Brian Tanquilut's questions to US Physical Therapy Inc (USPH) leadership • Q1 2025
Question
Brian Tanquilut questioned whether the recent improvement in the business is attributable to durable demand, increased clinician productivity, and stabilized recruiting and retention. He also asked for an update on the company's lobbying efforts and potential positive developments regarding Medicare physician payment rates.
Answer
CEO Christopher Reading confirmed that strong demand and successful investments in recruiting, school partnerships, and student programs are key drivers of the positive momentum. On the lobbying front, he detailed extensive efforts with industry groups like APTQI, noting a consensus among lawmakers that the recent Medicare cuts were a mistake. He highlighted promising initiatives like the SAFE Act and the Maryland-based EQIP program, which demonstrates significant cost savings when physical therapists manage musculoskeletal cases, as potential levers for future rate relief.