Michael Marion

Michael Marion, on behalf of Ben Hendrix, asked if the phase-out of the inpatient-only list impacts expectations for cardiology procedures to ramp.

Answer

CEO Eric Evans expressed enthusiasm for the administration's decision regarding the inpatient-only list, viewing it as a positive backdrop for cardiology. He noted that cardiology is a harder specialty to transition due to physician employment and state restrictions, but sees tremendous long-term savings opportunities. Eric Evans highlighted faster movement in EP ablations, cardiac rhythm management, and vascular procedures, while true interventional cardiology is slower due to physician transitions and state rules. He concluded that the cardiology opportunity will be significant, especially if orthopedics growth eventually slows.

Michael Marion asked if the phase-out of the inpatient-only list impacts expectations for cardiology procedures to ramp up.

Answer

CEO Eric Evans expressed enthusiasm for the administration's decision regarding the inpatient-only list, recognizing the opportunity in cardiology. He noted that cardiology is harder to transition due to physician employment and state restrictions, but sees tremendous savings potential. He expects faster movement in EP ablations and cardiac rhythm management, while true interventional cardiology will be slower due to physician transitions and state rules. He concluded that the cardiology opportunity, combined with technology and these changes, will be significant in the future.