 and 2013, respectively. The fair value of the 2013 award was estimated using the following assumptions:

 

Forward Interest Rate

   0.327 % – 1.460%

Expected Volatility

   54.38%

Requisite Service Period

   3 years

Fair Value

   $ 10.51

The following table presents our non-vested stock units activity for 2014:

 

     Number of Shares     Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Value
 

Non-vested stock at January 1, 2014

     389,816     $ 10.51  

Granted

     —         —    

Vested

     —         —    

Canceled, forfeited or expired

     (164,071     10.51  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-vested stock units at December 31, 2014

     225,745     $ 10.51  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The weighted average grant date fair value of non-vested stock units granted was $10.51 in 2013.

At December 31, 2014, there were $1.1 million in unrecognized compensation costs related to our market-based non-vested stock units that we expect to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.2 years.

 

82


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Legal Proceedings

We are involved in the following legal actions:

Securities Class Action Lawsuits

On June 10, 2010, a putative securities class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana (the “District Court”) against the Company and certain of our current and former senior executives. Additional putative securities class actions were filed in the Court on July 14, July 16, and July 28, 2010.

On October 22, 2010, the District Court issued an order consolidating the putative securities class action lawsuits and the Federal Derivative Actions (described immediately below) for pre-trial purposes. In the same order, the District Court appointed the Public Employees Retirement System of Mississippi and the Puerto Rico Teachers’ Retirement System as co-lead plaintiffs (together, the “Co-Lead Plaintiffs”) for the putative class. On December 10, 2010, the District Court also consolidated the ERISA class action lawsuit (described below) with the putative securities class actions and Federal Derivative Actions for pre-trial purposes.

On January 18, 2011, the Co-Lead Plaintiffs filed an amended, consolidated class action complaint (the “Securities Complaint”) which supersedes the earlier-filed securities class action complaints. The Securities Complaint alleges that the defendants made false and/or misleading statements and failed to disclose material facts about our business, financial condition, operations and prospects, particularly relating to our policies and practices regarding home therapy visits under the Medicare home health prospective payment system and the related alleged impact on our business, financial condition, operations and prospects. The Securities Complaint seeks a determination that the action may be maintained as a class action on behalf of all persons who purchased the Company’s securities between August 2, 2005 and September 28, 2010 and an unspecified amount of damages.

All defendants moved to dismiss the Securities Complaint. On June 28, 2012, the District Court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the Securities Complaint. On July 26, 2012, the Co-Lead Plaintiffs filed a motion for reconsideration, which the District Court denied on April 9, 2013.

On May 3, 2013, the Co-Lead Plaintiffs appealed the dismissal of the Securities Complaint to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit (the “Fifth Circuit”). On October 2, 2014, a three-judge panel of the Fifth Circuit issued a decision reversing the District Court’s dismissal of the Securities Complaint. On October 16, 2014, all defendants filed a petition with the Fifth Circuit to review the three-judge panel’s decision en banc , or as a whole court. On December 29, 2014, the Fifth Circuit denied the defendants’ motion for en banc review of the Fifth Circuit panel’s decision reversing the District Court’s dismissal of the case. The case now returns to the District Court for further proceedings. No assurances can be given as to the timing or outcome of this matter.

Corporate Integrity Agreement

On April 23, 2014, with no admissions of liability on our part, we entered into a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice relating to certain of our clinical and business operations. Concurrently with our entry into this agreement, we entered into a corporate integrity agreement (“CIA”) with the Office of Inspector General-HHS. The CIA formalizes various aspects of our already existing ethics and compliance programs and contains other requirements designed to help ensure our ongoing compliance with federal health care program

 

83


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

requirements. Among other things, the CIA requires us to maintain our existing compliance program and compliance committee and compliance committee of the Board of Directors; provide certain compliance training; continue screening new and current employees against certain lists to ensure they are not ineligible to participate in federal health care programs; engage an independent review organization to perform certain auditing and reviews and prepare certain reports regarding our compliance with federal health care programs, our billing submissions to federal health care programs and our compliance and risk mitigation programs; and provide certain reports and management certifications to Office of Inspector General-HHS. Among other things, the CIA requires that we report substantial overpayments that we discover we have received from federal health care programs, as well as probable violations of federal health care laws. Upon breach of the CIA, we could become liable for payment of certain stipulated penalties, or could be excluded from participation in federal health care programs. The corporate integrity agreement has a term of five years.

Wage and Hour Litigation

On July 25, 2012, a putative collective and class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut against us in which three former employees allege wage and hour law violations. The former employees claim that they were not paid overtime for all hours worked over forty hours in violation of the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”), as well as the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act. More specifically, they allege they were paid on both a per-visit and an hourly basis, and that such a pay scheme resulted in their misclassification as exempt employees, thereby denying them overtime pay. Moreover, in response to a Company motion arguing that plaintiffs’ complaint was deficient in that it was ambiguous and failed to provide fair notice of the claims asserted and plaintiffs’ opposition thereto, the Court, on April 8, 2013, held that the complaint adequately raises general allegations that the plaintiffs were not paid overtime for all hours worked in a week over forty, which may include claims for unpaid overtime under other theories of liability, such as alleged off-the-clock work, in addition to plaintiffs’ more clearly stated allegations based on misclassification. On behalf of themselves and a class of current and former employees they allege are similarly situated, plaintiffs seek attorneys’ fees, back wages and liquidated damages going back three years under the FLSA and three years under the Pennsylvania statute. On October 8, 2013, the Court granted plaintiffs’ motion for equitable tolling requesting that the statute of limitations for claims under the FLSA for plaintiffs who opt-in to the lawsuit be tolled from September 24, 2012, the date upon which plaintiffs filed their original motion for conditional certification, until 90 days after any notice of this lawsuit is issued following conditional certification. Following a motion for reconsideration filed by the Company, on December 3, 2013, the Court modified this order, holding that putative class members’ FLSA claims are tolled from October 29, 2012 through the date of the Court’s order on plaintiffs’ motion for conditional certification. On January 13, 2014, the Court granted plaintiffs’ July 10, 2013 motion for conditional certification of their FLSA claims and authorized issuance of notice to putative class members to provide them an opportunity to opt in to the action. On April 17, 2014, that notice was mailed to putative class members. The period within which putative class members were permitted to opt in to the action expired on July 16, 2014.

On September 10, 2014, the plaintiffs in the Connecticut case filed a motion for leave to amend their complaint to add a new claim under the Kentucky Wage and Hour Act (“KWHA”) alleging that the Company did not pay certain home health clinicians working in the Commonwealth of Kentucky all of the overtime wages they were owed, either because the Company misclassified them as exempt from overtime or, while treating them as overtime eligible, did not properly pay them overtime for all hours worked over 40 in a week. On behalf of themselves and a class of current and former employees they allege are similarly situated, plaintiffs seek attorneys’ fees, back wages and liquidated damages going back five years before the filing of their original complaint under the KWHA. On October 1, 2014, the Company filed an opposition to the plaintiffs’ motion to amend. On October 15, 2014, plaintiffs filed a reply brief in support of their motion. On December 12, 2014, the

 

84


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Court granted the plaintiffs’ motion to amend the complaint to add the claims under the KWHA. The Company and the plaintiffs have agreed to explore the possibility of a mediated settlement of the Connecticut case, and on February 23, 2015 filed a joint motion to stay proceedings for six months while they pursue this process, which was granted by the Court on February 24, 2015. There can be no assurance that the proposed mediation process will lead to a resolution of this matter.

On September 13, 2012, a putative collective and class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against us in which a former employee alleges wage and hour law violations. The former employee claims she was paid on both a per-visit and an hourly basis, thereby misclassifying her as an exempt employee and entitling her to overtime pay. The plaintiff alleges violations of Federal and state law and seeks damages under the FLSA and the Illinois Minimum Wage Law. Plaintiff seeks class certification of similar employees who were or are employed in Illinois and seeks attorneys’ fees, back wages and liquidated damages going back three years under the FLSA and three years under the Illinois statute. On May 28, 2013, the Court granted the Company’s motion to stay the case pending resolution of class certification issues and dispositive motions in the earlier-filed Connecticut case referenced above.

We are unable to assess the probable outcome or reasonably estimate the potential liability, if any, arising from the securities and wage and hour litigation described above. The Company intends to continue to vigorously defend itself in the securities and wage and hour litigation matters. No assurances can be given as to the timing or outcome of the securities and wage and hour matters described above or the impact of any of the inquiry or litigation matters on the Company, its consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, which could be material, individually or in the aggregate.

Computer Inventory and Data Security Reporting

On March 1 and March 2, 2015, we provided official notice under Federal and state data privacy laws concerning the outcome of an extensive risk management process to locate and verify our large computer inventory. The process identified approximately 142 encrypted computers and laptops for which reports were required under federal and state data privacy laws. We have no indication of external hacking into our network, and no evidence that any patients or former patients have suffered any actual harm. Depending on the device, the patient information included any or all of the following: name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, insurance ID numbers, medical records and other personally identifiable data. The devices at issue were originally assigned to Company clinicians and other team members who left the Company between 2011 and 2014, and represent approximately 0.3% of the total number of devices that were used at the Company during that time period. We reported these devices to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, state agencies, and approximately 6,909 individuals whose information may be involved, as required under applicable law and in an abundance of caution because we could not rule out unauthorized access to patient data on the devices. We understand that the Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“OCR”), will review our compliance with applicable laws, as is typical for any data breach involving more than 500 individuals. Once such a review, or any other regulatory review, is formally commenced, we intend to cooperate with OCR and any other applicable regulatory authorities.

We recognize that additional putative securities class action complaints and other litigation could be filed, and that other investigations and actions could be commenced.

In addition to the matters referenced in this note, we are involved in legal actions in the normal course of business, some of which seek monetary damages, including claims for punitive damages. We do not believe that these normal course actions, when finally concluded and determined, will have a material impact on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

 

85


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Third Party Audits

From time to time, in the ordinary course of business, we are subject to audits under various governmental programs in which third party firms engaged by CMS conduct extensive review of claims data to identify potential improper payments under the Medicare program.

In January 2010, our subsidiary that provides home health services in Dayton, Ohio received from a Medicare Program Safeguard Contractor (“PSC”) a request for records regarding 137 claims submitted by the subsidiary paid from January 2, 2008 through November 10, 2009 (the “Claim Period”) to determine whether the underlying services met pertinent Medicare payment requirements. Based on the PSC’s findings for 114 of the claims, which were extrapolated to all claims for home health services provided by the Dayton subsidiary paid during the Claim Period, on March 9, 2011, the Medicare Administrative Contractor (“MAC”) for the subsidiary issued a notice of overpayment seeking recovery from our subsidiary of an alleged overpayment of approximately $5.6 million. We dispute these findings, and our Dayton subsidiary has filed appeals through the Original Medicare Standard Appeals Process, in which we are seeking to have those findings overturned. Most recently, a consolidated administrative law judge (“ALJ”) hearing was held in late March 2013. In January 2014, the ALJ found fully in favor of our Dayton subsidiary on 74 appeals and partially in favor of our Dayton subsidiary on eight appeals. Taking into account the ALJ’s decision, certain determinations that our Dayton subsidiary decided not to appeal as well as certain determinations made by the MAC, of the 114 claims that were originally extrapolated by the MAC, 76 claims have now been decided in favor of our Dayton subsidiary in full, 10 claims have been decided in favor of our Dayton subsidiary in part, and 28 claims have been decided against or not appealed by our Dayton subsidiary. The ALJ has ordered the MAC to recalculate the extrapolation amount based on the ALJ’s decision. The Medicare Appeals Council can decide on its own motion to review the ALJ’s decisions. As of December 31, 2014, we have recorded no liability with respect to the pending appeals as we do not believe that an estimate of a reasonably possible loss or range of loss can be made at this time.

In July 2010, our subsidiary that provides hospice services in Florence, South Carolina received from a Zone Program Integrity Contractor (“ZPIC”) a request for records regarding a sample of 30 beneficiaries who received services from the subsidiary during the period of January 1, 2008 through March 31, 2010 (the “Review Period”) to determine whether the underlying services met pertinent Medicare payment requirements. We acquired the hospice operations subject to this review on August 1, 2009; the Review Period covers time periods both before and after our ownership of these hospice operations. Based on the ZPIC’s findings for 16 beneficiaries, which were extrapolated to all claims for hospice services provided by the Florence subsidiary billed during the Review Period, on June 6, 2011, the MAC for the subsidiary issued a notice of overpayment seeking recovery from our subsidiary of an alleged overpayment. We dispute these findings, and our Florence subsidiary has filed appeals through the Original Medicare Standard Appeals Process, in which we are seeking to have those findings overturned. Most recently, an ALJ hearing was held in early January 2015. No assurances can be given as to the timing or outcome of the ALJ’s decision. The current alleged extrapolated overpayment is $6.1 million. In the event we pay any amount of this alleged overpayment, we are indemnified by the prior owners of the hospice operations for amounts relating to the period prior to August 1, 2009. As of December 31, 2014, we have recorded no liability for this claim as we do not believe that an estimate of a reasonably possible loss or range of loss can be made at this time.

Operating Leases

We have leased office space at various locations under non-cancelable agreements that expire between 2015 and 2021, and require various minimum annual rentals. Our typical operating leases are for lease terms of one to seven years and may include, in addition to base rental amounts, certain landlord pass-through costs for our pro-rata share of the lessor’s real estate taxes, utilities and common area maintenance costs. Some of our operating leases contain escalation clauses, in which annual minimum base rentals increase over the term of the lease.

 

86


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Total minimum rental commitments as of December 31, 2014 are as follows (amounts in millions):

 

2015

   $ 20.4  

2016

     14.2  

2017

     9.0  

2018

     4.7  

2019

     1.8  

Future years

     0.3  
  

 

 

 
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 50.4  
  

 

 

 

Future rental commitments for our discontinued operations locations amounted to $0.3 million as of December 31, 2014. Rent expense for non-cancelable operating leases was $26.5 million, $29.8 million and $30.7 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Insurance

We are obligated for certain costs associated with our insurance programs, including employee health, workers’ compensation and professional liability. While we maintain various insurance programs to cover these risks, we are self-insured for a substantial portion of our potential claims. We recognize our obligations associated with these costs, up to specified deductible limits in the period in which a claim is incurred, including with respect to both reported claims and claims incurred but not reported. These costs have generally been estimated based on historical data of our claims experience. Such estimates, and the resulting reserves, are reviewed and updated by us on a quarterly basis.

The following table presents details of our insurance programs, including amounts accrued for the periods indicated (amounts in millions) in accrued expenses in our accompanying balance sheets. The amounts accrued below represent our total estimated liability for individual claims that are less than our noted insurance coverage amounts, which can include outstanding claims and claims incurred but not reported.

 

     As of December 31,  

Type of Insurance

       2014             2013      

Health insurance

   $ 11.2     $ 12.2  

Workers’ compensation

     20.8       17.7  

Professional liability

     3.9       4.7  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     35.9       34.6  

Less: long-term portion

     (1.0     (1.2
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
   $ 34.9     $ 33.4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

The retention limit per claim for our health insurance, worker’s compensation and professional liability is $0.9 million, $0.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

Employment Contracts

We have commitments related to employment contracts with a number of our senior executives. These contracts generally commit us to pay severance benefits under certain circumstances.

 

87


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Other

We are subject to various other types of claims and disputes arising in the ordinary course of our business. While the resolution of such issues is not presently determinable, we believe that the ultimate resolution of such matters will not have a significant effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

401(K) Benefit Plan

We maintain a plan qualified under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code for all employees who have reached 21 years of age, effective the first month after hire date. Under the plan, eligible employees may elect to defer a portion of their compensation, subject to Internal Revenue Service limits.

During 2014, 2013 and 2012, our match of contributions to be made to each eligible employee contribution is $0.375 for every $1.00 of contribution made up to the first 6% of their salary. The match is discretionary and thus is subject to change at the discretion of management. These contributions are made in the form of our common stock, valued based upon the fair value of the stock as of the end of each calendar quarter end. We expensed approximately $6.2 million, $7.8 million and $9.7 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Deferred Compensation Plan

We have a Deferred Compensation Plan for additional tax-deferred savings to a select group of management or highly compensated employees. The Deferred Compensation Plan permits participants to defer up to 75% of compensation that would otherwise be payable to them for the calendar year and up to 100% of their annual bonus. In addition, we credit to the participants’ accounts such amounts as would have been contributed to our 401(k)/Profit Sharing Plan, but for the limitations that are imposed under the Internal Revenue Code based upon the participants’ status as highly compensated employees. We may also make additional discretionary allocations as determined by the Compensation Committee. Amounts credited under the Deferred Compensation Plan are funded into a rabbi trust, which is managed by a trustee. The trustee has the discretion to manage the assets of the Deferred Compensation Plan as deemed fit, thus the assets are not necessarily reflective of the same investment choices made by the participants.

Effective January 1, 2015, all prospective salary deferrals will cease. Participants will be allowed to make transactions with any remaining account balances as they wish per plan guidelines.

11. EXIT AND RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

As of December 31, 2013, we reported three home health care centers as held for sale. During 2014, we sold assets associated with two of these care centers for cash consideration of approximately $0.8 million and recognized a gain of approximately $0.8 million which is included in discontinued operations. The remaining care center classified as held for sale was consolidated with a care center servicing the same market during 2014.

During 2014, the Company sold its interest in five home health and four hospice care centers in Wyoming and Idaho for approximately $5.0 million and recognized a gain of $2.1 million. We also exited our hospice inpatient unit in New Hampshire and recognized a loss of $0.5 million.

In addition to the exit activity related to the care centers mentioned above, we consolidated 21 operating home health care centers and four operating hospice care centers with care centers servicing the same markets and

 

88


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

closed 22 home health care centers and four hospice care centers during 2014. In connection with these care centers, we recorded non-cash charges of $2.2 million in other intangibles impairment expense related to the write-off of intangible assets, $2.1 million in other general and administrative expenses related to lease termination costs and $2.1 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs. These care centers were not concentrated in certain selected geographical areas and did not meet the criteria to be classified as discontinued operations in accordance with applicable accounting guidance.

During 2013, we sold assets associated with two home health care centers in Alaska and Washington, as well as a hospice care center in Washington for cash consideration of approximately $1.6 million and recognized a gain of approximately $1.0 million which is included in discontinued operations. We also sold our membership interest in one of our unconsolidated joint ventures for cash consideration of approximately $0.5 million and recognized a loss of approximately $0.7 million, which is included in other income (expense).

We also reported 28 care centers as held for sale and sold assets associated with 17 of these home health care centers for cash consideration of approximately $1.4 million and recognized a gain of approximately $0.7 million which is included in discontinued operations. We closed eight of our home health care centers previously classified as held for sale and recorded charges of $0.1 million for the write-off of intangible assets and $0.5 million related to lease termination costs which are included in discontinued operations. Three of these home health care centers remained classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2013.

In addition to the sale and available for sale care centers mentioned above, we consolidated 41 operating home health care centers and five operating hospice care centers with care centers servicing the same markets and closed two home health care centers as of December 31, 2013. In connection with these care centers, we recorded charges of $3.6 million in goodwill and other intangibles impairment expense related to the write-off of intangible assets, $1.5 million in other general and administrative expenses related to lease termination costs and $1.8 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs during 2013.

During 2012, we consolidated five operating home health care centers and four operating hospice care centers with care centers servicing the same markets and closed three operating home health care centers. We recorded lease termination liabilities of $0.9 million and severance of $0.1 million as of December 31, 2012; of these costs $0.2 million related to the closed care centers is included in discontinued operations.

The care centers that were closed or sold in 2013 and 2012 are presented in discontinued operations in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 3 – Discontinued Operations and Assets Held For Sale for additional information.

Restructuring Activity

During 2014, we restructured our regional leadership and corporate support functions. As such, we recorded charges of $3.4 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs. In addition, on February 20, 2014, William F. Borne stepped down from his positions as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and a member of our Board of Directors and we recorded charges of $2.3 million in salaries and benefits related to severance costs.

 

89


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

Our reserve activity for our 2014, 2013 and 2012 exit and restructuring activity is as follows (amounts in millions):

 

     2014 Exit Activity     2013 Exit Activity     2012 Exit Activity  
     Lease
Termination
    Severance     Lease
Termination
    Severance     Lease
Termination
    Severance  

Balances at December 31, 2011

   $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —    

Charge in 2012

     —         —         —         —         0.9       0.1  

Cash expenditures in 2012

     —         —         —         —         (0.3     (0.1
    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2012

     —         —         —         —         0.6       —    

Charge in 2013

     —         —         2.0       1.8       —         —    

Cash expenditures in 2013

     —         —         (0.5     (0.5     (0.5     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2013

     —         —         1.5       1.3       0.1       —    

Charge in 2014

     2.1       7.8       —         —         —         —    

Cash expenditures in 2014

     (1.6     (5.5     (1.2     (1.3     (0.1     —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balances at December 31, 2014

   $ 0.5     $ 2.3     $ 0.3     $ —       $ —       $ —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

12. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

The following table summarizes the activity and ending balances in our allowance for doubtful accounts and estimated revenue adjustments (amounts in millions):

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

Year end

   Balance at
Beginning of Year
     Provision for
Doubtful
Accounts(1)
     Write-Offs      Balance at End
of Year
 

2014

   $ 14.2      $ 16.4      $ (16.3    $ 14.3  

2013

     21.0        16.4        (23.2      14.2  

2012

     17.4        21.7        (18.1      21.0  

 

(1)

Includes $0.1 million, $0.6 million and $0.7 million from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Estimated Revenue Adjustments

 

Year end

   Balance at
Beginning of Year
     Provision for
Estimated
Revenue
Adjustments(1)
     Write-Offs      Balance at End
of Year
 

2014

   $ 3.9      $ 5.1      $ (5.9    $ 3.1  

2013

     6.4        9.4        (11.9      3.9  

2012

     6.8        10.6        (11.0      6.4  

 

(1)

Includes $0.1 million, $0.4 million and $0.7 million from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

13. SEGMENT INFORMATION

Our operations involve servicing patients through our two reportable business segments: home health and hospice. Our home health segment delivers a wide range of services in the homes of individuals who may be

 

90


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

recovering from surgery, have a chronic disability or terminal illness or need assistance with the essential activities of daily living. Our hospice segment provides palliative care and comfort to terminally ill patients and their families. The “other” column in the following tables consists of costs relating to corporate support functions that are not directly attributable to a specific segment.

Management evaluates performance and allocates resources based on the operating income of the reportable segments, which includes an allocation of corporate expenses directly attributable to the specific segment and includes revenues and all other costs directly attributable to the specific segment. Segment assets are not reviewed by the company’s chief operating decision maker and therefore are not disclosed below (amounts in millions).

 

     For the Year Ended December 31, 2014  
     Home Health      Hospice      Other     Total  

Net service revenue

   $ 956.9      $ 247.6      $ —       $ 1,204.5  

Cost of service, excluding depreciation and amortization

     559.4        131.7        —         691.1  

General and administrative expenses

     269.0        58.3        114.4       441.7  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     14.8        1.5        —         16.3  

Depreciation and amortization

     9.0        2.1        17.2       28.3  

Goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge

     1.6        1.5        —         3.1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating expenses

     853.8        195.1        131.6       1,180.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

   $ 103.1      $ 52.5      $ (131.6   $ 24.0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

     For the Year Ended December 31, 2013  
     Home Health      Hospice      Other     Total  

Net service revenue

   $ 987.7      $ 261.6      $ —       $ 1,249.3  

Cost of service, excluding depreciation and amortization

     578.9        139.1        —         718.0  

General and administrative expenses

     304.8        64.7        104.5       474.0  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     10.2        5.7        —         15.9  

Depreciation and amortization

     10.3        2.1        24.5       36.9  

U.S. Department of Justice settlement

     —          —          150.0       150.0  

Goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge

     8.5        1.0        —         9.5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating expenses

     912.7        212.6        279.0       1,404.3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

   $ 75.0      $ 49.0      $ (279.0   $ (155.0
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

     For the Year Ended December 31, 2012  
     Home Health     Hospice      Other     Total  

Net service revenue

   $ 1,152.1     $ 288.7      $ —       $ 1,440.8  

Cost of service, excluding depreciation and amortization

     661.4       149.3        —         810.7  

General and administrative expenses

     331.6       71.8        113.3       516.7  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     17.1       3.9        —         21.0  

Depreciation and amortization

     13.2       1.5        24.5       39.2  

Goodwill and other intangibles impairment charge

     161.6       0.5        —         162.1  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating expenses

     1,184.9       227.0        137.8       1,549.7  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income (loss)

   $ (32.8   $ 61.7      $ (137.8   $ (108.9
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

91


Table of Contents

AMEDISYS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

December 31, 2014

 

14. UNAUDITED SUMMARIZED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

                   Net Income (Loss)
Attributable to
Amedisys, Inc.
Common
Stockholders(1)
 
     Revenue      Net Income (Loss)
Attributable to
Amedisys, Inc.
     Basic      Diluted  

2014:

           

1st Quarter(2)(3)

   $ 298.7      $ (12.4    $ (0.39    $ (0.39

2nd Quarter(4)(5)(6)

     305.0        7.6        0.24        0.23  

3rd Quarter(6)(7)

     300.3        8.4        0.26        0.26  

4th Quarter(2)

     300.5        9.1        0.28        0.28  
  

 

 

    

 

 

       
   $ 1,204.5      $ 12.8      $ 0.39      $ 0.39  
  

 

 

    

 

 

       

2013:

           

1st Quarter(8)

   $ 328.6      $ 2.7      $ 0.09      $ 0.09  

2nd Quarter(8)(9)

     315.9        1.8        0.06        0.06  

3rd Quarter(8)(9)(10)

     301.3        (91.1      (2.89      (2.89

4th Quarter(8)(9)

     303.5        (9.6      (0.30      (0.30
  

 

 

    

 

 

       
   $ 1,249.3      $ (96.2    $ (3.08    $ (3.08
  

 

 

    

 

 

       

 

(1)

Because of the method used in calculating per share data, the quarterly per share data may not necessarily total to the per share data as computed for the entire year.

(2)

During the first and fourth quarters of 2014, we recognized non-cash other intangibles impairment charges of $1.4 million and $0.6 million, net of income taxes.

(3)

During the first quarter of 2014, we recorded charges for the accrual of various relators’ attorneys’ fees and expenses in connection with the settlement agreement to resolve the U.S. Department of Justice investigation and the Stark Law Self-Referral matter and exit and restructuring activity costs. Net of income taxes, these charges amounted to $2.4 million and $6.1 million, respectively.

(4)

During the second quarter of 2014, we recorded an accrual related to an OIG Self-Disclosure matter. Net of income taxes, this charge amounted to $0.9 million.

(5)

During the second quarter of 2014, we recorded a software write-off in the amount of $0.9 million, net of income taxes.

(6)

Our results for the three months ended June 30, 2014, included a gain related to the sale of care centers in the amount of $1.3 million, net of income taxes. Our results for the three months ended September 30, 2014, included a loss related to the disposal of our in-patient facility in the amount of $0.3 million, net of income taxes.

(7)

During the third quarter of 2014, we recorded a charge related to the write-off of deferred financing fees in the amount of $0.3 million, net of income taxes.

(8)

During each of the four quarters of 2013, we incurred certain costs associated with the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Investigative Demand and other legal matters. Net of income taxes, these costs amounted to $1.2 million, $1.0 million, $0.6 million and $0.5 million for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2013, June 30, 2013, September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

(9)

During the second, third and fourth quarters of 2013, we recognized non-cash goodwill and other intangibles impairment charges of $1.4 million, $0.9 million and $3.5 million, net of income taxes.

(10)

During the third quarter of 2013, we recorded a charge for the accrual of the U.S. Department of Justice settlement in the amount of $93.9 million, net of income taxes. Additionally, our results included proceeds received from our Directors’ & Officers’ insurance in the amount of $3.4 million, net of income taxes.

 

92


Table of Contents

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We have established disclosure controls and procedures which are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, disclosed and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. This information is also accumulated and communicated to our management and Board of Directors to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

In connection with the preparation of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as of December 31, 2014, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act.

Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2014, the end of the period covered by this Annual Report.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over our financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on our evaluation under the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework , our management concluded our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2014.

Our internal control system is designed to provide reasonable assurance to our management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

KPMG LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited our consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K, has issued a report on our internal control over financial reporting, which is included herein.

Changes in Internal Controls

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) that have occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2014, that have materially impacted, or are reasonably likely to materially impact, our internal control over financial reporting.

Inherent Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls

Our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls or our internal controls over financial reporting will prevent or detect all errors and all

 

93


Table of Contents

fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be met. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Further, because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Projections of any evaluation of controls’ effectiveness to future periods are subject to risks. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies and procedures. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and, based on an evaluation of our controls and procedures, our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer concluded our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level as of December 2014, the end of the period covered by this Annual Report.

 

94


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Amedisys, Inc.:

We have audited Amedisys, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) . Amedisys, Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Amedisys, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992), issued by COSO.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Amedisys, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, and our report dated March 4, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG LLP        

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

March 4, 2015

 

95


Table of Contents

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2015 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the year ended December 31, 2014.

Code of Conduct and Ethics

We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to all of our directors, officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. This code of ethics, which is entitled Code of Ethical Business Conduct, is posted at our internet website, http://www.amedisys.com. Any amendments to, or waivers of the code of ethics will be disclosed on our website promptly following the date of such amendment or waiver.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2015 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the year ended December 31, 2014.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2015 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the year ended December 31, 2014.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2015 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the year ended December 31, 2014.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2015 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

96


Table of Contents

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

(a)

     1.       Financial Statements   
      All financial statements as set forth under Part II, Item 8 of this report.   
     2.       Financial Statement Schedules   
      There are no financial statement schedules included in this report as they are either not applicable or included in the financial statements.   
     3.       Exhibits   
      The Exhibits are listed in the Index of Exhibits Required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K included herewith, which is incorporated by reference.   

 

97


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

A MEDISYS , I NC .
By:   / S /    P AUL B. K USSEROW        
  Paul B. Kusserow,
  President, Chief Executive Officer and
  Member of the Board

Date: March 4, 2015

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated:

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/ S /    P AUL B. K USSEROW

Paul B. Kusserow

  

President, Chief Executive Officer
and Member of the Board (Principal
Executive Officer)

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    D ALE E. R EDMAN

Dale E. Redman

  

Interim Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    S COTT G. G INN

Scott G. Ginn

  

Senior Vice President of Accounting
and Controller (Principal Accounting
Officer)

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    L INDA J. H ALL

Linda J. Hall

  

Director

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    R ONALD A. L ABORDE

Ronald A. LaBorde

  

Vice Chairman and Member of the
Board

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    J AKE L. N ETTERVILLE

Jake L. Netterville

  

Director

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    P ETER F. R ICCHIUTI

Peter F. Ricchiuti

  

Director

  March 4, 2015

/ S /    D ONALD A. W ASHBURN

Donald A. Washburn

  

Non-Executive Chairman of the
Board

  March 4, 2015

/s/    N ATHANIEL M. Z ILKHA

Nathaniel M. Zilkha

  

Director

  March 4, 2015

 

98


Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX

The exhibits marked with the cross symbol (†) are filed and the exhibits marked with a double cross (††) are furnished with this Form 10-K. Any exhibits marked with the asterisk symbol (*) are management contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements filed pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iii) of Regulation S-K.

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
3.1   

Composite of Certificate of Incorporation of the Company inclusive of all amendments through June 14, 2007

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2007

   0-24260    3.1
3.2   

Composite of By-Laws of the Company inclusive of all amendments through February 24, 2014

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    3.2
4.1   

Common Stock Specimen

  

The Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed August 20, 2007

   333-145582    4.8
10.1   

Form of Director Indemnification Agreement dated February 12, 2009

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008

   0-24260    10.1
10.2*   

Amended and Restated Amedisys, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan dated June 7, 2012

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 8, 2012

   0-24260    10.1
10.3*   

Composite Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (inclusive of Plan amendments dated June 7, 2012 and October 25, 2012 and the full text of the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan)

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    10.3
10.4*   

Form of Nonvested Stock Award Agreement Issued under the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2008

   0-24260    10.3
10.5*   

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement Issued under the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2008

   0-24260    10.4
†10.6*   

Form of Stock Option Award Agreement Issued under the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

        

 

99


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
†10.7*   

Form of Performance Stock Option Award Agreement Issued under the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

        
† 10.8   

Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement Issued under the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

        
† 10.9*   

Form of Restricted Performance Stock Award Agreement Issued under the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan

        
10.10*   

Composite Amedisys, Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan (inclusive of amendments dated June 10, 2004, June 8, 2006 and June 22, 2006 and the full text of the Amedisys, Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan)

  

The Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed June 22, 2007

   333-143967    4.2
10.11*   

Composite Director’s Stock Option Plan (inclusive of Plan amendments dated June 10, 2004, and the full text of the Directors Stock Option Plan)

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005

   0-24260    10.4
† 10.12*   

Employment Agreement dated December 11, 1014 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Paul B. Kusserow

        
10.13.1*   

Employment Agreement dated November 1, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Ronald A. LaBorde

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 2, 2011

   0-24260    10.1
10.13.2*   

Amendment No. 1 dated December 29, 2011 to Employment Agreement dated November 1, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Ronald A. LaBorde

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 30, 2011

   0-24260    10.2
10.13.3*   

Amendment No. 2 dated December 19, 2012 to Employment Agreement dated November 1, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Ronald A. LaBorde

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    10.10.3
10.13.4*   

Amendment No. 3 dated May 1, 2014 to

Employment Agreement dated November 1, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding,

L.L.C. and Ronald A. LaBorde

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.4

 

100


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
10.14*   

Agreement by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Dale E. Redman dated as of March 24, 2014

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 19, 2014

   0-24260    99.1
10.15.1*   

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Jeffrey D. Jeter

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 7, 2011

   0-24260    10.2
10.15.2*   

Amendment No. 1 dated December 19, 2012 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Jeffrey D. Jeter

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    10.11.12
10.15.3*   

Amendment No. 2 dated May 1, 2014 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding L.L.C. and Jeffrey D. Jeter

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.6
10.16.1*   

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and David R. Bucey

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 27, 2010

   0-24260    10.2
10.16.2*   

Amendment No. 1 dated January 3, 2011 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and David R. Bucey

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 7, 2011

   0-24260    10.7
10.16.3*   

Amendment No. 2 dated December 19, 2012 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and David R. Bucey

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    10.12.3
10.16.4*   

Amendment No. 3 dated May 1, 2014 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and David R. Bucey

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.7
10.17.1*   

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Michael O. Fleming, M.D.

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 27, 2010

   0-24260    10.1

 

101


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
10.17.2*   

Amendment No. 1 dated January 3, 2011 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Michael O. Fleming, M.D.

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 7, 2011

   0-24260    10.6
10.17.3*   

Amendment No. 2 dated December 19, 2012 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Michael O. Fleming, M.D.

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    10.12.3
10.17.4*   

Amendment No. 3 dated May 1, 2014 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated July 23, 2010 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Michael O. Fleming, M.D.

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.5
10.18.1*   

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and William F. Borne

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 30, 2011

   0-24260    10.1
10.18.2*   

Amendment No. 1 dated December 29, 2011 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and William F. Borne

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 30, 2011

   0-24260    10.1
10.18.3*   

Amendment No. 2 dated December 19, 2012 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and William F. Borne

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013

   0-24260    10.9.3
10.18.4*   

Letter Agreement dated as of February 24, 2014 regarding the Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated January 3, 2011, as further amended on December 29, 2011 and December 19, 2012, by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and William F. Borne

  

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2014

   0-24260    10.1
10.19*   

Retention Bonus Agreement dated April 5, 2012 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and William F. Borne

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2012

   0-24260    10.1

 

102


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
10.20*   

Retention Bonus Agreement dated April 5, 2012 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Jeffrey D. Jeter

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2012

   0-24260    10.2
10.21*   

Retention Bonus Agreement dated April 5, 2012 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and Michael O. Fleming, M.D.

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2012

   0-24260    10.3
10.22*   

Retention Bonus Agreement dated April 5, 2012 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and David R. Bucey

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2012

   0-24260    10.4
10.23.1   

Credit Agreement dated October 26, 2012 among Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as co-borrowers, the several banks and other financial institutions party thereto from time to time, BOKF, NA DBA Bank of Texas, Compass Bank, Fifth Third Bank and RBS Citizens, N.A., as Documentation Agents, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 30, 2012

   0-24260    10.1
10.23.2   

First Amendment and Limited Waiver dated as of September 4, 2013 to the Credit Agreement dated October 26, 2012 among Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as co-borrowers, the several banks and other financial institutions party thereto from time to time, BOKF, NA DBA Bank of Texas, Compass Bank, Fifth Third Bank and RBS Citizens, N.A., as Documentation Agents, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2013

   0-24260    10.1.1

 

103


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
10.23.3   

Second Amendment dated as of November 11, 2013 to the Credit Agreement dated October 26, 2012 among Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as co-borrowers, the several banks and other financial institutions party thereto from time to time, BOKF, NA DBA Bank of Texas, Compass Bank, Fifth Third Bank and RBS Citizens, N.A., as Documentation Agents, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2013

   0-24260    10.1.2
10.23.4   

Third Amendment dated as of April 17, 2014 to the Credit Agreement dated October 26, 2012 among Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as co-borrowers, the several banks and other financial institutions party thereto from time to time, BOKF, NA DBA Bank of Texas, Compass Bank, Fifth Third Bank and RBS Citizens, N.A., as Documentation Agents, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2014

   0-24260    10.3
10.23.5   

Fourth Amendment dated as of July 28, 2014 to the Credit Agreement dated October 26, 2012 among Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as co-borrowers, the several banks and other financial institutions party thereto from time to time, BOKF, NA DBA Bank of Texas, Compass Bank, Fifth Third Bank and RBS Citizens, N.A., as Documentation Agents, Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.1.2

 

104


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
10.24   

Security and Pledge Agreement dated as of November 11, 2013, among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., the Guarantors party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., not in its individual capacity but solely as Administrative Agent

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2013

   0-24260    10.2
10.25   

Second Lien Credit Agreement dated as of July 28, 2014 by and among Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., as co-borrowers, the banks and other financial institutions or entities from time to time parties thereto as lenders, and Cortland Capital Market Services LLC, as Administrative Agent

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.8
10.26   

Second Lien Security and Pledge Agreement dated as of July 28, 2014 by and among Amedisys, Inc., Amedisys Holding, L.L.C, the guarantors party thereto and Cortland Capital Market Services LLC, not in its individual capacity, but solely as collateral agent for the secured parties

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.9
10.27   

Intercreditor Agreement dated as of July 28, 2014 by and among JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent for the first priority secured parties, Cortland Capital Market Services LLC, as Administrative Agent for the second priority secured parties, and the direct and indirect subsidiaries of Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. from time to time party thereto

  

The Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014

   0-24260    10.10
10.28   

Settlement Agreement effective April 23, 2014 by and among (a) the United States of America, acting through the United States Department of Justice and on Behalf of the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, (b) Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C. and (c) the various Relators named therein

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 24, 2014

   0-24260    10.1

 

105


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Document Description

  

Report or Registration Statement

   SEC File or
Registration
Number
   Exhibit
or Other
Reference
10.29   

Corporate Integrity Agreement effective April 22, 2014 between the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services and Amedisys, Inc. and Amedisys Holding, L.L.C.

  

The Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 24, 2014

   0-24260    10.2
† 21.1   

Subsidiaries of the Registrant

        
† 23.1   

Consent of KPMG LLP

        
† 31.1   

Certification of Paul B. Kusserow, President and Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer), pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

        
† 31.2   

Certification of Dale E. Redman, Interim Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

        
†† 32.1   

Certification of Paul B. Kusserow, President and Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer), pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

        
††32.2   

Certification of Dale E. Redman, Interim Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

        
††101.INS   

XBRL Instance

        
††101.SCH   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

        
††101.CAL   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

        
††101.DEF   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

        
††101.LAB   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document

        
††101.PRE   

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

        

 

106

Exhibit 10.6

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER

THE AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

This Stock Option Agreement (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of [Date] (the “ Grant Date ”), is by and between Amedisys, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Company ”), and [Name] (the “ Award Recipient ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Plan (as defined below).

RECITALS

WHEREAS , the Company has established and maintains its 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”) for the benefit of its employees;

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient is [insert description of relationship of Award Recipient to Company] ;

WHEREAS , [pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement by and between the Award Recipient and the Company dated                     (the “ Employment Agreement ”)] , the Company wishes to grant to the Award Recipient Non-Qualified Stock Options (“Options”) under the terms of the Plan, subject to certain restrictions and limitations; and

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient desires to receive a grant of such Options from the Company;

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the promises and mutual agreements contained herein, the adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Award Recipient agree as follows:

 

  1. Grant of Options .

 

  (a) Number of Options and Exercise Price . The Company hereby grants to the Award Recipient, effective as of the Grant Date, [Number] Options under the Plan, each such Option contingently entitling the Award Recipient to purchase one share of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “ Stock ”), at an exercise price of [insert closing market price on grant date] per share (the “ Exercise Price ”), subject to the vesting schedules and other terms and conditions set forth below. Unless and until the Options will have vested pursuant to Section 1(b) of this Agreement, the Award Recipient will have no right to purchase any shares of Stock pursuant to Section 2 of this Agreement.

 

  (b) Vesting Schedule . Subject to Section 6 of this Agreement, the Options granted under Section 1(a) shall vest, if at all, in accordance with the following schedule: [insert vesting schedule] (each such date, a “ Vesting Date ”), provided that on each such Vesting Date, the Award Recipient is still employed by the Company. For avoidance of doubt, [ except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement,] there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only on the applicable Vesting Date pursuant to this Section 1(b).

 

  2. Exercise of Option .

 

  (a)

Method of Exercise . The Options may be exercised (i) by giving written notice to the Company specifying the number of whole shares of Stock to be purchased and accompanying such notice with payment therefor in full (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction) either (A) in cash, (B) by delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having a Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the aggregate purchase price payable by reason of such exercise, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock that would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy such obligation, (D) in cash by a

 

1


  broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) a combination of (A), (B) and (C) and (ii) by executing such documents as the Company may reasonably request. [Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to pay such purchase price shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient.] No shares of Stock shall be issued and no certificate representing Stock shall be delivered until the full purchase price therefor and any withholding taxes thereon, as described in Section 8, have been paid (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction).

 

  (b) Transfer of Shares . No shares of Stock will be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise compiles with relevant provisions of law (including federal and state securities laws) and the requirements of any stock exchange upon which the Stock may then be listed.

 

  3. Type of Option . This Option is a Non-Qualified Stock Option and is not intended to be treated as a stock option described in subsection (b) of Section 422 of the Code.

 

  4. Term of Option/ Expiration Date . The term of this Option shall be for a period of ten (10) years from the Grant Date set forth above. Subject to Section 6, this Option will terminate upon the termination of the Award Recipient’s employment with the Company. [If such termination is not for Cause (as defined in the Employment Agreement), the Award Recipient will have until the earlier of {insert date that is 10 years from the date of grant} or the 90 th day following the Award Recipient’s termination of employment to exercise any options that were vested as of the date of termination of employment. If the Award Recipient’s employment is terminated for Cause, this entire Option shall terminate immediately upon his termination .]

 

  5. Restrictions on Transfer . During the lifetime of the Award Recipient, the Options may be exercised only by the Award Recipient. This Agreement and the Options are not assignable or transferable other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on the Award Recipient’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of the Award Recipient’s estate. Any attempt to transfer the Award Recipient’s rights under this Agreement or the Options granted hereby other than in accordance with the provisions of this Section 5 shall cause all rights of the Award Recipient hereunder to be immediately forfeited.

 

  6. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . [All Options and underlying shares of Stock shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the Employment Agreement.]

 

  7. Rights as Stockholder . The Award Recipient shall have none of the rights of a stockholder with respect to any Stock subject to the Option until such Stock shall be issued upon the exercise of the Option.

 

  8. Withholding . Prior to the issuance or delivery of any shares of Stock in connection with the exercise of the Options, payment must be made by the Award Recipient of any federal, state, local or other taxes that may be required to be withheld or paid in connection with such exercise. The Award Recipient may satisfy any such obligation by any of the following means: (A) a cash payment to the Company, (B) delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date that the amount of tax is to be withheld or paid (the “ Tax Date ”), equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock which would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the Tax Date, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (D) a cash payment by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) any combination of (A), (B) and (C). Shares of Stock to be delivered or withheld may not have an aggregate Fair Market Value in excess of the amount determined by applying the minimum statutory withholding rate. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to satisfy such an obligation shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient.

 

2


  9. Plan Incorporated by Reference . This grant of Options is made pursuant to the Plan, and in all respects will be interpreted in accordance with the Plan. The Compensation Committee has the authority to interpret and construe this Agreement pursuant to the terms of the Plan, and its decisions are conclusive as to any questions arising hereunder. The Award Recipient hereby acknowledges receipt from the Company of a copy of the current version of the Plan, which shall be deemed to be incorporated in and form a part hereof. The Award Recipient acknowledges that in the event of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, as the same may be amended and in effect from time to time, the terms of the Plan shall prevail.

 

  10. No Employment or Other Rights . This grant of Options does not confer upon the Award Recipient any right to be continued in the employment of the Company or any subsidiary or interfere in any way with the right of the Company to terminate the Award Recipient’s employment at any time, for any reason, with or without cause, or to decrease the Award Recipient’s compensation or benefits. This grant of Options is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive additional Options or other benefits in lieu of Options in the future.

 

  11. Applicable Law . The validity, construction, interpretation and effect of this Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Award Recipient will be addressed to the Award Recipient at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the Plan contain the entire agreement between the Award Recipient and the Company regarding the grant of Options and supersede all prior arrangements or understandings [, other than the Employment Agreement,] with respect thereto.

 

  14. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  15. Community Property . Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, the Award Recipient shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his spouse with respect to this Agreement, the Options and any shares of Stock purchased and delivered in accordance with Section 2 or this Agreement, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if the Award Recipient was the sole owner of this Agreement and the shares of Stock. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[Signature page follows below]

 

3


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Award Recipient has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

DATE OF GRANT: [Date]

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

[Name and Title – Authorized Signatory]
AWARD RECIPIENT

 

[Name]

.

 

4

Exhibit 10.7

FORM OF PERFORMANCE STOCK OPTION AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER

THE AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

This Stock Option Agreement (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of [Date] (the “ Grant Date ”), is by and between Amedisys, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Company ”), and [Name] (the “ Award Recipient ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Plan (as defined below).

RECITALS

WHEREAS , the Company has established and maintains its 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”) for the benefit of its employees;

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient is [insert description of relationship of Award Recipient to Company] ;

WHEREAS , [pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement by and between the Award Recipient and the Company dated                      (the “ Employment Agreement ”)], the Company wishes to grant to the Award Recipient Non-Qualified Stock Options (“ Options ”) under the terms of the Plan, subject to certain restrictions and limitations; and

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient desires to receive a grant of such Options from the Company;

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the promises and mutual agreements contained herein, the adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Award Recipient agree as follows:

 

  1. Grant of Options .

 

  (a) Number of Options and Exercise Price . The Company hereby grants to the Award Recipient, effective as of the Grant Date, [Number] Options under the Plan, each such Option contingently entitling the Award Recipient to purchase one share of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “ Stock ”), at an exercise price of [insert closing market price on grant date] per share (the “ Exercise Price ”), subject to the vesting schedules and other terms and conditions set forth below. Unless and until the Options will have vested pursuant to Section 1(b) of this Agreement, the Award Recipient will have no right to purchase any shares of Stock pursuant to Section 2 of this Agreement.

 

  (b) Vesting Schedule . Subject to Section 6 of this Agreement, the Options granted under Section 1(a) shall vest, if at all, based on the certification by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Compensation Committee ”) of the achievement of the Performance Measures set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto, provided that on each applicable Vesting Date (as defined in Exhibit A ), the Award Recipient is still employed by the Company. Within 60 days following the end of each Performance Period (as defined in Exhibit A ), the Compensation Committee will determine whether the Performance Measures have been satisfied and notify the Award Recipient. For avoidance of doubt, [except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement,] there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only following the Compensation Committee’s certification that the Performance Measures have been achieved.

 

  2. Exercise of Option .

 

  (a)

Method of Exercise . The Options may be exercised (i) by giving written notice to the Company specifying the number of whole shares of Stock to be purchased and accompanying such notice with payment therefor in full (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction) either (A) in cash, (B) by delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having a

 

1


  Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the aggregate purchase price payable by reason of such exercise, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock that would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy such obligation, (D) in cash by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) a combination of (A), (B) and (C) and (ii) by executing such documents as the Company may reasonably request. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to pay such purchase price shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient. No shares of Stock shall be issued and no certificate representing Stock shall be delivered until the full purchase price therefor and any withholding taxes thereon, as described in Section 8, have been paid (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction).

 

  (b) Transfer of Shares . No shares of Stock will be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise compiles with relevant provisions of law (including federal and state securities laws) and the requirements of any stock exchange upon which the Stock may then be listed.

 

  3. Type of Option . This Option is a Non-Qualified Stock Option and is not intended to be treated as a stock option described in subsection (b) of Section 422 of the Code.

 

  4. Term of Option . The term of this Option shall be for a period of ten (10) years from the Grant Date set forth above. Subject to Section 6, this Option will terminate upon the termination of the Award Recipient’s employment with the Company. [If such termination is not for Cause (as defined in the Employment Agreement), the Award Recipient will have until the earlier of {insert date that is 10 years from the date of grant} or the 90 th day following the Award Recipient’s termination of employment to exercise any options that were vested as of the date of termination of employment. If the Award Recipient’s employment is terminated for Cause, this entire Option shall terminate immediately upon his termination.]

 

  5. Restrictions on Transfer . During the lifetime of the Award Recipient, the Options may be exercised only by the Award Recipient. This Agreement and the Options are not assignable or transferable other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on the Award Recipient’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of the Award Recipient’s estate. Any attempt to transfer the Award Recipient’s rights under this Agreement or the Options granted hereby other than in accordance with the provisions of this Section 5 shall cause all rights of the Award Recipient hereunder to be immediately forfeited.

 

  6. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . [All Options and underlying shares of Stock shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the Employment Agreement.]

 

  7. Rights as Stockholder . The Award Recipient shall have none of the rights of a stockholder with respect to any Stock subject to the Option until such Stock shall be issued upon the exercise of the Option.

 

  8.

Withholding . Prior to the issuance or delivery of any shares of Stock in connection with the exercise of the Options, payment must be made by the Award Recipient of any federal, state, local or other taxes that may be required to be withheld or paid in connection with such exercise. The Award Recipient may satisfy any such obligation by any of the following means: (A) a cash payment to the Company, (B) delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date that the amount of tax is to be withheld or paid (the “ Tax Date ”), equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock which would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the Tax Date, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (D) a cash payment by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) any combination of (A), (B) and (C). Shares of Stock to be delivered or withheld may not have an aggregate Fair Market Value

 

2


  in excess of the amount determined by applying the minimum statutory withholding rate. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to satisfy such an obligation shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient.

 

  9. Plan Incorporated by Reference . This grant of Options is made pursuant to the Plan, and in all respects will be interpreted in accordance with the Plan. The Compensation Committee has the authority to interpret and construe this Agreement pursuant to the terms of the Plan, and its decisions are conclusive as to any questions arising hereunder. The Award Recipient hereby acknowledges receipt from the Company of a copy of the current version of the Plan, which shall be deemed to be incorporated in and form a part hereof. The Award Recipient acknowledges that in the event of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, as the same may be amended and in effect from time to time, the terms of the Plan shall prevail.

 

  10. No Employment or Other Rights . This grant of Options does not confer upon the Award Recipient any right to be continued in the employment of the Company or any subsidiary or interfere in any way with the right of the Company to terminate the Award Recipient’s employment at any time, for any reason, with or without cause, or to decrease the Award Recipient’s compensation or benefits. This grant of Options is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive additional Options or other benefits in lieu of Options in the future.

 

  11. Applicable Law . The validity, construction, interpretation and effect of this Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Award Recipient will be addressed to the Award Recipient at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the Plan contain the entire agreement between the Award Recipient and the Company regarding the grant of Options and supersede all prior arrangements or understandings [, other than the Employment Agreement,] with respect thereto.

 

  14. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  15. Community Property . Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, the Award Recipient shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his spouse with respect to this Agreement, the Options and any shares of Stock purchased and delivered in accordance with Section 2 or this Agreement, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if the Award Recipient was the sole owner of this Agreement and the shares of Stock. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[Signature page follows below]

 

3


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Award Recipient has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

[Name and Title – Authorized Signatory]
AWARD RECIPIENT

 

[Name]

 

4


Exhibit A: Vesting Schedule for Options Subject to Performance-Based Vesting Conditions

[To be inserted]

 

A-1

Exhibit 10.8

FORM OF RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER THE

AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

Amedisys, Inc. (the “ Company ”) hereby grants to [Name] (“ Grantee ”) [ Number ] shares (the “ Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), which shall be subject to time-vesting conditions as provided in this Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) and in all respects subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meanings given them in the Plan.

 

  1. Nature of Award . This award is an award of restricted stock subject to the Plan.

 

  2. Purchase Price . Grantee shall not be required to pay the Company for the issuance of the Shares.

 

  3. Grant Date . The Shares shall be granted as of [Date] .

 

  4. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . [All Shares granted in accordance with the terms of this Agreement shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the employment agreement by and between the Grantee and the Company dated                      (the “ Employment Agreement ”)].

 

  5. Issuance of Shares . The Shares shall be issued and escrowed, pending the vesting of the Shares, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 5, 6 and 7 hereof and in accordance with the Plan, as follows:

 

  (i) Issuance . The Company shall cause the Company’s transfer agent to issue the Shares in book entry form in the name of Grantee.

 

  (ii) Escrow of Shares . The shares shall be held in escrow by the Company until such time as (a) Grantee becomes vested in the Shares in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and (b) the Company delivers Shares that have vested to Grantee.

 

  (iii) Vesting . Subject to Section 4 of this Agreement, the Shares shall vest, if at all, in accordance with the following schedule: [insert vesting schedule] (each such date, a “ Vesting Date ”), provided that on each such Vesting Date, the Grantee is still employed by the Company. For avoidance of doubt, [except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement,] there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only on the applicable Vesting Date pursuant to this Section 5(iii).

 

  (iv) Delivery . Vested Shares shall be delivered in book entry form, free of all restrictions, to Grantee or to his/her legal representative, beneficiary or heir.

 

  6. Restrictions on Issuance and Transferability . Shares may not be issued if such issuance would constitute a violation of any applicable federal or state securities or other laws or regulations or any rules or regulations of any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed. Additionally, the Shares may not be transferred, pledged, hypothecated, sold, or otherwise alienated or encumbered until such time as they are vested, delivered to Grantee by the Company and the restrictions validly removed.

 

  7. Legend . The Shares shall be issued in book entry form. The book entry (or record of ownership) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

The transferability of the shares of Common Stock held in the name of the registered owner is restricted by and the subject to the terms and conditions (including conditions of forfeiture) contained in the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan, and in an Agreement entered into between the registered owner and the Company. Copies of the Plan and the Agreement are on file in the office of the Secretary of the Company.

 

1


  8. Rights as Stockholder . Except as otherwise provided in this Section 8, during the term hereof, Grantee shall have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to the Shares, including without limitation, the right to vote such Shares. Dividends paid with respect to the Shares in cash, Common Stock or other property or rights to acquire Common Stock in the Company shall be paid to Grantee on the Vesting Date of the Shares to which the dividend relates.

 

  9. Non-Transferability of Award . During the lifetime of Grantee, the Shares may only be issued in the name of Grantee. This Agreement is not assignable or transferable otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on Grantee’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of Grantee’s estate.

 

  10. Independent Legal and Tax Advice . Grantee has had the opportunity to obtain independent legal and tax advice regarding the grant and exercise of this Agreement and the disposition of any Shares acquired thereby. By executing this Agreement, Grantee hereby agrees to remit when due any federal or state income or other taxes, which are required to be withheld or that may otherwise be levied against Grantee as a result of this Agreement. Grantee may satisfy this obligation to remit taxes in whole or in part by electing (the “ Election ”) to have the Company withhold Shares upon vesting, which Shares shall have a value equal to the dollar amount required to be withheld or paid to satisfy such tax obligations. For purposes of this Section 10, the minimum statutory tax withholding rate coincides with the rates applicable to supplemental taxable income in all relevant taxing jurisdictions (e.g., for federal, state and local tax purposes, including payroll taxes). No Shares may be withheld to pay tax obligations in excess of the minimum statutory tax withholding requirements. The value of the Shares withheld shall be based on the Fair Market Value of Shares on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld or paid shall be determined (the “ Tax Date ”). Each Election must be made prior to the Tax Date. The Committee may disapprove of any Election or may suspend or terminate the right to make Elections. If a Grantee makes an election under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to Shares, an Election is not permitted to be made.

 

  11. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Grantee will be addressed to the Grantee at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

  14. Supersedes Prior Agreements . This Agreement shall supersede and replace all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Company and Grantee [, other than the Employment Agreement,] regarding the grant of any nonvested stock contemplated hereby.

 

  15. Community Property . Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, Grantee shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his/her spouse with respect to this Agreement and the Shares, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if Grantee was the sole owner of this Agreement and the Shares. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Grantee has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

[Name and Title – Authorized Signatory]
GRANTEE

 

[Name]

 

3

Exhibit 10.9

FORM OF RESTRICTED PERFORMANCE STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER

THE AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

Amedisys, Inc. (the “ Company ”) hereby grants to [ Name ] (“ Grantee ”) [Number] shares (the “ Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), which shall be subject to performance-vesting conditions as provided in Exhibit A of this Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) and in all respects subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meanings given them in the Plan.

 

  1. Nature of Award . This award is an award of restricted stock subject to the Plan.

 

  2. Purchase Price . Grantee shall not be required to pay the Company for the issuance of the Shares.

 

  3. Grant Date . The Shares shall be granted as of [date] .

 

  4. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . [All Shares granted in accordance with the terms of this Agreement shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the employment agreement by and between the Grantee and the Company dated                    (the “ Employment Agreement ”)] .

 

  5. Issuance of Shares . The Shares shall be issued and escrowed, pending the vesting of the Shares, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 5, 6 and 7 hereof and in accordance with the Plan, as follows:

 

  (i) Issuance . The Company shall cause the Company’s transfer agent to issue the Shares in book entry form in the name of Grantee.

 

  (ii) Escrow of Shares . The shares shall be held in escrow by the Company until such time as (a) Grantee becomes vested in the Shares in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and (b) the Company delivers Shares that have vested to Grantee.

 

  (iii) Vesting . Subject to Section 4 of this Agreement, the Shares shall vest, if at all, based on the certification by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Compensation Committee ”) of the achievement of the Performance Measures set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto, provided that on each applicable Vesting Date (as defined in Exhibit A ), the Grantee is still employed by the Company. Subject to Section 4 above, within 60 days following the end of each Performance Period (as defined in Exhibit A ), the Compensation Committee will determine whether the Performance Measures have been satisfied and notify the Grantee. For avoidance of doubt, [except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement,] there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only following the Compensation Committee’s certification that the Performance Measures have been achieved.

 

  (iv) Delivery . Vested Shares shall be delivered in book entry form, free of all restrictions, to Grantee or to his/her legal representative, beneficiary or heir.

 

  6. Restrictions on Issuance and Transferability . Shares may not be issued if such issuance would constitute a violation of any applicable federal or state securities or other laws or regulations or any rules or regulations of any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed. Additionally, the Shares may not be transferred, pledged, hypothecated, sold, or otherwise alienated or encumbered until such time as they are vested, delivered to Grantee by the Company and the restrictions validly removed.

 

  7. Legend . The Shares shall be issued in book entry form. The book entry (or record of ownership) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

The transferability of the shares of Common Stock held in the name of the registered owner is restricted by and the subject to the terms and conditions (including conditions of forfeiture) contained in the Amedisys,

 

1


Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan, and in an Agreement entered into between the registered owner and the Company. Copies of the Plan and the Agreement are on file in the office of the Secretary of the Company.

 

  8. Rights as Stockholder . Except as otherwise provided in this Section 8, during the term hereof, Grantee shall have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to the Shares, including without limitation, the right to vote such Shares. Dividends paid with respect to the Shares in cash, Common Stock or other property or rights to acquire Common Stock in the Company shall be paid to Grantee on the Vesting Date of the Shares to which the dividend relates.

 

  9. Non-Transferability of Award . During the lifetime of Grantee, the Shares may only be issued in the name of Grantee. This Agreement is not assignable or transferable otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on Grantee’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of Grantee’s estate.

 

  10. Independent Legal and Tax Advice . Grantee has had the opportunity to obtain independent legal and tax advice regarding the grant and exercise of this Agreement and the disposition of any Shares acquired thereby. By executing this Agreement, Grantee hereby agrees to remit when due any federal or state income or other taxes, which are required to be withheld or that may otherwise be levied against Grantee as a result of this Agreement. Grantee may satisfy this obligation to remit taxes in whole or in part by electing (the “ Election ”) to have the Company withhold Shares upon vesting, which Shares shall have a value equal to the dollar amount required to be withheld or paid to satisfy such tax obligations. For purposes of this Section 10, the minimum statutory tax withholding rate coincides with the rates applicable to suppleme ntal taxable income in all relevant taxing jurisdictions (e.g., for federal, state and local tax purposes, including payroll taxes). No Shares may be withheld to pay tax obligations in excess of the minimum statutory tax withholding requirements. The value of the Shares withheld shall be based on the Fair Market Value of Shares on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld or paid shall be determined (the “ Tax Date ”). Each Election must be made prior to the Tax Date. The Committee may disapprove of any Election or may suspend or terminate the right to make Elections. If a Grantee makes an election under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to Shares, an Election is not permitted to be made.

 

  11. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Grantee will be addressed to the Grantee at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

  14. Supersedes Prior Agreements . This Agreement shall supersede and replace all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Company and Grantee [, other than the Employment Agreement,] regarding the grant of any restricted stock contemplated hereby.

 

  15. Community Property. Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, Grantee shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his/her spouse with respect to this Agreement and the Shares, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if Grantee was the sole owner of this Agreement and the Shares. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Grantee has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

[Name and Title – Authorized Signatory]
GRANTEE

 

[Name]

 

3


Exhibit A: Vesting Schedule for Shares Subject to Performance-Based Vesting Conditions

[To be inserted]

 

A-1

Exhibit 10.12

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

BY AND AMONG

AMEDISYS, INC.,

AMEDISYS HOLDING, L.L.C.

AND

PAUL B. KUSSEROW

DATED AS OF DECEMBER 11, 2014


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

         Page No.  

Section 1.

 

Recitals. The above Recitals are incorporated herein by this reference

     1   

Section 2.

 

Definitions

     1   

Section 3.

 

Term

     3   

Section 4.

 

Title, Position, Duties and Responsibilities

     3   

Section 5.

 

Base Salary; Bonus; Equity Awards

     4   

Section 6.

 

Employee Incentive Compensation and Benefit Programs

     5   

Section 7.

 

Relocation and Travel Expenses

     5   

Section 8.

 

Reimbursement of Business and Other Expenses

     6   

Section 9.

 

Termination of Employment

     6   

Section 10.

 

Intentionally Omitted

     13   

Section 11.

 

Confidentiality; Cooperation with Regard to Litigation; Non-Disparagement; Return of Company Materials

     13   

Section 12.

 

Non-competition/Prior Employment Covenants

     15   

Section 13.

 

Non-solicitation of Employees and Customers

     16   

Section 14.

 

Standstill

     16   

Section 15.

 

Remedies

     18   

Section 16.

 

Resolution of Disputes

     18   

Section 17.

 

Indemnification

     20   

Section 18.

 

Potential Reduction in Payments

     20   

Section 19.

 

Effect of Agreement on Other Benefits

     21   

Section 20.

 

Assignability: Binding Nature; Solidary Obligations

     21   

Section 21.

 

Representation

     21   

Section 22.

 

Entire Agreement

     21   

Section 23.

 

Amendment or Waiver

     21   

Section 24.

 

Severability

     21   

Section 25.

 

Survival

     22   

Section 26.

 

Beneficiaries/References

     22   

Section 27.

 

Governing Law/Exclusive Jurisdiction

     22   

Section 28.

 

Notices

     23   

Section 29.

 

Captions

     23   

Section 30.

 

Counterparts

     23   

Section 31.

 

Section 409A Compliance

     23   

 

i


EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement” ) is made and entered into as of December 11, 2014, by and among Amedisys, Inc., a Delaware corporation having its headquarters at 5959 South Sherwood Forest Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70816 ( “Amedisys” or the “Company” ), Amedisys Holding, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company having its headquarters at 5959 South Sherwood Forest Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816 ( “Holding” ), and Paul B. Kusserow, a person of the age of majority ( “Executive” ).

RECITALS

WHEREAS , the Company and Holding desire to employ Executive as the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, and Executive desires to accept such employment, pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement;

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is mutually acknowledged, the Company, Holding and Executive (individually a “Party” and together the “Parties” ) agree to be bound in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

Section 1.        Recitals. The above Recitals are incorporated herein by this reference.

Section 2.        Definitions.

 

  (a) The terms below are used in this Agreement, including the preamble and recitals, as so defined. As used herein, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

“2014 Equity Awards” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5(c).

“2015 Equity Awards” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5(c).

“AAA” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 16.

“Agreement” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble above.

“Amedisys” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble above.

“Base Salary” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5(a).

“Beneficial Owner” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Board” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4(d).

“Cause” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(b).

“Change in Control” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“COBRA” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Code” shall mean the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or any successor provision of law, and the regulations promulgated thereunder.


“Committee” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5(a).

“Company” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble above.

“Confidential Information” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 11(c).

“Coverage Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Disability” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(a).

“Earliest Payment Date” shall mean (i) if the amount paid is subject to Section 409A of the Code and does not qualify for an exemption under Section 409A of the Code or regulations or other guidance promulgated thereunder, the fifty-second (52nd) day after Executive’s termination of employment and (ii) if the amount paid is not subject to Section 409A of the Code or qualifies for an exemption under Section 409A of the Code or regulations or other guidance promulgated thereunder, the earlier of the date in (i) above or the first date that Executive’s release of claims (as described in Section 8(i)) becomes irrevocable.

“Effective Date” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(a).

“Exchange Act” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Excise Tax” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 18(a).

“Executive” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble above.

“Fair Market Value” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 6.

“409A Payment Date” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(i).

“Good Reason” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Holding” shall have the meaning set forth in the preamble above.

“Housing and Travel Reimbursement” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 7(b).

“Net After-Tax Receipt” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 18(b).

“Party” shall have the meaning set forth in the Recitals above.

“Parties” shall have the meaning set forth in the Recitals above.

“Payments” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 18(a).

“Person” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

Relocation Reimbursement ” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 7(a).

“Restricted Area” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 12(a).

“Restricted Business” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 12(a).

 

2


“Restriction Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 12(b).

“Severance Period” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Significant Subsidiary” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(c).

“Standstill” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 14.

“Subsidiary” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 11(d).

“Target Bonus” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 5(b).

“Third Party” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 18(d).

“Term” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(a).

“Willful” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 9(b).

 

  (b) References to “Sections,” “Subsections,” and “Attachments” shall be to Sections, Subsections and Attachments, respectively, of this Agreement unless otherwise specifically provided. Any of the terms defined in Section 2(a) may, unless the context otherwise requires, be used in the singular or the plural depending on the reference. In this Agreement, “hereof,” “herein,” “hereto,” “hereunder” and the like mean and refer to this Agreement as a whole and not merely to the specific section, paragraph or clause in which the respective word appears; words importing gender include the other gender; references to “writing” include email, printing, typing lithography and other means of reproducing words in a tangible or visible form; the words “including,” “includes” and “include” shall be deemed to be followed by the words “without limitation;” references to agreements and other contractual instruments shall be deemed to include subsequent amendments, assignments, and other modifications thereto, but only to the extent such amendments, assignments and other modifications are not prohibited by the terms of this Agreement; references to Parties include their respective permitted successors and assigns; and all references to statutes and regulations shall include any amendments of same and any successor statutes and regulations.

Section 3.        Term.

The term of Executive’s employment under this Agreement (the “Term” ) shall commence on December 16, 2014 (the “Effective Date” ), and expire on March 1, 2019, unless terminated prior thereto in accordance herewith. This Agreement shall not be automatically renewable and, unless mutually extended by the Parties by an agreement in writing, shall terminate upon the expiration of the Term; provided, however, that simultaneously with the expiration of the Term and termination of this Agreement, Executive’s employment shall continue on an “at will” basis unless or until such “at will” employment is terminated by the Company or Executive by notice in writing.

Section 4.        Title, Position, Duties and Responsibilities.

 

  (a) Generally . Executive shall serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Executive shall have and perform such duties, responsibilities, and authorities as are customary for the President and Chief Executive Officer of corporations of similar

 

3


  size and businesses as the Company as they may exist from time to time and as are consistent with such positions and status. Executive shall devote all of his business time and attention (except for periods of vacation or absence due to illness and other activities permitted pursuant to Section 4(b)) and his best efforts, abilities, experience and talent to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer and for the Company’s businesses.

 

  (b) Other Activities . Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, nothing in this Agreement shall preclude Executive from (i) serving on the board of directors of one other for-profit entity after prior consultation with and approval of the Board, (ii) engaging in charitable activities and community affairs, and (iii) managing his personal investments and affairs, provided that such activities do not materially interfere with the proper performance of his duties and responsibilities under this Agreement. In addition, notwithstanding anything in this Section 4(b) to the contrary, for the period ending on the six (6) month anniversary of the Effective Date, (or such longer period as may be approved by the Board), Executive shall be permitted to continue to serve on the board of directors of two additional for-profit entities while transitioning off such boards.

 

  (c) Place of Employment . Executive’s principal place of employment shall be the corporate offices of the Company.

 

  (d) Rank of Executive Within Company . As President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Executive shall be the Company’s highest ranking executive and Executive shall report directly to the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board” ).

 

  (e) Board Membership . Until the expiration of the Term, the Company shall use its reasonable best efforts, to the extent not inconsistent with applicable laws, rules, and regulations and good governance standards, to nominate and cause the election of Executive to the Board. If Executive is not serving on the Board at any time during the Term, Executive shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement and be entitled to the remedies provided in Section 9(c) for a termination without Cause/for Good Reason. For so long as he is serving on the Board, Executive agrees to serve as a member of any committee of the Board to which he is elected. Executive agrees that upon the termination of his employment he shall also be deemed to resign from the Board and from the board of directors or equivalent governing body of any of the Company’s subsidiaries or affiliates.

Section 5.        Base Salary; Bonus; Equity Awards.

 

  (a) Base Salary . Executive shall be paid an annualized salary, payable in accordance with the regular payroll practices of the Company, of not less than Eight Hundred Seventy- Five Thousand Dollars ($875,000) ( “Base Salary” ). The Base Salary shall be reviewed for increase (but not decrease) by the Compensation Committee (the “Committee” ) of the Board no less than annually.

 

  (b) Bonus . Executive shall be eligible to participate in an annual incentive (cash bonus) plan with target award and maximum award opportunities approved from year to year by the Committee. The amount of target annual incentive approved by the Committee for any given year is herein referred to as the “Target Bonus” and subject to approval by the Committee, shall not be less than twenty-five percent (25%) of the Executive’s Base Salary. Entitlement to and payment of an annual incentive bonus is subject to the approval of the Committee.

 

4


  (c) Equity Awards .

(i) Subject to approval of the Committee, Executive will be granted, on the Effective Date, (A) 75,000 time-based restricted shares of the Company’s common stock using the form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement attached to this Agreement as Exhibit A, and (B) time-based stock options to purchase 250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock using the form of Stock Option Award Agreement attached to this Agreement as Exhibit B, (collectively, the “ 2014 Equity Awards ”).

(ii) Subject to approval of the Committee, during the first quarter of calendar year 2015, Executive will be granted (A) 75,000 performance-based restricted shares of the Company’s common stock using the form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement attached to this Agreement as Exhibit C, and (B) performance-based stock options to purchase 250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock using the form of Stock Option Award Agreement attached to this Agreement as Exhibit D (collectively, the “2015 Equity Awards” ).

(iii) Unless his employment is terminated for Cause, Executive shall have until the earlier of (A) the expiration date of any option granted pursuant to this Agreement and (B) 90 days following termination of employment in which to exercise any of such options that were vested on the date of termination. If his employment is terminated for Cause, there shall be no post-termination exercise period and all vested and unvested options shall terminate immediately upon termination of employment.

(iv) Unless vesting is accelerated pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, the 2014 Equity Awards and the 2015 Equity Awards will be forfeited upon a termination of the Executive’s employment with the Company, provided that any option award that is vested as of the date of termination may continue to be exercised post-termination to the extent contemplated by Section 5(c)(iv).

(v) Upon a Change in Control, the 2014 Equity Awards and 2015 Equity Awards shall vest in full.

Section 6.        Employee Incentive Compensation and Benefit Programs.

While Executive remains employed by the Company, Executive shall be entitled to participate, consistent with his rank and position (to the extent applicable), in addition to the incentive plans referenced in Section 5, in such other compensation (other than equity compensation), pension and welfare benefit plans and programs of the Company as are made available to the Company’s senior level executives or to its employees generally, as such plans or programs may be in effect from time to time, including, without limitation, deferral, health, medical, dental, long-term disability, travel accident and life insurance plans, subject to eligibility. The Company, in its sole discretion, expressly retains the right to modify or terminate any such compensation, pension and welfare benefit plans and programs referenced in this Section 6. In no case shall Executive be awarded any options or stock appreciation rights with an exercise price less than 100% of Fair Market Value. For purposes of this Agreement, “Fair Market Value” shall be equal to the price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant of such award as determined pursuant to the related award and underlying equity plan.

Section 7.        Relocation and Travel Expenses

 

  (a)

Relocation . The Company shall reimburse the Executive for reasonable and necessary costs incurred by the Executive to move his household possessions to a primary residence

 

5


  within a reasonable commuting distance to the Company’s principal corporate offices ( “Relocation Reimbursement” ), in accordance with the Company’s relocation expense policies, up to a maximum amount of $20,000, subject to the Executive’s timely presentation of IRS-acceptable itemized and documented accounts of such expenses. If within the first twelve (12) months after the Effective Date, the Executive’s employment terminates due to the Executive’s resignation other than for Good Reason (as defined in Section 9(c) below) or for Cause (as defined in Section 9(b) below), the Executive shall promptly repay to the Company the entire Relocation Reimbursement.

 

  (b) Housing & Travel . For a period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the eighteen (18) month anniversary of the Effective Date, the Company shall reimburse the Executive for (i) reasonable and necessary costs incurred by the Executive to maintain his residence within a reasonable commuting distance of the Company’s principal corporate offices and (ii) reasonable and necessary costs incurred by the Executive, his spouse and/or his children to travel between Santa Barbara, California and the Company’s principal corporate offices ( “Housing and Travel Reimbursement” ), up to a maximum amount of $10,000 per calendar month, after the Executive’s timely presentation of IRS- acceptable itemized and documented accounts of such expenses.

 

  (c) Legal Fees . No later than March 15, 2015, the Company shall reimburse Executive for his reasonable legal costs incurred in connection with negotiating this Agreement up to a maximum of $15,000.

Section 8.         Reimbursement of Business and Other Expenses.

Executive is authorized to incur reasonable expenses in carrying out his duties and responsibilities under this Agreement, and the Company shall promptly reimburse him for all such business expenses incurred in connection therewith, subject to timely presentation of IRS-acceptable itemized and documented accounts of such expenses in accordance with the Company’s business expense reimbursement policies. To the extent subject to Section 409A of the Code, all such reimbursements under Sections 7 and 8 will be made in any event no later than the last day of Executive’s taxable year following the taxable year in which the expense was incurred. The expenses reimbursed by the Company during any taxable year of Executive will not affect the expenses reimbursed by the Company in another taxable year. Further, this right to reimbursement is not subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit.

Section 9.         Termination of Employment.

 

  (a) Termination Due to Death or Disability . In the event Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated due to his death or Disability (as defined below), Executive, his estate or his beneficiaries, as the case may be, shall be entitled to, and his or their sole remedies under this Agreement shall be:

(i) Base Salary through the date of death or Disability, which shall be paid in a single lump sum not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment as a result of death or Disability;

(ii) the balance of any incentive awards earned as of December 31 of the prior year (but not yet paid) and not subject to Section 409A of the Code, which shall be paid in a single lump sum not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment as a result of death or Disability;

 

6


(iii) the immediate vesting of all unvested equity awards held by Executive as of the date of death or Disability; and

(iv) all other or additional benefits then due or earned in accordance with applicable plans and programs of the Company.

For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Disability” has the same meaning as provided in the long-term disability plan or policy maintained (or, if applicable, most recently maintained) by the Company or, if applicable, a Subsidiary (as defined below) or affiliate of the Company for Executive, whether or not Executive actually receives disability benefits under the plan or policy. If no long-term disability plan or policy was ever maintained on behalf of Executive, “Disability” means “Permanent and Total Disability” as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code. In a dispute, the determination whether Executive has suffered a Disability will be made by the Committee and may be supported by the advice of a physician competent in the area to which that Disability relates.

 

  (b) Termination by the Company for Cause .

 

  (i) “Cause” shall mean:

(A) Executive’s willful and material breach of Sections 11, 12, 13 or 14 of this Agreement;

(B) Executive is convicted of, or enters a plea of nolo contendere to, a felony involving fraud, theft, embezzlement, dishonesty or moral turpitude;

(C) Executive engages in conduct that constitutes willful gross neglect or willful gross misconduct in carrying out his duties under this Agreement, willful violation of the Company’s code of conduct, or willfully fails to follow reasonable and lawful directives of the Board which are consistent with this Agreement resulting, in either case, in material harm to the financial condition or reputation of the Company, provided that Executive will be given 30 calendar days’ written notice and opportunity to cure such breach, to the extent capable of being cured; or

(D) Executive engages in an act or series of acts constituting misconduct resulting in a misstatement of the Company’s financial statements due to material non- compliance with any financial reporting requirement within the meaning of Section 304 of The Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.

For purposes of this Agreement, an act or failure to act on Executive’s part shall be considered “willful” if it was done or omitted to be done by him intentionally and not in good faith, and shall not include any act or failure to act resulting from any incapacity of Executive.

(ii) A termination for Cause shall not take effect until a determination by the Board that, in its judgment, grounds for termination of Executive for Cause exist, and Executive is provided a written statement of the grounds for his termination and the reasons supporting such stated grounds.

 

7


(iii) In the event the Company terminates Executive’s employment for Cause, he shall be entitled to:

(A) Base Salary through the date of the termination of his employment for Cause, which shall be paid in a single lump sum at the time set out in Section 9(i) and (k) if such provisions are applicable with respect to such payment, or, if such provisions are not applicable, not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment;

(B) any incentive awards earned as of December 31 of the prior year (but not yet paid) and not subject to Section 409A of the Code, which shall be paid in a single lump sum not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment; and

(C) other or additional benefits then due or earned in accordance with applicable plans or programs of the Company.

 

  (c) Termination by the Company Without Cause or Termination by Executive With Good Reason Prior to a Change in Control . In the event Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated without Cause (meaning Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company for any reason other than Cause (as defined in Section 9(b)), other than due to death or Disability, which termination shall be effective as of the date specified by the Company in a written notice to Executive, or in the event Executive terminates his employment with Good Reason (as defined below), in either case prior to a Change in Control (as defined below), Executive shall be entitled to:

(i) Base Salary through the date of termination of Executive’s employment, which shall be paid in a single lump sum at the time set out in Section 9(i) and (k) if such provisions are applicable with respect to such payment, or, if such provisions are not applicable, not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment;

(ii) an amount equal to two (2) times the sum of (A) the Base Salary, at the annualized rate in effect on the date of termination of Executive’s employment (or in the event a reduction in Base Salary is a basis for a termination with Good Reason, then the Base Salary in effect immediately prior to such reduction), and (B) the greater of (x) an amount equal to the cash bonus earned for the previous fiscal year or (y) Two Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($218,750), which amount shall be payable in substantially equal monthly installments in accordance with the Company’s payroll practices for a period of 24 months beginning with the calendar month that immediately follows the Earliest Payment Date (the “Severance Period” ) unless otherwise required to be paid in accordance with Section 9(i);

(iii) the balance of any incentive awards earned as of December 31 of the prior year (but not yet paid), which shall be paid in a single lump sum not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment subject to Section 409A of the Code;

 

8


(iv) should Executive elect continuance of group health insurance coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (“ COBRA ”) and/or similar state or federal law or regulation, the Company will pay the full cost of such continued health insurance coverage for Employee and his eligible dependents until the first to occur of (x) the Executive’s attainment of alternative employment if such employment includes health insurance benefits or (y) the expiration of the Severance Period (the “ Coverage Period ”). Should employee’s entitlement to health insurance continuation coverage under COBRA expire prior to the end of the Coverage Period, the Company will arrange to provide, at the Company’s expense, the Executive and his eligible dependents with continued health insurance benefits substantially similar to those which the Executive and his eligible dependents received under COBRA until the end of the Coverage Period;

(v) the vesting of a number of the options and restricted shares that comprise the 2014 Equity Awards and the 2015 Equity Awards such that the total number, on a per grant basis, of such options and restricted shares that have vested, including all such options and restricted shares that have previously become vested, is equal to a number determined by multiplying the total amount, on a per grant basis, of such options and restricted shares originally granted by a fraction the numerator of which is the total number of whole months between the Effective Date and the date of termination and the denominator of which is 48; provided that any performance based restricted shares that would otherwise be deemed vested pursuant to this provision shall remain subject, on a pro rata basis across any not-yet-completed performance periods, to the satisfaction of the performance criteria related to such not-yet-completed performance periods. The following is an example of how this section is intended to work: Assume that the Executive is terminated without cause 16 months after the Effective Date and that the restricted share performance goal applicable to the 2015 performance period had been attained. In this instance, the total number of performance based shares (75,000) would be multiplied by 1/3 (i.e.,16 divided by 48), yielding 25,000. Given that the performance goal applicable to the 2015 performance period would have been attained, however, 18,750 shares would already have vested. This would leave a total of 6,250 (i.e., 25,000-18,750) shares that could be still be earned. Those 6,250 shares would be allocated to the three remaining performance periods, such that 2,083 could be earned if the 2016 performance target is attained, 2,083 would be earned if the 2017 performance targets is attained and 2,084 would be earned if the 2018 performance target is attained.

(vi) other or additional benefits then due or earned in accordance with applicable plans and programs of the Company.

A termination with “Good Reason” shall mean a termination of Executive’s employment at his initiative as provided in this Section 9(c) following the occurrence, without Executive’s written consent, of one or more of the following events (except as a result of a prior termination):

(A) a material reduction in Executive’s Base Salary other than in connection with a proportionate reduction in the base salaries of all similarly situated senior level executive employees;

(B) a material diminution of Executive’s authority, responsibilities or duties, including without limitation his not being elected and re-elected to the Board during the Term or his no longer being the Chief Executive Officer of the Company; provided that the appointment by the Company of an Executive Chairman shall not without more be deemed to be Good Reason for purposes of this Agreement;

 

9


(C) any action or inaction occurs which constitutes a material breach by the Company of its obligations under this Agreement, including a failure to grant Executive the 2014 Equity Awards or the 2015 Equity Awards substantially in the manner contemplated by this Agreement whether such failure is due to the Committee’s decision not to grant such awards or otherwise.

For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason shall not be deemed to have occurred unless (i) Executive provides the Company with notice of one of the conditions described above within 90 days of the existence of the condition, (ii) the Company is provided at least 30 days to cure the condition and fails to cure same within such 30 day period, unless such conduct is not reasonably subject to correction and (iii) Executive terminates employment within at least 150 days of the existence of the condition.

 

  A “Change in Control” shall be deemed to have occurred if:

(A) any Person (other than the Company, any trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under any employee benefit plan of the Company, or any company owned, directly or indirectly, by the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to the occurrence with respect to which the evaluation is being made in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the common stock of the Company) becomes the Beneficial Owner (except that a Person shall be deemed to be the Beneficial Owner of all shares that any such Person has the right to acquire pursuant to any agreement or arrangement or upon exercise of conversion rights, warrants or options or otherwise), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company or any Significant Subsidiary (as defined below), representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s or such subsidiary’s then outstanding securities;

(B) during any 12-month period, individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the Board, and any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement with the Company to effect a transaction described in clause (A), (C), or (D) of this paragraph) whose election by the Board or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the 12-month period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved but excluding for this purpose any such new director whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of either an actual or threatened election contest or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of an individual, corporation, partnership, group, associate or other entity or Person other than the Board, cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board;

(C) the consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company or any subsidiary owning directly or indirectly all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company (a “Significant Subsidiary” ) with any other entity, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company or a Significant Subsidiary outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving or resulting entity) more than 50% of the combined voting power of the surviving or resulting entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation; or

(D) the consummation of a sale or disposition of all or substantially all of the consolidated assets of the Company (other than such a sale or disposition immediately after which such assets will be owned directly or indirectly by the stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the common stock of the Company immediately prior to such sale or disposition).

 

10


For purposes of this definition:

The term “Beneficial Owner” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act (including any successor to such Rule).

The term “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, or any successor act thereto.

The term “Person” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3(a)(9) of the Exchange Act and used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) thereof, including “group” as defined in Section 14(d) thereof.

(d) Voluntary Termination . In the event of a termination of employment by Executive on his own initiative, other than a termination due to death or a termination with Good Reason, Executive shall have the same entitlements as provided in Section 9(b)(iii) above for a termination for Cause.

 

  (e) Termination by the Company Without Cause or Termination by Executive With Good Reason Following a Change in Control . If Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause (which termination shall be effective as of the date specified by the Company in a written notice to Executive), other than due to death or Disability, or in the event Executive terminates his employment with Good Reason (as defined above), in either case within one year following a Change in Control (as defined above), Executive shall be entitled to:

(i) Base Salary through the date of termination of Executive’s employment, which shall be paid in a single lump sum at the time set out in Section 9(i) and (k) if such provisions are applicable with respect to such payment, or, if such provisions are not applicable, not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment;

(ii) an amount equal to three (3) times the sum of (A) the Base Salary, at the annualized rate in effect on the date of termination of Executive’s employment (or in the event a reduction in Base Salary is a basis for a termination with Good Reason, then the Base Salary in effect immediately prior to such reduction), and (B) the greater of (x) an amount equal to the cash bonus earned for the previous fiscal year or (y) Two Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($218,750), which amount shall be payable in lump sum on the Earliest Payment Date, unless otherwise required to be paid in accordance with Section 9(i); provided, however, if the payments required to be made pursuant to this Section 9(e)(ii) are deferred compensation and subject to Section 409A of the Code (and do not qualify for an exemption thereunder) and the Change in Control does not constitute a “change in control event” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, then the payments under this Section 9(e)(ii) shall be made at the same time and in the same manner as required under Section 9(c)(ii);

(iii) the balance of any incentive awards earned as of December 31 of the prior year (but not yet paid) and not subject to Section 409A of the Code, which shall be paid in a single lump sum not later than 15 days following Executive’s termination of employment;

(iv) should Executive elect continuance of group health insurance coverage under COBRA and/or similar state or federal law or regulation, the Company will pay the full cost of such continued health insurance coverage for Employee and his eligible dependents until the end of the Coverage Period. Should employee’s entitlement to health insurance continuation coverage under COBRA expire prior to the end of the Coverage Period, the Company will

 

11


arrange to provide, at the Company’s expense, the Executive and his eligible dependents with continued health insurance benefits substantially similar to those which the Executive and his eligible dependents received under COBRA until the end of the Coverage Period; and

(v) other or additional benefits then due or earned in accordance with applicable plans and programs of the Company.

 

  (f) No Mitigation; No Offset . In the event of any termination of employment, Executive shall be under no obligation to seek other employment; amounts due Executive under this Agreement shall not be offset by any remuneration attributable to any subsequent employment that he may obtain.

 

  (g) Nature of Payments . Any amounts due under this Section 9 are in the nature of severance payments considered to be reasonable by the Company and are not in the nature of a penalty.

 

  (h) No Further Liability; Release . In the event of Executive’s termination of employment, payment made and performance by the Company in accordance with this Section 9 shall, subject to Section 25 hereof, operate to fully discharge and release the Company and its directors, officers, employees, subsidiaries, affiliates, stockholders, successors, assigns, agents and representatives from any further obligation or liability with respect to Executive’s rights under this Agreement. Other than payment and performance under this Section 9, and other than the rights of Executive that survive the termination of this Agreement, as provided in Section 25 hereof, the Company and its directors, officers, employees, subsidiaries, affiliates, stockholders, successors, assigns, agents and representatives shall have no further obligation or liability to Executive or any other person under this Agreement in the event of Executive’s termination of employment. The Company conditions the payment of any severance or other amounts pursuant to this Section 9 upon (A) the delivery by Executive to the Company of a release in a form satisfactory to the Company, within such time following his termination of employment as will permit the release to become irrevocable on or before the Earliest Payment Date and (B) such release actually becoming irrevocable by the Earliest Payment Date.

 

  (i) Section 409A Specified Employee . If Executive is a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A of the Code, to the extent required to comply with Section 409A of the Code, any payments required to be made pursuant to this Section 9 which are deferred compensation and subject to Section 409A of the Code (and do not qualify for an exemption thereunder) shall not commence until one day after the day which is six (6) months from the date of termination (determined under Section 9(k)). Should this Section 9(i) result in a delay of payments to Executive, on the first day any such payments may be made without incurring a penalty pursuant to Section 409A (the “409A Payment Date” ), the Company shall begin to make such payments as described in this Section 9, provided that any amounts that would have been payable earlier but for application of this Section 9(i) shall be paid in lump-sum on the 409A Payment Date.

 

  (j) Termination Without Cause Within 90 Days Prior to a Change in Control . Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated without Cause within 90 days prior to the date on which the Change in Control occurs, such termination shall be deemed to have occurred after a Change in Control for purposes of this Agreement; provided, however, that the benefits payable under Section 9(e)(ii) in this context shall also be made at the same time and in the same manner as required under Section 9(c)(ii).

 

12


  (k) Separation from Service . Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, no payment shall be made under this Section 9 unless the termination of employment that gives rise to the payment also constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder, and solely for purposes of making the payments called for under this Section 9, the first date as of which Executive has a separation from service shall be treated as the date his employment terminates.

Section 10.        Intentionally Omitted.

Section 11.        Confidentiality; Cooperation with Regard to Litigation; Non-Disparagement; Return of Company Materials.

 

  (a) During the Term and thereafter, Executive shall not, without the prior written consent of the Company, disclose to anyone (except in good faith in the ordinary course of business to a person who will be advised by Executive to keep such information confidential) or make use of any Confidential Information (as defined below), except in the performance of his duties hereunder or when required to do so by legal process, by any governmental agency having supervisory authority over the business of the Company or by any administrative or legislative body (including a committee thereof) that requires him to divulge, disclose or make accessible such information. In the event that Executive is so ordered, he shall give prompt written notice to the Company in order to allow the Company the opportunity to object to or otherwise resist such order.

 

  (b) During the Term and thereafter, Executive shall not disclose the existence or contents of this Agreement beyond what is disclosed in the proxy statement or documents filed with the government unless and to the extent such disclosure is required by law, by a governmental agency, or in a document required by law to be filed with a governmental agency or in connection with enforcement of his rights under this Agreement. This restriction shall not apply to such disclosure by him to members of his immediate family, his tax, legal or financial advisors, any lender, or tax authorities, or to potential future employers to the extent necessary, each of whom shall be advised not to disclose such information.

 

  (c) “Confidential Information” shall mean all information regarding the Company, its activities, business or customers that is the subject of reasonable efforts by the Company to maintain its confidentiality, including (i) information concerning the business of the Company or any Subsidiary including information relating to any of their products, product development, trade secrets, customers, suppliers, finances, and business plans and strategies, and (ii) information regarding the organization structure and the names, titles, status, compensation, benefits and other proprietary employment-related aspects of the employees of the Company and the Company’s employment practices. Excluded from the definition of Confidential Information is information (A) that is or becomes part of the public domain, other than through the breach of this Agreement by Executive or (B) regarding the Company’s business or industry properly acquired by Executive in the course of his career as an executive in the Company’s industry and independent of Executive’s employment by the Company. For this purpose, information known or available generally within the trade or industry of the Company or any Subsidiary shall be deemed to be known or available to the public.

 

13


  (d) “Subsidiary” shall mean any corporation controlled directly or indirectly by the Company.

 

  (e) Executive agrees to cooperate with the Company, during the Term and thereafter (including following Executive’s termination of employment for any reason), by making himself reasonably available to testify on behalf of the Company or any Subsidiary in any action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative, other than an action, suit, or proceeding in which Executive makes claims against the Company or in which the Company makes claims against him, and to assist the Company, or any Subsidiary, in any such action, suit, or proceeding, by providing information and meeting and consulting with the Board or its representatives or counsel, or representatives or counsel to the Company, or any Subsidiary as requested; provided, however that the same does not materially interfere with his then current professional activities; and provided, further, that nothing contained in this Section 11(e) is intended to prevent Executive from exercising his constitutional right to avoid self-incrimination. The Company agrees to reimburse Executive, on an after-tax basis, for all reasonable expenses (including legal fees and expenses) actually incurred in connection with his provision of testimony or assistance.

 

  (f) Executive agrees that, during the Term and thereafter (including following Executive’s termination of employment for any reason) he will not make statements or representations, or otherwise communicate, directly or indirectly, in writing, orally, or otherwise, or take any action which may, directly or indirectly, disparage the Company or any Subsidiary or their respective officers, directors, employees, advisors, businesses or reputations. The Company agrees that, during the Term and thereafter (including following Executive’s termination of employment for any reason) the Company will not make statements or representations, or otherwise communicate, directly or indirectly, in writing, orally, or otherwise, or take any action which may directly or indirectly, disparage Executive or his business or reputation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Section 11(f) shall preclude either Executive or the Company from making truthful statements or disclosures that are required by applicable law, regulation, or legal process or otherwise pursuing, in good faith, enforcement of their respective rights under this Agreement.

 

  (g) Executive recognizes that all Confidential Information and copies or reproductions thereof, relating to the Company’s operations and activities made or received by Executive in the course of his Employment are the exclusive property of the Company. Upon any termination of employment, Executive agrees to deliver any Company property and any documents, notes, drawings, specifications, computer software, data and other materials of any nature pertaining to any Confidential Information that are held by Executive and will not take any of the foregoing, or any reproduction of any of the foregoing, that is embodied in any tangible medium of expression, provided that the foregoing shall not prohibit Executive from retaining his personal phone directories and rolodexes.

 

14


Section 12.        Non-competition/Prior Employment Covenants.

 

  (a) During Executive’s employment by the Company, Executive shall refrain from, without the written consent of the Company, directly or indirectly, whether individually or as an employee, consultant, principal, agent, officer, director, partner, shareholder (except as a less than one percent shareholder of a publicly traded company) or owner of or in any capacity with any corporation, partnership, business, company or other entity, carrying on or engaging in, or assisting another to carry on or engage in, any other business, work or activity similar to the business, work or activity of the Company or its affiliates. During the Restriction Period (as defined below), Executive shall refrain from, without the written consent of the Company, directly or indirectly, whether individually or as an employee, consultant, principal, agent, officer, director, partner, shareholder (except as a less than three percent shareholder of a publicly traded company) or owner of or in any capacity with any corporation, partnership, business, company or other entity, (i) carrying on or engaging in, or assisting another to carry on or engage in, any other business, work or activity similar to the business, work or activity of the Company (the “ Restricted Business ”) or its affiliates in the geographical areas listed on Attachment 1 (the “Restricted Areas” ) in which the Company or its affiliates are then engaged in business, and (ii) soliciting customers of the Company or its affiliates in the Restricted Area. The Parties acknowledge that home health care and hospice are similar “businesses” for the purposes of this Section 12 and that the work and activity of the Company includes filing applications with Federal and state regulatory authorities in connection with establishing “start-up” home health care and hospice agencies. The Parties further acknowledge that the Company is expanding and in order to prevent ongoing, repetitious amendments to this Agreement solely for the purpose of updating the Restricted Areas, the Parties agree that the Restricted Areas, inclusive of Attachment 1, shall be self-amending to include all parishes, counties and States in which the Company conducts business or actively solicits business at any time during Executive’s employment with the Company and in no event shall such Restricted Areas be less than that contained in Attachment 1. The Parties intend and agree that Executive’s continued employment thereafter shall serve as the Parties’ constructive acceptance of an amendment to enlarge the Restricted Areas. The Parties agree and acknowledge that the foregoing shall not restrict Executive from, directly or indirectly, whether individually or as an employee, consultant, principal, agent, officer, director, partner, shareholder or owner of or in any capacity with any corporation, partnership, business, company or other entity who engages in a Restricted Business as long as (i) the Restricted Business is not the predominant business of such corporation, partnership, business, company or other entity, and (ii) a substantial portion of Executive’s duties do not include anything associated with the Restricted Business.

 

  (b) For the purposes of this Section 12, “Restriction Period” shall mean the period beginning with the Effective Date and ending with:

(i) in the case of a termination of Executive’s employment by the Company without Cause or a termination by Executive with Good Reason, pursuant to Section 9(c)(whether during or after the Term), the Restriction Period shall terminate 24 months from the date of such termination;

(ii) in the case of a termination of Executive’s employment for Cause pursuant to Section 9(b) or in the case of a voluntary termination of Executive’s employment pursuant to Section 9(d) above (whether during or after the Term), 24 months from the date of such termination;

 

15


(iii) in the case of a termination due to Disability pursuant to Section 9(a), 24 months from the date of the termination due to Disability;

(iv) in the case of any termination of Executive’s employment pursuant to Section 9(e) above, 24 months from the date of such termination.

(v) in the case of any termination of Executive’s employment upon or following the expiration of the Term, 12 months from the date of such termination; provided, however, that, during such 12 month period, the Company continues to pay to Executive his Base Salary, at the annualized rate in effect on the date of termination, for the twelve months beginning with the calendar month that immediately follows his date of termination. If the company elects not to continue to pay Executive’s Base Salary for any portion of the 12 months then the Restriction Period shall terminate immediately.

 

  (c) Executive represents and warrants to the Company that performance of Executive’s duties pursuant to this Agreement will not violate any agreements with or trade secrets of any other person or entity or previous employers, including without limitation agreements containing provisions against solicitation or competition.

Section 13.         Non-solicitation of Employees and Customers.

During the period beginning with the Effective Date and ending 24 months following the termination of Executive’s employment for any reason, Executive shall not induce: (i) employees of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate their employment (provided, however, that the foregoing shall not be construed to prevent Executive from engaging in general non-targeted advertising for employees generally), or (ii) customers of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate their relationship with the Company, within the Restricted Areas.

Section 14.         Standstill.

Executive agrees that for a period of 24 months from the date of Executive’s termination of employment for any reason, neither Executive nor any of his affiliates or persons or entities acting at his direction or with his assistance will, unless specifically invited in writing by the Board, acting by resolution approved by a majority of all members of the Board, directly or indirectly, in any manner (the obligations pursuant to this Section 14 being referred to as, the “Standstill” ):

 

  (a) acquire, offer or propose to acquire, solicit an offer to sell or agree to acquire, directly or indirectly, alone or in concert with others, by purchase, tender offer, exchange offer, through the acquisition or control of another person or entity, or otherwise, any direct or indirect beneficial interest in any voting securities or direct or indirect rights, warrants or options to acquire, or securities convertible into or exchangeable for, any voting securities of the Company or any Subsidiary, other than the acquisition in the aggregate of less than one-half of one percent of the outstanding voting securities of the Company;

 

  (b) make, or in any way participate in, directly or indirectly, alone or in concert with others, any “solicitation” (as such term is used in the proxy rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission promulgated pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act) of proxies or consents to vote, whether subject to or exempt from the proxy rules, or seek to advise, encourage or influence in any manner whatsoever any person or entity with respect to the voting of any voting securities of the Company or any Subsidiary;

 

16


  (c) initiate, propose or “solicit” (as such term is used in the proxy rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission) stockholders of the Company or any Subsidiary for the approval of stockholder proposals whether made pursuant to Rule 14a-8 or Rule 14a-4 under the Exchange Act, or otherwise, or cause or encourage or attempt to cause or encourage others to initiate any such stockholder proposal; or otherwise communicate with the Company’s or its Subsidiaries’ stockholders or others in connection with the solicitation of proxies or consents or matters presented to the Company’s or its Subsidiaries’ stockholders;

 

  (d) form, join or any way participate in a “group” within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act with respect to any voting securities of the Company or the Subsidiaries;

 

  (e) acquire, offer to acquire or agree to acquire, directly or indirectly, alone or in concert with others, by purchase, exchange or otherwise, (i) any of the assets, tangible and intangible, of the Company or any Subsidiary or (ii) direct or indirect rights, warrants or options to acquire any assets of the Company or any Subsidiary;

 

  (f) arrange, or in any way participate, directly or indirectly, in any financing for the purchase of any voting securities or securities convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for any voting securities or assets of the Company or any Subsidiary;

 

  (g) otherwise act, alone or in concert with others, to seek to propose to the Company or any Subsidiary or any of their respective stockholders or make any public statement with respect to any merger, business combination, consolidation, sale, tender offer, exchange offer, restructuring, reorganization, dissolution, liquidation, recapitalization or other transaction involving the Company or any Subsidiary;

 

  (h) seek, alone or in concert with others, to control, change or influence the management, the Board or policies of the Company or any Subsidiary, or otherwise seek, alone or in concert with others, election or appointment to or representation on, or to nominate or propose the nomination of any candidate to, the Board or the removal of any member of the Board, or propose any matter to be voted upon by the stockholders of the Company or any Subsidiary;

 

  (i) make any publicly disclosed proposal, public statement, public inquiry or public disclosure of any intention, plan, or arrangement (whether written or oral) inconsistent with the foregoing, or make or disclose any request or proposal to amend, waive or terminate any provision of this Standstill or seek permission to or make any public announcement with respect to any provision of the Standstill; or

 

  (j) announce an intention to do, or to enter into any arrangement or understanding with others (whether written or oral) to do, or to finance, intentionally advise, enable, assist or encourage others to do any of the actions restricted or prohibited under clauses (a) through (j) of this Standstill, or take any action that might result in the Company having to make a public announcement regarding any of the matters referred to in clauses (a) through (j) of this Standstill, or otherwise intentionally take, or solicit, or cause or encourage others to take, any action inconsistent with the foregoing.

 

17


Section 15.         Remedies.

In addition to whatever other rights and remedies the Company may have at equity or in law (including without limitation, the right to seek monetary damages), if Executive breaches any of the provisions contained in Sections 11, 12, 13 or 14, the Company (a) shall have its rights under Section 10 of this Agreement, (b) shall, notwithstanding Section 16, have the right to immediately terminate all payments and benefits due under this Agreement (other than payments under Section 16 of this Agreement, to the extent that Executive’s right to indemnification was not triggered by Executive’s breach of this Agreement) and (c) shall, notwithstanding Section 16 of this Agreement, have the right to seek injunctive or other equitable relief, including but not limited to, the right to seek a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction or permanent injunction, without the requirement to prove actual damages or to post any bond or other security. Executive hereby waves the requirement of posting bond or other security and acknowledges that such a breach of Sections 11, 12, 13 or 14 would cause irreparable injury and that money damages alone would not provide an adequate remedy for the Company; provided, however, the foregoing shall not prevent Executive from contesting the issuance of any such injunction on the ground that no violation or threatened violation of Sections 11, 12, 13 or 14 has occurred.

Section 16.         Resolution of Disputes.

In the event that a Party to this Agreement has any claim, right or cause of action against another Party to this Agreement, which the Parties are unable to settle by agreement between themselves, such claim, right or cause of action, to the extent that the relief sought by such Party is for monetary damages or awards, will be determined by arbitration in accordance with the provisions of this Section 16. Except as provided in this Section 16, the arbitration will be conducted in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (the “AAA” ). The arbitration and all arbitration proceedings shall be kept confidential

 

  (a) The Party claiming a cause of action or breach of this Agreement shall first provide the other Party with written notice of the breach. If the breach is not remedied within 15 days of said notice, the Party claiming the breach may request arbitration by serving upon the other a demand therefor, in writing, specifying the matter to be submitted to arbitration, and nominating a competent disinterested person to act as an arbitrator. Within 15 days after receipt of such written demand and nomination, the other Party will, in writing, nominate a competent disinterested person, and the two arbitrators so designated will, within 15 days thereafter, select a third arbitrator. The three arbitrators will give immediate written notice of such selection to the Parties and will fix in said notice a time and place of the meeting of the arbitrators which will be in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where all proceedings will be conducted, and will be held as soon as conveniently possible (but in no event later than 45 days after the appointment of the third arbitrator), at which time and place the Parties to the controversy will appear and be heard with respect to the right, claim or cause of action. In case the notified Party or Parties will fail to make a selection upon notice within the time period specified, the Party asserting such claim will appoint an arbitrator on behalf of the notified Party. In the event that the first two arbitrators selected will fail to agree upon a third arbitrator within 15 days after their selection, then such arbitrator may, upon application made by either of the Parties to the controversy, be appointed by the AAA.

 

  (b)

Each Party will present such testimony, examinations and investigations in accordance with such procedures and regulations as may be determined by the arbitrators and will also recommend to the arbitrators a monetary award to be adopted by the arbitrators as the complete disposition of such claim, right or cause of action. After hearing the Parties in regard to the matter in dispute, the arbitrators will make their determination with

 

18


  respect to such claim, right or cause of action, within 30 days of the completion of the examination, by majority decision signed in writing (together with a brief written statement of the reasons for adopting such recommendation), and will deliver such written determination to each of the Parties. The decision of said arbitrators, absent fraud, duress or manifest error, will be final and binding upon the Parties to such controversy and may be enforced in any court of competent jurisdiction. The arbitrators may consult with and engage disinterested third parties to advise the arbitrators. The arbitrators shall not award any punitive damages. If any of the arbitrators selected hereunder should die, resign or be unable to perform his or her duties hereunder, the remaining arbitrators or the AAA shall select a replacement arbitrator. The procedure set forth in this Section for selecting the arbitrators shall be followed from time to time as necessary. As to any claim, controversy, dispute or disagreement that under the terms hereof is made subject to arbitration, no lawsuit based on such matters shall be instituted by any of the Parties, other than to compel arbitration proceedings or enforce the award of a majority of the arbitrators. All privileges under Louisiana and federal law, including attorney-client and work-product privileges, shall be preserved and protected to the same extent that such privileges would be protected in a federal court proceeding applying Louisiana law.

 

  (c) The Company shall be responsible for advancing the cost of the arbitrators as well as the other costs of the arbitration. Each Party will pay the fees and expenses of its own counsel, except that with respect to those claims for which Executive is ultimately the prevailing party, the Company shall reimburse all of Executive’s reasonable out-of- pocket legal fees and expenses incurred in connection with asserting or defending against claims as to which Executive prevails within thirty (30) days of receipt of a written demand accompanied by reasonable documentation in support thereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, such reimbursements will be made in no event later than the last day of Executive’s taxable year following the taxable year in which the expense was incurred; the expenses reimbursed by the Company during any taxable year of Executive will not affect the expenses reimbursed by the Company in another taxable year; and this right to reimbursement is not subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit.

 

  (d) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Section 16, in the event that a Party against whom any claim, right or cause of action is asserted commences, or has commenced against it, bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceedings, the Party or Parties asserting such claim, right or cause of action will have no obligations under this Section 16 and may assert such claim, right or cause of action in the manner and forum it deems appropriate, subject to applicable laws. No determination or decision by the arbitrators pursuant to this Section 16 will limit or restrict the ability of any Party hereto to obtain or seek in any appropriate forum, any relief or remedy that is not a monetary award or money damages.

 

  (e) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Section 16, if the Company is seeking injunctive or other equitable relief from a dispute arising under or in connection with Sections 11, 12, 13 or 14, the arbitration requirements of this Section 15 shall not apply.

 

  (f) Any court proceedings relating to this Agreement shall be filed exclusively in the federal and state courts domiciled in Louisiana, and the Parties hereto consent to the venue and jurisdiction of such courts.

 

19


Section 17.         Indemnification Agreement.

The Company and Executive shall, within 30 days of entering into this Agreement, enter into an indemnification agreement

similar in all material respects to the indemnification agreement for directors the Company has on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission as of the date of this Agreement.

Section 18.         Potential Reduction in Payments

 

  (a) Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment, distribution, or other benefit provided by the Company to or for the benefit of Executive, whether paid or payable or distributed or distributable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (collectively, the “Payments” ), (x) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code, and (y) but for this Section 18 would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code or any similar or successor provision thereto (the “Excise Tax” ), then the Payments shall be either:

(i) delivered in full pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, or

(ii) delivered to such lesser extent as would result in no portion of the payments being subject to the Excise Tax as determined in accordance with Section 18(b).

 

  (b) The determination of whether Section 18(a)(i) or Section 18(a)(ii) shall be given effect shall be made by the Company on the basis of which of such clauses results in the receipt by the Executive of the greater Net After-Tax Receipt (as defined below) of the aggregate Payments; provided, however, that if the Net After-Tax Receipt of the aggregate Payments under Section 18(a)(i) does not exceed the Net After-Tax Receipt of the aggregate Payments under Section 18(a)(ii) by Twenty-Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000) or greater, Section 18(a)(ii) automatically shall be given effect. The term “ Net After-Tax Receipt ” shall mean the present value (as determined in accordance with Section 280G of the Code) of the payments net of all applicable federal, state and local income, employment, and other applicable taxes and the Excise Tax.

 

  (c) If Section 18(a)(ii) is given effect, the reduction shall be accomplished first by reducing cash Payments under Section 9(e)(ii) of this Agreement and then by forfeiting any equity- based awards that vest and become payable under Section 9(e)(iv) of this Agreement, starting with the most recent equity-based awards that vest pursuant to such section, to the extent necessary to accomplish such reduction.

 

  (d) Unless the Company and Executive otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 18 shall be made by the Company’s independent accountants or compensation consultants (the “Third Party” ), after due consideration of Executive’s comments with respect to the interpretation and application thereof, and all such determinations shall be conclusive, final and binding on the parties hereto. The Company and Executive shall furnish to the Third Party such information and documents as the Third Party may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 18. The Company shall bear all fees and costs of the Third Party with respect to all determinations under or contemplated by this Section 18.

 

20


Section 19.         Effect of Agreement on Other Benefits.

Except as specifically provided in this Agreement, the existence of this Agreement shall not be interpreted to preclude, prohibit or restrict Executive’s participation in any other employee benefit or other plans or programs in which he currently participates.

Section 20.         Assignability: Binding Nature; Solidary Obligations.

This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective successors, heirs (in the case of Executive) and permitted assigns. No rights or obligations of the Company under this Agreement may be assigned or transferred by the Company except that such rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred in connection with a Change of Control of the Company, provided that the assignee or transferee is the successor to all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and such assignee or transferee assumes the liabilities, obligations and duties of the Company, as contained in this Agreement, either contractually or as a matter of law. The Company further agrees that, in the event of a Change of Control, it shall take whatever action it legally can in order to cause such assignee or transferee to expressly assume the liabilities, obligations and duties of the Company hereunder. No rights or obligations of Executive under this Agreement may be assigned or transferred by Executive other than his rights to compensation and benefits, which may be transferred only by will or operation of law, except as provided in Section 26 below. Company and Holding are each solidarily liable with the other of them for such other’s obligations under this Agreement.

Section 21.         Representation.

Each of the Company and Holding represents and warrants that it is fully authorized and empowered to enter into this Agreement and that the performance of its obligations under this Agreement will not violate any agreement between it and any other person, firm or organization. Executive hereby represents to the Company that he is physically and mentally capable of performing his duties hereunder and he has no knowledge of any present or past physical or mental conditions which would cause him not to be able to perform his duties hereunder.

Section 22.         Entire Agreement.

This Agreement contains the entire understanding and agreement between the Parties concerning the subject matter hereof and, as of the Effective Date, supersedes any other agreements, understandings, discussions, negotiations and undertakings, whether written or oral, between the Parties with respect thereto, including, without limitation any prior change in control agreement between the Parties.

Section 23.         Amendment or Waiver.

No provision in this Agreement may be amended unless such amendment is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and an authorized officer of the Company. Except as set forth herein, no delay or omission to exercise any right, power or remedy accruing to any Party shall impair any such right, power or remedy or shall be construed to be a waiver of or an acquiescence to any breach hereof. No waiver by either Party of any breach by the other Party of any condition or provision contained in this Agreement to be performed by such other Party shall be deemed a waiver of a similar or dissimilar condition or provision at the same or any prior or subsequent time. Any waiver must be in writing and signed by Executive or an authorized officer of the Company, as the case may be.

Section 24.         Severability.

In the event that any provision or portion of this Agreement shall be determined to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall be

 

21


unaffected thereby and shall remain in full force and effect to the fullest extent permitted by law. Specifically, but without limitation, the parties agree that if any court of competent jurisdiction or any arbitral panel finds that any one or more of the words, phrases, sentences, clauses, sections, subdivisions, or subparagraphs contained in Sections 11, 12, 13 or 14 is overly broad or unenforceable, then the Agreement should be reduced or amended to be enforceable to the maximum extent allowable under applicable law.

Section 25.        Survival.

Upon the termination of this Agreement, the respective rights and obligations of the Parties under this Agreement shall terminate, except that (a) the provisions of Sections 1 and 2, Sections 9(f), (g), (h), (i) and (k), and Sections 10 through 31 of this Agreement shall survive the termination of this Agreement and remain in full force and effect in accordance with their terms, and (b) the termination of this Agreement shall not affect any rights or obligations of the Parties accrued under the express terms of this Agreement prior to or in connection with such termination and, with respect to such surviving provisions and those that survive under Section 3, thereafter.

Section 26.        Beneficiaries/References.

Executive shall be entitled, to the extent permitted under any applicable law, to select and change a beneficiary or beneficiaries to receive any compensation or benefit payable hereunder following Executive’s death by giving the Company written notice thereof. In the event of Executive’s death or a judicial determination of his incompetence, reference in this Agreement to Executive shall be deemed, where appropriate, to refer to his beneficiary, estate or other legal representative.

Section 27.        Governing Law/Exclusive Jurisdiction.

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of Louisiana without reference to principles of conflict of laws. Subject to Section 16 and in accordance with Section 15, the Company and Executive hereby consent and irrevocably submit to the jurisdiction of any or all of the following courts for purposes of resolving any dispute under this Agreement: (i) the United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana or (ii) the Nineteenth Judicial District Court for the Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana. The Parties agree that to the extent permitted, any lawsuit involving a dispute under this Agreement shall be filed and may proceed only in these referenced courts. The Company and Executive hereby waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any jurisdictional, venue or inconvenient forum objection which it or he may now or hereafter have to these referenced courts. The Company and Executive further agree that any service of process or notice requirements in any such proceeding shall be satisfied if the rules of such court relating thereto have been substantially satisfied.

 

22


Section 28.        Notices.

Any notices given under this Agreement shall be in writing, and delivered or mailed, and if mailed, postage prepaid, certified, return receipt requested and addressed to the Company, to Holding and to Executive at the addresses set forth below, or such other addresses as the Parties may from time to time hereafter designate in writing, such notices to be effective upon receipt by the Party to whom such notice is addressed:

 

If to the Company:

AMEDISYS, INC.
5959 South Sherwood Forest Boulevard,
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70816
Attention: Chairman of the Board
with a copy to: General Counsel, at the same address

If to Holding:

AMEDISYS HOLDING, L.L.C.
5959 South Sherwood Forest Boulevard
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816
Attention: Chairman of the Board
with a copy to: General Counsel, at the same address

If to Executive:

Paul B. Kusserow
At the most recent address for the Executive on file with the Company

Section 29.        Captions.

The captions contained in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be deemed to control or affect the meaning or construction of any provision of this Agreement.

Section 30.        Counterparts.

This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts.

Section 31.        Section 409A Compliance.

This Agreement is intended to comply with Section 409A of the Code (to the extent applicable) and, to the extent it would not adversely impact the Company, the Company agrees to interpret, apply and administer this Agreement in accordance with such intention and in the least restrictive manner necessary to comply with such requirements (to the extent applicable) and without resulting in any diminution in the value of payments or benefits to Executive or Executive incurring any tax under Section 409A of the Code. If an amount is to be paid under this Agreement in two or more installments, each installment shall be treated as a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

23


AMEDISYS, INC.
By:

/S/ Nathaniel M. Zilkha

Name:   Nathaniel M. Zilkha
Title: Chairman of the Compensation Committee
AMEDISYS HOLDING, L.L.C.
By:

/S/ Ronald A. LaBorde

Name:   Ronald A. LaBorde
Title: President
EXECUTIVE

/S/ Paul B. Kusserow

Paul B. Kusserow

 

24


ATTACHMENT 1

Restricted Areas

The following counties, parishes, cities and/or municipalities:

Alabama

Autauga

Conecuh Houston Morgan

Baldwin

Coosa Jackson Perry

Barbour

Covington Jefferson Pickens

Bibb

Crenshaw Lamar Pike

Blount

Cullman Lauderdale Randolph

Bullock

Dale Lawrence Russell

Butler

Dallas Lee Shelby

Calhoun

DeKalb Limestone St Clair

Chambers

Elmore Lowndes Sumter

Cherokee

Escambia Macon Talladega

Chilton

Etowah Madison Tallapoosa

Choctaw

Fayette Marengo Tuscaloosa

Clarke

Franklin Marion Walker

Clay

Geneva Marshall Washington

Cleburne

Greene Mobile Wilcox

Coffee

Hale Monroe Winston

Colbert

Henry Montgomery
Arizona

Maricopa

Pima Pinal Yuma
Arkansas

Arkansas

Howard Monroe Sharp

Baxter

Independence Perry St. Francis

Benton

Izard Pike Stone

Cleburne

Jackson Poinsett Van Buren

Conway

Johnson Polk Washington

Crawford

Lawrence Prairie White

Cross

Lee Randolph Woodruff

Faulkner

Little River Scott Yell

Franklin

Logan Searcy

Fulton

Lonoke Sebastian

Greene

Marion Sevier
California

Alameda

Contra Costa Marin San Benito

San Francisco

San Mateo Santa Clara Santa Cruz
Connecticut

Fairfield

Litchfield New Haven Tolland

Hartford

Middlesex New London Windham

 

Page 1


Delaware
Kent New Castle Sussex
District of Columbia
City of Washington
Florida
Alachua Escambia Jefferson Polk
Baker Flagler Lafayette Putnam
Bay Franklin Lake St Johns
Bradford Gadsden Lee Santa Rosa
Brevard Gilchrist Leon Sarasota
Broward Glades Levy Seminole
Calhoun Gulf Liberty Sumter
Charlotte Hamilton Madison Suwannee
Citrus Hardee Manatee Taylor
Clay Hendry Marion Union
Collier Hernando Nassau Volusia
Columbia Highlands Okaloosa Wakulla
DeSoto Hillsborough Orange Walton
Dixie Holmes Osceola Washington
Duval Jackson
Georgia
Appling Cook Jackson Quitman
Atkinson Coweta Jasper Rabun
Bacon Crawford Jeff Davis Randolph
Baldwin Dade Jones Richmond
Banks Dawson Lamar Rockdale
Barrow DeKalb Laurens Schley
Bartow Douglas Liberty Spalding
Ben Hill Effingham Long Stephens
Berrien Elbert Lowndes Stewart
Bibb Emanuel Lumpkin Sumter
Brantley Evans Macon Talbot
Bryan Fannin Madison Tattnall
Butts Fayette Marion Taylor
Candler Floyd Meriwether Tift
Carroll Forsyth Monroe Toombs
Catoosa Franklin Montgomery Towns
Charlton Fulton Morgan Treutlen
Chatham Gilmer Murray Troup
Chattahoochee Gordon Muscogee Turner
Chattanooga Greene Newton Union
Chattooga Gwinnett Oconee Upson
Cherokee Habersham Oglethorpe Walker
Clarke Hall Paulding Walton
Clay Haralson Pickens Ware
Clayton Harris Pierce Wheeler
Clinch Hart Pike White
Cobb Heard Polk Whitfield
Coffee Henry Pulaski Wilkinson
Colquitt Irwin Putnam Worth
Columbia

 

Page 2


Illinois

Bond

Ford Lake Randolph

Boone

Grundy LaSalle St Clair

Clinton

Iroquois Livingston Washington

Cook

Kane Madison Will

DeKalb

Kankakee McHenry Winnebago

DuPage

Kendall Monroe
Indiana

Adams

Harrison Lawrence Ripley

Allen

Hendricks Marion St Joseph

Blackford

Howard Marshall Scott

Brown

Huntington Martin Shelby

Clark

Jackson Monroe Starke

Clay

Jasper Morgan Steuben

Crawford

Jay Newton Sullivan

Daviess

Jefferson Noble Vermillion

DeKalb

Jennings Orange Vigo

Elkhart

Johnson Owen Wabash

Floyd

Kosciusko Parke Washington

Fulton

LaGrange Porter Wells

Grant

Lake Pulaski Whitley

Greene

LaPorte Putnam
Kansas

Barber

Elk Kingman Reno

Butler

Greenwood Marion Sedgwick

Chase

Harper McPherson Stafford

Cowley

Harvey Pratt Sumner
Kentucky

Adair

Clark Henry Oldham

Allen

Clinton Jefferson Owen

Anderson

Cumberland Jessamine Pendleton

Barren

Daviess Kenton Powell

Bath

Estill Laurel Pulaski

Bell

Fayette Lincoln Scott

Boone

Franklin Logan Shelby

Bourbon

Garrard Madison Simpson

Boyd

Grayson Meade Spencer

Boyle

Green Menifee Taylor

Breckinridge

Greenup Mercer Trimble

Bullitt

Hardin Monroe Warren

Campbell

Harrison Montgomery Woodford

Casey

Hart Nicholas

 

Page 3


Louisiana

Acadia

E Baton Rouge Madison St Landry

Allen

E Carroll Morehouse St Martin

Ascension

E Feliciana Natchitoches St Mary

Assumption

Evangeline Orleans St Tammany

Avoyelles

Franklin Ouachita Tangipahoa

Beauregard

Grant Plaquemines Tensas

Bienville

Iberia Pointe Coupee Terrebonne

Bossier

Iberville Rapides Union

Caddo

Jackson Red River Vermilion

Calcasieu

Jefferson Richland Vernon

Caldwell

Jefferson Davis Sabine Washington

Cameron

Lafayette St Bernard Webster

Catahoula

Lafourche St Charles W Baton Rouge

Claiborne

La Salle St Helena W Carroll

Concordia

Lincoln St James W Feliciana

DeSoto

Livingston St John the Baptist Winn
Maine

Androscogin

Hancock Penobscot Somerset

Cumberland

Kennebec Piscataquis Waldo

Franklin

Oxford Sagadahoc York
Maryland

Anne Arundel

Cecil Montgomery Wicomico

Baltimore

Dorchester Prince Georges Worcester

Baltimore City

Harford Somerset

Carroll

Howard Talbot
Massachusetts

Barnstable

Essex Hampshire Plymouth

Berkshire

Franklin Middlesex Suffolk

Bristol

Hampden Norfolk Worcester
Mississippi

Claiborne

Jackson Madison Smith

Clarke

Jasper Marion Stone

Copiah

Jefferson Neshoba Walthall

Covington

Jefferson Davis Newton Warren

Forrest

Jones Pearl River Wayne

George

Kemper Perry Yazoo

Hancock

Lamar Rankin

Harrison

Lauderdale Scott

Hinds

Lawrence Sharkey

Issaquena

Leake Simpson

 

Page 4


Missouri

Barry

  Franklin   New Madrid   St Louis City

Barton

  Greene   Newton   Stoddard

Bollinger

  Henry   Ozark   Stone

Butler

  Hickory   Pemiscot   Taney

Camden

  Iron   Perry   Vernon

Cape Girardeau

  Jasper   Pike   Warren

Carter

  Jackson   Polk   Washington

Cass

  Jefferson   Ray   Wayne

Cedar

  Johnson   Reynolds   Webster

Christian

  Laclede   Ripley   Wright

Clay

  Lafayette   Scott  

Crawford

  Lawrence   St Charles  

Dade

  Lincoln   St Clair  

Dallas

  Madison   St Francois  

Douglas

  McDonald   St Genevieve  

Dunklin

  Mississippi   St Louis  
New Hampshire

Belknap

  Coos   Hillsboro   Strafford

Carroll

  Essex, MA   Merrimack   Sullivan

Cheshire

  Grafton   Rockingham   York, ME
New Jersey

Bergen

  Hudson    

New York

Chautauqua

  Nassau   Niagara   Suffolk

Erie

     

North Carolina

Alamance

  Franklin   Mecklenburg   Scotland

Bladen

  Gaston   Montgomery   Stokes

Brunswick

  Granville   Moore   Surry

Cabarrus

  Greene   Nash   Tyrell

Caswell

  Guilford   New Hanover   Vance

Catawba

  Halifax   Orange   Wake

Chatham

  Harnett   Person   Warren

Cleveland

  Hoke   Pender   Washington

Columbus

  Iredell   Randolph   Wayne

Cumberland

  Johnston   Richmond   Wilson

Davidson

  Lee   Robeson   Yadkin

Davie

  Lenoir   Rockingham  

Durham

  Lincoln   Rowan  

Forsyth

  Martin   Sampson  
Ohio

Athens

  Harrison   Megis   Nobile

Belmont

  Jefferson   Monroe   Washington

Guernsey

     

 

Page 5


Oklahoma

Adair

Grady Muskogee Pottawatomie

Alfalfa

Grant Noble Rogers

Blaine

Hughes Nowata Seminole

Caddo

Kay Okfuskee Sequoyah

Canadian

Kingfisher Oklahoma Tulsa

Cherokee

Leflore Okmulgee Wagoner

Cleveland

Lincoln Osage Washington

Craig

Logan Ottawa Woods

Creek

Major Pawnee

Delaware

Mayes Payne

Garfield

McClain Pontotoc
Oregon

Clackamas

Douglas Multnomah Washington

Columbia

Marion Polk Yamhill
Pennsylvania

Adams

Butler Fayette Mercer

Allegheny

Chester Greene Perry

Armstrong

Clarion Lancaster Somerset

Beaver

Cumberland Lawrence Venango

Berks

Dauphin Lebanon Washington
Westmorland
York
Puerto Rico

Canovanas

Culebra Loiza San Juan

Carolina

Fajardo Luquillo Trujillo Alto

Ceiba

Guaynabo Rio Grande Vieques
Rhode Island

Bristol

Newport Providence Washington

Kent

South Carolina

Abbeville

Chesterfield Hampton Oconee

Aiken

Clarendon Horry Orangeburg

Allendale

Colleton Jasper Pickens

Anderson

Darlington Kershaw Richland

Bamberg

Dillon Lancaster Saluda

Barnwell

Dorchester Laurens Spartanburg

Beaufort

Edgefield Lee Sumter

Berkeley

Fairfield Lexington Union

Calhoun

Florence Marion Williamsburg

Charleston

Georgetown Marlboro York

Cherokee

Greenville McCormick

Chester

Greenwood Newberry

 

Page 6


Tennessee

Anderson

Fayette Knox Roane

Bedford

Fentress Lauderdale Robertson

Benton

Franklin Lewis Rutherford

Bledsoe

Gibson Lincoln Scott

Blount

Giles Loudon Sequatchie

Bradley

Grainger Macon Sevier

Campbell

Greene Madison Shelby

Cannon

Grundy Marion Smith

Carroll

Hamblen Marshall Stewart

Carter

Hamilton Maury Sullivan

Cheatham

Hancock McMinn Sumner

Chester

Hardeman McNairy Tipton

Claiborne

Hardin Meigs Trousdale

Clay

Hawkins Monroe Unicoi

Cocke

Haywood Montgomery Union

Coffee

Henderson Moore Van Buren

Crockett

Henry Morgan Warren

Cumberland

Hickman Obion Washington

Davidson

Houston Overton Weakley

DeKalb

Humphreys Pickett White

Decatur

Jackson Polk Williamson

Dickson

Jefferson Putnam Wilson

Dyer

Johnson Rhea
Texas

Atascosa

Comal Hays Wilson

Bandera

Gonzales Kendall

Bexar

Guadalupe Medina
Virginia

Albemarle

Dinwiddie Lexington City Richmond

Alleghany

Essex Louisa Richmond City

Amelia

Fauquier Lunenburg Roanoke City

Amherst

Floyd Lynchburg City Rockbridge

Appomattox

Fluvanna Madison Rockingham

Augusta

Franklin Martinsville City Russell

Bedford

Franklin City Mathews Salem

Bedford City

Fredericksburg City Mecklenburg Scott
Galax City Middlesex Shenandoah

Botetourt

Giles Montgomery Smyth

Bristol City

Gloucester Nelson Southampton

Brunswick

Goochland New Kent Spotsylvania

Buchanan

Grayson Newport News City Stafford

Buckingham

Greene Norfolk City Staunton City

Buena Vista City

Greensville Northampton Suffolk City

Campbell

Halifax Northumberland Surry

Caroline

Hampton City Nottoway Sussex

Carroll

Hanover Orange Tazewell

Charles City

Harrisonburg Page Virginia Beach City

Charlotte

Henrico Patrick Washington

Charlottesville

Henry Petersburg City Waynesboro City

Chesapeake City

Highland Pittsylvania Westmoreland

 

Page 7


Chesterfield

Hopewell City Poquoson City Williamsburg City

Colonial Heights

Isle Of Wight Portsmouth City Wise

Covington

James City Powhatan Wythe

Craig

King and Queen Prince Edward York

Culpeper

King George Prince George

Cumberland

King William Prince William

Danville City

Lancaster Pulaski

Dickenson

Lee Radford
Washington

Benton

Franklin Walla Walla
West Virginia

Barbour

Jackson Monroe Summers

Boone

Kanawha Nicholas Taylor

Brooke

Lewis Ohio Tucker

Cabell

Lincoln Pendleton Tyler

Calhoun

Logan Pleasants Upshur

Clay

Marion Pocahontas Webster

Doddridge

Marshall Preston Wetzel

Fayette

Mason Putnam Wirt

Gilmer

McDowell Raleigh Wood

Grant

Mercer Ritchie Wyoming

Greenbrier

Mingo Roane

Harrison

Monongalia
Wisconsin

Brown

Kewaunee Oconto Shawano

Calumet

Manitowoc Outagamie Winnebago

 

Page 8


EXHIBIT A:

FORM OF RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER THE

AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

Amedisys, Inc. (the “ Company ”) hereby grants to Paul B. Kusserow (“ Grantee ”) 75,000 shares (the “ Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), which shall be subject to time-vesting conditions as provided in this Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) and in all respects subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meanings given them in the Plan.

 

  1. Nature of Award . This award is an award of restricted stock subject to the Plan.

 

  2. Purchase Price . Grantee shall not be required to pay the Company for the issuance of the Shares.

 

  3. Grant Date . The Shares shall be granted as of [ December     , 2014 ].

 

  4. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . All Shares granted in accordance with the terms of this Agreement shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the employment agreement by and between the Grantee and the Company dated December 11, 2014 (the “ Employment Agreement ”).

 

  5. Issuance of Shares . The Shares shall be issued and escrowed, pending the vesting of the Shares, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 5, 6 and 7 hereof and in accordance with the Plan, as follows:

 

  (i) Issuance . The Company shall cause the Company’s transfer agent to issue the Shares in book entry form in the name of Grantee.

 

  (ii) Escrow of Shares . The shares shall be held in escrow by the Company until such time as (a) Grantee becomes vested in the Shares in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and (b) the Company delivers Shares that have vested to Grantee.

 

  (iii) Vesting . Subject to Section 4 of this Agreement, the Shares shall vest, if at all, in accordance with the following schedule: 18,750 of the Shares shall vest on the first through fourth anniversaries of the Grant Date (each such date, a “ Vesting Date ”), provided that on each such Vesting Date, the Grantee is still employed by the Company. For avoidance of doubt, except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement, there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only on the applicable Vesting Date pursuant to this Section 5(iii).

 

  (iv) Delivery . Vested Shares shall be delivered in book entry form, free of all restrictions, to Grantee or to his/her legal representative, beneficiary or heir.

 

  6. Restrictions on Issuance and Transferability . Shares may not be issued if such issuance would constitute a violation of any applicable federal or state securities or other laws or regulations or any rules or regulations of any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed. Additionally, the Shares may not be transferred, pledged, hypothecated, sold, or otherwise alienated or encumbered until such time as they are vested, delivered to Grantee by the Company and the restrictions validly removed.

 

  7. Legend . The Shares shall be issued in book entry form. The book entry (or record of ownership) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

The transferability of the shares of Common Stock held in the name of the registered owner is restricted by and the subject to the terms and conditions (including conditions of forfeiture) contained in the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan, and in an Agreement entered into between the registered owner and the Company. Copies of the Plan and the Agreement are on file in the office of the Secretary of the Company.


  8. Rights as Stockholder . Except as otherwise provided in this Section 8, during the term hereof, Grantee shall have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to the Shares, including without limitation, the right to vote such Shares. Dividends paid with respect to the Shares in cash, Common Stock or other property or rights to acquire Common Stock in the Company shall be paid to Grantee on the Vesting Date of the Shares to which the dividend relates.

 

  9. Non-Transferability of Award . During the lifetime of Grantee, the Shares may only be issued in the name of Grantee. This Agreement is not assignable or transferable otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on Grantee’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of Grantee’s estate.

 

  10. Independent Legal and Tax Advice . Grantee has had the opportunity to obtain independent legal and tax advice regarding the grant and exercise of this Agreement and the disposition of any Shares acquired thereby. By executing this Agreement, Grantee hereby agrees to remit when due any federal or state income or other taxes, which are required to be withheld or that may otherwise be levied against Grantee as a result of this Agreement. Grantee may satisfy this obligation to remit taxes in whole or in part by electing (the “ Election ”) to have the Company withhold Shares upon vesting, which Shares shall have a value equal to the dollar amount required to be withheld or paid to satisfy such tax obligations. For purposes of this Section 10, the minimum statutory tax withholding rate coincides with the rates applicable to supplemental taxable income in all relevant taxing jurisdictions (e.g., for federal, state and local tax purposes, including payroll taxes). No Shares may be withheld to pay tax obligations in excess of the minimum statutory tax withholding requirements. The value of the Shares withheld shall be based on the Fair Market Value of Shares on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld or paid shall be determined (the “ Tax Date ”). Each Election must be made prior to the Tax Date. The Committee may disapprove of any Election or may suspend or terminate the right to make Elections. If a Grantee makes an election under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to Shares, an Election is not permitted to be made.

 

  11. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Grantee will be addressed to the Grantee at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

  14. Supersedes Prior Agreements . This Agreement shall supersede and replace all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Company and Grantee, other than the Employment Agreement, regarding the grant of any nonvested stock contemplated hereby.

 

  15. Community Property . Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, Grantee shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his/her spouse with respect to this Agreement and the Shares, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if Grantee was the sole owner of this Agreement and the Shares. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Grantee has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

Nathaniel M. Zilkha
Chairman of the Compensation Committee
GRANTEE

 

Paul B. Kusserow

 

3


EXHIBIT B:

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER THE

AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

This Stock Option Agreement (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of [December     , 2014] (the “ Grant Date ”), is by and between Amedisys, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Company ”), and Paul B. Kusserow (the “ Award Recipient ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Plan (as defined below).

RECITALS

WHEREAS , the Company has established and maintains its 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”) for the benefit of its employees;

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient is employed as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company;

WHEREAS , pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement by and between the Award Recipient and the Company dated December 11, 2014 (the “ Employment Agreement ”), the Company wishes to grant to the Award Recipient Non-Qualified Stock Options (“ Options ”) under the terms of the Plan, subject to certain restrictions and limitations; and

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient desires to receive a grant of such Options from the Company;

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the promises and mutual agreements contained herein, the adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Award Recipient agree as follows:

 

  1. Grant of Options .

 

  (a) Number of Options and Exercise Price . The Company hereby grants to the Award Recipient, effective as of the Grant Date, 250,000 Options under the Plan, each such Option contingently entitling the Award Recipient to purchase one share of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “ Stock ”), at an exercise price of [insert closing market price on grant date] per share (the “ Exercise Price ”), subject to the vesting schedules and other terms and conditions set forth below. Unless and until the Options will have vested pursuant to Section 1(b) of this Agreement, the Award Recipient will have no right to purchase any shares of Stock pursuant to Section 2 of this Agreement.

 

  (b) Vesting Schedule . Subject to Section 6 of this Agreement, the Options granted under Section 1(a) shall vest, if at all, in accordance with the following schedule: 62,500 of the Options shall vest on the first through fourth anniversaries of the Grant Date (each such date, a “ Vesting Date ”), provided that on each such Vesting Date, the Award Recipient is still employed by the Company. For avoidance of doubt, except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement, there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only on the applicable Vesting Date pursuant to this Section 1(b).

 

  2. Exercise of Option .

 

  (a)

Method of Exercise . The Options may be exercised (i) by giving written notice to the Company specifying the number of whole shares of Stock to be purchased and accompanying such notice with payment therefor in full (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction) either (A) in cash, (B) by delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having a Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the aggregate purchase price


  payable by reason of such exercise, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock that would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy such obligation, (D) in cash by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) a combination of (A), (B) and (C) and (ii) by executing such documents as the Company may reasonably request. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to pay such purchase price shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient. No shares of Stock shall be issued and no certificate representing Stock shall be delivered until the full purchase price therefor and any withholding taxes thereon, as described in Section 8, have been paid (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction).

 

  (b) Transfer of Shares . No shares of Stock will be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise compiles with relevant provisions of law (including federal and state securities laws) and the requirements of any stock exchange upon which the Stock may then be listed.

 

  3. Type of Option . This Option is a Non-Qualified Stock Option and is not intended to be treated as a stock option described in subsection (b) of Section 422 of the Code.

 

  4. Term of Option/ Expiration Date . The term of this Option shall be for a period of ten (10) years from the Grant Date set forth above. Subject to Section 6, this Option will terminate upon the termination of the Award Recipient’s employment with the Company. If such termination is not for Cause (as defined in the Employment Agreement), the Award Recipient will have until the earlier of [insert date that is 10 years from the date of grant] and the 90th day following the Award Recipient’s termination of employment to exercise any options that were vested as of the date of termination of employment. If the Award Recipient’s employment is terminated for Cause, this entire Option shall terminate immediately upon his termination.

 

  5. Restrictions on Transfer . During the lifetime of the Award Recipient, the Options may be exercised only by the Award Recipient. This Agreement and the Options are not assignable or transferable other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on the Award Recipient’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of the Award Recipient’s estate. Any attempt to transfer the Award Recipient’s rights under this Agreement or the Options granted hereby other than in accordance with the provisions of this Section 5 shall cause all rights of the Award Recipient hereunder to be immediately forfeited.

 

  6. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . All Options and underlying shares of Stock shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the Employment Agreement.

 

  7. Rights as Stockholder . The Award Recipient shall have none of the rights of a stockholder with respect to any Stock subject to the Option until such Stock shall be issued upon the exercise of the Option.

 

  8. Withholding . Prior to the issuance or delivery of any shares of Stock in connection with the exercise of the Options, payment must be made by the Award Recipient of any federal, state, local or other taxes that may be required to be withheld or paid in connection with such exercise. The Award Recipient may satisfy any such obligation by any of the following means: (A) a cash payment to the Company, (B) delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date that the amount of tax is to be withheld or paid (the “ Tax Date ”), equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock which would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the Tax Date, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (D) a cash payment by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) any combination of (A), (B) and (C). Shares of Stock to be delivered or withheld may not have an aggregate Fair Market Value in excess of the amount determined by applying the minimum statutory withholding rate. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to satisfy such an obligation shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient.

 

2


  9. Plan Incorporated by Reference . This grant of Options is made pursuant to the Plan, and in all respects will be interpreted in accordance with the Plan. The Compensation Committee has the authority to interpret and construe this Agreement pursuant to the terms of the Plan, and its decisions are conclusive as to any questions arising hereunder. The Award Recipient hereby acknowledges receipt from the Company of a copy of the current version of the Plan, which shall be deemed to be incorporated in and form a part hereof. The Award Recipient acknowledges that in the event of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, as the same may be amended and in effect from time to time, the terms of the Plan shall prevail.

 

  10. No Employment or Other Rights . This grant of Options does not confer upon the Award Recipient any right to be continued in the employment of the Company or any subsidiary or interfere in any way with the right of the Company to terminate the Award Recipient’s employment at any time, for any reason, with or without cause, or to decrease the Award Recipient’s compensation or benefits. This grant of Options is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive additional Options or other benefits in lieu of Options in the future.

 

  11. Applicable Law . The validity, construction, interpretation and effect of this Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Award Recipient will be addressed to the Award Recipient at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the Plan contain the entire agreement between the Award Recipient and the Company regarding the grant of Options and supersede all prior arrangements or understandings, other than the Employment Agreement, with respect thereto.

 

  14. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  15. Community Property . Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, the Award Recipient shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his spouse with respect to this Agreement, the Options and any shares of Stock purchased and delivered in accordance with Section 2 or this Agreement, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if the Award Recipient was the sole owner of this Agreement and the shares of Stock. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[Signature page follows below]

 

3


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Award Recipient has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

Nathaniel M. Zilkha
Chairman of the Compensation Committee

AWARD RECIPIENT

 

 

Paul B. Kusserow

 

4


EXHIBIT C:

FORM OF RESTRICTED PERFORMANCE STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER THE

AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

Amedisys, Inc. (the “ Company ”) hereby grants to Paul B. Kusserow (“ Grantee ”) 75,000 shares (the “ Shares ”) of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “ Common Stock ”), which shall be subject to performance-vesting conditions as provided in Schedule 1 of this Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) and in all respects subject to the terms and conditions of the Company’s 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the meanings given them in the Plan.

 

  1. Nature of Award . This award is an award of restricted stock subject to the Plan.

 

  2. Purchase Price . Grantee shall not be required to pay the Company for the issuance of the Shares.

 

  3. Grant Date . The Shares shall be granted as of [                     , 2015 ].

 

  4. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . All Shares granted in accordance with the terms of this Agreement shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the employment agreement by and between the Grantee and the Company dated December 11, 2014 (the “ Employment Agreement ”).

 

  5. Issuance of Shares . The Shares shall be issued and escrowed, pending the vesting of the Shares, pursuant to the provisions of Sections 5, 6 and 7 hereof and in accordance with the Plan, as follows:

 

  (i) Issuance . The Company shall cause the Company’s transfer agent to issue the Shares in book entry form in the name of Grantee.

 

  (ii) Escrow of Shares . The shares shall be held in escrow by the Company until such time as (a) Grantee becomes vested in the Shares in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and (b) the Company delivers Shares that have vested to Grantee.

 

  (iii) Vesting . Subject to Section 4 of this Agreement, the Shares shall vest, if at all, based on the certification by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Compensation Committee ”) of the achievement of the Performance Measures set forth in Schedule 1 attached hereto, provided that on each applicable Vesting Date (as defined in Schedule 1 ), the Grantee is still employed by the Company. Subject to Section 4 above, within 60 days following the end of each Performance Period (as defined in Schedule 1 ), the Compensation Committee will determine whether the Performance Measures have been satisfied and notify the Grantee. For avoidance of doubt, except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement, there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only following the Compensation Committee’s certification that the Performance Measures have been achieved.

 

  (iv) Delivery . Vested Shares shall be delivered in book entry form, free of all restrictions, to Grantee or to his/her legal representative, beneficiary or heir.

 

  6. Restrictions on Issuance and Transferability . Shares may not be issued if such issuance would constitute a violation of any applicable federal or state securities or other laws or regulations or any rules or regulations of any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed. Additionally, the Shares may not be transferred, pledged, hypothecated, sold, or otherwise alienated or encumbered until such time as they are vested, delivered to Grantee by the Company and the restrictions validly removed.


  7. Legend . The Shares shall be issued in book entry form. The book entry (or record of ownership) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

The transferability of the shares of Common Stock held in the name of the registered owner is restricted by and the subject to the terms and conditions (including conditions of forfeiture) contained in the Amedisys, Inc. 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan, and in an Agreement entered into between the registered owner and the Company. Copies of the Plan and the Agreement are on file in the office of the Secretary of the Company.

 

  8. Rights as Stockholder . Except as otherwise provided in this Section 8, during the term hereof, Grantee shall have all the rights of a stockholder with respect to the Shares, including without limitation, the right to vote such Shares. Dividends paid with respect to the Shares in cash, Common Stock or other property or rights to acquire Common Stock in the Company shall be paid to Grantee on the Vesting Date of the Shares to which the dividend relates.

 

  9. Non-Transferability of Award . During the lifetime of Grantee, the Shares may only be issued in the name of Grantee. This Agreement is not assignable or transferable otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on Grantee’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of Grantee’s estate.

 

  10. Independent Legal and Tax Advice . Grantee has had the opportunity to obtain independent legal and tax advice regarding the grant and exercise of this Agreement and the disposition of any Shares acquired thereby. By executing this Agreement, Grantee hereby agrees to remit when due any federal or state income or other taxes, which are required to be withheld or that may otherwise be levied against Grantee as a result of this Agreement. Grantee may satisfy this obligation to remit taxes in whole or in part by electing (the “ Election ”) to have the Company withhold Shares upon vesting, which Shares shall have a value equal to the dollar amount required to be withheld or paid to satisfy such tax obligations. For purposes of this Section 10, the minimum statutory tax withholding rate coincides with the rates applicable to supplemental taxable income in all relevant taxing jurisdictions (e.g., for federal, state and local tax purposes, including payroll taxes). No Shares may be withheld to pay tax obligations in excess of the minimum statutory tax withholding requirements. The value of the Shares withheld shall be based on the Fair Market Value of Shares on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld or paid shall be determined (the “ Tax Date ”). Each Election must be made prior to the Tax Date. The Committee may disapprove of any Election or may suspend or terminate the right to make Elections. If a Grantee makes an election under Section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to Shares, an Election is not permitted to be made.

 

  11. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Grantee will be addressed to the Grantee at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

  14. Supersedes Prior Agreements . This Agreement shall supersede and replace all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Company and Grantee, other than the Employment Agreement, regarding the grant of any restricted stock contemplated hereby.

 

  15. Community Property. Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, Grantee shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his/her spouse with respect to this Agreement and the Shares, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if Grantee was the sole owner of this Agreement and the Shares. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Grantee has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

Nathaniel M. Zilkha
Chairman of the Compensation Committee

GRANTEE

 

 

Paul B. Kusserow

 

3


Exhibit A: Vesting Schedule for Shares Subject to Performance-Based Vesting Conditions

[To be inserted]

 

A-1


EXHIBIT D:

FORM OF PERFORMANCE STOCK OPTION AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER THE

AMEDISYS, INC. 2008 OMNIBUS INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN

This Stock Option Agreement (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of [                    , 2015] (the “ Grant Date ”), is by and between Amedisys, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Company ”), and Paul B. Kusserow (the “ Award Recipient ”). Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Plan (as defined below).

RECITALS

WHEREAS , the Company has established and maintains its 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “ Plan ”) for the benefit of its employees;

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient is employed as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company;

WHEREAS , pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement by and between the Award Recipient and the Company dated December 11, 2014 (the “ Employment Agreement ”), the Company wishes to grant to the Award Recipient Non-Qualified Stock Options (“ Options ”) under the terms of the Plan, subject to certain restrictions and limitations; and

WHEREAS , the Award Recipient desires to receive a grant of such Options from the Company;

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the promises and mutual agreements contained herein, the adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Award Recipient agree as follows:

 

  1. Grant of Options .

 

  (a) Number of Options and Exercise Price . The Company hereby grants to the Award Recipient, effective as of the Grant Date, 250,000 Options under the Plan, each such Option contingently entitling the Award Recipient to purchase one share of the Company’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “ Stock ”), at an exercise price of [insert closing market price on grant date ] per share (the “ Exercise Price ”), subject to the vesting schedules and other terms and conditions set forth below. Unless and until the Options will have vested pursuant to Section 1(b) of this Agreement, the Award Recipient will have no right to purchase any shares of Stock pursuant to Section 2 of this Agreement.

 

  (b) Vesting Schedule . Subject to Section 6 of this Agreement, the Options granted under Section 1(a) shall vest, if at all, based on the certification by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Compensation Committee ”) of the achievement of the Performance Measures set forth in Schedule 1 attached hereto, provided that on each applicable Vesting Date (as defined in Schedule 1 ), the Award Recipient is still employed by the Company. Within 60 days following the end of each Performance Period (as defined in Schedule 1 ), the Compensation Committee will determine whether the Performance Measures have been satisfied and notify the Award Recipient. For avoidance of doubt, except as expressly provided in the Employment Agreement, there shall be no proportionate or partial vesting in the periods prior to each Vesting Date and vesting shall occur only following the Compensation Committee’s certification that the Performance Measures have been achieved.

 

  2. Exercise of Option .

 

  (a)

Method of Exercise . The Options may be exercised (i) by giving written notice to the Company specifying the number of whole shares of Stock to be purchased and accompanying such notice


  with payment therefor in full (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction) either (A) in cash, (B) by delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having a Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the aggregate purchase price payable by reason of such exercise, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock that would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date of exercise, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy such obligation, (D) in cash by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) a combination of (A), (B) and (C) and (ii) by executing such documents as the Company may reasonably request. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to pay such purchase price shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient. No shares of Stock shall be issued and no certificate representing Stock shall be delivered until the full purchase price therefor and any withholding taxes thereon, as described in Section 8, have been paid (or arrangement made for such payment to the Company’s satisfaction).

 

  (b) Transfer of Shares . No shares of Stock will be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise compiles with relevant provisions of law (including federal and state securities laws) and the requirements of any stock exchange upon which the Stock may then be listed.

 

  3. Type of Option . This Option is a Non-Qualified Stock Option and is not intended to be treated as a stock option described in subsection (b) of Section 422 of the Code.

 

  4. Term of Option . The term of this Option shall be for a period of ten (10) years from the Grant Date set forth above. Subject to Section 6, this Option will terminate upon the termination of the Award Recipient’s employment with the Company. If such termination is not for Cause (as defined in the Employment Agreement), the Award Recipient will have until the earlier of [insert date that is 10 years from the date of grant] and the 90th day following the Award Recipient’s termination of employment to exercise any options that were vested as of the date of termination of employment. If the Award Recipient’s employment is terminated for Cause, this entire Option shall terminate immediately upon his termination.

 

  5. Restrictions on Transfer . During the lifetime of the Award Recipient, the Options may be exercised only by the Award Recipient. This Agreement and the Options are not assignable or transferable other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or pursuant to certain domestic relations orders. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding on the Award Recipient’s heirs and successors and on the administrators and executors of the Award Recipient’s estate. Any attempt to transfer the Award Recipient’s rights under this Agreement or the Options granted hereby other than in accordance with the provisions of this Section 5 shall cause all rights of the Award Recipient hereunder to be immediately forfeited.

 

  6. Forfeiture/Accelerated Vesting . All Options and underlying shares of Stock shall be subject to the forfeiture and accelerated vesting provisions contained in the Employment Agreement.

 

  7. Rights as Stockholder . The Award Recipient shall have none of the rights of a stockholder with respect to any Stock subject to the Option until such Stock shall be issued upon the exercise of the Option.

 

  8.

Withholding . Prior to the issuance or delivery of any shares of Stock in connection with the exercise of the Options, payment must be made by the Award Recipient of any federal, state, local or other taxes that may be required to be withheld or paid in connection with such exercise. The Award Recipient may satisfy any such obligation by any of the following means: (A) a cash payment to the Company, (B) delivery (either actual delivery or by attestation procedures established by the Company) to the Company of previously owned whole shares of Stock having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the date that the amount of tax is to be withheld or paid (the “ Tax Date ”), equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (C) authorizing the Company to withhold whole shares of Stock which would otherwise be delivered having an aggregate Fair Market Value, determined as of the Tax Date, equal to the amount necessary to satisfy any such obligation, (D) a cash payment by a broker-dealer acceptable to the Company

 

2


  to whom the Award Recipient has submitted an irrevocable notice of exercise or (E) any combination of (A), (B) and (C). Shares of Stock to be delivered or withheld may not have an aggregate Fair Market Value in excess of the amount determined by applying the minimum statutory withholding rate. Any fraction of a share of Stock which would be required to satisfy such an obligation shall be disregarded and the remaining amount due shall be paid in cash by the Award Recipient.

 

  9. Plan Incorporated by Reference . This grant of Options is made pursuant to the Plan, and in all respects will be interpreted in accordance with the Plan. The Compensation Committee has the authority to interpret and construe this Agreement pursuant to the terms of the Plan, and its decisions are conclusive as to any questions arising hereunder. The Award Recipient hereby acknowledges receipt from the Company of a copy of the current version of the Plan, which shall be deemed to be incorporated in and form a part hereof. The Award Recipient acknowledges that in the event of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, as the same may be amended and in effect from time to time, the terms of the Plan shall prevail.

 

  10. No Employment or Other Rights . This grant of Options does not confer upon the Award Recipient any right to be continued in the employment of the Company or any subsidiary or interfere in any way with the right of the Company to terminate the Award Recipient’s employment at any time, for any reason, with or without cause, or to decrease the Award Recipient’s compensation or benefits. This grant of Options is a one-time benefit and does not create any contractual or other right to receive additional Options or other benefits in lieu of Options in the future.

 

  11. Applicable Law . The validity, construction, interpretation and effect of this Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

 

  12. Notice . Any notice to the Company provided for in this Agreement shall be addressed to Amedisys, Inc. at its principal business address in care of the Corporate Secretary of the Company, and any notice to the Award Recipient will be addressed to the Award Recipient at the current address shown on the books and records of the Company. Any notice shall be sent by registered or certified mail or overnight courier service.

 

  13. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the Plan contain the entire agreement between the Award Recipient and the Company regarding the grant of Options and supersede all prior arrangements or understandings, other than the Employment Agreement, with respect thereto.

 

  14. Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a written instrument signed by the party against whom enforcement of any such modification, amendment or waiver is sought.

 

  15. Community Property . Without prejudice to the actual rights of the spouses as between each other, for all purposes of this Agreement, the Award Recipient shall be treated as agent and attorney-in-fact for that interest held or claimed by his spouse with respect to this Agreement, the Options and any shares of Stock purchased and delivered in accordance with Section 2 or this Agreement, and the parties to this Agreement shall act in all matters as if the Award Recipient was the sole owner of this Agreement and the shares of Stock. This appointment is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.

[Signature page follows below]

 

3


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representative and the Award Recipient has executed this Agreement effective as of the Grant Date.

 

AMEDISYS, INC.
BY:

 

Nathaniel M. Zilkha
Chairman of the Compensation Committee
AWARD RECIPIENT

 

Paul B. Kusserow

 

4


Exhibit A: Vesting Schedule for Options Subject to Performance-Based Vesting Conditions

[To be inserted]

 

A-1

Exhibit 21.1

LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES

CORPORATIONS

ADVENTA HOSPICE SERVICES OF FLORIDA, INC., a Florida corporation

AMEDISYS HOME HEALTH, INC. OF ALABAMA, an Alabama corporation

AMEDISYS HOME HEALTH, INC. OF SOUTH CAROLINA, a South Carolina corporation

AMEDISYS HOME HEALTH, INC. OF VIRGINIA, a Virginia corporation

HMR ACQUISITION, INC., a Delaware corporation

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES

ACCUMED HEALTH SERVICES, L.L.C., a Texas limited liability company

ACCUMED HOLDING, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

ACCUMED HOME HEALTH OF GEORGIA, L.L.C., a Georgia limited liability company

ACCUMED HOME HEALTH OF NORTH TEXAS, L.L.C., a Texas limited liability company

ADVENTA HOSPICE, L.L.C., a Florida limited liability company

ALBERT GALLATIN HOME CARE AND HOSPICE SERVICES, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

AMEDISYS AIR, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS ALABAMA, L.L.C., an Alabama limited liability company

AMEDISYS ALASKA, LLC, an Alaska limited liability company

AMEDISYS ARIZONA, L.L.C., an Arizona limited liability company

AMEDISYS ARKANSAS, LLC, an Arkansas limited liability company

AMEDISYS BA, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

AMEDISYS CALIFORNIA, L.L.C., a California limited liability company

AMEDISYS COLORADO, L.L.C., a Colorado limited liability company

AMEDISYS CONNECTICUT, L.L.C., a Connecticut limited liability company

AMEDISYS DELAWARE, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

AMEDISYS FLORIDA, L.L.C., a Florida limited liability company

AMEDISYS GEORGIA, L.L.C., a Georgia limited liability company

AMEDISYS HEALTH CARE WEST, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

AMEDISYS HOLDING, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS HOSPICE, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS IDAHO, L.L.C., an Idaho limited liability company

AMEDISYS ILLINOIS, L.L.C., an Illinois limited liability company

AMEDISYS INDIANA, L.L.C., an Indiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS IOWA, L.L.C., an Iowa limited liability company

AMEDISYS KANSAS, L.L.C., a Kansas limited liability company

AMEDISYS LA ACQUISITIONS, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS LOUISIANA, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS MAINE, P.L.L.C., a Maine professional limited liability company

AMEDISYS MARYLAND, L.L.C., a Maryland limited liability company

AMEDISYS MASSACHUSETTS, L.L.C., a Massachusetts limited liability company

AMEDISYS MICHIGAN, L.L.C., a Michigan limited liability company

AMEDISYS MINNESOTA, L.L.C., a Minnesota limited liability company

AMEDISYS MISSISSIPPI, L.L.C., a Mississippi limited liability company

AMEDISYS MISSOURI, L.L.C., a Missouri limited liability company

AMEDISYS NEBRASKA, L.L.C., a Nebraska limited liability company

AMEDISYS NEVADA, L.L.C., a Nevada limited liability company

AMEDISYS NEW HAMPSHIRE, L.L.C., a New Hampshire limited liability company

AMEDISYS NEW JERSEY, L.L.C., a New Jersey limited liability company

AMEDISYS NEW MEXICO, L.L.C., a New Mexico limited liability company

AMEDISYS NORTH CAROLINA, L.L.C., a North Carolina limited liability company

AMEDISYS NORTH DAKOTA, L.L.C., a North Dakota limited liability company

AMEDISYS NORTHWEST, L.L.C., a Georgia limited liability company

AMEDISYS OHIO, L.L.C., an Ohio limited liability company


AMEDISYS OKLAHOMA, L.L.C., an Oklahoma limited liability company

AMEDISYS OREGON, L.L.C., an Oregon limited liability company

AMEDISYS PENNSYLVANIA, L.L.C., a Pennsylvania limited liability company

AMEDISYS PROPERTY, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS PUERTO RICO, L.L.C., a Puerto Rican limited liability company

AMEDISYS QUALITY OKLAHOMA, L.L.C., an Oklahoma limited liability company

AMEDISYS RHODE ISLAND, L.L.C., a Rhode Island limited liability company

AMEDISYS SC, L.L.C., a South Carolina limited liability company

AMEDISYS SOUTH DAKOTA, L.L.C., a South Dakota limited liability company

AMEDISYS SOUTH FLORIDA, L.L.C., a Florida limited liability company

AMEDISYS SPECIALIZED MEDICAL SERVICES, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS SP-IN, L.L.C., an Indiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS SP-KY, L.L.C., a Kentucky limited liability company

AMEDISYS SP-OH, L.L.C., an Ohio limited liability company

AMEDISYS SP-TN, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

AMEDISYS TENNESSEE, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

AMEDISYS TEXAS, L.L.C., a Texas limited liability company

AMEDISYS TLC ACQUISITION, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

AMEDISYS UTAH, L.L.C., a Utah limited liability company

AMEDISYS VENTURES, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

AMEDISYS VIRGINIA, L.L.C., a Virginia limited liability company

AMEDISYS WASHINGTON, L.L.C., a Washington limited liability company

AMEDISYS WESTERN, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

AMEDISYS WEST VIRGINIA, L.L.C., a West Virginia limited liability company

AMEDISYS WISCONSIN, L.L.C., a Wisconsin limited liability company

ANMC Ventures, L.L.C., a Louisiana liability company

AVENIR VENTURES, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

BEACON HOSPICE, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

BROOKSIDE HOME HEALTH, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company

CH HOLDINGS, LLC, a Louisiana limited liability company

COMPREHENSIVE HOME HEALTHCARE SERVICES, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

EMERALD CARE, L.L.C., a North Carolina limited liability company

FAMILY HOME HEALTH CARE, L.L.C., a Kentucky limited liability company

GREATER MOBILE HOME HEALTH, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

HHC, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

HOME HEALTH OF ALEXANDRIA, L.L.C., a Louisiana limited liability company

HOME HOSPITALISTS OF AMERICA, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

HORIZONS HOSPICE CARE, L.L.C., an Alabama limited liability company

HOUSECALL, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

HOUSECALL HOME HEALTH, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

HOUSECALL MEDICAL RESOURCES, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

HOUSECALL MEDICAL SERVICES, L.L.C., a Tennessee limited liability company

HOUSECALL SUPPORTIVE SERVICES, L.L.C., a Florida limited liability company

MC VENTURES, LLC, a Mississippi limited liability company

M.M. ACCUMED VENTURES, L.L.C., a Texas limited liability company

NINE PALMS 1, L.L.C., a Virginia limited liability company

RIDEOUT HOME HEALTH AND HOSPICE, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES INTERNATIONAL, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES MIDWEST, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF BROWARD, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF ERIE NIAGARA, LLC, a New York limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF GEORGIA, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF LONG ISLAND, LLC, a New York limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF NASSAU SUFFOLK, LLC, a New York limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF NEW ENGLAND, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES OF WEST VIRGINIA, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company


TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES SOUTHEAST, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TENDER LOVING CARE HEALTH CARE SERVICES WESTERN, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company

TLC HOLDINGS I, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

TLC HEALTH CARE SERVICES, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company

LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS/LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIPS

NINE PALMS 2, LLP, a Mississippi limited liability partnership

JOINT VENTURES

AMEDISYS HOME HEALTH, A LAWRENCE MEDICAL CENTER PARTNER, L.L.C, a Delaware limited liability company (66.67% ownership)

AMEDISYS PRIVATE DUTY, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (50% ownership)

AMEDISYS VALLEY TEXAS, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company (70% ownership)

GEORGETOWN HOSPITAL HOME HEALTH, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (70% ownership)

MARIETTA HOME HEALTH AND HOSPICE, L.L.C., an Ohio limited liability company (50% ownership)

MORGANTOWN HOSPICE, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (80% ownership)

PORTNEUF HOME HEALTH CARE, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (50% ownership)

TRI-CITIES HOME HEALTH, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (50% ownership)

WENTWORTH HOME CARE AND HOSPICE, LLC, a New Hampshire limited liability company (50% ownership)

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors

Amedisys, Inc.:

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements (Nos. 333-138255 and 333-145582) on Form S-3 and (Nos. 333-60525, 333-51704, 333-53786, 333-143967, 333-152359 and 333-182347) on Form S-8 of Amedisys, Inc. and subsidiaries of our reports dated March 4, 2015, with respect to the consolidated balance sheets of Amedisys, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, which reports appear in the December 31, 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K of Amedisys, Inc. and subsidiaries.

 

/s/ KPMG LLP
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
March 4, 2015

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Paul B. Kusserow, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, of Amedisys, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d. Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an Annual Report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s Board of Directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 4, 2015

 

/ S / Paul B. Kusserow

Paul B. Kusserow

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Dale E. Redman, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, of Amedisys, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a. Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b. Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c. Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d. Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an Annual Report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s Board of Directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a. All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b. Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 4, 2015

 

/ S / Dale E. Redman

Dale E. Redman

Interim Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of Amedisys, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “Report”), I, Paul B. Kusserow, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, hereby certify to my knowledge, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

Date: March 4, 2015

 

/ S / Paul B. Kusserow

Paul B. Kusserow

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of Amedisys, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “Report”), I, Dale E. Redman, Interim Chief Financial Officer of the Company, hereby certify to my knowledge, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

Date: March 4, 2015

 

/s/ Dale E. Redman

Dale E. Redman

Interim Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)