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US Oncology Inc, et al. – ‘10-K’ for 12/31/09

On:  Thursday, 3/4/10, at 4:30pm ET   ·   For:  12/31/09   ·   Accession #:  1193125-10-47932   ·   File #s:  0-26190, 333-126922

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  As Of                Filer                Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size              Issuer               Agent

 3/04/10  US Oncology Inc                   10-K       12/31/09    6:3.4M                                   RR Donnelley/FA
          US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Annual Report   —   Form 10-K
Filing Table of Contents

Document/Exhibit                   Description                      Pages   Size 

 1: 10-K        Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31,    HTML   2.49M 
                          2009                                                   
 2: EX-21       Subsidiaries of the Registrant                      HTML     12K 
 3: EX-31.1     Certification of Chief Executive Officer (302)      HTML     13K 
 4: EX-31.2     Certification of Chief Financial Officer (302)      HTML     13K 
 5: EX-32.1     Certification of Chief Executive Officer (906)      HTML      8K 
 6: EX-32.2     Certification of Chief Financial Officer (906)      HTML      8K 


10-K   —   Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2009
Document Table of Contents

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11st Page   -   Filing Submission
"Index to Financial Statements
"Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
"Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008
"Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
"Consolidated Statement of Equity (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
"Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
"Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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  Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2009  
Index to Financial Statements

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

þ

Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009

OR

 

¨

Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Commission file numbers: 333-144492 and 0-26190

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

US Oncology, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   90-0222104
Delaware   84-1213501
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
10101 Woodloch Forest, The Woodlands, Texas   77380
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (832) 601-8766

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

None

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

None

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

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

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  þ    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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ¨    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K 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.

 

Large accelerated filer

 

¨

  

Accelerated filer

 

¨

 

Non-accelerated filer

 

x  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

  

Smaller reporting company  

 

¨

 

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

As of March 1, 2010, 422,963,505 and 100 shares of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and US Oncology, Inc. common stock were outstanding, respectively.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

There are no documents incorporated by reference.

This Form 10-K is a combined annual report being filed separately by two registrants: US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and US Oncology, Inc. Unless the context indicates otherwise, any reference in this report to “Holdings” refers to US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and any reference to “US Oncology” refers to US Oncology, Inc., the wholly-owned operating subsidiary of Holdings. References to the “Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our” refer collectively to US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and US Oncology, Inc.

 

 

 


Index to Financial Statements

PART I

As used in this report, unless the context otherwise requires, the terms, “Holdings,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries. US Oncology, Inc., or US Oncology, refers to our wholly owned subsidiary through which all our operations are conducted.

Introduction

US Oncology helps expand and improve patient access to high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care by working closely with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to improve the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of the cancer care delivery system. US Oncology has evolved significantly since its inception. While retaining its strong practice management expertise, particularly in the community setting, the Company has developed robust clinical expertise and expanded to offer a wide range of services, resources and tools spanning the cancer care delivery system nationwide. Today, our mission is to provide the right treatment, at the right time, for the right patient.

Our expertise positions US Oncology to support almost every aspect of the cancer care delivery system – from drug development to treatment and outcomes measurement, enabling us to help improve cancer care in America and participate in addressing the challenges of the care delivery system.

The economics of health care and the aging American population mean that pressures to increase the effectiveness of care while reducing the cost of delivery will continue. US Oncology is working with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to address these issues.

US Oncology is not a direct provider of medical services, but is affiliated with 1,310 physicians across the United States who provide patient care. We work closely with these physicians to provide their patients access to the latest therapies, research and technologies, usually in a single outpatient setting. As a result, patients are able to access quality treatment with minimal disruption to their daily activities. The size and national scale of our network affords affiliated physicians opportunities to enhance practice performance through advantages we offer them in areas such as pharmaceutical purchasing, reimbursement, lean six sigma processes, physician recruiting and information systems.

US Oncology’s state of the art drug distribution and specialty pharmacy services aim to increase patient access to pharmaceuticals through a safe and efficient delivery system while our treatment and research networks accelerate the development and commercialization of new products. In addition, after products are introduced, US Oncology collects and analyzes data to provide significant insight into product performance and patient outcomes to pharmaceutical manufacturers for ongoing product development and evaluation.

In broadly supporting the cancer care delivery system we aim to improve not only the patient experience, but also the payer’s ability to achieve cost predictability and accountability. Our Level I Pathways, developed and led by network physicians, assist physicians in making evidence-based treatment decisions for commonly-treated cancers and our electronic medical record supports the review of treatment patterns and outcomes. Innovent Oncology, a new service of US Oncology, has been specifically designed to bring physicians and payers together to provide clinical quality while better managing the total cost of care by leveraging these evidence-based treatment protocols and providing standardized, oncology-specific patient support services.

This report is designed to provide an understanding of our business and performance, as well as to comply with relevant securities laws. The following is a brief guide to some of the key sections of this report.

 

   

The Business section, beginning on page 2, offers an overview of our business and operations and describes recent strategic developments and initiatives.

 

   

Risk Factors, beginning on page 16, outline key risks and uncertainties that could materially affect our business and performance or the value of our securities. The reader should keep these risks in mind while reviewing this report.

 

1


Index to Financial Statements
   

Selected Financial Data beginning on page 41, presents a summary of our financial performance over the past five years and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

   

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”), beginning on page 44, is designed to provide the reader with a narrative explanation of our financial results. In that section we discuss material trends in our business and explain some of the underlying factors that influence our results. In MD&A, we also discuss our liquidity, capital resources and contractual obligations, as well as identify and explain accounting policies and judgments considered critical to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

   

The Consolidated Financial Statements, beginning on page 86, present our financial position, results of operations and cash flows in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP.

 

   

The Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements follow the financial statements. Among other things, the notes explain our accounting policies, as well as provide detailed information on items within the financial statements, certain commitments and contingencies, and the performance of each of our segments as required by GAAP.

Forward Looking Statements

The following statements are or may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: (i) certain statements, including possible or assumed future results of operations contained in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” (ii) any statements contained herein regarding the prospects for any of our businesses or services and our development activities relating to physician affiliations, cancer centers, new service offerings and changes in reimbursement; (iii) any statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “estimates”, “plans” or similar expressions; and (iv) other statements contained herein regarding matters that are not historical facts.

Our business and results of operations are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond management’s ability to control or predict. Because of these risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements, which speak only as of the date thereof.

 

Item 1. Business

Background

The Company was formed in March, 2004, when a wholly owned subsidiary of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. agreed to merge with and into US Oncology, with US Oncology continuing as the surviving corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Holdings (the “Merger”). On August 20, 2004, the Merger, valued at approximately $1.6 billion, was consummated. Currently, Holdings’ principal asset is 100% of the shares of common stock of US Oncology, Inc. (“US Oncology”). Holdings conducts all of its business through US Oncology and its headquarters are located in The Woodlands, Texas.

Cancer in America

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1.5 million new cancer cases were expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2009. Survival rates have increased substantially over the last 20 years and there is an increasingly large population of Americans who are living with cancer as a chronic disease. This large population can be afflicted with one or more of 300 cancer types, each requiring its own approach to diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, there are many emerging therapies and treatment options which together have greatly complicated and expanded the number of ways in which the disease is treated and administered.

 

2


Index to Financial Statements

According to the National Institutes of Health, by 2008 cancer treatment costs were approximately $93 billion and absenteeism, lost productivity and other costs associated with the disease increased the overall cost of cancer to nearly $230 billion. We help physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers, payers and patients navigate through the complexity of today’s cancer treatments while containing cost of care and creating improved efficiencies and patient outcomes. Rapidly escalating cancer care costs have contributed significantly to the growth in U.S. healthcare costs over the last two decades, and there is a growing need to improve patient access and options efficiently and effectively.

Many U.S. cancer patients are treated in a community care setting. A key part of our mission is to advance the best possible community cancer care. Our innovative services help all constituencies work together to provide the latest therapies, research and technology to patients within a single outpatient setting. As a result, patients are able to access high quality treatment with minimal disruption to their daily lives. The size and scale of our national network affords physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers efficiency and education opportunities that have a tangible benefit for cancer patients throughout the United States.

Our Services

Our mission is to enable physicians to provide the right treatment, at the right time, for the right patient. We strive to expand and improve patient access to high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care by working closely with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to improve the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of the cancer care delivery system. To realize our mission of enhancing patient access to advanced care, we must maintain a dual emphasis on cost containment and quality improvement. Pursuit of this mission involves strategic initiatives at both the local level, where cancer care is delivered to patients, and at the national level to address the needs of commercial and governmental payers, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industry customers.

We believe declining reimbursement and increasing operating costs have resulted in a trend toward professional management of physician groups. Since our inception, we have worked with local physician groups to enable affiliated practices to offer state of the art care to cancer patients in outpatient settings, including professional medical services, chemotherapy infusion, radiation oncology services, access to clinical trials, laboratory services, diagnostic radiology, pharmacy services and patient education. In addition, we work with affiliated groups to improve practice performance through optimizing reimbursement, implementing Lean Six-Sigma operating processes, recruiting physicians, providing customized electronic medical records and information systems, and obtaining nationally negotiated supply arrangements. We also assist affiliated groups through the development of relationship-building programs targeted to referring physicians, and through local and national branding campaigns that communicate the benefits of being a member of our network. We have also developed other tools for physicians such as the Oncology Portal which was launched during the third quarter of 2009. The portal is a web-based cancer care community to provide oncologists and clinicians a platform to collaborate, share best practices and gain industry insight and education.

Through the expertise of our affiliated physicians and their experience with patients throughout the country, the scope of our service offerings has expanded from our genesis in practice management to our current status, which encompasses nearly every aspect of the cancer care continuum. As of December 31, 2009, we are affiliated with 1,310 physicians operating in 496 locations, including 100 radiation oncology facilities, across 38 states. Our affiliated physicians cared for over 700,000 patients during 2009, which we believe is the largest cancer care network in the United States.

It is that sizable physician and patient population that allows us to realize volume efficiencies for the network and a variety of additional industry customers. We provide oncologists with a broad range of innovative products and services through two economic models: a comprehensive strategic alliance model, under which we provide all of our practice management products and services under a single contract with one fee typically based on the practice’s financial performance, and our targeted physician services model, under which physicians purchase a narrower suite of services based on the types of services required by the practice. Most of our affiliated physicians are served through the comprehensive model that provides the services and resources necessary to offer patients integrated cancer care in the community setting. That offering includes management services and financial and operational resources, as well as the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues throughout the country on clinical research and the accelerated use of evidence-based oncology treatments.

However, we also offer our services through targeted arrangements where a subset of our comprehensive services, including supplying oncology pharmaceuticals, disease management, electronic medical records and research, can be

 

3


Index to Financial Statements

obtained separately on a fee-for-service basis. These targeted arrangements are designed to meet the needs of oncology practices that may not be well-suited for a comprehensive management arrangement but still value a narrower scope of our services.

In addition to assisting physicians in addressing the challenges faced by their practices, we use the insight gained from working with these practices to assist payers and pharmaceutical manufacturers in improving patient access to high quality cancer care and the effectiveness of the care delivery system.

Our reimbursement expertise helps providers, payers and pharmaceutical manufacturers realize cost efficiency and predictability in a largely unpredictable field of medicine. Innovent Oncology addresses the payer’s need to avoid the unnecessary costs of care while ensuring the highest level of clinical quality. Innovent Oncology combines Level I Pathways, evidence-based treatment protocols developed by network physicians for commonly-treated cancers, with iKnowMed, our electronic medical records system that supports the review of treatment patterns and outcomes. Innovent Oncology includes oncologist-directed disease management and robust patient support services, such as experienced oncology nurses and standardized educational materials, to aid in patient understanding of treatment protocols and potential side-effects to help reduce occurrences of avoidable medical interventions. Innovent Oncology also assists patients with incurable or late-stage disease with end-of-life planning to meet their individual physical, mental, social and spiritual needs. Appropriate advanced care planning avoids unnecessary treatments that both diminish the patient’s quality of life and consume healthcare resources in an inefficient manner.

Our payer services are based on actual experience in the community care setting and include a variety of programs to improve the predictability of costs for health plans. These programs partner payers and providers in an integrated effort to contain costs while accelerating the use of evidence-based medicine in oncology to improve the overall patient outcome. Innovent Oncology offers a comprehensive solution to the key cost drivers in cancer care: variable treatments, debilitating side effects that lead to emergency room visits and hospitalizations between treatments, and futile treatment at the end of life.

We also work with pharmaceutical manufacturers in the development and commercialization of oncology pharmaceuticals. The US Oncology Research network provides pharmaceutical manufacturers with a centrally managed and efficient system for the clinical development of new therapies from Phase I through IV. This research network is led by industry-leading cancer experts in all major tumor types and offers access to an unparalleled national sampling of patients. We offer clinical trial services to pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device manufacturers. In addition, AccessMed® provides patient financial assistance and product support services to assist pharmaceutical manufacturers in commercializing their products, while our Healthcare Informatics business collects and analyzes data to provide significant insight into drug performance and patient outcomes for ongoing product development and evaluation. Our distribution center increases the safety of drugs through a state-of-the-art e-Pedigree technology that tracks drug therapies from the manufacturer to the practice, ensuring that drugs administered to patients by our affiliated physicians are genuine and unadulterated.

Our Physician Relationship Models

Comprehensive Strategic Alliance

Under our comprehensive services model known as a comprehensive strategic alliance, we own or lease all of the real and personal property used by our affiliated practices. In addition, we generally manage the non-medical business operations of our affiliated practices and facilitate communication with our affiliated physicians. Each management agreement contemplates a policy board consisting of representatives from us and the affiliated physician practice. The responsibilities of each board include strategic planning, decision-making and preparation of an annual budget for that practice. While both we and the affiliated practice have an equal vote in matters before the policy board, the practice physicians are solely responsible for all medical decisions, including the hiring and termination of physicians. We are responsible for non-medical decisions, including facilities management and information systems management.

Under most of our comprehensive strategic alliances, we are compensated under the earnings model. Under that model, we account for all expenses that we incur in connection with managing a practice, including rent, pharmaceutical expenses, and salaries and benefits of non-physician employees of the practices, and are paid a management fee based on a percentage of the practice’s earnings before income taxes, subject to certain adjustments. During the year ended December 31, 2009, 73.7% of our revenue was derived from comprehensive strategic alliances related to practices managed under the earnings model. Our other comprehensive strategic alliances are on a fixed management fee basis, as required in some states.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

Targeted Physician Services

Our services are increasingly being offered through targeted arrangements where a subset of the services offered through our comprehensive strategic alliances are provided separately to oncologists on a fee-for-service basis. Targeted physician services represented 15.6% of our revenue during the year ended December 31, 2009 which was primarily fees for payment for pharmaceuticals and supplies used by the practice and reimbursement for certain pharmacy-related expenses. A smaller portion of our revenue from targeted arrangements was payment for other services we provide. Rates for our services typically are based on the level of services desired by the practice.

Our Operating Segments

We provide the services described above through four operating segments: medical oncology services, cancer center services, pharmaceutical services and research/other services. Each of our operating segments is described in greater detail below.

We provide management services to practices under comprehensive strategic alliances in both our medical oncology and cancer center services segments. Our management services are intended to support affiliated physicians provide high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care. Both medical oncology and cancer center services may be provided under the same arrangement to provide comprehensive practice management services with the differentiation between these segments relating to the nature of cancer care being supported. Medical oncology services typically relate to the support of physicians who provide chemotherapy and drug administration, while cancer center services typically relate to physicians performing radiation treatments and diagnostic radiology.

Our practice management services are designed not only to encompass all non-clinical aspects of managing an oncology practice but also to assist affiliated practices developing and executing long-term strategies for their success. We believe our fee arrangements, which are typically based on a percentage of the affiliated practice’s earnings, effectively align our interests and long-term objectives with those of our comprehensively managed practices.

We work with affiliated groups to improve practice performance through optimizing reimbursement, implementing Lean Six-Sigma operating processes, providing customized electronic medical records and information systems, and obtaining nationally-negotiated supply arrangements. We also assist in recruiting additional physicians into our groups, including those from established practices and newly qualified oncologists. In 2009, approximately 60 oncologists were recruited to join one of our existing affiliated groups. We believe that a substantial portion of newly qualified oncologists entering private practice join one of our affiliated groups. We also assist affiliated groups through the development of relationship-building programs targeted to referring physicians, and through local and national branding campaigns that communicate the benefits of being a member of our network.

We work with practices to establish operating plans, determine goals, set strategic direction and assess the viability of capital projects or other initiatives to position them for long-term growth. Our network technology infrastructure provides a common platform that facilitates clinical collaboration among physicians, including virtual tumor boards where challenging cases and treatments can be discussed among peers. In addition, this infrastructure allows for the accumulation of financial information that can be used to establish key performance metrics, benchmark practice results, identify opportunities to enhance performance and develop best operating practices. We also provide a voice in Washington, D.C. for our affiliated practices and advocate on their behalf, and on behalf of their patients, with state agencies and lawmakers.

In addition, our management services are designed to encompass all non-clinical aspects of managing an oncology practice, allowing affiliated physicians to spend more time providing care to patients. These services include accounting, billing and collection, personnel management, payroll, benefits administration, risk management and compliance.

Medical Oncology Services

In addition to the practice management services described above, we provide pharmaceutical services to physicians that have affiliated under comprehensive strategic alliances.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

Pharmaceuticals are the central component of medical oncology practices and by far their largest expense. For this reason, we have worked to develop core competencies in purchasing, distributing and managing oncology pharmaceuticals for medical oncologists. Central to the pharmaceutical services we provide is our ability to obtain drug pricing on more favorable terms than would otherwise be available to our affiliated practices on an individual basis. Because of the significant size and scale of our network, we negotiate all pharmaceutical purchases directly with drug manufacturers and are generally able to procure market-differentiated pricing. In addition, we work with affiliated practices to implement efficient operating processes to manage inventory, eliminate waste and enhance product safety.

The majority of pharmaceuticals we purchase are delivered to the affiliated practices where they are mixed, when required, by pharmacists, pharmacy technicians or nurses employed by the affiliated practices and administered to patients at the practice. A small percentage of pharmaceuticals we purchase are dispensed to patients at our network pharmacies to be used on an outpatient basis. As of December 31, 2009, our network includes 46 licensed pharmacies (located primarily in our cancer centers), 142 pharmacists and 360 pharmacy technicians. Where appropriate, we establish, or assist practices in establishing, retail pharmacy locations for oral and other self-administered therapies. The pharmacies serve as the recipients of, and distributors for, the pharmaceuticals used in treating our affiliated practices’ patients.

Participation in our network provides affiliated physicians access to the broad range of clinical insight that would not be available to them otherwise. We facilitate clinical collaboration among network affiliated physicians through coordinated national meetings and discussions regarding treatment protocols, drug effectiveness and other pharmacy-related issues, including support for a network-wide pharmacy and therapeutics committee consisting of our affiliated physicians and support for the development of our Level I Pathways. In addition, we provide data collection and analytical services for use by physicians and their clinical staff, pharmacists and patients, including comprehensive analyses of complex chemotherapy regimens and their efficacy, toxicity, convenience and cost. We also provide an oncology-specific electronic medical records system, known as iKnowMed. This system includes customized content and comprehensive implementation plans with onsite training and support aimed at improving patient care as well as practice efficiency inducing accurate and complete charge capture.

Cancer Center Services

We offer cancer center services to affiliated practices under our comprehensive strategic alliances. We believe that community-based care in an integrated setting is the best way to provide patients access to high quality, comprehensive and advanced cancer care. We encourage medical oncology practices with sufficient market presence to expand into diagnostic radiology and radiation therapy, which can be performed at our cancer centers, but not in a typical practice office. In addition to increasing patient access to high quality care, we believe that offering a broader range of services enhances a practice’s financial position by mitigating its financial exposure to changes in pharmaceutical economics.

As of December 31, 2009, we manage 83 integrated, community-based cancer centers, either outright or through joint ventures, of which we own 41 and lease 42. In addition, we manage 17 radiation-only facilities which are leased. We provide the development capital and manage all aspects of the cancer center development process in consultation with the practice, from deciding whether and where to build a cancer center, through permitting and regulatory issues, and through construction, development and operations.

Pharmaceutical Services

The pharmaceutical services provided through the medical oncology services segment described above are also available as a separate targeted service offering to medical oncologists that are not part of a comprehensive strategic alliance. These practices are contracted under a targeted physician services model which does not encompass all of our practice management services. Pharmaceutical services include:

 

   

Group Purchasing Organization, or GPO, services. We negotiate purchasing contracts with pharmaceutical manufacturers and other vendors, administer the contracts and provide related services.

 

   

Pharmaceutical Distribution services. Our distribution center increases the safety of drugs through a state-of-the-art e-Pedigree technology that tracks drug therapies from the manufacturer to the practice, ensuring that drugs administered to patients by our affiliated physicians are genuine and unadulterated. Located in Fort Worth, Texas, our distribution center supplied approximately 95% of the value of pharmaceuticals administered by our network of affiliated practices in 2009.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

Through our pharmaceutical services segment, we also provide informational and other services to pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers:

 

   

Information, marketing and analytical services. We provide a range of data and analytical services relating to purchasing and utilization of pharmaceuticals and other matters, as well as marketing assistance and other product-related services.

 

   

Reimbursement Support. To expand the services we offer pharmaceutical manufacturers, in July 2006, we acquired AccessMed™, a company that provides patient financial assistance and support services to assist pharmaceutical manufacturers in commercializing their products.

 

   

Oral Oncology Specialty Pharmacy. In August 2006, we launched our oral oncology specialty pharmacy and mail order business at our Fort Worth facility. This capability is designed to address the increasing number of new oral chemotherapeutical compounds, as well as the needs of payers seeking to consolidate their pharmaceutical purchasing power to reduce costs. The mail order service is an offering that is also available to patients outside of our affiliated network practices. In addition to providing patients with pharmaceuticals, we provide patient counseling services that are directed toward appropriate use of medications, side effects and complication monitoring and reimbursement issues.

 

   

Oncology Portal. In August 2009, we launched a website resource for the physician community and currently have over 800 physicians actively utilizing this community-based tool.

Cancer Research Services

We provide a full range of cancer research services to our affiliated practices, from study concept and design to regulatory approval. We believe that physicians and patients value this service because it provides access to the latest treatments available in oncology. Our clinical research expertise can provide patient access to a Phase I clinical trial that is rarely available to patients in a community setting and it can accelerate the use of evidence-based medicine with large-scale measurement of outcomes.

Cancer research revenues are derived from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies that pay us to manage and facilitate their clinical trials and to provide other research-related services. We pay our affiliated physicians for their participation in clinical trials according to financial arrangements that are separately determined for each trial. Our cancer research program is designed to give community-based oncologists and their patients access to a broad range of the latest clinical trials.

Equipment

Technology, in the form of imaging and treatment delivery, is critical to effective cancer care. Throughout the course of a patient’s treatment, from initial staging to monitoring the response to a given treatment and providing precise feedback on its effectiveness, diagnostic imaging helps patients receive appropriate care. For these reasons, many of our affiliated practices seek to integrate the latest diagnostic and radiation oncology technology into their practices.

Computerized tomography, or CT, uses computer-intensive reconstruction techniques to create images of the body from X-rays. A CT scanner produces images that are tomographic, cross-sectional slices of the body, and the data from a CT scan can be enhanced in several ways to show internal structures in three dimensions. The speed of current CTs (and related image processors) allows oncologists to reconstruct the “slices” of the patient in any plane requested and use any slice thickness to help build a more definitive diagnosis of the patient’s disease state. CT images are used for diagnosis, tumor staging and as the data set for treatment planning for radiation treatments.

Positron emission tomography, or PET, is an imaging technique in which a radioactive substance, similar to glucose, is injected into a patient’s body. The radioactive substance can help in locating the tumor, because cancer cells consume

 

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Index to Financial Statements

glucose at a higher rate than other tissues in the body. By showing metabolic changes in tissues and tumors, PET scans provide a vital tool in cancer management and treatment. Unlike X-rays, CTs, ultrasounds and MRIs, PET does not show body structure (anatomy). Instead, PET reveals the chemical function (metabolism) of an organ or tissue. This is an important tool in cancer treatment since these metabolic changes often precede structural changes in the body related to the development of tumors. Consequently, PET enables physicians, in many cases, to assess the state of the disease and recommend treatment options earlier and more accurately.

CT and PET modalities can be provided by a single scanner. A PET/CT image set allows a physician to not only see the anatomical information regarding a tumor captured by a CT scan, but also the metabolic activity revealed by a PET scan. The merging (fusion) of the two image sets assists the physician in understanding the extent of the tumor and if the disease has migrated to other body parts, yielding a more accurate description of the tumor to use in targeting treatment. In addition, a PET scan acquired in conjunction with a CT (PET/CT) is the clinically preferred study and roughly 50% faster than a conventional PET scan, enhancing patient convenience and efficiency.

In addition to diagnostic imaging technologies, we bring the latest in radiation treatment technologies to our practices, including intensity modulated radiation therapy, or IMRT, and image guided radiation therapy, or IGRT. IMRT allows radiation oncologists to more precisely target and regulate higher doses of radiation, which have a documented benefit while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. IMRT uses advanced computer technology to more precisely control the shape and intensity of a radiation beam than traditional 2D/3D radiation therapy. In some cases, IMRT allows a more aggressive radiation therapy approach to be used on certain tumors, such as those around the head, neck and spine, in which radiation treatment presents side effects with significant risk.

The next generational step in radiation therapy is the deeper integration of imaging and IMRT technologies. This emerging technique is called IGRT. This combination of technologies increases the ability of the radiation oncologist to deliver a high intensity radiation beam to the target site. Since many organs move between, and in some cases during, treatment the ability to properly align the target area immediately prior to delivering the radiation ensures that proper dose is delivered accurately and minimizes damage to surrounding tissue.

Competition

We operate in a highly competitive industry. We have existing competitors, as well as a number of potential new competitors, some of which may have greater name recognition, financial, technical, marketing and/or managerial resources than we do. Our competitors generally compete with us on price, in particular the ability to obtain pharmaceuticals at market-differentiated pricing. To the extent that competitors are owned by pharmaceutical manufacturers, retail pharmacies, pharmacy benefit managers, insurance companies, HMOs or hospitals, they may have pricing advantages that are unavailable to us and other independent companies. In addition, we compete with not-for-profit hospitals and other organizations that may also have pricing and tax advantages not available to us.

Numerous competitors provide market research consulting, data compilation and analysis services in the healthcare and pharmaceutical area that compete with our services. The quality of our data, depth of our analytical expertise and focus on oncology, are the principal differentiators in these areas.

Pharmaceutical Management

The specialty pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive and is undergoing consolidation. The industry is fragmented, with many public and private companies focusing on different product or customer niches. Competitive drivers consist primarily of service and price. Some of our current and potential competitors include:

 

   

national wholesale distributors such as AmerisourceBergen and McKesson and their specialty pharmacy divisions, many of which have multiple service offerings to practices and pharmaceutical manufacturers;

 

   

group purchasing organizations such as International Oncology Network, or ION, Oncology Therapeutic Network, or OTN, and Oncology Supply;

 

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pharmacy benefit management companies, such as CVS Caremark Corporation, Express Scripts, Inc., Medco Health Solutions, Incorporated and Gentiva Health Services, Inc.;

 

   

reimbursement services such as Lash Group and others;

 

   

data companies including both market research firms and companies who collect clinical data through an electronic medical record business;

 

   

pharmaceutical commercialization services;

 

   

hospital-based pharmacies;

 

   

retail pharmacies;

 

   

home infusion therapy companies;

 

   

oncology education businesses;

 

   

pharmaceutical manufacturers that sell their products both to distributors and directly to users, including clinics and physician offices; and

 

   

hospital-based comprehensive cancer care centers and other alternate site healthcare providers.

Outpatient Healthcare Centers

Migration of outpatient radiation services to non-hospital locations is a growing trend but the sector is highly fragmented. We know of several other companies that are focused on outpatient radiation oncology centers. Many hospitals and regional medical centers also operate outpatient care centers offering primary care, urgent care, diagnostic imaging, minor surgery (known as ambulatory surgery centers or ASCs), and a range of other specialties, including oncology. Outpatient care providers compete based on services offered and the availability and price of new technologies. Although fragmented and predominantly locally focused, our strongest competitors are hospitals or joint ventures between hospitals and oncology practices that finance, build and operate comprehensive cancer centers adjacent to a large hospital or as a satellite location within the hospital system. Companies such as SurgiCare, Inc. (for ASCs) and Outpatient Imaging Affiliates, LLC and Radiation Therapy Services, Inc. (for diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy) also build and operate outpatient care centers, often in partnership with hospitals or HMOs. Some of these companies could attempt to enter or expand their presence in the oncology market.

Research Services

With respect to research activities, we compete with contract research organizations, other research networks and academic institutions. The contract research industry is fragmented, with several hundred small limited-service providers and several large full-service contract research organizations with global operations that may have access to greater financial resources. Research networks and academic centers may also have other sources of funding research efforts, such as grants and foundation support and, therefore may have greater ability to offer a lower price for services than we do.

Affiliated Practices

Our profitability depends in large part on the continued success of our affiliated practices and our ability to affiliate with additional practices. The business of providing healthcare services is highly competitive. The affiliated practices face competition from several sources, including sole practitioners, single and multi-specialty practices, hospitals and managed care organizations.

 

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Strategy and Development

Our mission is to enable physicians to provide the right treatment, at the right time, for the right patient. We strive to expand and improve patient access to high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care by working closely with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to improve the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of the cancer care delivery system. To realize our mission of enhancing patient access to advanced care, we must maintain a dual emphasis on cost containment and quality improvement. Pursuit of this mission involves strategic initiatives at both the local level, where cancer care is delivered to patients, and at the national level to address the needs of commercial and governmental payers, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industry customers.

The focus of these efforts in 2010 will be to:

 

   

Continue to aggregate physicians into our network through providing our services through comprehensive and targeted relationships that suit the needs of prospective physician customers. These efforts will include:

 

   

Continuing to grow our network of affiliated physicians. We seek to enter into comprehensive strategic alliances with practices in new markets and those where we already have a regional presence. Entering new markets grows our national presence while taking advantage of the efficiencies that result from leveraging our existing regional and national infrastructure and capabilities. We also intend to expand our existing markets both by assisting practices with individual physician recruitment and by affiliating with already established practices.

 

   

Continue to deliver services to physicians through targeted offerings for those desiring access to a narrower suite of our services. We expect the demand for professional management of physician groups will continue and therefore we package four key services (Oncology Pharmaceutical Services, Innovent, iKnowMed and Research) into a targeted physician services offering. This offering is intended to complement the comprehensive strategic alliances model address the needs of mid-size practices (five to fifteen physicians) and is available as a suite of services customized to each practice’s priorities.

 

   

Assist affiliated groups through the development of relationship-building programs targeted to referring physicians, and through local and national branding campaigns that communicate the benefits of being a member of the our network. We also will assist affiliated groups to improve the efficiency of their practice operations through implementation of Lean Six-Sigma operating processes to improve the patient experience, revenue cycle processes and drug management.

 

   

Grow our services to pharmaceutical manufacturers. We work with pharmaceutical manufacturers in the development and commercialization of oncology pharmaceuticals. The US Oncology Research network provides pharmaceutical manufacturers with a centrally managed and efficient system for the clinical development of new therapies from Phase I through IV. Our Healthcare Informatics business collects and analyzes data to provide significant insight into drug performance and patient outcomes for ongoing product development and evaluation.

 

   

Expand Innovent Oncology, a service launched in 2008 that is specifically designed to bring physicians and payers together to provide the highest clinical quality while better managing the total cost of care through evidence-based treatment protocols and patient support services. This service addresses the payer’s need to avoid the unnecessary costs of care while ensuring the highest level of clinical quality by offering a comprehensive solution to the key cost drivers in cancer care: variable treatments, debilitating side effects that lead to emergency room visits and hospitalizations between treatments, and end of life treatment issues.

 

   

Expand access to information resources for physicians and patients. In 2009, we launched the Oncology Portal, a web-based cancer care community to provide oncologists and clinicians a platform to collaborate, share best practices and gain industry insight and education. In addition, we have recently acquired two organizations as part of our strategy to broaden our clinical resources, The Cure Media Group and NexCura, LLC. The Cure

 

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Media Group’s publication, Cure magazine, focuses on recently diagnosed patients and currently has a circulation of 325,000. NexCura’s website provides tools used by over 150,000 patients and caregivers annually to generate personalized treatment information based on peer-reviewed clinical research.

Employees

As of December 31, 2009, we directly employed approximately 4,800 people and our affiliated practices managed under comprehensive strategic alliances employed approximately 4,900 people (excluding affiliated physicians). Under the terms of the comprehensive strategic alliances with the affiliated practices, we are responsible for the compensation and benefits of the practices’ non-physician medical personnel. None of our employees, including employees of any affiliated practice, is a member of a labor union or subject to a collective bargaining agreement. We consider our relations with our employees to be good.

Intellectual Property

We have registered the service marks “US Oncology”, “Oncology Rx Care Advantage”, Innovent Oncology, iKnowMed and AccessMED with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Other than the use of such marks, however, our business generally is not dependent upon any patents or licensed technology in operating our business.

Insurance

We and our affiliated practices maintain insurance with respect to professional liability, medical malpractice and associated vicarious liability risks on a claims-made basis in amounts believed to be customary and adequate. We are not aware of any outstanding claims or unasserted claims that are likely to be asserted against us or our affiliated practices, which would have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.

We maintain all other traditional insurance coverages on either a fully insured or high deductible basis, using loss funds for any estimated losses within the retained deductibles.

Government Regulation

General

The healthcare industry is highly regulated, and there can be no assurance that the regulatory environment in which we and our affiliated practices operate will not change significantly and adversely in the future. In general, regulation and scrutiny of healthcare providers and related companies are increasing. We expect the current administration and Congress will continue to focus and debate on healthcare issues and that regulation will continue to increase.

There are currently numerous federal and state initiatives relating to the provision of healthcare services, the legal structure under which those services are provided, access to healthcare, disclosure of healthcare information, costs of healthcare and the manner in which healthcare providers are reimbursed for their services. Federal enforcement and regulatory agencies are focusing on, among other issues, physician coding, pharmaceutical relationships, hospital-physician joint ventures, credit balances, clinical research and group purchasing organization activities, which may result in government actions that could negatively impact our operations. It is not possible to predict whether any such initiatives will result in new or different rules or regulations or other actions or what their form, effective dates or impact on us will be.

Our affiliated practices and other providers with whom we and they do business are intensely regulated at the federal, state and local levels. Although these regulations often do not directly apply to us, if a practice is found to have violated any of these regulations and, as a result, suffers a decrease in its revenues or an increase in costs, our results of operations might be materially and adversely affected.

Licensing and Certificate of Need Requirements

Every state imposes licensing requirements on clinical staff, individual physicians and facilities operated or utilized by healthcare providers. Many states require regulatory approval, including certificates of need, before (i) establishing certain types of healthcare facilities, (ii) offering certain services or (iii) expending amounts in excess of statutory thresholds for healthcare equipment, facilities or programs.

 

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Linear accelerators, CT Scanners and PET Systems are among the types of technology covered by certificate of need, or CON, laws. Although laws vary from state to state, in several states in which we operate, CON laws have in the past inhibited and will continue to inhibit our ability to add technology and build new cancer centers. In addition, CON laws give existing owners of technology, such as hospitals, a competitive advantage with respect to that technology by establishing a barrier to entry.

Privacy Security and Transaction Code Sets Regulations; Privacy Laws

The United States Department of Health and Human Services, or HHS, has issued regulations implementing the Administrative Simplification Provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, concerning the privacy and security of individually identifiable health information, and the use of standard transactions and code sets and National Provider Identifiers, or NPIs, for electronic transactions conducted by covered entities. The HIPAA privacy regulations, with which compliance was required as of April 2003, impose on covered entities (including hospitals, physicians, pharmacies, group health plans and certain other healthcare providers) significant restrictions on the use and disclosure of individually identifiable health information. With the exception of the operation of certain pharmacies, most of our activities do not involve the provision of healthcare services and therefore we are not a so-called covered entity under the HIPAA privacy and security regulations. However, we act as a business associate of our affiliated physicians, and have therefore entered into agreements requiring us to meet certain requirements of the HIPAA privacy rule applicable to business associate arrangements. The HIPAA security regulations impose on covered entities certain administrative, technical, and physical safeguard requirements with respect to individually identifiable health information maintained or transmitted electronically. In addition, as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or ARRA, passed on February 17, 2009, HIPAA was amended, effective February 2010, so that business associates will have many of the same direct responsibilities under HIPAA as covered entities do. ARRA also imposed additional obligations to disclose security and privacy breaches of unsecured protected health information. The ARRA also included additional limitations on the use of patient healthcare information and expanded the potential liability exposure of HIPAA covered entities and business associates. The HIPAA regulations establishing electronic transaction and code set standards require that all healthcare providers use standard transactions and code sets when electronically submitting or receiving individually identifiable health information in connection with certain healthcare transactions. As a result of these HIPAA regulations, we have taken actions to ensure that information that is subject to the regulations and maintained on our computer networks is in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. We believe that we are substantially in compliance with the HIPAA electronic transaction and code set standards and are capable of delivering HIPAA standard transactions electronically on behalf of ourselves and our affiliated physicians. We have provided guidance to our affiliated physicians regarding the NPI application and implementation processes and are monitoring progress towards the computer system upgrades and payer/clearinghouse testing necessary to implement NPIs in electronic HIPAA standard transactions on behalf of ourselves and our affiliated physicians. In addition to HIPAA, a number of states have adopted laws and/or regulations applicable to the use and disclosure of individually identifiable health information that are more stringent than comparable provisions under HIPAA. The finding of a violation of HIPAA or one of these state laws by us or our affiliated physicians could adversely affect our business. Unforeseen difficulties resulting in a failure by us or our affiliated physicians to timely implement HIPAA NPI requirements could delay the receipt of healthcare claims payments and could adversely affect our business. In addition, our failure to meet our business associate contractual obligations with our affiliated physicians could result in enforcement actions by regulatory authorities against our affiliated physicians or us. The impact of such regulatory enforcement actions or contractual terminations could adversely affect our business. In addition to privacy and security requirements under HIPAA, our affiliated practices and we, in our role as business manager, are subject to numerous other state and Federal laws relating to privacy and appropriate handling of confidential information. Our affiliated practices routinely collect personal and financial information about patients. We use and transmit such information in connection with obtaining reimbursement, billing and other activities. In the event of an inappropriate use or disclosure of such information, including an inadvertent one or one caused by a third party, we and our practices could be subject to disclosure obligations or other liability. Such obligations and liability can arise if it is determined that we or our affiliated practices failed to maintain adequate security for data, even if the actual disclosure or use was not by us. Although we maintain systems, policies and procedures designed to prevent inappropriate access, use or disclosure, we cannot assure you that these systems, policies and procedures will be totally effective, particularly in cases of deliberate wrongdoing by a third party.

 

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Fee-Splitting; Corporate Practice of Medicine and Pharmacy

The laws of many states prohibit physicians from splitting professional fees with non-physicians and prohibit non-physician entities, such as US Oncology, from practicing medicine, in certain instances from splitting fees with physicians and from employing physicians to practice medicine. In certain jurisdictions, we are required by such laws to modify our standard contractual arrangements to comply with corporate practice of medicine and fee-splitting laws. In addition, many states have similar laws with respect to the practice of pharmacy. We believe our current and planned activities do not constitute fee-splitting or the practice of medicine as contemplated by these laws. We do not believe we practice pharmacy, except where appropriately licensed. In many jurisdictions, however, the laws restricting the corporate practice of medicine or pharmacy and fee-splitting have been subject to limited judicial and regulatory interpretation and, therefore, there can be no assurance that upon review some of our activities would not be found to be in violation of such laws, possibly placing us in a position of being unable to enforce the payment terms of our management contracts. In the past, interpretations of such laws have required us to modify existing arrangements and there can be no assurance that future interpretations of such laws will not require structural and organizational modification of our existing relationships with the practices. In addition, statutes in some states in which we do not currently operate could require us to modify our affiliation structure if we commence business in those states.

Medicare/Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Provisions

The fraud and abuse laws, specifically the Anti-Kickback laws, include the fraud and abuse provisions and referral restrictions of the Medicare and Medicaid statutes, as well as other federally funded programs, which prohibit the solicitation, payment, receipt or offering of any direct or indirect remuneration for the referral of Medicare and Medicaid patients or for purchasing, arranging for or recommending the purchasing, leasing or ordering of Medicare or Medicaid covered services, items or equipment.

HIPAA created violations for fraudulent activity applicable to both public and private healthcare benefit programs and prohibits inducements to Medicare and Medicaid eligible patients.

The OIG from time to time publishes its interpretations of various fraud and abuse issues and about fraudulent or abusive activities that OIG deems to be suspect and potentially in violation of the federal laws, regulations and rules. If our actions are found to be inconsistent with OIG’s interpretations, such actions could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Due to the complexity of the Anti-Kickback laws, HHS has established certain safe harbor regulations whereby various payment practices are protected from criminal or civil penalties. An activity that is outside a safe harbor, however, is not necessarily deemed illegal. Violations of the fraud and abuse laws may result in fines and penalties as well as civil or criminal penalties for individuals or entities, including exclusion from participation in the Medicare or Medicaid programs. Several states have adopted similar laws that cover patients in both private and government programs. Because of the breadth of the Anti-Kickback Laws and the government’s active enforcement thereof, there can be no assurance that future interpretations of such laws will not require modification of our existing relationships with practices. Complying with those laws, especially as they change from time to time, could be costly for us and could limit the manner in which we implement our business strategies.

In situations where we operate a licensed pharmacy, we are a provider. Although we believe our offerings under that service comply with law, there is a risk that our status as a provider could bring greater scrutiny to those arrangements.

Prohibitions of Certain Referrals

The Stark Law prohibits physician referrals of Medicare or Medicaid patients for certain “designated health services” to an entity with which the physician or his or her immediate family members have a “financial relationship”, unless the arrangement complies with an exception to the statute or implementing regulations. Laboratory services, radiation therapy services and supplies, certain diagnostic services, inpatient and outpatient hospital services and outpatient prescription drugs are among the designated health services to which the Stark Law applies. On September 5, 2007, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued the third phase of its final regulations addressing physician self-referrals, which became effective December 4, 2007. Additional regulations were published on August 19, 2008, with effective dates of October 1, 2008 or October 1, 2009 (depending on the provision), and on November 19, 2008, with an effective date of January 1, 2009. These regulations and the previously issued first and second phases of the final regulations provide guidance

 

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Index to Financial Statements

as to the applicability of the Stark Law to certain arrangements that may be relevant to the operations of our affiliated physicians, including, among others, referrals by physicians for ancillary services in the context of the operation of a group practice and referrals by physicians for designated health services under certain employment and personal services arrangements. We and our affiliated practices were required to restructure certain of our joint venture and other contractual arrangements with other providers as a result of these regulations. A violation of the Stark Law is punishable by civil sanctions, including significant fines, a denial of payment or a requirement to refund certain amounts collected, and possible exclusion from participation in Medicare and Medicaid. A number of states have adopted laws and/or regulations that contain provisions that track, or are otherwise similar to, the Stark Law. The Stark Law and its implementing regulations apply directly to physicians and organizations to which they refer. With the exception of our pharmacy operations, the Stark Law does not apply directly to us under the comprehensive strategic alliances model. There can be no assurance, however, that interpretations of such laws will not indirectly affect our existing relationships with affiliated practices. In addition, to the extent that an affiliated physician practice were deemed to be in violation of the Stark Law, the failure to comply with the Stark Law could adversely impact the operations of such practice.

Pharmacy Regulation

Pharmacies often must obtain state licenses to operate and dispense drugs. In addition, our pharmaceutical service line, and our pharmacies in particular, are subject to the operating and security standards of the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA, various state boards of pharmacy and comparable agencies. Such standards affect the prescribing of pharmaceuticals (including certain controlled substances), operation of pharmacies (including nuclear pharmacies) and packaging and dispensing of pharmaceuticals. Violations of any of these laws and regulations could result in various penalties, including suspension or revocation of our licenses or registrations or monetary fees. Complying with the standards, especially as they change from time to time, could be costly for us and could limit the manner in which we implement this segment. While we believe that our arrangements with our affiliated practices comply with applicable laws and regulations, there can be no assurance that our pharmacy function will not subject us to additional governmental review or an adverse determination in the future.

Antitrust Inquiry

We and our affiliated practices are subject to a range of federal and state antitrust laws that prohibit anti-competitive conduct, including price fixing, concerted refusals to deal, monopolistic practices, and division of markets. We believe we are in compliance with these laws, and while no bona fide challenge to the market share of our affiliated practices has been made, there can be no assurance that a review of us or our affiliated practices would not result in a determination that could adversely affect our operations and the operations of our affiliated practices.

The United States Federal Trade Commission, or FTC, and a state Attorney General have informed one of our affiliated physician practices that they have opened an investigation to determine whether a recent transaction in which another group of physicians became employees of that affiliated group violated relevant state or federal antitrust laws. In addition, the FTC has informed us that it intends to request information from us regarding our role in that transaction. The affiliated practice is in the process of responding to a request for information on this matter. At present, we believe that the scope of the investigation is limited to a single transaction, but we cannot assure you that the scope will remain limited. We believe that we and our affiliated physician practices comply with relevant antitrust laws. However, if this investigation were to result in a claim against us or our affiliated physician practice in which the FTC or Attorney General prevails, the resulting judgment could have a material adverse financial and operational effect on us or that practice, including the possibility of monetary damages or fines, a requirement that we unwind the transaction at issue or the imposition of restrictions on our future operations and development. In addition, addressing government investigations requires us to devote significant financial and other resources to the process, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the claims. Furthermore, because of the size and scope of our network, there is a risk that we could be subjected to greater scrutiny by government regulators with regard to antitrust issues.

Reimbursement Requirements

In order to participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs, our affiliated practices must comply with stringent reimbursement regulations, including those that require certain healthcare services to be conducted “incident to” or otherwise under a physician’s supervision. Different states also impose differing standards for their Medicaid programs, including utilizing an actual-cost-based system for reimbursement of pharmaceuticals instead of average-sales-price-based methodologies. Satisfaction of all reimbursement requirements is required under our compliance program. The practices’

 

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Index to Financial Statements

failure to comply with these requirements could negatively affect our results of operations. Recently, the federal government conducted a pilot program in which third party contractors were retained to audit requests for reimbursement from governmental programs and were paid based upon recovery of inappropriate payments. Section 302 of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 made the recovery audit contractor, or RAC, program permanent and requires HHS to expand the program to all states by no later than 2010. These contractors are empowered to withhold future payments, including in cases where the reimbursement rules are unclear or subject to differing interpretations. This activity, as well as the activity of intermediaries and others involved in government reimbursement, may include changes in long-standing interpretations of reimbursement rules.

Pharmaceutical Distribution Operations

The FDA, DEA and various state regulatory authorities regulate the distribution of pharmaceutical products and controlled substances. Wholesale distributors of these substances are required to register for permits, meet various security and operating standards, and comply with regulations governing their sale, marketing, packaging, holding and distribution. In addition, several states are implementing requirements that distributors verify and maintain standards as to the pedigree of drug shipped and are moving towards electronic (e-Pedigree) requirements in this area. The FDA, DEA and state regulatory authorities have broad enforcement powers, including the ability to seize or recall products and impose significant criminal, civil and administrative sanctions for violations of these laws and regulations. As a wholesale distributor of pharmaceuticals and certain related products, we are subject to these regulations. We have received all necessary regulatory approvals and believe that we are in substantial compliance with all applicable pharmaceutical wholesale distribution requirements.

Enforcement Environment

In recent years, federal and state governments have launched several initiatives aimed at uncovering behavior that violates the federal civil and criminal laws regarding false claims and fraudulent billing and coding practices. See “Item 3. Legal Proceedings.” Such laws require physicians to adhere to complex reimbursement requirements regarding proper billing and coding in order to be compensated for medical services by government payers. Our compliance program requires adherence to applicable law and promotes reimbursement education and training; however, because we perform services for our practices, it is likely that governmental investigations or lawsuits regarding practices’ compliance with reimbursement requirements would also encompass our activities. A determination that billing and coding practices of the affiliated practices are false or fraudulent could have a material adverse effect on us.

We and our affiliated physicians are subject to federal and state laws prohibiting entities and individuals from knowingly and willfully making claims to Medicare and Medicaid and other governmental programs and third party payers that contain false or fraudulent information. See “Item 3. Legal Proceedings.” The federal False Claims Act encourages private individuals to file suits on behalf of the government against healthcare providers such as us. As such suits are generally filed under seal with a court to allow the government adequate time to investigate and determine whether it will intervene in the action, the implicated healthcare providers are often unaware of the suit until the government has made its determination and the seal is lifted. Violations or alleged violations of such laws, and any related lawsuits, could result in (i) exclusion from participation in Medicare, Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs, or (ii) significant financial or criminal sanctions (including treble damages), resulting in the possibility of substantial financial penalties for small billing errors that are replicated in a large number of claims, as each individual claim could be deemed to be a separate violation of the federal False Claims Act. Criminal provisions that are similar to the federal False Claims Act provide that if a corporation is convicted of presenting a claim or making a statement that it knows to be false, fictitious or fraudulent to any federal agency, it may be fined. The recently enacted Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act of 2009, or FERA, simplified and expanded the principal liability provisions of the federal False Claims Act and appropriated over $500 million for federal law enforcement authorities to combat financial fraud in 2010 and 2011. Some states also have enacted statutes similar to the federal False Claims Act which may include criminal penalties, substantial fines, and treble damages.

Compliance

We have a comprehensive compliance program designed to assist us, our employees and our affiliated practices in complying with applicable laws and regulations. We regularly monitor developments in healthcare law and modify our agreements and operations as changes in the business and regulatory environments require. In addition to internal review, we engage an independent compliance consulting firm to conduct periodic reviews of our program. While we believe we will be able to structure our agreements and operations in accordance with applicable law, there can be no assurance that our arrangements will not be successfully challenged.

 

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Item 1A. Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the risks described below. The risks described below are not the only ones facing our company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In general, because our revenues depend upon the revenues of our affiliated practices, any risks that harm the economic performance of the practices will, in turn, harm us.

Risks Relating to Our Industry

Continued efforts by commercial payers to reduce reimbursement levels, change reimbursement methodologies or control the way in which services are provided could adversely affect us.

Commercial payers continue to seek to negotiate lower levels of reimbursement for cancer care services, with a particular focus on reimbursement for pharmaceuticals. A disproportionate majority of affiliated practices’ profitability is attributable to reimbursement from commercial payers. There is a risk that commercial payers will seek reductions in pharmaceutical reimbursement similar to those included in the recent decisions by Medicare and Medicaid, formally the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, or CMS, and in federal legislation discussed below. Any reductions in reimbursement levels could harm us and our affiliated physicians. In addition, several payers are trying to implement Mandatory Vendor Imposition programs under which cancer patients or their oncologists would be required to obtain pharmaceuticals from a third-party. That third-party, rather than the oncologist, would then be reimbursed. Private payers have the ability to implement such programs through benefit designs that offer patients significant incentives to receive drugs in this fashion as well as through negotiations with practices. As described below, HHS was required to implement a program under which oncologists may elect to receive drugs from a Medicare contractor, rather than purchase drugs and seek reimbursement. If such a program is successfully implemented for Medicare, private payers may follow. Commercial payers are also attempting to reduce reimbursement for other services, such as diagnostic imaging tests, by requiring that such tests be performed by specific providers within a given market or otherwise limiting the circumstances under which they will provide reimbursement for those services. In the event that payers succeed with these initiatives, our practices’ and our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Changes in Medicare reimbursement may continue to adversely affect our results of operations.

Government organizations, such as CMS are the largest payers for our collective group of affiliated practices. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the affiliated practices under comprehensive strategic alliances derived 39.2%, 38.2% and 37.8%, respectively, of their net patient revenue from services provided under the Medicare program (of which 6.9%, 5.5% and 3.8%, respectively, relates to Medicare managed care programs). As such, changes in Medicare reimbursement practices have been initiated over the past several years, are continuing through 2009, and may adversely affect our results of operations. Several changes which have and may continue to adversely affect us include:

 

   

Changes in Medicare’s average sales price, or ASP, reimbursement methodology and rates for oncology pharmaceuticals administered in physicians’ offices;

 

   

Implementation of the Competitive Acquisition Program, or CAP, which began August 1, 2006 should any affiliated practices elect to participate in this program;

 

   

CMS changes to the Practice Expense, or PE, Methodology for non-drug services reimbursement which is being phased in from 2007 to 2010;

 

   

Change in Medicare fee schedule conversion factors;

 

   

Capping of Medicare imaging reimbursement at the lower of Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System, or HOPPS, rates or Physician Fee Schedule, or PFS, or National Payment Amounts under the Deficit Reduction Act, or DRA; and

 

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A National Coverage Determination, or NCD, issued by the CMS on July 30, 2007 eliminating coverage of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, or ESAs, for patients with certain types of cancer or receiving certain types of drug therapy, and limiting coverage of ESAs in certain other circumstances, and subsequent label change by the FDA including similar restrictions, which are discussed in greater detail below.

The Obama administration has identified healthcare as a policy priority and has released an outline of its healthcare policy initiatives as they relate to the 2010 federal budget. The outline identifies guiding principles for healthcare reform and spending, which include increasing access to and affordability of healthcare, primarily by ensuring access to health insurance, increasing effectiveness of care, through effective use of technology and an emphasis on evidence-based medicine, maintaining patient choice, emphasizing preventive care and enhancing the fiscal sustainability of the U.S. healthcare system. Specific initiatives described in the outline include reducing drug costs for federal programs by increasing availability of generics and increasing the Medicaid rebates payable by pharmaceutical manufacturers to states, increasing incentives to reduce unnecessary variability in treatment and to practice evidence-based medicine, incentivizing the use of electronic medical records and other technology, and reducing unnecessary or wasteful spending. Similarly, some states in which we operate have undertaken, or are considering, healthcare reform initiatives that also address these issues. Currently, the matter of healthcare reform continues to be debated by lawmakers and we are unable to provide guidance on what the final legislation will be and how it will impact us. While many of the stated goals of the administration’s initiatives are consistent with our own mission to increase access to care that is effective, efficient and based upon the latest available scientific evidence, additional regulation and continued fiscal pressure may adversely affect our business.

The reductions in Medicare reimbursement may also cause some oncologists to cease providing care in the physician office setting either by retiring from the practice of medicine or by moving to a hospital setting or they may cease charging for drugs administered in the office by choosing to obtain drugs through CAP. Any such reductions in our affiliated practices would adversely affect our results of operations. In addition, any reduction in the overall size of the outpatient oncology market could adversely affect our prospects for growth and business development. Recently, CMS has implemented a pilot program in which third party contractors are retained to seek recovery of allegedly erroneous payments by governmental programs and are paid based upon successful recoveries. We believe that the increasing national budget deficit, aging population and the prescription drug benefit will mean that pressure to reduce healthcare costs, and drug costs in particular, will continue to intensify. For a more complete description of the Medicare reimbursement changes and their impact on us, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Reimbursement Matters.”

Restrictions on reimbursement by government programs for ESAs have resulted in a material and continuing reduction in revenues and profits of our affiliated practices and us.

ESAs are widely-used drugs for the treatment of anemia, which is a condition that occurs when the level of healthy red blood cells in the body becomes too low, thus inhibiting the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Many cancer patients suffer from anemia either as a result of their disease or as a result of the treatments they receive to treat their cancer. ESAs have historically been used by oncologists to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy, as well as anemia in cancer patients who are not currently receiving chemotherapy. ESAs are administered to increase levels of healthy red blood cells and are an alternative to blood transfusions.

In March, 2007, the FDA issued a public health advisory outlining new safety information, including revised product labeling, about ESAs which it later revised on November 8, 2007. In particular, the FDA highlighted studies that concluded that an increased risk of death may occur in cancer patients who are not receiving chemotherapy and who are treated with ESAs. The FDA advisory and subsequent actions led the CMS to open a NCA, on March 14, 2007, on the use of ESAs for conditions other than advanced kidney disease, which was the first step toward issuing a proposed national coverage determination. The NCD was released on July 30, 2007, and was effective as of that date.

The NCD went significantly beyond limiting coverage for ESAs in patients who are not currently receiving chemotherapy that was referenced in the initial FDA advisory referred to above. The NCD included determinations that eliminate coverage for anemia not related to cancer treatment. Coverage was also eliminated for patients with certain other risk factors. In circumstances where ESA treatment is reimbursed, the NCD established conditions for Medicare coverage that (i) require that in order to commence ESA treatment, patients be significantly more anemic than was common practice prior to the NCD; (ii) impose limitations on the duration of ESA therapy and the circumstances in which it should be continued and (iii) limit dosing and dose increases in nonresponsive patients.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

Subsequent to the issuance of the NCD, the Oncologic Drug Advisory Committee of the FDA, or ODAC, met on March 13, 2008, to further consider the use of ESAs in oncology. Based upon the ODAC findings on July 30, 2008, FDA published final new labeling for the ESA drugs Aranesp and Procrit. Unlike the NCD from CMS, which governs reimbursement, rather than prescribing, for Medicare beneficiaries only, the FDA approved labeling indicates the conditions under which the FDA believes that use of a product is safe and effective. The revised labeling was effective as of August 14, 2008, and primarily changed the labeled use of ESAs in the following areas:

 

   

ESAs are “not indicated” for patients receiving chemotherapy when the anticipated outcome is cure;

 

   

ESA therapy should not be initiated when hemoglobin levels are ³ 10 grams per deciliter, or g/dL; and

 

   

References in the labeling to an upper limit of 12 g/dL have been removed.

The FDA did not adopt an ODAC recommendation to limit ESA in head/neck and breast cancers, or any other tumor type. FDA’s action on this point significantly reduced the impact of a possible decrease in utilization.

FDA also mandated implementation of a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, for ESAs. A proposed REMS for ESAs was filed by ESA manufacturers with the FDA in August 2008 and approved on February 16, 2010 to become effective on March 24, 2010. The REMS is focused on ESA prescribing guidelines and requires additional patient consent, education requirements, medical guides and physician registration over a one year period beginning on March 24, 2010. The REMS also outlines additional procedural steps that will be required for qualified physicians to prescribe ESAs for their patients.

Operating income attributable to ESAs administered by our network of affiliated physicians decreased $9.5 million and $25.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The operating income reflects results from our Medical Oncology Services segment which relate primarily to the administration of ESAs by practices receiving comprehensive management services and from our Pharmaceutical Services segment which includes purchases by physicians affiliated under the targeted physician services model, as well as distribution and group purchasing fees received from pharmaceutical manufacturers. As the NCD was effective July 30, 2007, the impact of reduced ESA utilization was not fully reflected in the results for the last half of 2007. In addition, there was a net increase in ESA pricing, the impacts of which are included in the 2008 financial results.

We believe a possible impact of the REMS could be further reductions in ESA utilization. The significant decline in ESA usage has had a significant adverse affect on our results of operations, and, particularly, our Medical Oncology Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments, and we cannot assure you that a further decline will not occur. Decreased financial performance of affiliated practices as a result of declining ESA usage could also have an effect on their relationship with us and lead to increased pressure to amend the terms of their management services agreements. In addition, reduced utilization of ESAs may adversely impact our ability to continue to receive favorable pricing from ESA manufacturers. Decreased financial performance may also adversely impact our ability to obtain acceptable credit terms from pharmaceutical manufacturers, including pharmaceutical manufacturers of products other than ESAs.

Continued review of pharmaceutical companies and their pricing and marketing practices could result in lowered reimbursement for pharmaceuticals and adversely affect us.

Continued review of pharmaceutical companies by government payers could result in lowered reimbursement for pharmaceuticals, which could harm us. Because Medicare reimbursement is no longer based on average wholesale price, or AWP, governmental scrutiny of AWP, which has been a focus of several investigations by government agencies may be expected to decline. However, many state Medicaid programs continue to reimburse for drugs on an AWP-based model. Moreover, existing and prior lawsuits and investigations regarding AWP have resulted and could continue to result in significant settlements that include corporate integrity agreements affecting pharmaceutical manufacturer behavior. Corporate integrity agreements subject healthcare providers, including pharmaceutical manufacturers, to burdensome and costly monitoring and reporting requirements to the Office of Inspector General of the HHS. Additionally, many of the concerns of government agencies will continue to apply under any reimbursement model. Because our network is a significant purchaser of pharmaceuticals, the other services we provide to, and relationships we have with pharmaceutical manufacturers, could be subject to scrutiny to the extent they are not viewed as bona fide arms length relationships or are inappropriately linked to pharmaceutical purchasing. Furthermore, possibly in response to such scrutiny as well as significant adverse coverage by the

 

18


Index to Financial Statements

media, some pharmaceutical manufacturers could alter pricing or marketing strategies that increase the cost of pharmaceuticals to oncologists, which in turn could adversely affect us. Finally, because our network of affiliated practices participates in a group purchasing organization that is a significant purchaser of pharmaceuticals paid for by government programs, we or our network of affiliated practices have become involved in these investigations or lawsuits, and are the target of such pharmaceutical-related scrutiny. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on us.

ASP-based reimbursement could make it more difficult for us to obtain favorable pricing from pharmaceutical companies.

Historically, one of our key business strengths has been our ability to obtain pricing for pharmaceuticals that we believe is better than prices widely available in the marketplace. Starting January 1, 2005, Medicare began reimbursing for oncology pharmaceuticals based on 106% of the average price at which pharmaceutical companies sell those drugs to oncologists and other users, so that any discount to any purchaser would have the effect of reducing reimbursement for drugs administered in all physician offices. We believe that this change has made pharmaceutical companies more reluctant to offer market-differentiated pricing to us or reduced the degree of such differentiation. Any decrease in our ability to obtain pricing for pharmaceuticals that is more favorable than the market as a whole could adversely affect our ability to attract new customers and retain existing customers, particularly under our targeted physician services model, and could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Continued migration from branded to generic pharmaceuticals may negatively impact our operating results.

The Company continues to experience a shift of certain branded single source drugs to generic status. For each newly generic drug, the Company’s earnings typically temporarily increase because drug cost declines significantly, while reimbursement remains at the branded price for a period of months. However, after reimbursement adjusts, the Company’s earnings with respect to a generic drug are typically significantly lower than the earnings from a branded pharmaceutical. The timing and impact of a particular pharmaceutical becoming available in generic form is difficult to predict because of potential delays resulting from legal challenges that often arise in connection with the introduction of new generic compounds and uncertainty regarding how generic products will be priced in the marketplace. However, the Company has identified three currently branded products, which represent approximately 11% of its revenue related to pharmaceuticals, which may become available in generic form during the year ending December 31, 2010.

In addition, certain pharmaceuticals that become available in generic form may revert back to the branded product as a result of settlements between generic and branded pharmaceutical manufacturers related to patent enforceability and other matters. Due to uncertainty regarding the price, timing and duration of potential reentry of branded products, we cannot estimate the financial impact of such changes.

We conduct business in a heavily regulated industry, and changes in regulations or violations of regulations may directly or indirectly, reduce our revenues and harm our business.

The healthcare industry is highly regulated, and there can be no assurance that the regulatory environment in which we operate will not change significantly and adversely in the future. Several areas of regulatory compliance that may affect our ability to conduct business include:

 

   

federal and state anti-kickback laws;

 

   

federal and state self-referral and financial inducement laws, including the federal Ethics in Patient Referrals Act of 1989, also known as the Stark Law;

 

   

federal and state false claims laws;

 

   

state laws regarding prohibitions on the corporate practice of medicine;

 

   

state laws regarding prohibitions on fee splitting;

 

   

federal and state laws regarding pharmacy regulations;

 

   

federal and state laws regarding pharmaceutical distribution; and

 

   

federal and state laws and regulations applicable to the privacy and security of health information and other personal information.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

These federal and state laws and regulations are extremely complex. In many instances, the industry does not have the benefit of significant regulatory or judicial interpretation of these laws and regulations. It also is possible that the courts could ultimately interpret these laws in a manner that is different from our interpretations. In addition, federal and state agencies responsible for enforcement and interpretation of these laws, as well as courts, continue to issue new interpretations and change prior interpretations of these laws, including some changes that may have an adverse impact on our operations or require us to alter certain of our business arrangements. While we believe that we are currently in compliance in all material respects with applicable laws and regulations, a determination that we have violated these laws, or the public announcement or perception that we are being investigated for possible violations of these laws, would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition to our affiliated practices, hospitals and other healthcare providers with which we, or our affiliated practices, have entered into various arrangements are also heavily regulated. To the extent that our arrangements with these parties or their independent activities fail to comply with applicable laws and regulations, our business and financial condition could be adversely affected. For a more complete description of these regulations, see “Business—Government Regulation.”

We face the risk of governmental investigation and qui tam litigation relating to regulations governing billing for medical services.

The federal government is aggressive in examining billing practices and seeking repayments and penalties allegedly resulting from improper billing and reimbursement practices. In addition, federal and some state laws authorize private whistleblowers to bring false claim, or qui tam suits, on behalf of the government and reward the whistleblower with a portion of any final recovery. We have previously been named in qui tam suits. In each of the qui tam suits naming us of which we are aware, the United States Department of Justice, or DOJ, has not intervened and such suits have been dismissed. However, because qui tam lawsuits are filed under seal, we could be named in other such suits of which we are not aware. For the past several years, the number of qui tam suits filed against healthcare companies and the aggregate amount of recoveries under such suits have increased significantly. This trend increases the risk that we may become subject to additional qui tam lawsuits.

Although we believe that our operations comply with applicable laws and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves against allegations of wrongdoing, the costs of addressing such suits, as well as the amount of any recovery in the event of a finding of wrongdoing on our part, could be significant. The existence of qui tam litigation involving us may also strain our relationships with our affiliated physicians, particularly those physicians or practices named in such suits, or with our pharmaceutical suppliers.

In previous qui tam suits of which we have been made aware, the DOJ has declined to intervene in such suits and the suits have been dismissed. Qui tam suits are brought by private individuals, and there is no minimum evidentiary or legal threshold for bringing such a suit. The DOJ is legally required to investigate the allegations in these suits. The subject matter of many such claims may relate both to our alleged actions and alleged actions of an affiliated practice. Because the affiliated practices are separate legal entities not controlled by us, such claims necessarily involve a more complicated, higher cost of defense, and may adversely impact the relationship between the practices and us. If the individuals who file complaints and/or the United States were to prevail in these claims against us, and the magnitude of the alleged wrongdoing were determined to be significant, the resulting judgment could have a material adverse financial and operational effect on us, including potential limitations in future participation in governmental reimbursement programs. In addition, addressing complaints and government investigations requires us to devote significant financial and other resources to the process, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the claims.

We operate in a highly competitive industry.

We have existing competitors, as well as a number of potential new competitors, some of whom have greater name recognition and significantly greater financial, technical, marketing and managerial resources than we do. This may permit our competitors to devote greater resources than we can to the development and promotion of their services. These competitors may also undertake more far-reaching marketing campaigns, adopt more aggressive pricing policies and make more attractive offers to existing and potential employees.

We also expect our competitors to develop additional strategic relationships with providers, pharmaceutical companies and payers, which could result in increased competition. The introduction of new and enhanced services, acquisitions, industry consolidation and the development of additional strategic relationships by our competitors could cause

 

20


Index to Financial Statements

price competition, a decline in revenue or a loss of market acceptance of our services, or make our services less attractive. Additionally, in developing cancer centers, we compete with a number of non-profit organizations that can finance acquisitions and capital expenditures on a tax-exempt basis or receive charitable contributions unavailable to us. Such organizations may be willing to provide services at rates lower than we would require to operate profitably.

With respect to research activities, the competitive landscape is fragmented, with competitors ranging from small limited-service providers to large full-service contract research organizations with global operations. Some of these large contract research organizations have access to more financial resources than we do.

Industry forces are affecting us and our competitors. In recent years, the healthcare industry has undergone significant changes driven by various efforts to reduce costs, including national healthcare reform, trends toward managed care, limits in Medicare coverage and reimbursement levels, consolidation of healthcare service companies and collective purchasing arrangements by office-based healthcare practitioners. The changes in our industry have caused greater competition among industry participants. Our inability to predict accurately, or react competitively to, changes in the healthcare industry could adversely affect our operating results. We cannot assure you that we will be able to compete successfully against current or future competitors or that competitive pressures will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Risks Relating to Our Business

Most of our revenues come from pharmaceuticals, and an adverse impact on the way in which pharmaceuticals are reimbursed or purchased by us would have an adverse impact on our business.

During 2009, approximately 70% of the patient revenue generated by our affiliated practices under comprehensive strategic alliances was attributable to pharmaceuticals. Under the comprehensive strategic alliances, our medical oncology revenues are dependent on the earnings of our affiliated practices related to pharmaceuticals. Under the targeted physician services model, our revenues are dependent on use of pharmaceuticals by affiliated practices. Because revenues attributable to pharmaceuticals and our ability to procure pharmaceuticals at competitive prices are such a significant part of the affiliated practices’ earnings and, consequently, our revenues, factors that adversely affect those revenues, such as changes in reimbursement or usage, or the cost structure underlying those revenues are likely to adversely affect our business.

In addition, there is a risk that a change in treatment patterns or reduction in use of a particular drug could result from new scientific findings or regulatory or reimbursement actions, as has occurred with ESAs. Any such change that impacts a significant amount of pharmaceutical utilization would adversely affect our results of operations.

We derive a substantial portion of our revenue and profitability from the utilization of pharmaceuticals manufactured and sold by a very limited number of suppliers and any termination or modification of relations with those suppliers could have a material adverse impact on our business.

We derive a substantial portion of our revenue and profitability from the utilization of a limited number of pharmaceutical products manufactured and sold by a very limited number of, or in several cases, a single manufacturer. During 2009, approximately 40% of patient revenue generated by our affiliated practices resulted from pharmaceuticals sold exclusively by five pharmaceutical manufacturers. Included among these are ESAs, which accounted for 5.3% of our 2009 revenue and a larger proportion of our earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, and net income. In addition, a limited number of pharmaceutical manufacturers are responsible for a disproportionately large amount of market-differentiated pricing we offer to practices. Our agreements with these pharmaceutical manufacturers are typically for one to three years but are cancelable by either party without cause. Further, several of the agreements provide favorable pricing that can be adjusted periodically based on specified volume levels, growth levels, or a specified level of use of a specific drug as a percentage of the overall use of drugs within a given therapeutic class.

In some cases, compliance with the contract is measured on a quarterly basis and pricing concessions are given in the form of rebates payable at the end of the measurement period. Unanticipated changes in usage patterns, including changes in reimbursement policies such as those which may affect ESAs or the introduction of standardized treatment regimens or

 

21


Index to Financial Statements

clinical pathways that disfavor a given drug, could result in lower-than-anticipated utilization of a given pharmaceutical product, and cause us to fail to attain the performance levels required to earn rebates. A departure of a significant number of physicians from our network could also cause us to fail to reach contract targets. Failure to attain performance levels could result in our not earning rebates, including cost-reductions that may already have been reflected in our financial statements. Furthermore, certain pharmaceutical manufacturers pay rebates under multi-product agreements. Under these types of agreements, our pricing on several products could be adversely impacted based upon our failure to meet predetermined targets with respect to any single product. Any termination or adverse adjustment to these relationships could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our ability to negotiate the purchase of pharmaceuticals on behalf of our network of affiliated physicians, or to expand the scope of pharmaceuticals purchased, from a particular supplier at prices below those generally offered to all oncologists is largely dependent upon such supplier’s assessment of the value of our network. Many pharmaceuticals used by our affiliated physicians are single-sourced drugs and available from only one manufacturer and, accordingly, the lack of competitive products makes differentiated pricing difficult to achieve. To the extent that our pharmaceutical services structure or other factors cause pharmaceutical suppliers to perceive our network as less valuable, our relationships and any pricing advantages with such suppliers could be harmed. Our inability to negotiate prices of pharmaceuticals with any of our significant suppliers at prices below those generally available to all oncologists could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our centralized business operations, particularly our distribution operation, may be adversely affected by business interruptions resulting from events that are beyond our control.

Our centralized business operations, particularly our distribution operation, may be adversely affected by business interruptions resulting from events that are beyond our control. We have only one pharmaceutical distribution facility, which is located in Fort Worth, Texas. In addition, certain of our other business functions are centralized at our headquarters in The Woodlands, Texas. A significant interruption in the operation of any of these facilities, whether as a result of natural disaster or other unexpected damage from fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, break-in, terrorist attacks, acts of war and other events, could significantly impair our ability to operate our business and adversely impact our and our affiliated practices’ operations. If we seek to replicate our centralized operations at other locations, we will face a number of technical as well as financial challenges, which we may not be able to address successfully. In particular, with respect to distribution, although we and our affiliated practices would be able to obtain pharmaceuticals from other sources, we cannot assure you that we will be able to do so at a price that is comparable or in as efficient a manner as through our own distribution operation. Although we carry property and business interruption insurance, our coverage may not be adequate to compensate us for all losses that may occur.

A significant portion of our revenues are represented by our affiliate practice, Texas Oncology, P.A., or Texas Oncology. A deterioration of our relationship with this practice or any adverse effects on this practice could significantly harm our business.

One affiliated practice, Texas Oncology, represented approximately 25% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. We perceive our relationship with this practice to be positive, however if the relationship were to deteriorate, or the practice were to disaffiliate, we would experience a material, adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

If our affiliated practices terminate their agreements with us, we could be seriously harmed.

Our affiliated practices under certain circumstances are allowed, and may attempt, to terminate their agreements with us. If any of our larger practices were to succeed in such a termination, our business could be seriously harmed. From time to time, we have disputes with physicians and practices that could result in harmful changes to our relationship with them or a termination of a service agreement if adversely determined. We are also aware that some practices that are not part of our network but which are affiliated with other companies, have attempted to end or restructure their affiliations with such companies, although they may not have a contractual right to do so, by arguing that their affiliations violate some aspect of healthcare law and have been successful in doing so.

Specifically, we are involved in litigation with a practice in Oklahoma that was affiliated with us under the net revenue model (a subset of what is now the comprehensive strategic alliance model) until April, 2006. While we were still

 

22


Index to Financial Statements

affiliated with the practice, we initiated arbitration proceedings pursuant to a provision in the service agreement providing for contract reformation in certain events. The practice countered with a lawsuit that alleges, among other things, that we have breached the service agreement and that our service agreement is unenforceable as a matter of public policy due to alleged violations of healthcare laws. The practice sought unspecified damages and a termination of the contract. We believe that our service agreement is lawful and enforceable and that we are operating in accordance with applicable law. As a result of alleged breaches of the service agreement by the practice, we terminated the service agreement in April, 2006. In March 2007, the Oklahoma Supreme Court overturned a lower court’s ruling that would have compelled arbitration in this matter and remanded the case back to the lower court to hold hearings to determine whether and to what extent the arbitration provisions of the service agreement will be applicable to the dispute. We expect these hearings to occur in 2010. Because of the need for further proceedings, we believe that the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling will extend the amount of time it will take to resolve this dispute and increase the risk of the litigation to us. In any event, as with any complex litigation, we anticipate that this dispute may take several years to resolve.

As a result of the ongoing litigation, we have been unable to collect on a timely basis a receivable owed to us relating to accounts receivable purchased by us under the service agreement and amounts for reimbursement of expenses paid by us on the practice’s behalf. At December 31, 2009, the total receivable owed to us of $22.4 million is reflected on our balance sheet as other assets. Currently, a deposit of approximately $14.8 million is held in an escrowed bank account into which the practice has been making monthly deposits as required. In late 2009, the practice filed a motion to discontinue the monthly deposits and until a ruling is made the requirement has been suspended. These amounts will be released upon resolution of the litigation. In addition, approximately $7.6 million is being held in a bank account that has been frozen pending the outcome of related litigation regarding that account. In addition, we have filed a security lien on the receivables of the practice. We believe that the amounts held in the bank accounts combined with the receivables of the practice in which we have filed a security lien represent adequate collateral to recover the $22.4 million receivable recorded as other noncurrent assets at December 31, 2009. Accordingly, we expect to realize the amount that we believe to be owed by the practice. However, realization is subject to a successful conclusion to the litigation with the practice, and we cannot assure you as to when the litigation will be finally concluded or as to what the ultimate outcome of the litigation will be. We expect to continue to incur expenses in connection with our litigation with the practice.

In addition to loss (if any) of revenue from a particular practice, a departure of a large number of physicians from our network could adversely affect our ability to obtain favorable pricing for goods and services and other economies of scale that are based upon the size of our network. If some of our affiliated physicians or affiliated practices terminate their affiliation with us, this could result in a material adverse effect on our business.

If a significant number of physicians leave our affiliated practices, we could be seriously harmed.

Our affiliated practices usually enter into employment or non-competition agreements with their physicians that provide some assurance to both the practice and to us with respect to continuing affiliation. We and our affiliated practices seek to maintain and renew such contracts once they expire. We cannot predict whether a court will enforce the non-competition covenants in these agreements. If practices are unable to enforce these non-competition provisions or otherwise enforce these employment agreements, physicians may leave our network and compete with our affiliated practices. In addition, physicians leave our network from time to time as a result of retirement, disability or death. In addition to loss of revenue from departing physicians, a departure of a large number of physicians from our network could adversely affect our ability to obtain favorable pricing for goods and services and other economies of scale that are based upon the size of our network. If a significant number of physicians terminated relationships with our affiliated practices, our business could be seriously harmed.

We are subject to numerous legal proceedings, many of which could be material.

See Part I, Item 3 – Legal Proceedings for description.

We rely on the ability of our affiliated practices to grow and expand.

We rely on the ability of our affiliated practices to grow and expand. Qualified oncologists are in short supply nationwide, and we expect this shortage, relative to patient demand, to continue or worsen. There can be no assurance that our affiliated groups will be successful in recruiting or retaining physicians. Our affiliated practices may also encounter other difficulties attracting additional physicians and expanding their operations or may choose not to do so. The failure of practices to expand their patient base and increase revenues could harm us.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

Our affiliated practices may be unsuccessful in obtaining favorable contracts with third-party payers, which could result in lower operating margins.

We facilitate negotiation of commercial payer contracts and advise our affiliated physicians accordingly under our comprehensive strategic alliance model. Commercial payers, such as managed care organizations, often request fee structures or alternative reimbursement methodologies that could have a material adverse effect on our affiliated physicians and therefore, on our operating results. Reductions in reimbursement rates for services offered by our affiliated physicians and other commercial payer cost containment measures could affect our liquidity and results of operations with respect to our comprehensive strategic alliances.

We may encounter difficulties in managing our network of affiliated practices.

We do not control the practice of medicine by the physicians or their compliance with regulatory and other requirements directly applicable to the practices. At the same time, an affiliated practice may have difficulty in effectively governing the practices of its individual physicians. In addition, we have only limited control over the business decisions of the practices even under the comprehensive strategic alliance model. As a result, it is difficult to implement standardized practices across the network, and this could have an adverse effect on cost controls, regulatory compliance, business strategy, our profitability and the strength of our network.

Loss of revenues or a decrease in income of our affiliated practices, including as a result of cost containment efforts by third-party payers, could adversely affect our results of operations.

Our revenue currently depends on revenue generated by affiliated practices. Loss of revenue by the practices could seriously harm us. It is possible that our affiliated practices will not be able to maintain successful medical practices. In addition, our fees under comprehensive strategic alliances and our ability to collect fees under our targeted physician services model depend upon the profitability of the practices. Any failure by the practices to contain costs effectively will adversely impact our results of operations. Because we do not control the manner in which our practices conduct their medical practice (including drug utilization), our ability to control costs related to the provision of medical care is limited. Furthermore, the affiliated practices face competition from several sources, including sole practitioners, single and multi-specialty practices, hospitals and managed care organizations. We have limited ability to discontinue or alter our service arrangements with practices, even where continuing to manage such practices under existing arrangements is economically detrimental to us.

Physician practices typically bill third-party payers for the healthcare services provided to their patients. Third-party payers such as private insurance plans and commercial managed care plans negotiate the prices charged for medical services and supplies in order to lower the cost of the healthcare services and products they pay for and to shift the financial risk of providing care to healthcare providers. Third-party payers can also deny reimbursement for medical services and supplies by concluding that they believe a treatment was not appropriate, and these reimbursement denials are difficult to appeal or reverse. Third-party payers are also seeking to contain costs by moving certain services, particularly pharmaceutical services, outside of the physician’s office. We believe that self-injectable supportive care drugs used by oncologists, which account for approximately 9% of the pharmaceutical revenue generated by our affiliated practices in 2009, are particularly susceptible to this trend. Also, any adverse impact on the financial condition of a third party payer could subject receivables from that payer to greater collection risk. Our affiliated practices also derive a significant portion of their revenues from governmental programs. Governmental programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, are collectively the affiliated practices’ largest payers. For 2009, the affiliated practices under comprehensive strategic alliances derived 39.2% of their net patient revenue from services provided under the Medicare program (of which 6.9%, relates to Medicare managed care). Reimbursement by governmental programs generally is not subject to negotiation and is established by governmental regulation. There is a risk that other payers could reduce rates of reimbursement to match any reduction by governmental payers. Our management fees under the comprehensive strategic alliance model are dependent on the financial performance of the practices and would be adversely affected by a reduction in reimbursement. From time to time, due to market conditions and other factors, we may also renegotiate our management fee arrangements, reducing our management fee income. In addition, to the extent physician practices affiliated with us under a targeted physician services model are impacted adversely by reduced reimbursement levels, our business could be harmed generally and receivables owed to us by those practices could be subject to greater credit risk.

 

24


Index to Financial Statements

The development or operation of cancer centers could cause us to incur unexpected costs, and our existing or future centers may not be profitable.

The development and operation of integrated cancer centers is subject to a number of risks, including not obtaining regulatory permits or approval, delays that often accompany construction of facilities and environmental liabilities related to the disposal of radioactive, chemical and medical waste. Our strategy includes the development of additional integrated cancer centers. As of December 31, 2009, we have two cancer center under construction, and several others in various planning stages. Any failure or delay in successfully building new integrated cancer centers, as well as liabilities from ongoing operations, could seriously harm us. New cancer centers may incur significant operating losses during their initial operations, which could materially and adversely affect our operating results, cash flows and financial condition. In addition, in some cases our cancer centers may not be profitable enough for us to recover our investment. We may decide to close or sell cancer centers, either because of underperformance or other market developments.

Our success depends on our ability to attract and retain highly qualified technical staff and other key personnel, and we may not be able to hire enough qualified personnel to meet our hiring needs.

Our ability to offer and maintain high quality service is dependent upon our ability to attract and maintain arrangements with qualified professional and technical staff and with executives on our management team. Clinical staffs at affiliated practices are practice employees, but we assist in recruiting them. There is a high level of competition for such skilled personnel among healthcare providers, research and academic institutions, government entities and other organizations, and there is a nationwide shortage in many specialties, including oncology nursing and technical radiation staff. We cannot assure that we or our affiliated practices will be able to hire sufficient numbers of qualified personnel or that employment arrangements with such staff can be maintained on terms advantageous to our affiliated practices or us. In addition, if one or more members of our management team become unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions, we could be harmed.

Our failure to remain technologically competitive in a declining payment environment for imaging and radiation services could adversely affect our business.

Rapid technological advancements have been made in the radiation oncology and diagnostic imaging industry. Although we believe that our equipment and software can generally be upgraded as necessary, the development of new technologies or refinements of existing technologies might make existing equipment technologically obsolete. If such obsolescence were to occur, we may be compelled to incur significant costs to replace or modify the equipment, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, some of our cancer centers compete against local centers, which may own more advanced imaging or radiation therapy equipment or provide additional technologies. Our performance is dependent upon physician and patient confidence in the quality of our technology and equipment as compared to that of our competitors.

Advances in other cancer treatment methods, such as chemotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy, or in cancer prevention techniques could reduce demand for the radiation therapy services provided at the cancer centers we operate. The development and commercialization of new radiation therapy technologies could have a material adverse effect on our affiliated practices and on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our working capital could be impacted by delays in reimbursement for services.

The healthcare industry is characterized by delays that can be as much as three to six months between when services are provided and when the reimbursement or payment for these services is received. Under our comprehensive strategic alliances, our working capital is dependent on such collections. Although we believe our collection experience is generally consistent with that of the industry, industry reimbursement practices make working capital management, including prompt and diligent billing and collection, an important factor in our results of operations and liquidity. At practices affiliated under the targeted physician services model we do not control the billing and collection function and reduced liquidity could adversely affect their ability to pay amounts owed to us. We cannot provide assurance that trends in the industry or in the economy generally will not further extend the collection period and negatively impact our or their working capital.

 

25


Index to Financial Statements

Our services could give rise to liability to clinical trial participants and the parties with whom we contract.

In connection with clinical research programs, we provide several services focused on bringing new drugs to market, which is time consuming and expensive. Such clinical research involves the testing of new drugs on human volunteers. Clinical research involves the inherent risk of liability for personal injury or death to patients resulting from, among other things, unforeseen adverse side effects or improper administration of the new drugs by physicians. In certain cases, these patients are already seriously ill and are at risk of further illness or death. In addition, under the privacy regulations promulgated pursuant to HIPAA, there are specific privacy standards associated with clinical trial agreements. Violations of such standards could subject us to an enforcement action by HHS. If we do not perform our services in accordance with contractual or regulatory standards, the clinical trial process and the participants in such trials could be adversely affected. These events would create a risk of liability to us from either the pharmaceutical companies with which we contract or the study participants.

We also contract with physicians to serve as investigators in conducting clinical trials. Third parties could claim that we should be held liable for losses arising from any professional malpractice of the investigators with whom we contract or in the event of personal injury to or death of patients for the medical care rendered by third-party investigators. Although we would vigorously defend any such claims, it is possible that we could be held liable for such types of losses.

We could be subject to malpractice claims and other harmful lawsuits not covered by insurance.

In the past, we have been named in suits related to medical services provided by our affiliated physicians. We cannot provide assurance that claims relating to services delivered by a network physician will not be brought against us in the future. In addition, because affiliated physicians prescribe and dispense pharmaceuticals and we operate pharmacies and participate in the drug procurement and distribution process, we and our affiliated physicians could be subject to product liability claims.

Although we maintain malpractice insurance, there can be no assurance that it will be adequate in the event of a judgment against us. There can be no assurance that any claim asserted against us for professional liability will not be successful. The availability and cost of professional liability insurance varies widely from state to state and is affected by various factors, many of which are beyond our control. We may be unable to obtain insurance in the amounts we seek or at prices we are prepared to pay.

Under targeted physician service relationships, our agreements with affiliated practices have shorter terms than our comprehensive strategic alliances, and we have less input with respect to the business operations of the practices.

Currently, most of our revenues are derived from providing comprehensive management services to practices under long-term agreements that generally have 10 to 40 year initial terms and that are not terminable except under specified circumstances. Agreements under our comprehensive strategic alliance model allow us to be the exclusive provider of management services, including all services contemplated under the targeted physician services structure, to each of the affiliated practices. In addition, under those agreements, the affiliated practices are required to bind their physicians to specified employment terms or restrictive covenants. Under the targeted physician services structure, our agreements with affiliated practices have 1 to 3 year terms, and are more easily terminable. A number of the other input mechanisms that we currently have with respect to affiliated comprehensive strategic alliance practices do not exist under our targeted physician services model. This may increase the ability of affiliated practices to change their internal composition to our detriment and may result in arrangements that are easier for individual physicians and practices to exit, exposing us to increased credit risk and competition from other companies, especially in the pharmacy services sector. Departure of a significant number of physicians or practices from participation in our targeted physician services structure could harm us. These risks will increase as we grow our business under the targeted physician services structure.

Changes in estimates related to our recoverability of long-lived assets, including goodwill, could result in an impairment of those assets.

The carrying values of our fixed assets, service agreement intangibles and goodwill are tested for impairment on an annual basis and more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate their recorded value may not be recoverable. The impairment review of goodwill must be based on estimated fair values. With the assistance of a third party valuation

 

26


Index to Financial Statements

firm, we estimate the fair value of the operating segments to which goodwill has been allocated based upon widely-accepted valuation techniques, including the use of peer market multiples (on a trailing and forward basis) and discounted cash flow analysis, in the absence of market capitalization data. Our goodwill is impaired if the carrying value of goodwill exceeds the estimated fair value. Future adverse changes in actual or anticipated operating results, as well as unfavorable changes in economic factors and market multiples used to estimate our fair value, could result in future non-cash impairment charges.

For fixed assets and service agreements, the carrying value is compared to our projected cash flows associated with the affiliated practice that is utilizing the fixed assets or that is party to the management services agreement. We may be required to recognize an impairment charge in the event these analyses indicate that our fixed assets or management service agreement intangible assets are not recoverable.

We are required to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, and any adverse results from such evaluation could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports and have an adverse effect on our cost of financing or ability to obtain financing.

Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, beginning with the filing of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, we are required to furnish, an annual report by our management on our internal control over financial reporting. Such a report contains an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of our fiscal year, including a statement as to whether or not our internal control over financial reporting is effective. This assessment would include disclosure of any material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting if any were identified by management. Effective with the year ending December 31, 2010, such report must also contain a statement that our independent registered public accounting firm has issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

Our assessment as of December 31, 2009 indicated that our internal control over financial reporting is effective. However, in the future, if our management identifies one or more material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we will be unable to assert that our internal control is effective. If we are unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if, for the year ending December 31, 2010, our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion that our internal controls are effective, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, which could have an adverse effect on our cost of financing or our ability to obtain financing.

Our business may be significantly impacted by a downturn in the economy.

While we believe the patient demand for cancer care will not generally be impacted by a downturn in the economy, unfavorable economic conditions may result in some patients electing to defer treatment, as well as increased pricing pressure from payers and vendors. In addition, vendors that have historically extended credit to the Company may restrict, or eliminate, the terms on which credit is extended or require additional collateral related to these business arrangements. In addition, many of our customers and suppliers may rely on the availability of short-term financing to support their operations. An adverse change in the ability of our customers or suppliers to obtain necessary financing could disrupt their operations and, consequently, limit their ability to pay obligations owed to us or provide goods and services necessary to our operations. These events could negatively impact our operating results and cash flows.

Any downturn in the economy could result in a reduction in the ability of our affiliated practices’ patients to pay co-insurance amounts or deductibles. In addition, increased unemployment will likely result in an increase in the number of patients not covered by adequate insurance. Even for patients who are insured, in the event a significant third party payer, such as an insurance company or self-funded benefit plan of another organization, encounters significant deterioration in its financial condition, receivables from such payer or other organization could be subject to delay or greater risk of uncollectibility. While we provide services to physician practices throughout the United States, individual physician practices typically have a local customer and, to a lesser extent, payer base. Therefore, we would expect that practices located in regions or localities disproportionally affected by an economic downturn, would be particularly adversely affected by such trends and, in fact, we believe that such practices are already experiencing a rise in uncollectibility.

 

27


Index to Financial Statements

The current economic environment may increase our exposure to bad debt or decrease demand for cancer care.

We continue to experience downward trends in reimbursement, which has been exacerbated as a result of the current economic environment. As more patients become uninsured as a result of job losses or receive reduced coverage as a result of cost-control measures by employers, patients are becoming increasingly responsible for the cost of treatment, which is increasing our exposure to bad debt. The shifting responsibility to pay for care has, in some instances, resulted in patients electing not to receive treatment. Third party payers are also becoming more aggressive in their efforts to deny or reduce reimbursement. In response to this environment, we have accelerated cost reduction efforts and our ongoing lean six sigma process to improve the efficiency of care delivery, increased the rigor of its patient financial counseling and claim submission processes, raised its capital investment requirements and tightened our management of working capital.

Climate change poses both regulatory and physical risks that could harm our results of operations or affect the way we conduct our business.

In addition to the possible direct economic impact that climate change could have on us, climate change mitigation programs and regulation could increase our costs. For example, we believe that there is a potential for higher energy costs driven by climate change regulations. Our costs could increase if utility companies pass on their costs, such as those associated with carbon taxes, emission cap and trade programs, or renewable portfolio standards. To the extent that climate change increases the risk of natural disasters or other disruptive events in the areas in which we operate, we could be harmed. While we maintain business recovery plans that are intended to allow us to recover from natural disasters or other events that can be disruptive to our business, we cannot be sure that our plans will fully protect us from all such disasters or events.

Risks Relating to our Capitalization

Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition and restrict our current and future operations.

We have a significant amount of indebtedness. As of December 31, 2009, our total debt was approximately $1,578.8 million, including indebtedness of US Oncology Holdings, Inc in the amount of $494.0 million and obligations of US Oncology, Inc. in the amount of $1,084.9 million. On August 26, 2009, we terminated our then existing senior secured credit facility and entered into a new senior secured revolving credit facility which allows us to borrow up to $120.0 million (under which availability has been reduced by $30.4 million for outstanding letters of credit as of December 31, 2009). Our total debt as of December 31, 2009 excludes $89.6 million of unused commitments under our senior secured revolving credit facility. Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences by adversely affecting our financial condition and thus making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations, make strategic investments, increase our service offerings or expand our network of affiliated practices. Our substantial indebtedness could:

 

   

increase our vulnerability to adverse general economic and industry conditions;

 

   

require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, research and development efforts and other general corporate purposes;

 

   

limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate;

 

   

place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt;

 

   

limit our ability to borrow additional funds;

 

   

limit our ability to obtain credit from suppliers such as pharmaceutical companies on terms acceptable to us; and

 

   

restrict the ability of US Oncology, Inc. to pay dividends to Holdings in order to service Holdings’ indebtedness and interest rate swap obligation.

In addition, the indentures governing our indebtedness contain financial and other restrictive covenants that limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default, which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debts.

 

28


Index to Financial Statements

Despite our current level of indebtedness, we may be able to incur substantially more debt. This could further exacerbate the risks to our financial condition described above.

We may be able to incur significant additional indebtedness in the future. Although the indenture governing the 9.125% senior secured notes, the indenture governing the 10.75% senior subordinated notes, the indenture governing Holdings’ senior unsecured floating rate toggle notes and the credit agreement governing our senior secured revolving credit facility contain restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, these restrictions are subject to a number of qualifications and exceptions and the additional indebtedness incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial. These restrictions also will not prevent us from incurring obligations that do not constitute indebtedness. On August 26, 2009, we terminated our then existing senior secured credit facility and entered into a new senior secured revolving credit facility which will allow us to borrow up to $120.0 million (under which availability has been reduced by $30.4 million for outstanding letters of credit as of December 31, 2009). As of December 31, 2009, our senior secured revolving credit facility provided for unused commitments of $89.6 million.

Pursuant to the indenture governing Holdings’ senior floating rate PIK toggle notes due 2012, we may elect not to pay cash interest due on the Holdings notes on any interest payment date and may instead elect to pay the interest due by increasing the principal amount of the notes, known as PIK interest. In addition, we may be prohibited from paying cash interest on the Holdings notes. US Oncology’s senior notes and senior subordinated notes also limit its ability to make restricted payments from US Oncology, including dividends paid by US Oncology to Holdings. As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology had the ability to make $26.5 million in restricted payments, which amount increases based on capital contributions to US Oncology, Inc. and by an amount equal to 50 percent of US Oncology’s net income (as defined in the indenture governing the senior notes and senior subordinated notes) and be reduced by (i) the amount of any restricted payments made and (ii) net losses of US Oncology. Delaware law also requires that US Oncology be solvent both at the time, and immediately following, a dividend payment to Holdings. Because Holdings relies on dividends from US Oncology to fund cash interest payments on its notes, in the event that such restrictions prevent US Oncology from paying such a dividend, Holdings would be unable to pay interest on the notes in cash and would instead be required to pay PIK interest (see Note 7 – Indebtedness). However, pursuant to the terms of those notes, the interest installment due on September 15, 2007 was paid in cash and subsequently we have settled $69.0 million of interest, including $37.2 million during 2009, by increasing the principal amount of the outstanding Holdings notes. We have also elected to settle the interest payment due March 15, 2010 entirely by increasing the principal amount of the outstanding Holdings notes by approximately $15.7 million. The failure to pay cash interest on the notes on any interest payment date (other than the first interest payment date) does not constitute an event of default under the indenture governing the notes. Under such circumstances, interest will be paid in the form of PIK interest by increasing the principal amount of the Holdings notes thus increasing our overall indebtedness.

We do not expect to service the Holdings notes in cash and, accordingly, the outstanding balance that will mature on March 15, 2012 will likely be increased due to the issuance of additional notes to settle interest obligations. Assuming that we elect to settle all future interest payments in kind, and that London Interbank Offered Rate, or LIBOR, interest rates do not change significantly from current levels, the outstanding Holdings notes could increase to approximately $584 million at maturity. An increase in LIBO rates of 1.00% would increase the amount due at maturity to approximately $596 million. To the extent new debt is added to our currently anticipated debt levels, the substantial leverage risks described above would increase. In addition, such new debt could be incurred by our subsidiaries, including US Oncology, and, as a result, the Holdings notes would be structurally subordinated to such new indebtedness.

To service our indebtedness, we will require a significant amount of cash. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to make scheduled payments on debt obligations including distributions of sufficient funds from US Oncology to Holdings to enable Holdings to satisfy its obligations under its indebtedness will depend on our future financial performance, which will be affected by a range of economic, competitive, regulatory, legislative and business factors, many of which are outside of our control. In addition, the payment and reimbursement practices in our industry require significant amounts of working capital because of delays that often occur between the time that a claim is submitted for payment and the date payment is actually received. If we do not generate sufficient cash flow from operations to satisfy our debt obligations, we may have to undertake alternative financing plans, such as refinancing or restructuring our debt, selling assets, reducing or delaying capital investments or seeking to raise additional capital. We cannot provide assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations, that

 

29


Index to Financial Statements

currently anticipated cost savings and operating improvements will be realized on schedule or that additional financing, if available, will be made available on terms acceptable to us. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flow to satisfy our debt obligations, or to refinance our obligations on commercially reasonable terms, would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as on our ability to satisfy our debt obligations. Additionally, any downgrades to our credit rating may increase the cost and reduce the availability of any refinancing.

We may not be able to satisfy all scheduled maturities of indebtedness through cash on hand and cash generated through operations. We may be dependent upon our ability to obtain external capital to satisfy the Holdings notes maturing in 2012 and the senior subordinated notes maturing in 2014. We may be required to seek additional financing to satisfy its capital needs by accessing the public or private equity markets, refinancing these obligations through issuance of new indebtedness, modifying the terms of existing indebtedness or through a combination of these alternatives.

The terms of our senior secured notes, senior secured revolving credit facility and the indentures governing other indebtedness may restrict our current and future operations, particularly our ability to respond to changes or to take certain actions.

Our senior secured notes, senior secured revolving credit facility and the indentures governing other indebtedness contain a number of restrictive covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us and may limit our ability to engage in acts that may be in our long-term best interests. Our senior secured notes and senior secured revolving credit facility both include covenants restricting, among other things, our ability to:

 

   

incur, assume or guarantee additional debt;

 

   

pay dividends and make other restricted payments;

 

   

create liens;

 

   

sell assets and subsidiary stock;

 

   

enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

   

make capital expenditures;

 

   

change our business;

 

   

enter into agreements that restrict dividends from subsidiaries;

 

   

enter into certain transactions with affiliates; and

 

   

transfer all or substantially all of our assets or enter into merger or consolidation transactions.

The indentures for our other indebtedness also contain numerous operating and financial covenants including, among other things, restrictions on our ability to:

 

   

incur additional debt;

 

   

pay dividends and make other restricted payments, including a limitation on the amount of these payments;

 

   

create liens;

 

   

use the proceeds from sales of assets and subsidiary stock;

 

   

enter into sale and leaseback transactions;

 

   

enter into agreements that restrict dividends from subsidiaries;

 

   

make investments and acquisitions;

 

   

change our business;

 

   

enter into transactions with affiliates; and

 

   

transfer all or substantially all of our assets or enter into merger or consolidation transactions.

Our senior secured revolving credit facility also includes a requirement that we maintain a maximum leverage ratio.

 

30


Index to Financial Statements

With respect to the covenant limiting asset sales, US Oncology may be obligated (based on certain thresholds) to make prepayment offers on the senior secured notes of up to 100% of “allocable excess proceeds”, as defined by the notes indenture, from any such sale.

A failure to comply with the covenants contained in the senior secured revolving credit facility or the indentures could result in an event of default. In the event of any default under the senior secured revolving credit facility, the lenders under that facility could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be due and payable, enforce their security interest, require US Oncology to apply all of its available cash to repay these borrowings or prevent US Oncology from making debt service payments on its other indebtedness, any of which would result in an event of default under those notes. In addition, any default under the senior secured revolving credit facility or other indebtedness would (unless the default is waived) prevent US Oncology from paying dividends to Holdings to enable Holdings to pay cash interest under the Holdings notes. In addition, future indebtedness could contain financial and other covenants more restrictive than those applicable to our existing indebtedness.

We may not be able to generate sufficient cash flow to meet our debt service obligations.

On August 26, 2009, we terminated our then-existing senior secured credit facility and entered into a new senior secured revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2009, our cash on hand and unused commitments under our senior secured revolving credit facility were $161.8 million and $89.6 million, respectively. Our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to make scheduled payments on our debt obligations will depend on our future financial performance, which will be affected by a range of economic, competitive, regulatory, legislative and business factors, many of which are outside of our control. In addition, the payment and reimbursement practices in our industry require significant amounts of working capital because of delays that often occur between the time that a claim is submitted for payment and the date payment is actually received. If we do not generate sufficient cash flow from operations to satisfy our debt obligations, we may have to undertake alternative financing plans, such as refinancing or restructuring our debt, selling assets, reducing or delaying capital investments or seeking to raise additional capital. We cannot assure you that any refinancing would be possible or that any assets could be sold on acceptable terms or otherwise. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flow to satisfy our debt obligations, or to refinance our obligations on commercially reasonable terms, would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as on our ability to satisfy our obligations under the notes. Additionally, any downgrades to our credit rating may increase the cost and reduce the availability of any refinancing.

We must refinance existing indebtedness. Failure to do so could have a material adverse effect upon us.

The maturities of our 10.75% senior subordinated notes and our 9.625% senior subordinated notes are August 15, 2014 and February 1, 2012, respectively. In addition, the maturity of the senior unsecured floating rate toggle notes of Holdings is March 15, 2012 and the maturity of our senior secured revolving credit facility is August 31, 2012. Based on our financial projections, we will not be able to satisfy all of our and Holdings’ scheduled maturities through cash on hand and cash generated through operations. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance this indebtedness, or whether any refinancing will be on commercially reasonable terms. Our ability and Holdings’ ability to complete a refinancing of any of such indebtedness is subject to a number of conditions beyond our control. If we or Holdings are unsuccessful, the lenders under our senior secured revolving credit facility, the holders of any of our notes and the holders of Holdings’ notes could demand repayment of the indebtedness owed to them on the relevant maturity date.

Fluctuations in interest rates could adversely affect our liquidity and ability to meet our debt service obligations.

Holdings’ senior unsecured floating rate toggle notes bear interest at variable interest rates. As of December 31, 2009, $494 million aggregate principal amount of such indebtedness was outstanding. Holdings has entered into an interest rate swap agreement with respect to such indebtedness, fixing the LIBOR base rate at 4.97% through maturity. Holdings’ Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 include a liability of $32.9 million and $30.5 million, respectively, to reflect the fair market value of the interest rate swap as of that date. Holdings relies on distributions from US Oncology and its subsidiaries to make any payments on the interest rate swap. Furthermore, the interest rate swap is secured ratably with the senior secured revolving credit facility. To the extent market interest rates continue to decrease (or stay at the current levels), Holdings may experience difficulty making scheduled payments on such obligations and funding its other

 

31


Index to Financial Statements

fixed costs due to restrictions that limit the ability of US Oncology to make distributions to Holdings. The semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap increase by $2.1 million for each 1.00% that the fixed interest rate of 4.97% paid to the counterparty exceeds the variable interest rate received from the counterparty. Similarly, the semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap decrease by $2.1 million when the difference between the fixed interest rate paid to the counterparty and the variable interest rate received from the counterparty reduces by 1.00%.

Holdings is the sole obligor under the Holdings notes. Holdings’ subsidiaries, including US Oncology, do not guarantee obligations under the Holdings notes and do not have any obligation with respect to the notes; the notes are effectively subordinated to Holdings’ existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing that indebtedness and are structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other obligations of Holdings’ subsidiaries, including US Oncology. Holdings is a holding company and therefore depends on its subsidiaries to service its obligations under the notes and its other indebtedness. Holdings’ ability to repay the notes depends upon the performance of its subsidiaries and their ability to make distributions.

Holdings has no operations of its own and derives all of its cash flow from its subsidiaries. None of Holdings’ subsidiaries guarantee the Holdings notes. Holdings’ subsidiaries are separate and distinct legal entities and have no obligation, contingent or otherwise, to pay any amounts due under the Holdings notes, or to make any funds available therefore, whether by dividend, distribution, loan or other payments, and the consequent rights of holders of notes to realize proceeds from the sale of any of those subsidiaries’ assets is structurally subordinated to the claims of any subsidiary’s creditors, including trade creditors and holders of debt of those securities. As a result, the Holdings notes are structurally subordinated to the prior payment of all of the debts (including trade payables) of Holdings’ subsidiaries. Holdings’ subsidiaries have a significant amount of indebtedness. Our total Consolidated Balance Sheet liabilities, as of December 31, 2009, were $2,179.1 million, of which $1,578.8 million constituted indebtedness, including $494.0 million of indebtedness represented by the Holdings notes, $759.7 million of the 9 1/8% senior secured notes of US Oncology, $3.0 million of the 9 5/8% senior subordinated notes of US Oncology, $275.0 million of the 10 3/4% senior subordinated notes of US Oncology, and other indebtedness described in Note 7 – Indebtedness to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009. Holdings and its restricted subsidiaries may incur additional debt in the future.

Holdings depends on its subsidiaries, who conduct the operations of the business, for dividends and other payments to generate the funds necessary to meet its financial obligations, including payments of principal and interest on the Holdings notes. However, none of Holdings’ subsidiaries is obligated to make funds available to it for payment on the Holdings notes. The terms of the senior secured revolving credit facility and the terms of the indentures governing US Oncology’s 9 1/8% senior secured notes and 10 3/4% senior subordinated notes restrict US Oncology and certain of its subsidiaries from, in each case, paying dividends or otherwise transferring its assets to Holdings. Such restrictions include, among others, financial covenants, prohibition of dividends in the event of default and limitations on the total amount of dividends. In addition, legal and contractual restrictions in agreements governing other current and future indebtedness, as well as financial condition and operating requirements of Holdings’ subsidiaries, currently limit and may, in the future, limit Holdings’ ability to obtain cash from its subsidiaries. The earnings from, or other available assets of Holdings’ subsidiaries, may not be sufficient to pay dividends or make distributions or loans to enable Holdings to make cash payments of interest in respect of the Holdings notes when such payments are due. As previously discussed, US Oncology’s senior secured notes and senior subordinated notes also limit its ability to make restricted payments from US Oncology, including dividends paid by US Oncology to Holdings. We can not provide assurance that the agreements governing the current and future indebtedness of Holdings’ subsidiaries will permit such subsidiaries to provide Holdings with sufficient dividends, distributions or loans to fund interest and principal payments on the Holdings notes when due.

A substantial portion of our assets are held by, and a substantial portion of our income is derived from, our subsidiaries, and the debt of our subsidiary guarantors may restrict payment on our indebtedness.

We hold a substantial portion of assets through our subsidiaries and derive a substantial portion of our operating income from our subsidiaries. We are dependent on the earnings and cash flow of our subsidiaries to meet our obligations on our indebtedness. We cannot assure you that our subsidiaries will be able to, or be permitted to, pay to us amounts necessary to service our debt. In certain circumstances, the credit agreement governing the senior secured revolving credit facility and the indentures governing our other indebtedness will permit our subsidiary guarantors to enter into agreements that can limit our ability to receive distributions from our subsidiaries. In the event we do not receive distributions from our subsidiaries, we may be unable to make required principal and interest payments on our indebtedness.

 

32


Index to Financial Statements

Not all of our subsidiaries guarantee our indebtedness, and the assets of our non-guarantor subsidiaries may not be available to make payments on our indebtedness.

The guarantors of our indebtedness does not include all of our subsidiaries. In the event that any non-guarantor subsidiary becomes insolvent, liquidates, reorganizes, dissolves or otherwise winds up, holders of its indebtedness and its trade creditors generally will be entitled to payment on their claims from the assets of that subsidiary before any of those assets are made available to us. Consequently, claims in respect of certain indebtedness will be effectively subordinated to all of the liabilities of our non-guarantor subsidiaries, including trade payables, and the claims (if any) of any third party holders of preferred equity interests in our non-guarantor subsidiaries.

We may not be able to fulfill our repurchase obligations in the event of a change of control.

Upon the occurrence of any change of control, we will be required to make a change of control offer to repurchase a substantial portion of our indebtedness. Any change of control also would constitute a default under the senior secured notes and the senior secured revolving credit facility. Therefore, upon the occurrence of a change of control, the lenders under the senior secured notes and the senior secured revolving credit facility would have the right to accelerate their loans and require US Oncology to prepay all of the outstanding obligations under those agreements. Also, the senior secured notes and the senior secured revolving credit facility prohibit US Oncology from making dividend payments to Holdings to enable Holdings to repurchase the Holdings notes upon a change in control, unless US Oncology first repays all borrowings under the senior secured notes and the senior secured revolving credit facility or obtains the consent of the lenders under those agreements.

If a change of control occurs, there can be no assurance that US Oncology will have available funds sufficient to satisfy our obligations under the senior secured revolving credit facility and the indentures governing our other indebtedness and to pay the change of control purchase price for any or all of the notes issued by us that might be delivered by holders of the notes seeking to accept the change of control offer. Accordingly, none of the holders of our outstanding notes may receive the change of control purchase price for their notes. Our failure to make the change of control offer or pay the change of control purchase price when due would result in a default under the indentures of our notes.

The collateral that secures our senior secured notes and revolving credit facility may not be valuable enough to satisfy all of the obligations secured by such collateral.

Obligations under our senior secured notes and revolving credit facility are secured by the pledge of certain of our assets. Holders of such obligations will share in any proceeds of the collateral in the event it is sold to satisfy such obligations, in accordance with their respective priorities. The actual value of the collateral at any time will depend upon market and other economic conditions, the availability of buyers and other factors. We cannot assure you that proceeds of a sale of collateral following acceleration to maturity of any of our secured obligations would be sufficient to satisfy such obligations.

Bankruptcy laws may limit the ability of holders of the notes to realize value from the collateral.

The right of the trustee to repossess and dispose of the collateral upon the occurrence of an event of default under the indenture governing our senior secured notes is likely to be significantly impaired by applicable bankruptcy law if a bankruptcy case were to be commenced by or against us before the trustee repossessed and disposed of the collateral. For example, under Title 11 of the United States Code, or the United States Bankruptcy Code, pursuant to the automatic stay imposed upon the bankruptcy filing, a secured creditor is prohibited from repossessing its security from a debtor in a bankruptcy case, or from disposing of security repossessed from such debtor, or taking other actions to levy against a debtor, without bankruptcy court approval. Moreover, the United States Bankruptcy Code permits the debtor to continue to retain and to use collateral even though the debtor is in default under the applicable debt instruments, provided that the secured creditor is given “adequate protection.” The meaning of the term “adequate protection” may vary according to circumstances (and is within the discretion of the bankruptcy court), but it is intended in general to protect the value of the secured creditor’s interest in the collateral and may include cash payments or the granting of additional security, if and at such times as the court in its discretion determines, for any diminution in the value of the collateral as a result of the automatic stay of repossession or disposition or any use of the collateral by the debtor during the pendency of the bankruptcy case. Generally, adequate protection payments, in the form of interest or otherwise, are not required to be paid by a debtor to a secured creditor unless the bankruptcy court determines that the value of the secured creditor’s interest in the collateral is declining during the pendency of the bankruptcy case. Due to the imposition of the automatic stay, the lack of a precise definition of the term “adequate protection” and the broad discretionary powers of a bankruptcy court, it is impossible to predict (1) how long payments under the notes could be delayed following commencement of a bankruptcy case, (2) whether or when the trustee could repossess or dispose of the collateral or (3) whether or to what extent holders of the notes would be compensated for any delay in payment or loss of value of the collateral through the requirement of “adequate protection.”

The collateral is subject to casualty risks.

We are obligated under the indenture governing our senior secured notes, and under our new senior secured revolving credit facility to at all times

 

33


Index to Financial Statements

cause all the collateral to be properly insured and kept insured against loss or damage by fire or other hazards. There are, however, some losses, including losses resulting from terrorist acts, that may be either uninsurable or not economically insurable, in whole or in part. As a result, we cannot assure holders of notes that the insurance proceeds will compensate us fully for our losses. If there is a total or partial loss of any of the collateral, we cannot assure holders of the notes that the proceeds received by us in respect thereof will be sufficient to satisfy all the secured obligations, including the notes.

In the event of a total or partial loss to any of the mortgaged facilities, certain items of equipment and inventory may not be easily replaced. Accordingly, even though there may be insurance coverage, the extended period needed to manufacture replacement units or inventory could cause significant delays.

Any future pledge of collateral in favor of the holders of the notes might be voidable in bankruptcy.

Any future pledge of collateral in favor of the holders of our senior secured notes, including pursuant to security documents delivered after the date of the indenture governing the notes, might be voidable by the pledgor (as debtor in possession) or by its trustee in bankruptcy if certain events or circumstances exist or occur, including, under the United States Bankruptcy Code, if the pledgor is insolvent at the time of the pledge, the pledge permits the holders of the notes to receive a greater recovery than if the pledge had not been given and a bankruptcy proceeding in respect of the pledgor is commenced with 90 days following the pledge, or, in certain circumstances, a longer period.

We will in most cases have control over the collateral.

The security documents governing our senior secured notes and revolving credit facility generally allow us and the guarantors to remain in possession of, retain exclusive control over, to freely operate, and to collect, invest and dispose of any income from, the collateral. These rights may adversely affect the value of the collateral at any time.

Our principal stockholder’s interests may conflict with the interests of our other stakeholders.

As of December 31, 2009, an investor group led by Welsh Carson IX owned approximately 73% of Holdings’ outstanding common stock and controls a substantial portion of the voting power of such common stock. Welsh Carson IX’s interests in exercising control over our business may conflict with the interests of other holders of our debt and equity securities.

 

34


Index to Financial Statements
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

 

Item 2. Properties

We lease our corporate headquarters in The Woodlands, Texas. We also lease a warehouse facility in Fort Worth, Texas to operate our distribution center including our oral oncology specialty pharmacy and mail order business. We or the affiliated practices own, lease or sublease our other facilities and the facilities where the clinical staffs provide medical services. We lease physician office space in addition to some of our cancer centers. We anticipate that, as our affiliated practices grow, expanded facilities will be required.

In addition to conventional medical office space, we have developed integrated cancer centers that are generally freestanding facilities in which a full range of outpatient cancer treatment services is offered in one facility. At December 31, 2009, we operated 83 integrated cancer centers and had two cancer centers under development. Of the 83 cancer centers in operation, 42 are leased and 41 are owned by us. We also operate 17 radiation-only facilities.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

Professional Liability Claims and Reimbursement Related Claims

The provision of medical services by our affiliated practices entails an inherent risk of professional liability claims. We do not control the practice of medicine by the clinical staff or control their compliance with regulatory and other requirements directly applicable to practices. In addition, because the practices purchase and prescribe pharmaceutical products, they face the risk of product liability claims. In addition, because of licensing requirements and affiliated practices’ participation in governmental healthcare programs, we and affiliated practices are, from time to time, subject to governmental audits and investigations, as well as internally initiated audits, some of which may result in refunds to governmental programs. Although we and our practices maintain insurance coverage, successful malpractice, regulatory or product liability claims asserted against us or one of the practices in excess of insurance coverage could have a material adverse effect on us.

U.S. Department of Justice Subpoena

During the fourth quarter of 2005, we received a subpoena from the DOJ’s Civil Litigation Division requesting a broad range of information about us and our business, generally in relation to our contracts and relationships with pharmaceutical manufacturers. We have cooperated fully with the DOJ in responding to the subpoena. All outstanding document requests from the DOJ were addressed in early 2008, and we continue to await further direction and feedback from the DOJ. At the present time, the DOJ has not made any allegation of wrongdoing on the part of the Company. However, we cannot provide assurance that such an allegation or litigation will not result from this investigation. While we believe that we are operating and have operated our business in compliance with law, including with respect to the matters covered by the subpoena, we cannot provide assurance that the DOJ will not make a determination that wrongdoing has occurred. In addition, we have devoted significant resources to responding to the DOJ subpoena.

U.S. Attorney Subpoena

On July 29, 2009 the Company received a subpoena from the United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York, seeking documents relating to its contracts and relationships with a pharmaceutical manufacturer and its business

 

35


Index to Financial Statements

and activities relating to that manufacturer’s products. The Company believes that the subpoena relates to an ongoing investigation being conducted by that office regarding the manufacturer’s sales and marketing practices. The Company intends to fully cooperate with the request. At the present time, the U.S. Attorney has not made any allegation of wrongdoing on the part of the Company. However, the Company cannot provide assurance that such an allegation or litigation will not result from this investigation. While the Company believes that it is operating and has operated its business in compliance with the law, including with respect to the matters covered by the subpoena, the Company cannot provide assurance that the U.S. Attorney will not make a determination that wrongdoing has occurred. We have devoted significant resources responding to the subpoena and anticipate that such resources will be required on an ongoing basis to fully respond.

Qui Tam Suits

From time to time, we have become aware that we and certain of our subsidiaries and affiliated practices have been the subject of qui tam lawsuits (commonly referred to as “whistle-blower” suits). Because qui tam actions are filed under seal, it is possible that we are the subject of other qui tam actions of which we are unaware.

In previous qui tam suits of which we have been made aware, the DOJ has declined to intervene in such suits and the suits have been dismissed. Qui tam suits are brought by private individuals, and there is no minimum evidentiary or legal threshold for bringing such a suit. The DOJ is legally required to investigate the allegations in these suits. The subject matter of many such claims may relate both to our alleged actions and alleged actions of an affiliated practice. Because the affiliated practices are separate legal entities not controlled by us, such claims necessarily involve a more complicated, higher cost defense, and may adversely impact the relationship between the practices and us. If the individuals who file complaints and/or the United States were to prevail in these claims against us, and the magnitude of the alleged wrongdoing were determined to be significant, the resulting judgment could have a material adverse financial and operational effect on us, including potential limitations in future participation in governmental reimbursement programs. In addition, addressing complaints and government investigations requires us to devote significant financial and other resources to the process, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the claims.

Breach of Contract Claims

We and our network physicians are defendants in a number of lawsuits involving employment and other disputes and breach of contract claims. In addition, we are involved from time to time in disputes with, and claims by, our affiliated practices against us.

We are also involved in litigation with a practice in Oklahoma that was affiliated with us under the net revenue model until April, 2006. While we were still affiliated with the practice, we initiated arbitration proceedings pursuant to a provision in the service agreement providing for contract reformation in certain events. The practice countered with a lawsuit that alleges, among other things, that we have breached the service agreement and that our service agreement is unenforceable as a matter of public policy due to alleged violations of healthcare laws. The practice sought unspecified damages and a termination of the contract. We believe that our service agreement is lawful and enforceable and that we are operating in accordance with applicable law. As a result of alleged breaches of the service agreement by the practice, we terminated the service agreement in April, 2006. In March, 2007, the Oklahoma Supreme Court overturned a lower court’s ruling that would have compelled arbitration in this matter and remanded the case back to the lower court to hold hearings to determine whether and to what extent the arbitration provisions of the service agreement will be applicable to the dispute. We expect these hearings to occur in 2010. Because of the need for further proceedings, we believe that the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling will extend the amount of time it will take to resolve this dispute and increase the risk of the litigation to us. In any event, as with any complex litigation, we anticipate that this dispute may take several years to resolve.

As a result of the ongoing litigation, we have been unable to collect on a timely basis a receivable owed to us relating to accounts receivable purchased by us under the service agreement and amounts for reimbursement of expenses paid by us on the practice’s behalf. At December 31, 2009, the total receivable owed to us of $22.4 million is reflected on our balance sheet as other assets. Currently, a deposit of approximately $14.8 million is held in an escrowed bank account into which the practice has been making monthly deposits as required. In late 2009, the practice filed a motion to discontinue the monthly deposits and until a ruling is made the requirement has been suspended. These amounts will be released upon resolution of the litigation. In addition, approximately $7.6 million are being held in a bank account that has been frozen pending the outcome of related litigation regarding that account. In addition, we have filed a security lien on the receivables of the practice. We believe that the amounts held in the bank accounts combined with the receivables of the practice in which we have filed a security lien represent adequate collateral to recover the $22.4 million receivable recorded in other assets at

 

36


Index to Financial Statements

December 31, 2009. Accordingly, we expect to realize the amount that is recorded on our balance sheet as owed by the practice. However, realization is subject to a successful conclusion to the litigation with the practice, and we cannot assure you as to when the litigation will be finally concluded or as to what the ultimate outcome of the litigation will be. In addition, the Company has additional claims against the practice which are not recorded as receivables on its balance sheet, which, in the event of an award, could be a collection risk. We expect to continue to incur expenses in connection with our litigation with the practice.

We intend to vigorously pursue our claims, including claims for any costs and expenses that we incur as a result of the termination of the service agreement and to defend against the practice’s allegations that we breached the agreement and that the agreement is unenforceable. However, we cannot provide assurance as to what the outcome of the litigation will be, or, even if we prevail in the litigation, whether we will be successful in recovering the full amount, or any, of our costs associated with the litigation and termination of the service agreement.

Assessing our financial and operational exposure on litigation matters requires the application of substantial subjective judgments and estimates based upon facts and circumstances, resulting in estimates that could change as more information becomes available.

Certificate of Need Regulatory Action

During the third quarter of 2006, one of our affiliated practices in North Carolina lost (through state regulatory action) the ability to provide radiation services at its cancer center in Asheville. The practice continued to provide medical oncology services, but was not permitted to use the radiation services area of the center (approximately 18% of the square footage of the cancer center). The practice appealed the regulatory action and the North Carolina Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the practice on procedural grounds and ordered the state agency to hold a new hearing on its regulatory action. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, the practice received a ruling in its appeal, which mandated a rehearing by the state agency. The state agency conducted a rehearing and issued a new ruling upholding the practice’s right to provide radiation services. That decision was appealed, and the appellants also sought a stay of the state’s decision. The request for a stay was denied in July 2008 while the appeal is still pending. As a result, the practice resumed diagnostic services in September, 2008 and radiation services in February, 2009.

Delays during the three months ended March 31, 2007 in pursuing strategic alternatives led to uncertainty regarding the form and timing associated with alternatives to a successful appeal. Consequently, we performed impairment testing as of March 31, 2007 and we recorded an impairment charge of $1.6 million relating to a management services agreement asset and equipment in the three months ended March 31, 2007. No additional impairment charges relating to this regulatory action have been recorded through December 31, 2009.

At December 31, 2009, our Consolidated Balance Sheet included net assets in the amount of $0.7 million related to this practice, which includes working capital in the amount of $0.2 million. The construction of the cancer center in which the practice operates was financed as an operating lease and, as such, is not recorded on our balance sheet. At December 31, 2009, the lease had a remaining term of 16 years and the net present value of minimum future lease payments is approximately $7.2 million.

Antitrust Inquiry

The FTC and a state Attorney General have informed one of our affiliated physician practices that they have opened an investigation to determine whether a recent transaction in which another group of physicians became employees of that affiliated group violated relevant state or federal antitrust laws. In addition, the FTC has requested information from us regarding our role in that transaction. We are in the process of responding to a request for information on this matter. At present, we believe that the scope of the investigation is limited to a single transaction, but we cannot assure you that the scope will remain limited. We believe that we and our affiliated physician practices comply with relevant antitrust laws. However, if this investigation were to result in a claim against us or our affiliated physician practice in which the FTC or Attorney General prevails, the resulting judgment could have a material adverse financial and operational effect on us or that practice, including the possibility of monetary damages or fines, a requirement that we unwind the transaction at issue or the imposition of restrictions on our future operations and development. In addition, addressing government investigations requires us to devote significant financial and other resources to the process, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the claims. Furthermore, because of the size and scope of our network, there is a risk that we could be subjected to greater scrutiny by government regulators with regard to antitrust issues.

 

37


Index to Financial Statements
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Reserved.

 

38


Index to Financial Statements

PART II

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

An aggregate of 422,951,505 shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding on December 31, 2009. There is no ready market for our common stock. Our common stock is held by approximately 430 holders.

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2009, the number of shares of our common stock that may be issued upon the exercise of outstanding options issued under equity compensation plans, the weighted average exercise price of those options and the number of shares of common stock remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans.

 

Plan Category

   (a)
Number of Securities to
be Issued Upon Exercise
of Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
   (b)
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
   (c)
Number of Securities
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under
Equity Compensation
Plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
 

Equity Compensation Plans approved by Security Holders:

        

2004 Equity Incentive Plan

   13,319,050    $ 1.50    13,862,900  (1) 

2004 Director Stock Option Plan

   126,000      1.13    655,000   

 

(1)

Includes 1,477,219 shares available for grant as either options or restricted stock.

In addition to the options listed above, the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan also provides for grants of restricted common stock. Effective October 1, 2009, the Company amended its Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, or the 2004 Equity Plan (as so amended), in order to: (a) increase the number of shares available for grant from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; (b) increase the number of shares available for grant as stock options from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; (c) increase the number of shares available for grant as restricted stock from 32,000,000 to 33,169,419; and (d) decrease the maximum number of shares which may be granted as stock options to any single participant in any 12 month period from 3,933,595 to 666,667. Also on October 1, 2009, the Company awarded 3,350,300 shares of restricted stock and 13,770,800 options to acquire common stock to employees. At December 31, 2009, the Company had issued 31,692,200 restricted shares, net of forfeitures, and 13,862,900 shares remained available for grant as either stock option shares or up to 1,477,219 of those shares as restricted stock under this plan.

In addition to the director options listed above, effective October 1, 2009, Holdings amended and restated its Director Stock Option Plan in order to: (a) allow directors to be granted shares of restricted stock; (b) provide grants to directors; and (c) increase the number of shares of common stock of Holdings available for awards under the plan from 500,000 to 1,000,000. On October 1, 2009, the Company awarded 136,000 shares of restricted stock to directors. At December 31, 2009, the Company had issued 136,000 restricted shares, net of forfeitures, and 655,000 shares remained available for grant as either stock option shares or as restricted shares under this plan.

The Company, also adopted the 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan, or 2008 LTIP, effective January 1, 2008, and terminated a previous Long-Term Incentive Plan. Under the 2008 LTIP, management will receive five percent of the enterprise value created by annual EBITDA exceeding a certain threshold, using a stated multiple, provided that the maximum value that can be paid to management under the plan is limited to $100 million. Amounts earned under the 2008 LTIP will only be paid upon the earlier of an initial public offering or a change of control, provided that all shares of preferred stock, together with accrued dividends, have been redeemed or converted to common stock.

 

39


Index to Financial Statements

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

During 2009, the Company issued 13,815,800 options to purchase common stock and 4,436,300 shares of restricted common stock to employees and directors in transactions exempt from registration under Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act.

Dividends

Prior to October 1, 2009, holders of participating preferred shares were entitled to receive cumulative preferred dividends on a non-cash accrual basis at a rate equal to 7% per annum, compounded quarterly. Such dividends were not eligible to be paid in cash until a liquidation event, a qualified public offering, a change of control transaction or certain other events or actions. During the year ended December 31, 2009, accretion of this dividend amounted to $19.3 million. On October 1, 2009, all participating preferred shares were converted into common shares.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2007, US Oncology Holdings, Inc. declared and paid a dividend of $158.6 million to holders of its common stock. During the quarter ended December 31, 2006, US Oncology Holdings, Inc. declared a special dividend in the amount of $190.0 million to holders of its participating preferred and common stock which was paid in January 2007.

The payment of interest on US Oncology Holdings, Inc.’s Notes (when interest is paid in cash) and interest rate swap obligation is financed through receipt of periodic dividends from US Oncology to Holdings. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, US Oncology paid $11.1 million and $13.0 million, respectively, to its parent for payment of interest on Holdings’ Notes, to settle amounts due under its interest rate swap agreement and for general business expenses.

 

40


Index to Financial Statements
Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The selected consolidated financial information set forth below is qualified by reference to, and should be read in conjunction with, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included elsewhere in this report. In the following tables, we include selected financial data of US Oncology and Holdings. With the exception of expenses associated with its separate capitalization, nominal administrative expenses and the related tax effects, the results of operations of Holdings are substantially identical to those of US Oncology.

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
    

(dollars in thousands)

   

(dollars in thousands)

 

Statement of Operations Data:

      

Product revenues

   $ 2,363,824      $ 2,224,704      $ 1,970,106      $ 1,822,141      $ 1,615,943      $ 2,363,824      $ 2,224,704      $ 1,970,106      $ 1,822,141      $ 1,615,943   

Services revenues

     1,147,856        1,079,473        1,030,672        989,242        902,617        1,147,856        1,079,473        1,030,672        989,242        902,617   
                                                                                

Total revenues

     3,511,680        3,304,177        3,000,778        2,811,383        2,518,560        3,511,680        3,304,177        3,000,778        2,811,383        2,518,560   

Cost of products

     2,312,443        2,163,943        1,925,547        1,753,638        1,545,588        2,312,443        2,163,943        1,925,547        1,753,638        1,545,588   

Cost of services:

                    

Operating compensation and benefits

     558,181        523,939        479,177        458,006        418,102        558,181        523,939        479,177        458,006        418,102   

Other operating costs

     330,792        321,947        293,677        274,665        245,630        330,792        321,947        293,677        274,665        245,630   

Depreciation and amortization

     72,312        72,790        73,159        69,351        67,414        72,312        72,790        73,159        69,351        67,414   
                                                                                

Total cost of services

     961,285        918,676        846,013        802,022        731,146        961,285        918,676        846,013        802,022        731,146   

Total cost of products and services

     3,273,728        3,082,619        2,771,560        2,555,660        2,276,734        3,273,728        3,082,619        2,771,560        2,555,660        2,276,734   

General and administrative expense

     72,214        77,265        84,423        77,180        72,357        71,934        76,883        84,326        76,948        72,008   

Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net

     8,504        384,929        15,126        —          —          8,504        384,929        15,126        —          —     

Compensation expense under long- term incentive plan

     —          —          —          —          14,507        —          —          —          —          14,507   

Depreciation and amortization

     30,896        30,017        16,172        13,983        17,504        30,896        30,017        16,172        13,983        17,504   
                                                                                
     3,385,342        3,574,830        2,887,281        2,646,823        2,381,102        3,385,062        3,574,448        2,887,184        2,646,591        2,380,753   

Income (loss) from operations

     126,338        (270,653     113,497        164,560        137,458        126,618        (270,271     113,594        164,792        137,807   

Other income (expense):

                    

Interest expense, net

     (139,591     (136,474     (137,496     (117,088     (102,543     (101,249     (92,757     (95,342     (92,870     (84,174

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     (25,081     —          (12,917     —          —          (25,081     —          —          —          —     

Other income (expense), net

     (11,771     (19,006     (11,885     —          —          1,315        2,213        —          —          —     
                                                                                

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (50,105     (426,133     (48,801     47,472        34,915        1,603        (360,815     18,252        71,922        53,633   

Income tax (provision) benefit

     2,101        16,923        17,447        (18,926     (13,823     (1,593     (6,351     (7,447     (27,509     (20,652
                                                                                

Net income (loss)

     (48,004     (409,210     (31,354     28,546        21,092        10        (367,166     10,805        44,413        32,981   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619     (2,388     (2,003     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619     (2,388     (2,003
                                                                                

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

   $ (51,590   $ (412,534   $ (34,973   $ 26,158      $ 19,089      $ (3,576   $ (370,490   $ 7,186      $ 42,025      $ 30,978   
                                                                                

 

41


Index to Financial Statements
Item 6. Selected Financial Data (continued)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year ended December 31,     Year ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
     (dollars in thousands)     (dollars in thousands)  

Statement of Cash Flows Data:

                    

Net cash provided by (used in):

                    

Operating activities

   $ 161,796      $ 128,499      $ 164,677      $ 20,517      $ 113,914      $ 172,593      $ 141,487      $ 198,030      $ 43,639      $ 124,555   

Investing activities

     (81,018     (137,004     (93,170     (110,768     (90,234     (81,018     (137,004     (93,170     (110,768     (90,234

Financing activities

     (23,444     (36,275     (204,018     246,181        (18,242     (34,462     (49,263     (237,370     223,058        (28,883
     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     As of December 31,     As of December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
     (dollars in thousands)     (dollars in thousands)  

Balance Sheet Data:

                    

Working capital (1)

   $ 227,331      $ 210,886      $ 232,359      $ 261,796      $ 214,955      $ 223,129      $ 198,616      $ 202,232      $ 254,022      $ 215,421   

Total assets

     1,888,227        1,870,900        2,236,373        2,366,494        2,118,974        1,859,191        1,842,853        2,208,650        2,359,982        2,111,047   

Long term debt, excluding current maturities

     1,568,242        1,517,884        1,456,569        1,319,664        1,230,871        1,074,288        1,061,133        1,031,569        1,069,664        980,871   

Total Company equity (deficit)

     (306,478     (643,072     (210,153     (18,037     64,397        183,057        195,415        554,323        580,741        600,249   

 

(1)

Working capital is computed as total current assets less total current liabilities.

 

42


Index to Financial Statements
Item 6. Selected Financial Data (continued)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year ended December 31,     Year ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005     2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
     (dollars in thousands)     (dollars in thousands)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (48,004   $ (409,210   $ (31,354   $ 28,546      $ 21,092      $ 10      $ (367,166   $ 10,805      $ 44,413      $ 32,981   

Interest expense, net

     139,591        136,474        137,496        117,088        102,543        101,249        92,757        95,342        92,870        84,174   

Income tax provision (benefit)

     (2,101     (16,923     (17,447     18,926        13,823        1,593        6,351        7,447        27,509        20,652   

Depreciation and amortization

     103,208        102,807        89,331        83,334        84,918        103,208        102,807        89,331        83,334        84,918   

Amortization of stock compensation

     2,282        2,103        753        2,149        3,883        2,282        2,103        753        2,149        3,883   

Loss on interest rate swap

     13,086        21,219        11,885        —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Noncontrolling interest

     —          —          —          —          (2,003     —          —          —          —          (2,003

Other (income) expense

     (1,315     (2,213     —          —          —          (1,315     (2,213     —          —          —     
                                                                                

EBITDA (2)

   $ 206,747      $ (165,743   $ 190,664      $ 250,043      $ 224,256      $ 207,027      $ (165,361   $ 203,678      $ 250,275      $ 224,605   
                                                                                

Other non-cash charges

     391        —          —          —          —          391        —          —          —          —     

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     25,081        —          12,917        —          —          25,081        —          —          —          —     

Compensation expense under the long-term incentive plan

     —          —          —          —          14,507        —          —          —          —          14,507   

Impairment and restructuring charges

     8,504        384,929        15,126        —          —          8,504        384,929        15,126        —          —     
                                                                                

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

   $ 240,723      $ 219,186      $ 218,707      $ 250,043      $ 238,763      $ 241,003      $ 219,568      $ 218,804      $ 250,275      $ 239,112   
                                                                                

Other non-cash charges

     (391     —          —          —          —          (391     —          —          —          —     

Changes in assets and liabilities

     64,413        39,592        77,708        (97,934     (18,650     34,933        19,533        81,023        (90,679     (19,898

Noncontrolling interest expense (1)

     —          —          —          —          2,003        —          —          —          —          2,003   

Deferred income taxes

     (5,459     (10,728     (11,689     4,422        8,164        (110     1,494        992        4,422        8,164   

Interest expense, net

     (139,591     (136,474     (137,496     (117,088     (102,543     (101,249     (92,757     (95,342     (92,870     (84,174

Income tax (provision) benefit

     2,101        16,923        17,447        (18,926     (13,823     (1,593     (6,351     (7,447     (27,509     (20,652
                                                                                

Cash flow from operations

   $ 161,796      $ 128,499      $ 164,677      $ 20,517      $ 113,914      $ 172,593      $ 141,487      $ 198,030      $ 43,639      $ 124,555   
                                                                                

 

(1)

Effective January 1, 2006, noncontrolling interest expense is not deducted for purposes of determining EBITDA (net income (loss) in the table above includes the noncontrolling interests’ earnings).

 

(2)

See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Discussion of Non-GAAP Information.” The table above sets forth a reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to net income (loss) and cash flow from operations.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Annual Report. References to “fiscal year” refer to the period from January 1 to December 31 of the indicated year. Unless otherwise noted, references to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have the meaning set forth under “Discussion of Non-GAAP Information.”

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) provides a narrative on the Company’s financial performance and condition. MD&A is presented in the following sections:

 

   

General, including Business Overview and 2009 Financial Highlights;

 

   

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates;

 

   

Results of Operations;

 

   

Liquidity and Capital Resources; and

 

   

Contractual Obligations

MD&A should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Our discussion includes various forward-looking statements about our markets, the demand for our services and products and our future results. These statements are based on certain assumptions we consider reasonable. For information about these assumptions, refer to the section entitled “Part I - Introduction – Forward Looking Statements.”

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Our mission is to enable physicians to provide the right treatment, at the right time, for the right patient. We strive to expand and improve patient access to high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care by working closely with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to improve the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of the cancer care delivery system. To realize our mission of enhancing patient access to advanced care, we must maintain a dual emphasis on cost containment and quality improvement. Pursuit of this mission involves strategic initiatives at both the local level, where cancer care is delivered to patients, and at the national level to address the needs of commercial and governmental payers, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industry customers. As of December 31, 2009, our network included:

 

   

1,310 affiliated physicians

 

   

496 sites of service

 

   

83 comprehensive cancer centers and 17 facilities providing radiation therapy only

 

   

A research network currently managing 89 active clinical trials

 

   

A pharmaceutical distribution business currently distributing $2.4 billion annually in oncology pharmaceuticals

We provide our services through four operating segments; medical oncology services, cancer center services, pharmaceutical services and research/other services. Each of our operating segments is described in greater detail below.

We provide practice management services to practices with which we have a comprehensive strategic alliance in both our medical oncology and cancer center services segments. Our management services are intended to support affiliated physicians in providing high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care. Both medical oncology and cancer center services may be provided under the same arrangement to provide comprehensive practice management services with the differentiation between these segments relating to the nature of cancer care being supported. Medical oncology services typically relate to the support of physicians who provide chemotherapy and drug administration, while cancer center services typically relate to physicians performing radiation treatments and diagnostic radiology.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Our practice management services are designed to encompass all non-clinical aspects of managing an oncology practice and assist affiliated practices develop and execute long-term strategies for their success. We believe our fee arrangements, which are typically based on a percentage of the affiliated practice’s earnings, effectively align our interests and long-term objectives with those of our comprehensively managed practices. We work with affiliated groups to improve practice performance through optimizing reimbursement, implementing Lean Six-Sigma operating processes, providing customized electronic medical records and information systems, and obtaining nationally-negotiated supply arrangements. We also assist in recruiting additional physicians into our groups, including physicians from established practices and newly qualified oncologists. Each year approximately 50-60 oncologists are recruited to join one of our affiliated groups. We believe that a substantial portion of newly qualified oncologists that enter private practice join groups that are affiliated with us. We also assist affiliated groups through the development of relationship-building programs targeted to referring physicians, and through local and national branding campaigns that communicate the benefits of being a member of our network.

We work with practices to establish operating plans, determine goals, set strategic direction and assess the viability of capital projects or other initiatives to position them for long-term growth. Our network technology infrastructure provides a common platform that facilitates clinical collaboration among physicians, including virtual tumor boards where challenging cases and treatments can be discussed among peers. In addition, this infrastructure allows for the accumulation of financial information that can be used to establish key performance metrics, benchmark practice results, identify opportunities to enhance performance and develop best operating practices. We also provide a voice in Washington, D.C. for our affiliated practices and advocate on their behalf, and on behalf of their patients, with state agencies and lawmakers.

In addition, our management services are designed to encompass all non-clinical aspects of managing an oncology practice, allowing affiliated physicians to spend more time providing care to patients. These services include accounting, billing and collection, personnel management, payroll, benefits administration, risk management and compliance.

Medical Oncology Services

In addition to the practice management services described above, we provide pharmaceutical services to physicians that have affiliated under comprehensive strategic alliances.

Pharmaceuticals are the central component of medical oncology practices and by far their largest expense. For this reason, we have worked to develop core competencies in purchasing, distributing and managing oncology pharmaceuticals for medical oncologists. Central to the pharmaceutical services we provide is our ability to obtain drug pricing on more favorable terms than would otherwise be available to our affiliated practices on an individual basis. Because of the significant size and scale of our network, we negotiate all pharmaceutical purchases directly with drug manufacturers and are generally able to procure market-differentiated pricing. In addition, we work with affiliated practices to implement efficient operating processes to manage inventory, eliminate waste and enhance product safety.

The majority of pharmaceuticals we purchase are delivered to the affiliated practices where they are mixed, when required, by pharmacists, pharmacy technicians or nurses employed by the affiliated practices and administered to patients at the practice. A small percentage of pharmaceuticals we purchase are dispensed to patients at our network pharmacies to be used on an outpatient basis. As of December 31, 2009, our network includes 46 licensed pharmacies (located primarily in our cancer centers), 142 pharmacists and 360 pharmacy technicians. Where appropriate, we establish, or assist practices in establishing, retail pharmacy locations for oral and other self-administered therapies. The pharmacies serve as the recipients of, and distributors for, the pharmaceuticals used in treating our affiliated practices’ patients.

Participation in our network provides affiliated physicians access to the broad range of clinical insight that would not be available to them otherwise. We facilitate clinical collaboration among network affiliated physicians through coordinated national meetings and discussions regarding treatment protocols, drug effectiveness and other pharmacy-related issues, including support for a network-wide pharmacy and therapeutics committee consisting of our affiliated physicians and support for the development of our Level I Pathways. In addition, we provide data collection and analytical services for use by physicians and their clinical staff, pharmacists and patients, including comprehensive analyses of complex chemotherapy regimens and their efficacy, toxicity, convenience and cost. We also provide an oncology-specific electronic medical records system, known as iKnowMed. This system includes customized content and comprehensive implementation plans with onsite training and support aimed at improving patient care as well as practice efficiency inducing accurate and complete charge capture.

 

45


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Cancer Center Services

We offer cancer center services to affiliated practices under our comprehensive strategic alliances. We believe that community-based care in an integrated setting is the best way to provide patients access to high quality, comprehensive and advanced cancer care. We encourage medical oncology practices with sufficient market presence to expand into diagnostic radiology and radiation therapy, which can be performed at our cancer centers, but not in a typical practice office. In addition to increasing patient access to high quality care, we believe that offering a broader range of services enhances a practice’s financial position by mitigating its financial exposure to changes in pharmaceutical economics.

As of December 31, 2009, we manage 83 integrated, community-based cancer centers, either outright or through joint ventures, of which we own 41 and lease 42. In addition, we manage 17 radiation-only facilities which are leased. We provide the development capital and manage all aspects of the cancer center development process in consultation with the practice, from deciding whether and where to build a cancer center, through permitting and regulatory issues, and through construction, development and operations.

Pharmaceutical Services

The pharmaceutical services provided through the medical oncology services segment described above are also available as a separate targeted service offering to medical oncologists that are not part of a comprehensive strategic alliance. These practices are contracted under a targeted physician services model which does not encompass all of our practice management services. Pharmaceutical services include:

 

   

Group Purchasing Organization, or GPO, services. We negotiate purchasing contracts with pharmaceutical manufacturers and other vendors, administer the contracts and provide related services.

 

   

Pharmaceutical Distribution services. Our distribution center increases the safety of drugs through a state-of-the-art e-Pedigree technology that tracks drug therapies from the manufacturer to the practice, ensuring that drugs administered to patients by our affiliated physicians are genuine and unadulterated. Located in Fort Worth, Texas, our distribution center supplied approximately 95% of the value of pharmaceuticals administered by our network of affiliated practices in 2009.

Through our pharmaceutical services segment, we also provide informational and other services to pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers:

 

   

Information, marketing and analytical services. We provide a range of data and analytical services relating to purchasing and utilization of pharmaceuticals and other matters, as well as marketing assistance and other product-related services.

 

   

Reimbursement Support. To expand the services we offer pharmaceutical manufacturers, in July 2006, we acquired AccessMed™, a company that provides patient financial assistance and support services to assist pharmaceutical manufacturers in commercializing their products.

 

   

Oral Oncology Specialty Pharmacy. In August 2006, we launched our oral oncology specialty pharmacy and mail order business at our Fort Worth facility. This capability is designed to address the increasing number of new oral chemotherapeutical compounds, as well as the needs of payers seeking to consolidate their pharmaceutical purchasing power to reduce costs. The mail order service is an offering that is also available to patients outside of our affiliated network practices. In addition to providing patients with pharmaceuticals, we provide patient counseling services that are directed toward appropriate use of medications, side effects and complication monitoring and reimbursement issues.

 

46


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

   

Oncology Portal. In August 2009, we launched a website resource for the physician community and currently have over 800 physicians actively utilizing this community-based tool.

Cancer Research Services

We provide a full range of cancer research services to our affiliated practices, from study concept and design to regulatory approval. We believe that physicians and patients value this service because it provides access to the latest treatments available in oncology. Our clinical research expertise can provide patient access to a Phase I clinical trial that is rarely available to patients in a community setting and it can accelerate the use of evidence-based medicine with large-scale measurement of outcomes.

Cancer research revenues are derived from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies that pay us to manage and facilitate their clinical trials and to provide other research-related services. We pay our affiliated physicians for their participation in clinical trials according to financial arrangements that are separately determined for each trial. Our cancer research program is designed to give community-based oncologists and their patients access to a broad range of the latest clinical trials.

2009 Financial Highlights

During 2009, the number of physicians in our combined network of comprehensive strategic alliances and targeted services relationships increased by nearly 100 to 1,310 physicians as of December 31, 2009. The increase includes the addition of 68 physicians under targeted services agreements and growth of our comprehensive strategic alliances that brought the number of physicians affiliated with us under that model to over 1,000 for the first time in our history.

The growing physician network and increasing productivity were primary contributors to our revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth in excess of $200 million and $20 million, respectively, as compared to the prior year. Also contributing to our improved financial performance were increased earnings through our patient support services and informatics offerings, as well as lower corporate costs. Corporate costs were reduced by nearly $5.0 million through management of controllable expenses and without limiting the scope of services provided to affiliated physicians. We also made key additions to our management team supporting the physician network in 2009, including a new executive vice president - medical officer and a new chief pharmacy officer.

In 2009, we continued to focus on effectively utilizing our financial resources. Cash flow from operations increased by $33.3 million for US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and by $31.1 million for US Oncology, Inc. due to efforts to shorten collection periods, extend vendor payment cycles and reduce inventory levels at affiliated practice locations. Capital expenditures were reduced to $78.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $88.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, while revenue for these periods increased over $200 million to $3.5 billion.

In June 2009, US Oncology, Inc. completed a $775.0 million senior secured note offering. Proceeds were used to its repay existing $300.0 million senior notes and $436.7 million outstanding under its senior secured credit facility. These transactions extended to August 2017 term debt maturities scheduled to become due between September 2010 and August 2012. Also, in August 2009, US Oncology, Inc. completed a new $120.0 million revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility matures August 31, 2012 which extended the term of the previous facility that was scheduled to expire on August 20, 2011. A debt extinguishment loss in the amount of $26.0 million was associated with these transactions.

In October 2009, US Oncology Holdings, Inc. converted its outstanding Series A and Series A-1 participating preferred shares, with a carrying value of $405.3 million into 270.8 million common shares based on conversion value of $1.50 per common share.

Operating Challenges and Strategic Responses

Community-based oncology practices remain under pressure from declining reimbursement and increasing operating costs. The economics of healthcare and the aging American population mean that pressures to increase the effectiveness of care while reducing the cost of delivery will likely intensify. US Oncology works with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to address these issues. Innovent Oncology is a service specifically designed to bring physicians and payers together to provide high clinical quality while managing the total cost of care through evidence-based treatment protocols and patient support services.

 

47


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

In 2010, we expect additional generic alternatives for certain branded pharmaceuticals will become available. When a generic form of a drug becomes available, earnings from that drug typically increase temporarily because its cost declines significantly, while reimbursement remains at the branded price for a period of months. However, after reimbursement adjusts, earnings with respect to a generic drug are typically significantly lower than the earnings from a branded pharmaceutical. In general, we are supportive of generic products which can significantly reduce the overall cost of care without impacting its efficacy and have established relationships with generic pharmaceutical manufacturers that provide our network access to these drugs.

We expect that these trends will increase the demand for professional management of physician groups seeking to increase their operating efficiency and financial performance. In 2009, we began packaging certain key services, including pharmaceutical purchasing and management, Innovent, iKnowMed and research into a targeted physician services offering intended to complement our broader management model by addressing the needs of mid-size practices. Under this service model, physicians have greater flexibility to choose services they receive and pay a separate fee for each, rather than obtaining comprehensive services with a single fee model. In 2010, we intend to assimilate physicians affiliated under our different service models into a more unified network emphasizing quality, cost effective care and practice financial performance. We will continue to work with our network of affiliated practices to optimize reimbursement, implement Lean Six Sigma operating processes, recruit physicians, provide customized electronic medical records and information systems and obtain nationally-negotiated supply arrangements.

We will continue to assist affiliated groups strengthen their local profile and marketing activities, through liaison programs that market affiliated practices to referring physicians and through both local and national branding campaigns that communicate the benefits to both patients and practices of membership in the US Oncology network.

Finally, we acknowledge trends toward patient-directed care and personalized medicine and believe we are uniquely positioned as to support this movement. In 2010, we expect to invest in a branding campaign to articulate the value of network affiliation to patients, referring physicians and oncologists. In addition, we have recently invested into publications and technologies aimed specifically at the patient community. We also believe the scale of our network, which sees in excess of 700,000 patients annually, combined with our technology investments, particularly in electronic health records, offer an ability to enable clinicians to identify the specific patients who may benefit from a particular clinical trial, and also to provide insightful data to pharmaceutical manufacturers regarding their products that have already been approved by the FDA.

Our Strategy

Our mission is to enable physicians to provide the right treatment, at the right time, for the right patient. We strive to expand and improve patient access to high quality, integrated and advanced cancer care by working closely with physicians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers to improve the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of the cancer care delivery system. We know that to realize our mission of enhancing patient access to advanced care, we must maintain a dual emphasis on cost containment and quality improvement. Pursuit of this mission involves strategic initiatives at both the local level, where cancer care is delivered to patients, and at the national level to address the needs of commercial and governmental payers, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industry customers.

We believe declining reimbursement and increasing operating costs have resulted in a trend toward professional management of physician groups. Since our inception, we have worked with local physician groups to enable affiliated practices to offer state of the art care to cancer patients in outpatient settings, including professional medical services, chemotherapy infusion, radiation oncology services, access to clinical trials, laboratory services, diagnostic radiology, pharmacy services and patient education. In addition, we work with affiliated groups to improve practice performance through optimizing reimbursement, implementing Lean Six-Sigma operating processes, recruiting physicians, providing customized electronic medical records and information systems, and obtaining nationally negotiated supply arrangements. We also assist affiliated groups through the development of relationship-building programs targeted to referring physicians, and through local and national branding campaigns that communicate the benefits of being a member of our network. We have also developed other tools for

 

48


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

physicians such as the Oncology Portal which was just launched during the third quarter. The portal is a web-based cancer care community to provide oncologists and clinicians a platform to collaborate, share best practices and gain industry insight and education.

As of December 31, 2009, we were affiliated with 1,310 physicians operating in 496 locations, including 100 radiation oncology facilities, in 38 states. Our affiliated physicians care for over 700,000 patients annually, which we believe is the largest cancer care network in the United States. We will continue to work with existing affiliated physicians, and seek to enter into new affiliations, to increase the financial strength of network practice and support their clinical initiatives.

It is that sizable physician and patient population that allows us to realize volume efficiencies for the network and a variety of additional industry customers. We provide oncologists with a broad range of innovative products and services through two economic models: a comprehensive strategic alliance model, under which we provide all of our practice management products and services under a single contract with one fee typically based on the practice’s financial performance, and our targeted physician services model, under which physicians purchase a narrower suite of services based on the types of services required by the practice. We expect our services will increasingly be offered through targeted arrangements where a subset of our comprehensive services, including supplying oncology pharmaceuticals, disease management, electronic medical records and research can be obtained separately on a fee for service basis. These targeted arrangements are designed to meet the needs of oncology practices that may not be well-suited for a comprehensive management arrangement but still value a narrower scope of our services.

In addition to assisting physicians in addressing the challenges faced by their practices, we use the insight gained from working with these practices to assist payers and pharmaceutical manufacturers improve patient access to high quality cancer care and the effectiveness of the care delivery system.

Our reimbursement expertise helps providers, payers and pharmaceutical manufacturers realize cost efficiency and predictability in a largely unpredictable field of medicine. Innovent Oncology addresses the payer’s need to avoid the unnecessary costs of care while ensuring the highest level of clinical quality. Innovent Oncology offers a comprehensive solution to the key cost drivers in cancer care: variable treatments, debilitating side effects that lead to emergency room visits and hospitalizations between treatments, and futile treatment at the end of life.

We also work with pharmaceutical manufacturers in the development and commercialization of oncology pharmaceuticals. The US Oncology Research Network provides pharmaceutical manufacturers with a centrally managed and efficient system for the clinical development of new therapies from Phase I through IV. This research network is led by industry-leading cancer experts in all major tumor types and offers access to an unparalleled national sampling of patients. In addition, AccessMed® provides patient financial assistance and product support services to assist pharmaceutical manufacturers commercialize their products while our Healthcare Informatics business collects and analyzes data to provide significant insight into drug performance and patient outcomes for ongoing product development and evaluation.

Physician Relationship Models

Comprehensive Strategic Alliance

Under our comprehensive services model known as comprehensive strategic alliance, we own or lease all of the real and personal property used by our affiliated practices. In addition, we generally manage the non-medical business operations of our affiliated practices and facilitate communication with our affiliated physicians. Each management agreement contemplates a policy board consisting of representatives from the affiliated physician practice and us. Each board’s responsibilities include strategic planning, decision-making and preparation of an annual budget for that practice. While both we and the affiliated practice have an equal vote in matters before the policy board, the practice physicians are solely responsible for all medical decisions, including the hiring and termination of physicians. We are responsible for all non-medical decisions, including facilities management and information systems management.

During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, 80.6%. 81.1% and 83.8% of our revenue, respectively, was derived from comprehensive strategic alliances. Under most of our comprehensive strategic alliances, we are compensated under the earnings model. Under the earnings model, we account for all expenses that we incur in connection with managing a practice, including rent, pharmaceutical expenses and salaries and benefits of non-physician employees of

 

49


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

the practices, and are paid a management fee based on a percentage of the practice’s earnings before income taxes, subject to certain adjustments. Our other comprehensive strategic alliances are on a fixed management fee basis, as required by some states.

Targeted Physician Services

Our services are increasingly being offered through targeted arrangements where a subset of the services offered through our comprehensive management agreements are provided separately to oncologists on a fee-for-service basis. Targeted physician services represented 15.6%, 15.8% and 14.6% of our revenue during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, which was primarily fees for payment for pharmaceuticals and supplies used by the practice and reimbursement for certain pharmacy-related expenses. A smaller portion of our revenue from targeted arrangements was payment the other services we provide. Rates for our services typically are based on the level of services desired by the practice.

Concentrations of Risk

One affiliated practice, Texas Oncology, represented approximately 25% of our revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. We perceive our relationship with this practice to be positive; however, if the relationship were to deteriorate, or the practice were to disaffiliate, we would experience a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

We derive a substantial portion of our revenue and profitability from the utilization of a limited number of pharmaceuticals that are manufactured and sold by a very limited number of pharmaceutical manufacturers. During 2009, approximately 40% of patient revenue generated by our affiliated practices resulted from pharmaceuticals sold exclusively by five pharmaceutical manufacturers. In addition, a limited number of pharmaceutical manufacturers are responsible for a disproportionately large amount of market-differentiated pricing we offer to practices. Our agreements with these pharmaceutical manufacturers are typically for one to three years and certain agreements are cancelable by either party without cause with 30 days prior notice. Further, several of the agreements provide favorable pricing that is adjusted quarterly based on specified volume levels or a specified level of use of a specific drug as a percentage of overall use of drugs within a given therapeutic class. In some cases, compliance with the contract is measured on an annualized basis and pricing concessions are given in the form of rebates payable at the end of the measurement period. Unanticipated changes in usage patterns, including as a result of reimbursement changes such as those affecting ESAs and the introduction of standardized treatment regimens or clinical pathways, by our affiliated practices, that disfavor a given drug, could result in lower-than-anticipated utilization of a given pharmaceutical product, and cause us to fail to attain the performance levels required to earn rebates. A departure of a significant number of physicians from our network could also cause us to fail to reach contract targets. Failure to attain performance levels could result in our not earning rebates, including cost-reductions that may already have been reflected in our financial statements based on our prior assessment as to the likelihood of attaining such reductions. Furthermore, certain pharmaceutical manufacturers pay rebates under agreements based on multi-product performance. Under these types of agreements, our pricing on several products could be adversely impacted based upon our failure to meet predetermined targets with respect to any single product. Any termination or adverse adjustment to these relationships could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Governmental programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, are collectively the affiliated practices’ largest payers. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the practices affiliated with us under comprehensive strategic alliances derived approximately 39.2%, 38.2% and 37.8%, respectively, of their net patient revenue from services provided under the Medicare program (of which 6.9%, 5.5% and 3.8%, respectively, relates to Medicare managed care programs) and approximately 3.7%, 3.3% and 3.0%, respectively, of their net patient revenue from services provided under state Medicaid programs. Under managed care programs, Medicare contracts with third-party payers to administer health plans for Medicare beneficiaries. Under such programs, physicians are reimbursed at negotiated rates (rather than the Medicare fee schedule) and the payer is a third-party, rather than the Medicare program itself. No single payer accounted for more than 10% of our revenue during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. Certain of our individual affiliated practices, however, have contracts with payers accounting for more than 10% of their revenue.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Reimbursement Matters

Pharmaceutical Reimbursement under Medicare

ESAs are drugs used for the treatment of anemia, which is a condition that occurs when the level of healthy red blood cells in the body becomes too low, thus inhibiting the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Many cancer patients suffer from anemia either as a result of their disease or as a result of the treatments they receive for their cancer. ESAs have historically been used by oncologists to treat anemia. ESAs are administered to increase levels of healthy red blood cells as an alternative to blood transfusions.

On July 30, 2007, CMS issued a NCD establishing criteria for reimbursement by Medicare for ESA usage which led to a significant decline in utilization of these drugs by oncologists, including those affiliated with us. In addition, the ODAC met on March 13, 2008, to further consider the use of ESAs in oncology. Based upon the ODAC findings, on July 30, 2008, the FDA published a final new label for the ESA drugs Aranesp and Procrit. Unlike the NCD from CMS, which governs reimbursement (rather than prescribing) for Medicare beneficiaries only, the label indication directs appropriate physician prescribing and applies to all patients and payers.

The FDA also mandated implementation of REMS for ESAs. A proposed REMS for ESAs was filed by ESA manufacturers with the FDA in August 2008 and approved on February 16, 2010 to become effective on March 24, 2010. The REMS is focused on ESA prescribing guidelines and requires additional patient consent, education requirements, medical guides and physician registration over a one year period beginning on March 24, 2010. The REMS also outlines additional procedural steps that will be required for qualified physicians to prescribe ESAs for their patients. We believe a possible impact of the REMS could be further reductions in ESA utilization, which could be significant. Because the use of ESAs relates to specific clinical determinations and we do not make clinical decisions for affiliated physicians, analysis of the financial impact of these restrictions is a complex process. As a result, there is inherent uncertainty in making an estimate or range of estimates as to the ultimate financial impact on the Company. Factors that could significantly affect the financial impact on the Company include ongoing clinical interpretations of coverage restrictions and risks related to ESA use.

The decline in ESA usage has had a significant adverse affect on our results of operations, and, particularly, our Medical Oncology Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments. Operating income attributable to ESAs administered by our network of affiliated physicians decreased by $9.5 million and $25.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The operating income reflects results from our Medical Oncology Services segment which relate primarily to the administration of ESAs by practices receiving comprehensive management services and from our Pharmaceutical Services segment which includes purchases by physicians affiliated under the targeted physician services model, as well as distribution and group purchasing fees received from pharmaceutical manufacturers for pharmaceuticals purchased by physicians affiliated under either of these arrangements.

Decreasing financial performance of affiliated practices as a result of declining ESA usage also affects their relationship with us and, in some instances, has led to increased pressure to amend the terms of their management services agreements. In addition, reduced utilization of ESAs may adversely impact our ability to continue to receive favorable pricing from ESA manufacturers. Decreased financial performance may also adversely impact our ability to obtain acceptable credit terms from pharmaceutical manufacturers, including pharmaceutical manufacturers of products other than ESAs.

We expect continued payer scrutiny of the side effects of supportive care products and other drugs that represent significant costs to payers. Such scrutiny by payers or additional scientific data could lead to future restrictions on usage or reimbursement for other pharmaceuticals as a result of payer or FDA action or reductions in usage as a result of the independent determination of oncologists practicing in our network. Any such reduction could have an adverse effect on our business. In our evidence-based medicine initiative, affiliated physicians continually review emerging scientific information to develop clinical pathways for use in oncology and remain engaged with payers in determining optimal usage for all pharmaceuticals.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Reimbursement for Physician Services

Medicare reimbursement for physician services is based on a fee schedule, which establishes payment for a given service, in relation to actual resources used in providing the service, through the application of relative value units, or RVUs. The resources used are converted into a dollar amount of reimbursement through a conversion factor, which is updated annually by CMS, based on a formula.

On October 30, 2009, CMS announced final changes to policies and payment rates for services to be furnished during 2010 by physicians and nonphysician practitioners who are paid under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Under the statutory formula, the conversion factor for 2010 is estimated to decrease by 21.3% unless Congress again enacts superseding legislation. In addition, CMS projects that changes to policies and payment rates for 2010 would result in a 1% decrease (6% decrease in 2013 under 4-year phase-in) in overall payments to the specialty of hematology/oncology and a 1% decrease (5% decrease in 2013) in overall payments to the specialty of radiation oncology.

In December 2009, President Obama signed the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 (H.R. 3326) into law which delayed the 21.3% payment reduction under the current Sustainable Growth Rate, or SGR, formula until March 1, 2010. As of March 2, 2010, President Obama signed into law a bill that includes a 30 day extension of the SGR Fix. The stopgap legislation has been approved to extend the SGR freeze through March 31, 2010. It is not expected that the technical application of the SGR cut to claims from March 1 and March 2 will have any practical impact on Medicare physician payments. Under the provisions, if Congress fails to act to avert the scheduled fee reduction, EBITDA could be reduced by approximately $10-$13 million. We expect that Congress, as in previous years, will enact legislation to avert a 21.3% SGR reduction. If such legislation is enacted, we currently estimate the impact to 2010 EBITDA of changes to CMS policies and payment rates will be approximately $1 million to $2 million.

On October 30, 2008, CMS issued a final rule for the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2009. The final rule establishes Medicare policy changes and payment rates that went into effect for services furnished by physicians and nonphysician practitioners as of January 1, 2009. The 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule included a 5% decrease in the conversion factor from the 2008 rates reflecting the discontinuation of a budget neutrality adjustor that had been applied to a portion of the fee schedule calculation for the past two years. This change negatively impacted technical services and increased reimbursement for services with greater physician work components such as Evaluation and Management services. Under this fee schedule, pretax income for the year ended December 31, 2009, decreased by approximately $1.2 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2008.

In November, 2006, CMS released its Final Rule of the Five-Year Review of Work Relative Value Units, or Work RVUs, under the Physician Fee Schedule and Proposed Changes to the PE Methodology, herein referred to as the Final Rule. The Work RVUs changes were implemented in full beginning January 1, 2007, while the PE methodology changes are being phased in over a four-year period (2007-2010). For years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Final Rule resulted in an increase in pretax income of $2.6 million, $2.9 million, and $2.3 million, respectively, over the comparable prior year periods for Medicare non-drug reimbursement excluding the 2009 conversion factor change.

Imaging Reimbursement

On April 6, 2009, CMS issued a final NCD to expand coverage for initial testing with positron emission tomography (“PET”) as a cancer diagnostic tool for Medicare beneficiaries who are diagnosed with and treated for most solid tumor cancers. This NCD also extends coverage to patients to allow PET usage beyond initial diagnosis, to include subsequent treatment strategies and expanded usage of PET scans, including at US Oncology affiliated practices, beginning in the second quarter of 2009. In April, 2009, US Oncology affiliated practices began accepting patients under the expanded coverage. However, a number of claims were delayed because CMS had not issued the official change request informing Medicare contractors to alter their claims processing until October 31, 2009. The claim reimbursement was retroactive to April 6, 2009 and the expanded coverage on PET utilization and reimbursement was not material.

General Reimbursement Matters

Other reimbursement matters that could impact our future results include the risk factors described herein, as well as the following:

 

   

the extent to which non-governmental payers change their reimbursement rates or implement other initiatives, such as pay for performance, or change benefit structures;

 

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Index to Financial Statements

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

   

changes in practice performance or behavior, including the extent to which physicians continue to administer drugs to Medicare patients, or changes in our contracts with physicians;

 

   

changes in our cost structure or the cost structure of affiliated practices, including any change in the prices our affiliated practices pay for drugs;

 

   

changes in our business, including new cancer centers, PET system installations or otherwise expanding operations of affiliated physician groups;

 

   

changes in patient responsibility to pay for cancer treatment as a result of employer benefit plan design, rising unemployment or other related factors; and

 

   

any other changes in reimbursement or practice activity that are unrelated to the prescription drug legislation.

The Obama administration has identified healthcare as a policy priority and has released an outline of its healthcare policy initiatives as they relate to the 2010 federal budget. The outline identifies guiding principles for healthcare reform and spending, which include increasing access to and affordability of healthcare, primarily by ensuring access to health insurance, increasing effectiveness of care, through effective use of technology and an emphasis on evidence-based medicine, maintaining patient choice, emphasizing preventive care and enhancing the fiscal sustainability of the U.S. healthcare system. Specific initiatives described in the outline include reducing drug costs for federal programs by increasing availability of generics and increasing the Medicaid rebates payable by pharmaceutical manufacturers to states, increasing incentives to reduce unnecessary variability in treatment and to practice evidence-based medicine, incentivizing the use of electronic medical records and other technology, and reducing unnecessary or wasteful spending. Similarly, some states in which we operate have undertaken, or are considering, healthcare reform initiatives that also address these issues. Currently, the matter of healthcare reform continues to be debated by lawmakers and we are unable to provide guidance on what the final legislation will be and how it will impact us. While many of the stated goals of the administration’s initiatives are consistent with our own mission to increase access to care that is effective, efficient and based upon the latest available scientific evidence, additional regulation and continued fiscal pressure may adversely affect our business.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate these estimates, including those related to accounts receivable, intangible assets, goodwill, income taxes, and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates under different assumptions or conditions. In addition, as circumstances change, we may revise the basis of our estimates accordingly.

Management believes our critical accounting policies affect the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. These critical accounting policies include our policy for recognition of revenue from affiliated practices, valuation of accounts receivable, impairment of long-lived assets, volume-based pharmaceutical rebates and accounting for income taxes. Refer to Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies”, to our consolidated financial statements for a more detailed discussion of such policies.

Revenue from Affiliated Practices

A majority of our revenues, 80.6% and 81.1% for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, are derived through comprehensive strategic alliances with affiliated practices. Under these agreements, our management fee is

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

calculated as a portion of the earnings of affiliated practices, net of any amounts retained by the practices for payment of compensation to the practices’ physicians and certain other direct costs, or in limited circumstances, a fixed fee.

Therefore, although we are not directly involved in providing healthcare services to cancer patients, under our comprehensive strategic alliances, our results are highly correlated to the results of our affiliated practices which provide such care. Our affiliated practices recognize revenue based on gross billings, net of allowances for contractual adjustments and uncollectible accounts. Contractual adjustments are necessary to reduce gross billings to amounts that will be paid by individual payers under terms of individual arrangements with affiliated practices. These payers include Medicare, Medicaid, managed care, other health plans and patients. Payments from these payers are subject to regulatory change, in the case of Medicare and Medicaid, or periodic renegotiation and the financial health of the payer, in the case of managed care, other health plans and patients. Additionally, charges to third party payers are often subject to review, and possibly audit, by the payer, which may result in a reduction of fees recognized for billed services. While we believe affiliated practices under the comprehensive strategic alliance model appropriately record contractual allowances and provisions for doubtful accounts in the determination of revenue, the process includes an inherent level of subjectivity. Typically, adjustments to revenue for these matters, and ultimately our management fees, are recorded in the period such adjustments become known.

Our revenue is net of amounts retained by practices for payment of compensation to affiliated physicians. Many of our affiliated practices with comprehensive strategic alliances participate in a bonus program that is intended to create a mutually-aligned incentive to appropriately utilize resources and deploy capital by providing a reduction in, or rebate of, management fees payable to us. Practices participate in this program only when specified earnings and returns on invested capital targets are met. These payments are generally based upon annual practice results and are computed in accordance with our service agreement with the practice. Additionally, effective July 1, 2006, to promote continued support of initiatives in the pharmaceutical services segment, we initiated a program to reduce management fees paid by practices affiliated under comprehensive strategic alliances based upon compliance with distribution efficiency guidelines established by the Company and the profitability of the segment.

Physician practices that enter into comprehensive strategic alliance arrangements receive pharmaceutical products as well as a broad range of practice management services. These products and services represent multiple deliverables provided under a single contract for a single fee. We have analyzed the components of the contract attributable to the provision of products and the provision of services and attributed fair value to each component. For revenue recognition purposes, product revenue and service revenue have each been accounted for separately.

Product revenue consists of sales of pharmaceuticals to affiliated practices under comprehensive strategic alliance arrangements or under the targeted physician services model. Under each of these arrangements, we agree to furnish the affiliated practices with pharmaceuticals and supplies. Because we act as principal, product revenue is recognized as (i) the cost of the pharmaceutical (which is reimbursed to us pursuant to all of our contractual arrangements with physician practices) plus (ii) an additional amount. Under the targeted physician services model, this additional amount is the actual amount charged to practices because all of the services are provided on a fee-for service basis under this model. Therefore, under the targeted physician services, the additional amount is directly related to and not separable from the delivery of pharmaceutical products. Comprehensive strategic alliance arrangements do not provide for a separate fee for supplying pharmaceuticals other than reimbursement of the cost of pharmaceuticals. Accordingly, the additional amount included in product revenue reflects our estimate of the portion of our service fee that represents fair value relative to product sales and is based upon the terms upon which we offer pharmaceuticals under our targeted physician services model. Service revenue consists of our revenue, other than product revenue, under our service agreements with affiliated practices and for our services provided to customers other than affiliated physicians.

Valuation of Accounts Receivable

Reimbursement relating to healthcare accounts receivable, particularly governmental receivables, is complex and changes frequently, and could, in the future, adversely impact our ability to collect accounts receivable and the accuracy of our estimates.

To the extent we are legally permitted to do so, we purchase accounts receivable generated by treating patients from our comprehensive strategic alliance practices. We purchase these receivables at their estimated net realizable value, which in management’s judgment is the amount that we expect to collect, taking into account contractual agreements that reduce gross

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

fees billed and allowances for accounts that may otherwise be uncollectible. If we determine that accounts are uncollectible after purchasing them from a practice, our contracts require the practice to reimburse us for the additional uncollectible amount. Such reimbursement however, reduces the practice’s earnings for the applicable period. Because our management fees are partly based upon practice earnings, this adjustment would also reduce our future service fees.

We maintain decentralized billing systems, which vary by individual practice. We continue to upgrade and modify those systems. We take this into account as we evaluate the realizability of receivables and record appropriate reserves, based upon the risks of collection inherent in such a structure. In the event subsequent collections are higher or lower than our estimates, results of operations in subsequent periods could be either positively or negatively impacted as a result of prior estimates. This risk is particularly relevant for periods in which there is a significant shift in reimbursement from large payers, such as recent changes in Medicare reimbursement.

Unlike our practices affiliated through comprehensive agreements, we do not maintain billing and collection systems for practices affiliated under the targeted physician services model and our collection of receivables from targeted physician services customers is subject to their willingness and ability to pay for products and services delivered by us. Typically, payment is due from targeted physician services customers within 30 days from the date products and services are delivered. Where appropriate, we seek to obtain personal guarantees from affiliated physicians to support the collectibility of receivables. We maintain an allowance for uncollectible accounts based upon both an estimate for specifically-identified doubtful accounts and an estimate based on an evaluation of the aging of receivable balances.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, our consolidated balance sheet includes goodwill in the amount of $377.3 million, of which $28.9 million, $191.4 million and $157.0 million was associated with the Medical Oncology Services, Cancer Center Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments, respectively.

We assess the recoverability of goodwill on an annual basis or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. In our most recent annual assessment, during the fourth quarter of 2009, we estimated that the fair values of our Medical Oncology Services, Cancer Center Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments exceeded their carrying values by approximately $142.0 million, $47.0 million and $445.0 million, respectively.

A future decline in the operating performance or increase in the capital requirements of the Cancer Center Services segment could result in an impairment of goodwill related to this segment. Goodwill for the Cancer Center Services segment was $191.4 million at December 31, 2009. Factors that could contribute to a decline in operating performance would include, but are not limited to, a reduction in reimbursement for radiation therapy and diagnostic services by third party payers (including governmental and commercial payers), an increase in operating costs such as compensation or utilities, or a reduction in our management fees under comprehensive management agreements. On October 30, 2009, CMS issued changes to policies and payment rates under the 2010 Medicare physician fee schedule. This fee schedule includes reductions in reimbursement for radiation therapy services of approximately 1% in 2010, which increase to 5% in 2013 under the four-year phase-in of the provisions. The Company is in the process of evaluating the rule’s estimated impact. Additionally, increasing capital requirements as a result of escalating equipment or financing costs or investments in new technology could negatively impact the segment’s estimated fair value such that an impairment of its goodwill may be deemed to have occurred. We continue to address the negative factors that could result in an impairment of goodwill related to this segment. During 2009, we implemented certain cost reduction efforts and increased our emphasis on capital management, including working capital and investments in new projects. On April 6, 2009, CMS issued a final NCD to expand coverage for initial testing with PET as a cancer diagnostic tool for Medicare beneficiaries who are diagnosed with and treated for most solid tumor cancers. This NCD also extends coverage to patients to allow PET usage beyond initial diagnosis to include subsequent treatment strategies and is expected to expand usage of PET scans, and favorably impact the results of the Cancer Center Services segment. However, future adverse changes in actual or anticipated operating results, economic factors and/or market multiples used to estimate the fair value of the Company, could result in future non-cash impairment charges. Because measuring an impairment charge requires the identification and valuation of intangible assets that have either increased in value or have been created since the goodwill was initially recognized, it is not possible to estimate the impact of the impairment charge that would be recorded if the estimated fair value of the Cancer Center Services segment were to decline below its carrying value. We perform our annual goodwill assessment as of the beginning of the fourth quarter, however if events or

 

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US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

circumstances change that we conclude would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our Cancer Center Services segment below its carrying amount, we would perform impairment testing before that date.

Volume-Based Pharmaceutical Rebates

Several of our agreements with pharmaceutical manufacturers provide for discounts in the form of volume-based rebates, which are payable at the end of a stipulated measurement period. Certain agreements also provide rebates based upon market share data. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, we had recorded a rebate receivable of $28.3 million and $32.9 million, respectively. Effective October 1, 2008, an agreement with one manufacturer that previously provided pricing adjustments through rebates was converted, for the most part, to provide those adjustments as discounts to the invoiced cost of pharmaceuticals. As a result of this change, the discounts are now a reduction of the amount payable to the manufacturer rather than a rebate receivable at December 31, 2009 and 2008. Rebates earned from pharmaceutical manufacturers are subject to review and final determination based upon the manufacturer’s analysis of usage data and contractual terms. Certain pharmaceutical manufacturers pay rebates under multi-product agreements. Under these types of agreements, our rebates on several products could be impacted based upon our failure to meet predetermined targets with respect to any single product. Additionally, contractual measurement periods may not necessarily coincide with our fiscal periods.

We accrue rebates, and record a reduction to cost of products, based upon our internally monitored usage data and our expectations of usage during the measurement period for which rebates are accrued. Rebate estimates accrued prior to invoicing pharmaceutical manufacturers (which generally occurs 10-30 days after the end of the measurement period) are revised to reflect actual usage data for the measurement period being invoiced. For certain agreements, we record market share rebates at the time we invoice the manufacturer, as information necessary to reliably assess whether such amounts will be earned is not available until that time. Our billings are subject to review, and possible adjustment, by the manufacturer.

Accounting for Income Taxes

Accounting guidance for income taxes requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities. This guidance also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we estimate our income taxes based on our current tax provision together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. Deferred income taxes are recorded for temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities reported for financial statement purposes and their tax basis. Deferred tax assets are recognized for temporary differences that will be deductible in future years’ tax returns and for operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is deemed more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for temporary differences that will be taxable in future years’ tax returns.

We evaluate the realizability of deferred tax assets by assessing recent and projected financial results, estimating the future reversals of existing temporary differences and considering the impact of tax planning strategies that could be implemented to avoid the potential loss of future tax benefits. As a result of this evaluation, the deferred tax assets of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. has been reduced by a valuation allowance in the amount of $16.5 million as its recent history of operating losses indicated these assets may not be recoverable.

Changes in tax codes, statutory tax rates or future taxable income levels could materially impact our valuation of tax assets and liabilities and could cause our provision for income taxes to vary from estimated amounts and from period to period.

US Oncology Holdings, Inc. files as a consolidated group for income tax reporting purposes. At December 31, 2009, US Oncology Holdings, Inc. had deferred tax liabilities in excess of deferred tax assets of approximately $0.6 million after consideration of the $16.5 million valuation allowance.

US Oncology, Inc. is a subsidiary of the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. consolidated group for income tax reporting purposes. For financial reporting purposes, US Oncology, Inc.’s tax provision has been computed on the basis that it filed a

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

separate federal income tax return together with its subsidiaries. The taxable income of US Oncology, Inc. computed under the separate return method is greater than the taxable income of the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. consolidated group because it does not include the incremental expenses of the parent company which principally relate to interest on the indebtedness of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. At December 31, 2009, US Oncology, Inc. had deferred tax liabilities in excess of deferred tax assets of approximately $30.7 million.

Under the terms of its indebtedness, US Oncology is precluded from making tax payments to its parent, or directly to the Internal Revenue Service, in excess of the consolidated group’s income tax liability, and US Oncology Holdings, Inc. has contributed to US Oncology, Inc. tax benefits associated with the incremental expenses of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. based on tax returns filed for the period from August 21, 2004 through December 31, 2007. As such, and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the amount by which US Oncology’s tax liability as stated under the separate return method exceeds the amount of tax liability ultimately settled with, or on behalf of, its parent company is considered a capital contribution from the parent to US Oncology, Inc. During the year ended December 31, 2008, US Oncology, Inc. recognized a capital contribution in the amount of $22.5 million based on tax returns filed for the period from August 20, 2004 through December 31, 2007. During the year ended December 31, 2009, no tax-related capital contributions were recognized by US Oncology, Inc. as its tax liability as stated under the separate return method did not exceed the amount of tax liability ultimately settled by its parent company.

Effective January 1, 2007, we adopted guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. In connection with the adoption of this guidance, we recognized tax reserves for uncertain tax positions and interest and penalties. See Note 9 in Part II, Item 8. – Financials Statements for additional discussion.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

From time to time, the FASB, the SEC and other regulatory bodies seek to change accounting rules, including rules applicable to our business and financial statements. We cannot provide assurance that future changes in accounting rules would not require us to make restatements. Information regarding new accounting pronouncements is included in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements.

Discussion of Non-GAAP Information

In this annual report, we use the terms “EBITDA” which represent earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization (including amortization of stock-based compensation), noncontrolling interest and other income (expense) and “Adjusted EBITDA” which is EBITDA before impairment and restructuring charges, loss on early extinguishment of debt and other non-cash charges. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not calculated in accordance with GAAP; rather they are derived from relevant items in our GAAP-based financial statements. A reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows is included in this annual report.

We believe EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful to investors in evaluating the value of companies in general, and in evaluating the liquidity of companies with debt service obligations and their ability to service their indebtedness. Management uses EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as key indicators to evaluate liquidity and financial condition, both with respect to the business as a whole and with respect to individual sites in the US Oncology network. At December 31, 2009, our Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility required that we comply on a quarterly basis with certain financial covenants that include EBITDA as a financial measure. Management believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful to investors, since they provide investors with additional information not directly available in a GAAP presentation.

As non-GAAP measures, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should not be viewed as alternatives to the Company’s income from operations, as an indicator of operating performance, or our cash flow from operations as a measure of liquidity. For example, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect:

 

   

the Company’s significant interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest and principal payments on our indebtedness;

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

   

cash requirements for the addition or replacement of capital assets being depreciated and amortized, which typically must be replaced in the future, even though depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges;

 

   

changes in, or cash equivalents available for, our working capital needs;

 

   

the Company’s cash expenditures, or future requirements, for other capital expenditure, such as payments that may be made as consideration to affiliating physicians joining our network, or contractual commitments; and,

 

   

the fact that other companies may calculate EBITDA or Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do, which may limit their usefulness as comparative measures.

Despite these limitations, management believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide investors and analysts with a useful measure of liquidity and financial condition unaffected by differences in capital structures, capital investment cycles and ages of related assets among otherwise comparable companies. Management compensates for these limitations by relying primarily on the Company’s GAAP results and using EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as supplemental information for comparative purposes and for analyzing compliance with loan covenants.

In all events, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not intended to be substitutes for GAAP measures. Investors are advised to review such non-GAAP measures in conjunction with GAAP information provided by us.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth our Consolidated Statement of Operations and the percentages of revenue represented by certain items reflected herein. The following information should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this annual report.

 

    US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
    Year Ended December 31,    

Year Ended December 31,

 
    2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Product revenues

  $ 2,363,824      67.3   $ 2,224,704      67.3   $ 1,970,106      65.7   $ 2,363,824      67.3   $ 2,224,704      67.3   $ 1,970,106      65.7

Service revenues

    1,147,856      32.7        1,079,473      32.7        1,030,672      34.3        1,147,856      32.7        1,079,473      32.7        1,030,672      34.3   
                                                                                   

Total revenues

    3,511,680      100.0        3,304,177      100.0        3,000,778      100.0        3,511,680      100.0        3,304,177      100.0        3,000,778      100.0   
                                                                                   

Cost of products

    2,312,443      65.9        2,163,943      65.5        1,925,547      64.2        2,312,443      65.9        2,163,943      65.5        1,925,547      64.2   

Cost of services:

                       

Operating compensation and benefits

    558,181      15.9        523,939      15.9        479,177      16.0        558,181      15.9        523,939      15.9        479,177      16.0   

Other operating costs

    330,792      9.4        321,947      9.7        293,677      9.8        330,792      9.4        321,947      9.7        293,677      9.8   

Depreciation and amortization

    72,312      2.1        72,790      2.2        73,159      2.3        72,312      2.1        72,790      2.2        73,159      2.3   
                                                                                   

Total cost of services

    961,285      27.4        918,676      27.8        846,013      28.1        961,285      27.4        918,676      27.8        846,013      28.1   

Total cost of products and services

    3,273,728      93.3        3,082,619      93.3        2,771,560      92.3        3,273,728      93.3        3,082,619      93.3        2,771,560      92.3   

General and administrative expense

    72,214      2.1        77,265      2.3        84,423      2.8        71,934      2.0        76,883      2.3        84,326      2.8   

Impairment and restructuring charges

    8,504      0.2        384,929      11.6        15,126      0.5        8,504      0.2        384,929      11.6        15,126      0.5   

Depreciation and amortization

    30,896      0.9        30,017      0.9        16,172      0.5        30,896      0.9        30,017      0.9        16,172      0.5   
                                                                                   

Total costs and expenses

    3,385,342      96.5        3,574,830      108.1        2,887,281      96.1        3,385,062      96.4        3,574,448      108.1        2,887,184      96.1   
                                                                                   

Income (loss) from operations

    126,338      3.5        (270,653   (8.1     113,497      3.9        126,618      3.6        (270,271   (8.1     113,594      3.9   

Other income (expense):

                       

Interest expense, net

    (139,591   (4.0     (136,474   (4.1     (137,496   (4.6     (101,249   (2.9     (92,757   (2.8     (95,342   (3.2

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

    (25,081   (0.7     —        —          (12,917   (0.4     (25,081   (0.7     —        —          —        —     

Other income (expense), net

    (11,771   (0.3     (19,006   (0.6     (11,885   (0.4     1,315      —          2,213      0.1        —        —     
                                                                                   

Income (loss) before income taxes

    (50,105   (1.5     (426,133   (12.8     (48,801   (1.5     1,603      (0.0     (360,815   (10.8     18,252      0.7   

Income tax benefit (provision)

    2,101      0.1        16,923      0.5        17,447      0.6        (1,593   —          (6,351   (0.2     (7,447   (0.2
                                                                                   

Net income (loss)

    (48,004   (1.4     (409,210   (12.3     (31,354   (0.9     10      (0.0     (367,166   (11.0     10,805      0.5   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (3,586   (0.1     (3,324   (0.1     (3,619   (0.1     (3,586   (0.1     (3,324   (0.1     (3,619   (0.1
                                                                                   

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

  $ (51,590   (1.5 )%    $ (412,534   (12.4 )%    $ (34,973   (1.0 )%    $ (3,576   (0.1 )%    $ (370,490   (11.1 )%    $ 7,186      0.4
                                                                                   

 

59


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

In the following discussion, we address the results of operations of US Oncology and Holdings. With the exception of expenses associated with its separate capitalization, nominal administrative expenses and the related tax effects, the results of operations of Holdings are identical to those of US Oncology. Therefore, discussion related to revenue, cost of products and cost of services is identical for both companies. Beginning with the discussion of corporate costs (which includes interest and general and administrative expense), we first address the results of US Oncology, since it incurs the substantial portion of such expenses. Following the discussion of US Oncology, we separately address the incremental costs related to Holdings.

We derive revenue primarily in four areas:

 

   

Comprehensive management fees. Under our comprehensive strategic alliances, we recognize revenues equal to the reimbursement we receive for all expenses we incur in connection with managing a practice plus an additional management fee (typically based upon a percentage of the practice’s earnings before income taxes, subject to certain adjustments).

 

   

Targeted physician services fees. Under our targeted physician services agreements, we earn revenue from affiliated practices for products delivered and services rendered. These revenues include payment for all of the pharmaceutical agents purchased by the practice and a service fee for the pharmacy-related services we provide.

 

   

GPO, data and other service fees. We receive fees from pharmaceutical companies for acting as a GPO for our affiliated practices and for providing informational and other services to pharmaceutical companies. GPO fees are typically based upon the volume of drugs purchased by the practices. Fees for other services include amounts paid for data we collect, compile and analyze, as well as fees for other services we provide to pharmaceutical companies, including reimbursement support.

 

   

Clinical research fees. We receive fees for clinical research services from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. These fees are separately negotiated for each study and typically include a management fee, per patient accrual fees and fees for achieving various study milestones.

A portion of our revenue under our comprehensive strategic alliances and our targeted physician services agreements with affiliated practices is derived from sales of pharmaceutical products and is reported as product revenues. Our remaining revenues are reported as service revenues. Physician practices that enter into comprehensive strategic alliances with us receive a broad range of services and receive pharmaceutical products. These products and services represent multiple deliverables rendered under a single contract, with a single fee. We have analyzed the component of the contract attributable to the provision of products (pharmaceuticals) and the component of the contract attributable to the provision of services and attributed fair value to each component.

We retain all amounts we collect in respect of practice receivables. On a monthly basis, we calculate what portion of their revenues our affiliated practices are entitled to retain by subtracting practice expenses and our fees from their revenues. We pay practices this remainder in cash, which they use primarily for physician compensation. The amounts retained by physician groups are excluded from our revenue, because they are not part of our fees. By paying physicians on a cash basis for accrued amounts, we assist in financing their working capital.

 

60


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

As of December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, we have affiliated with the following number of physicians (including those under targeted physician services agreements), by specialty:

 

     As of December 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Medical oncologists/hematologists

   1,062    989    1,001

Radiation oncologists

   163    160    146

Other oncologists

   85    62    52
              

Total physicians

   1,310    1,211    1,199
              

The following tables set forth changes in the number of physicians affiliated with the Company under both comprehensive strategic alliances and targeted physician services agreements:

 

Comprehensive Strategic Alliances(1)

   As of December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  

Affiliated physicians, beginning of period

   979      903      879   

Physician practice affiliations

   51      67      21   

Recruited physicians

   58      52      58   

Retiring/Other

   (66   (56   (40

Net conversions (to)/from TPS agreements

   (12   13      (15
                  

Affiliated physicians, end of period

   1,010      979      903   
                  

Targeted Physician Services Agreements(2)

   As of December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  

Affiliated physicians, beginning of period

   232      296      188   

Physician and practice affiliations

   112      45      111   

Physician practice separations

   (41   (67   (13

Retiring/Other

   (15   (29   (5

Net conversions (to)/from comprehensive strategic alliances

   12      (13   15   
                  

Affiliated physicians, end of period

   300      232      296   
                  

Affiliated physicians, end of period

   1,310      1,211      1,199   
                  

 

(1)

Operations related to comprehensive strategic alliances are included in the medical oncology and cancer center services segments.

 

(2)

Operations related to targeted physician services agreements are included in the pharmaceutical services segment.

 

61


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

The following table sets forth the number of radiation oncology facilities and PET systems managed by us:

 

     December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  

Cancer Centers, beginning of period

   80      77      80   

Cancer Centers opened

   6      4      2   

Cancer Centers closed

   (3   (1   (4

Cancer Centers recategorized

   —        —        (1
                  

Cancer Centers, end of period

   83      80      77   
                  

Radiation Oncology-Only Facilities, end of period

   17      14      11   
                  

Total Radiation Oncology Facilities (1)

   100      94      88   
                  

Linear Accelerators (2)

   127      119      114   
                  

PET Systems (2)

   39      37      34   
                  

CT Scanners (3)

   67      62      62   
                  

 

(1)

Includes 98, 88 and 77 sites utilizing IMRT and/or IGRT technology at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

(2)

Includes 30, 26 and 21 PET/CT systems at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

(3)

Excludes PET/CT systems which are classified as PET systems above.

The following table sets forth key operating statistics as a measure of the volume of services provided by our practices affiliated with comprehensive strategic alliances:

 

     Year Ended December 31,
      2009    2008    2007

Average Per Operating Day Statistics:

        

Medical oncology visits

   11,301    10,816    10,028

Total patient visits

   11,913    11,408    10,586

Total new patients

   1,235    1,140    1,008

New cancer patients

   670    640    604

Radiation treatments

   2,777    2,732    2,719

Targeted treatments (included in radiationtreatments) (1)

   781    690    620

PET scans

   225    207    180

CT scans

   849    792    743

 

(1)

Includes IMRT, IGRT, mammosite, brachytherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery treatments

 

62


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

The following discussion compares our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.

Revenue

The following tables reflect our revenue by segment for the year ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31,           Year Ended
December 31,
       
     2009     2008     Change     2007     Change  

Medical oncology services

   $ 2,400,883      $ 2,251,374      6.6   $ 2,088,186      7.8

Cancer center services

     387,555        367,062      5.6        349,900      4.9   

Pharmaceutical services

     2,487,400        2,486,685      —          2,282,761      8.9   

Research and other services

     69,985        58,991      18.6        51,189      15.2   

Eliminations (1)

     (1,834,143     (1,859,935   nm (2)      (1,771,258   nm (2) 
                            

Total revenue

   $ 3,511,680      $ 3,304,177      6.3      $ 3,000,778      10.1   
                            

As a percentage of revenue:

          

Medical oncology services

     68.4     68.1       69.6  

Cancer center services

     11.0        11.1          11.6     

Pharmaceutical services

     70.8        75.3          76.1     

Research and other services

     2.0        1.8          1.7     

Eliminations (1)

     (52.2     (56.3       (59.0  
                            

Total revenue

     100.0     100.0       100.0  
                            

 

(1)

Eliminations represent the sale of pharmaceuticals from our distribution center (Pharmaceutical Services segment) to our affiliated practices (Medical Oncology segment).

 

(2)

Not meaningful

Medical Oncology Services. For the year ended December 31, 2009, revenue in the medical oncology services segment increased by $149.5 million, or 6.6 percent, to $2.4 billion as compared to 2008. The revenue growth is primarily due to higher average daily visits reflecting both physician additions and increased productivity.

Medical oncology services revenue increased $163.2 million, or 7.8 percent, to $2.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008 from $2.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2007. The revenue increase reflects higher average daily visits from the growth in our network of affiliated medical oncologists. Partially offsetting the revenue growth were reduced utilization of ESAs and the impact of contractual amendments in 2007.

Under comprehensive strategic alliances, the Company’s management fees are comprised of reimbursement for expenses we incur in connection with managing a practice, plus a fee that is typically a percentage of the affiliated practice’s earnings before income taxes. Our agreements also provide for performance-based reductions in our percentage-based fee that are intended to encourage disciplined use of capital. Occasionally management agreements may be amended to provide a platform for long-term financial improvement of the practices’ results, encourage practice growth and efficiency, and/or streamline several complex service agreements.

Additionally, in connection with our launch of our pharmaceutical distribution business, effective July 1, 2006, to promote continued support of initiatives in this area, we initiated a program to reduce management fees paid by practices affiliated by comprehensive strategic alliances based upon compliance with distribution efficiency guidelines established by the Company and the profitability of the pharmaceutical services segment. Management fees were reduced by $19.3 million, $23.9 million and $24.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

The financial results and other data relating to affiliated practices included in our discussion of Medical Oncology Services results reflects only physicians affiliated by comprehensive strategic alliances.

 

63


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Cancer Center Services. During 2009, cancer center services revenue increased by $20.5 million, or 5.6 percent, to $387.5 million as compared to 2008 reflecting an increase in radiation treatments and diagnostic scans resulting from increasing affiliated radiation oncologists and same market productivity along with additional investments in radiation therapy and diagnostic imaging equipment and a shift towards more technologically advanced radiation therapies.

In 2008, cancer center services revenue increased $17.2 million, or 4.9 percent, to $367.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2008 from $349.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. The revenue increase reflects higher volumes, an increase in physicians affiliated through comprehensive strategic alliances, and continued migration toward advanced targeted radiation therapies. Partially offsetting the revenue growth were reduced management fees due to contractual amendments in 2007 and 2008.

Pharmaceutical Services. Pharmaceutical services revenue remained consistent at $2.5 billion as higher revenues associated with the growth in the affiliated physician network and same market patient visits was offset by reduced ESA utilization and slightly lower distribution center volumes as we reduced inventory levels at affiliated practice sites.

Pharmaceutical services revenue was $2.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2008 from $2.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2007, an increase of $203.9 million, or 8.9 percent. The revenue increase is primarily due to the higher number of physicians affiliated through comprehensive service and targeted physician services agreements during the year as well as increased revenue from our oral oncology specialty pharmacy. The impact from the addition of physicians was partially offset by lower utilization of ESAs.

Research and Other Services. Research and other services revenue increased $11.0 million, or 18.6 percent, which reflects an increase in blood and marrow transplant cases at certain practices affiliated through comprehensive relationships and lower payments to physicians participating in clinical research due to new incentive programs. The new incentives reflect our strategy to expand our research network, launch a contract research organization, and create aligned incentives with participating physicians which encourage long-term research programs. The new incentives focus on long-term growth, and as a result, amounts due to researchers for activities during 2009 were lower than in the prior year.

For the year ended December 31, 2008, research and other service revenue was $59.0 million compared to $51.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. Enrollment of new patients in 2008 increased 13 percent from 2007.

 

64


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Operating Costs

Operating costs, including depreciation and amortization related to our operating assets, are presented in the table below (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31,           Year Ended
December 31,
       
     2009     2008     Change     2007     Change  

Cost of products

   $ 2,312,443      $ 2,163,943      6.9   $ 1,925,547      12.4

Cost of services:

          

Operating compensation and benefits

     558,181        523,939      6.5        479,177      9.3   

Other operating costs

     330,792        321,947      2.7        293,677      9.6   

Depreciation and amortization

     72,312        72,790      (0.7     73,159      (0.5
                            

Total cost of services

     961,285        918,676      4.6        846,013      8.6   
                            

Total cost of products and services

   $ 3,273,728      $ 3,082,619      6.2      $ 2,771,560      11.2   
                            

As a percentage of revenue:

          

Cost of products

     65.9     65.5       64.2  

Cost of services:

          

Operating compensation and benefits

     15.9        15.9          16.0     

Other operating costs

     9.4        9.7          9.8     

Depreciation and amortization

     2.1        2.2          2.4     
                            

Total cost of services

     27.4        27.8          28.2     
                            

Total cost of products and services

     93.3     93.3       92.4  
                            

Cost of Products. Cost of products consists primarily of oncology pharmaceuticals and supplies used by affiliated practices in our Medical Oncology Services segment and sold to practices affiliated under the targeted physician services model in our Pharmaceutical Services segment. Product costs increased 6.9% in 2009 and 12.4% in 2008 which is consistent with the revenue growth associated with pharmaceutical use from the corresponding periods. As a percentage of revenue, cost of products was 65.9% in 2009, 65.5 % in 2008 and 64.2% in 2007.

Cost of Services. Cost of services includes operating compensation and benefits related to our operations, including non-physician employees of our affiliated practices. Cost of services also includes other operating costs such as rent, utilities, repairs and maintenance, insurance and other direct operating costs. As a percentage of revenue, cost of services was 27.4% in 2009, 27.8% in 2008 and 28.1% in 2007.

Corporate Costs and Net Income (Loss) (US Oncology, Inc.).

Corporate costs include general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization related to corporate assets and interest expense. Corporate costs of US Oncology, Inc. are presented in the table below. Incremental corporate costs of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. are addressed in a separate discussion below entitled “Corporate Costs and Net Income (US Oncology Holdings, Inc.)”.

 

65


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31,           Year Ended
December 31,
       
     2009     2008     Change     2007     Change  

(in thousands)

          

General and administrative expense

   $ 71,934      $ 76,883      (6.4 )%    $ 84,326      (8.8 )% 

Impairment and restructuring charges

     8,504        384,929      nm (1)      15,126      nm  (1) 

Depreciation and amortization

     30,896        30,017      2.9        16,172      85.6   

Interest expense, net

     101,249        92,757      9.2        95,342      (2.7

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     (25,081     —        nm (1)      —        nm (1) 

Other (income) expense

     (1,315     (2,213   nm (1)      —        nm (1) 

As a percentage of revenue:

          

General and administrative expense

     2.0     2.3       2.8  

Impairment and restructuring charges

     0.2        11.6          0.5     

Depreciation and amortization

     0.9        0.9          0.5     

Interest expense, net

     2.9        2.8          3.2     

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     (0.7     —            —       

Other (income) expense

     —          (0.1       —       

 

(1)

Not meaningful

General and Administrative. General and administrative expense was $71.9 million in 2009, $76.9 million in 2008 and $84.3 million in 2007. General and administrative expense during 2009 was $5.0 million lower than 2008 due primarily to cost management efforts implemented during the first half of 2009 which were partially offset by consulting costs incurred in the second half of 2009 related to our growth strategies. The decrease in 2008 from 2007 is due to the management of controllable costs, particularly in areas such as personnel expenses, meeting expenses, and professional fees. Included in general and administrative expense for 2009, 2008 and 2007, is non-cash compensation expense of $2.3 million, $2.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively, associated with restricted stock and stock option awards issued under our equity incentive plans.

Impairment and restructuring charges. Impairment and restructuring charges recognized during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 consisted of the following amounts (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Goodwill

   $ —      $ 380,000    $ —  

Severance costs

     6,093      3,891      —  

Service agreements, net

     150      —        9,339

Property and equipment, net

     985      —        4,974

Future lease obligations

     1,257      950      792

Other

     19      88      21
                    

Total

   $ 8,504    $ 384,929    $ 15,126
                    

During 2009, the Company recorded $6.1 million of severance charges primarily related to certain corporate personnel which includes $4.1 million related to benefits payable to the Company’s former Executive Chairman. Also during 2009, an unamortized service agreement intangible was impaired for $0.2 million related to a practice that converted from a comprehensive model to a targeted physician services relationship.

In connection with our ongoing evaluation of growth strategies, during the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company determined that it would cease operations of Oncology Reimbursement Solutions, its centralized billing and collection service. As a result, the Company recognized restructuring charges of $2.3 million related to employee severance payments, vacating leased office space and impairment of certain fixed assets.

 

66


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

During 2008, the Company recorded restructuring charges of $4.8 million primarily related to employee severance and lease termination fees. Also during 2008, we recognized a $380.0 million impairment charge to goodwill in our Medical Oncology Services segment. In connection with the preparation of the financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2008, and as a result of the decline in the financial performance of the medical oncology services segment, we assessed the recoverability of goodwill related to that segment. During the year ended December 31, 2007, the financial performance of the medical oncology segment was negatively impacted by reduced coverage for ESAs as a result of revised product labeling issued by the FDA and coverage restrictions imposed by CMS. Goodwill was tested for impairment during both the three months ended September 30, 2007 and December 31, 2007 and no impairment was identified. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, additional price increases from pharmaceutical manufacturers of ESAs and additional safety concerns related to the use of ESAs continued to reduce their utilization by our affiliated physicians and adversely impacted both current and projected operating results for our medical oncology services segment. On March 13, 2008, the ODAC met to consider safety concerns related to the use of these drugs in oncology and recommended further restrictions. These factors, along with a lower market valuation at March 31, 2008 resulting from unstable credit markets, led us to recognize a non-cash goodwill impairment charge in the amount of $380.0 million related to our medical oncology services segment during the three months ended March 31, 2008.

When an impairment is identified, as was the case for the three months ended March 31, 2008, an impairment charge is necessary to state the carrying value of goodwill at its implied fair value, based upon a hypothetical purchase price allocation assuming the segment was acquired for its estimated fair value. The fair value of the medical oncology services segment was estimated with the assistance of an independent appraisal that considered the segment’s recent and expected financial performance as well as a market analysis of transactions involving comparable entities for which public information is available. Determining the implied fair value of goodwill also requires the identification and valuation of intangible assets that have either increased in value or have been created through our initiatives and investments since the goodwill was initially recognized. In connection with assessing the impairment charge, we identified previously unrecognized intangible assets, as well as increases to the fair value of the recognized management service agreement intangible assets, which amounted to approximately $160.0 million in the aggregate. Value assigned to these intangible assets reduced the amount attributable to goodwill in a hypothetical purchase price allocation and, consequently, increased the impairment charge necessary to state goodwill at its implied fair value by a like amount. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, these increases in the fair value of intangible assets have not been recorded in our consolidated balance sheet.

During the three months ended March 31, 2007, we recognized impairment and restructuring charges amounting to $7.4 million. In the majority of our markets, we believe our strategies of practice consolidation, expansion of services and process improvement continue to be effective. In a minority of our geographic markets, however, specific local factors have prevented effective implementation of our strategies, and practice performance has declined. Specifically, in two markets in which we have affiliated practices, these market-specific conditions resulted in recognizing impairment and restructuring charges.

In the first of these two markets (during the three months ended September 30, 2006), state regulators reversed a prior determination and ruled that, under the state’s certificate of need law, the affiliated practice was required to cease providing radiation therapy services to patients at a newly constructed cancer center. The Company appealed this determination, however, during the three months ended March 31, 2007, efforts had not advanced sufficiently, and, therefore, the resumption of radiation services or other means to recover the investment were not considered likely. Consequently, an impairment charge of $1.6 million was recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2007. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, the Company received a ruling in its appeal, which mandated a rehearing by the state agency. The state agency conducted a rehearing and issued a new ruling upholding the practice’s right to provide radiation services. That decision was appealed, and the appellants also sought a stay of the state’s decision. The request for a stay was denied in July 2008 while the appeal is still pending. As a result, the practice resumed diagnostic services in September, 2008 and radiation services in February, 2009.

In the second market, financial performance deteriorated as a result of an excessive cost structure relative to practice revenue. During the three months ended March 31, 2007, the Company recorded impairment and restructuring charges of $5.8 million because, based on anticipated operating results, it did not expect that practice performance would be sufficient to recover the value of certain assets and the intangible asset associated with the management service agreement. Along with the affiliated practice, the Company has restructured the market to establish a base for future growth and to otherwise improve financial performance.

 

67


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

During the year ended December 31, 2007, we agreed to terminate comprehensive strategic alliances with two practices previously affiliated with us and to instead contract with them under our targeted physician services model. We recognized impairment and restructuring charges of $7.7 million related to these practices, which relate primarily to a $5.0 million write-off of our service agreement intangible assets, where the comprehensive strategic alliance was terminated in connection with the conversions. Also included in the impairment charge is $2.5 million related to assets operated by the practices, which represents the excess of our carrying value over the acquisition price paid by the practices.

Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense of $30.9 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2009, increased $0.9 million compared to $30.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2008. The increase in 2008 of $13.8 million as compared to 2007 reflects amortization of affiliation consideration for newly affiliated practices and the amortization of our capital cost incurred to upgrade our company-wide financial system that occurred in 2007.

Interest expense, net. Interest expense, net, increased to $101.3 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2009 from $92.8 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2008. The increase from the previous year reflects incremental interest on the $775.0 million 9.125% Senior Secured Notes issued in June 2009. The impact of the incremental interest was partially offset by lower market interest rates on our variable rate senior secured term loan facility, as compared to 2008, before its termination in June 2009. The decrease in 2008 from prior year is due to decreasing LIBO rates as well as the repayment of $29.4 million of indebtedness under our senior secured credit facility during the three months ended June 30, 2008 as required under the “excess cash flow sweep” provision of that facility.

Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt. During 2009, we recognized a $25.1 million extinguishment loss primarily in connection with replacing the revolving credit facility in August 2009, and refinancing the $436.7 million senior secured term loan facility and the $300 million 9.0% senior notes in June 2009. These losses primarily relate to payment of a call premium and call period interest on the senior notes, the write off of unamortized issuance costs related to the retired debt and certain transaction costs. These losses are partiallty offset by a $0.9 million gain on extinguishment of debt due to the forgiveness of debt owed to a physician who separated from one of our affiliated practices in November 2009.

Income taxes. Our effective tax rate was a provision of 80.3% for the year ended December 31, 2009 which includes an income tax expense of $1.6 million associated with loss before income taxes of $2.0 million. The income tax provision relates primarily to amounts accrued for margin taxes in Texas. Under the Texas margin tax, tax obligations are computed based on receipts less, in the case of the Company, the cost of pharmaceuticals. As such, significant costs incurred that would be deducted under an income tax of an entity may not be considered in assessing an obligation for margin tax.

Our effective tax rate was a provision of 1.7% for the year ended December 31, 2008 which includes an income tax expense of $6.4 million associated with a loss before income taxes of $364.1 million. This rate reflects the impairment of goodwill in the Medical Oncology Services segment, the majority of which was not deductible for tax purposes. Of the $380.0 million impairment charge, $4.0 million was deductible for tax purposes. Consequently, there is no tax benefit associated with a significant portion of the goodwill impairment. Excluding the impact of the goodwill impairment, the effective tax rate was 49.4% for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Our effective tax rate was a benefit of 50.9% for the year ended December 31, 2007 which includes an income tax expense of $7.4 million associated with an income before income taxes of $14.6 million. For 2007, our effective tax rate exceeded the federal statutory rate due primarily to the Texas margin tax and non-deductible entertainment and public policy costs.

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to the Company. Net loss for 2009 was $3.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to a net loss of $370.5 million in 2008 and a net income of $7.2 million for 2007.

 

68


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Corporate Costs and Net Income (US Oncology Holdings, Inc.)

The following table summarizes the incremental costs incurred by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. as compared to the costs incurred by US Oncology, Inc. (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31,          Year Ended
December 31,
      
     2009    2008    Change     2007    Change  

General and administrative expense

   $ 280    $ 382    -26.7   $ 97    nm (1) 

Interest expense, net

     38,342      43,717    -12.3     42,154    3.7

Other expense

     13,086      21,219    -38.3     11,885    78.5

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —        —      nm (1)      12,917    nm (1) 

 

(1)

Not meaningful

General and Administrative. In addition to the general and administrative expenses incurred by US Oncology, Holdings incurred general and administrative expenses of $0.3 million, $0.4 million and $0.1 million during 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. These costs primarily represent professional fees necessary for Holdings to maintain its corporate existence and comply with the terms of the indenture governing its senior floating rate notes, or the Holdings Notes.

Interest expense, net. In addition to interest expense incurred by US Oncology, Holdings incurred interest related to its indebtedness. Incremental interest expense was approximately $38.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2009 and $43.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. The decreased interest expense in 2009 from 2008 was due to lower market LIBO rates which are the basis for variable interest due on the Holdings Notes. The benefit of lower market interest rates was partially offset by increasing indebtedness as the Company elected to settle interest on the Holdings Notes in kind. The 2008 increase reflects the increase in Holdings Notes due to electing to PIK 100% of the interest due in March 2008 and 50% of the interest due in September 2008.

Other Income (Expense). During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, Holdings recognized an unrealized loss of $13.1 million and $21.2 million, respectively, related to its interest rate swap. Because the interest rate swap is not accounted for as a cash flow hedge, changes in fair value attributable to this instrument are reported currently in earnings.

Income taxes. Holdings’ effective tax rate was a benefit of 3.9% for the year ended December 31, 2009 which includes an income tax benefit of $2.1 million associated with a loss before income taxes of $53.7 million. The tax benefit of the loss before income taxes was reduced primarily by valuation allowances established to reduce Holdings’ deferred tax assets to their estimated realizable value.

Holdings effective tax rate was a benefit of 3.9% for the year ended December 31, 2008 which includes an income tax benefit of $16.9 million associated with a loss before income taxes of $429.5 million which reflects the $380.0 million goodwill impairment charge without a corresponding tax benefit. Excluding the impact of the goodwill impairment, Holdings effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2008 was a benefit of 31.2%.

Holdings effective tax rate was a benefit of 33.3% for the year ended December 31, 2007 which includes an income tax benefit of $17.4 million associated with a loss before income taxes of $52.4 million.

Net Income (Loss). Holdings’ incremental net loss for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $48.0 million, $42.0 million and $42.2 million, respectively.

 

69


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The following table summarizes the working capital and long-term indebtedness of Holdings and US Oncology as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.    US Oncology, Inc.
     2009    2008    2009    2008

Current assets

   $ 776,046    $ 737,302    $ 752,337    $ 716,969

Current liabilities

     548,715      526,416      529,208      518,353
                           

Net working capital

   $ 227,331    $ 210,886    $ 223,129    $ 198,616
                           

Long-term indebtedness

   $ 1,568,242    $ 1,517,884    $ 1,074,288    $ 1,061,133
                           

The principal difference between the net working capital of Holdings and US Oncology relates to higher income taxes payable reported by US Oncology, Inc., which is included in the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. consolidated group for federal income tax reporting purposes offset by current accruals on the Holdings’ interest rate swap obligation. For purposes of its separate financial statements, US Oncology’s income taxes have been computed on the basis that it filed a separate federal income tax return together with its subsidiaries.

The following table summarizes the cash flows of Holdings and US Oncology (in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 161,796      $ 128,499      $ 164,677      $ 172,593      $ 141,487      $ 198,030   

Net cash used in investing activities

     (81,018     (137,004     (93,170     (81,018     (137,004     (93,170

Net cash used in financing activities

     (23,444     (36,275     (204,018     (34,462     (49,263     (237,370
                                                

Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents

     57,334        (44,780     (132,511     57,113        (44,780     (132,510

Cash and equivalents, beginning of period

     104,477        149,257        281,768        104,476        149,256        281,766   
                                                

Cash and equivalents, end of period

   $ 161,811      $ 104,477      $ 149,257      $ 161,589      $ 104,476      $ 149,256   
                                                

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Holdings generated cash flow from operations of $161.8 million during 2009 compared to $128.5 million during 2008. The increase in operating cash flow was primarily due to increased receivable collections on revenue growth and lower receivable days outstanding, the receipt of an income tax refund, and management of working capital to extend certain vendor payment cycles and reduce inventory levels at affiliated practice sites, which are included in our balance sheets as due from affiliates.

The decrease in operating cash flow in 2008 compared to $164.7 million in 2007 was primarily due to purchases made under generic drug inventory management programs as well as higher working capital requirements associated with revenue growth and increasing network volumes. At December 31, 2007, other receivables included amounts due from one manufacturer that represent nearly 90%, or $86.5 million, of the Company’s other receivables. Effective October 7, 2008, this manufacturer converted a substantial portion of rebates to discounts which impact cash flow upon invoicing from the manufacturer. At December 31, 2008, this manufacturer balance decreased by $74.6 million, from December 31, 2007, as a result. The decrease was partially offset by related increases in amounts paid to physicians.

 

70


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

For the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the operating cash flow of US Oncology exceeded that of Holdings by $10.8 million and $13.0 million, respectively. This difference relates primarily to obligations of Holdings (primarily for its interest rate swap) financed by a dividend to Holdings and considered a financing cash flow of US Oncology, Inc.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

During the year ended December 31, 2009, we used $81.0 million for investing activities compared to $137.0 million in 2008. Cash flow for investing activities relate primarily to $78.3 million in capital expenditures, including $57.9 million relating to the development and construction of cancer centers and $17.8 million for maintenance capital expenditures. During the year ended December 31, 2009, we invested $8.4 million in four unconsolidated joint ventures and paid affiliation consideration of approximately $4.5 million. In addition, we recorded distributions of $11.0 million from noncontrolling interests, which includes $7.4 million received from the joint venture formed to construct our corporate headquarters which were sold to an unrelated investor in December 2009.

During the year ended December 31, 2008, cash used for investing activities was $137.0 million compared to $93.2 million for investing activities in 2007. The increase was due to $52.5 million in cash consideration paid for practice affiliations in 2008. During the year ended December 31, 2008, capital expenditures were $88.7 million, including $57.8 million relating to the development and construction of cancer centers. Capital expenditures for maintenance were $28.8 million.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

During the year ended December 31, 2009, $23.4 million was used in financing activities which relates primarily to the $775.0 million offering of 9.125% Senior Secured Notes completed in June 2009 and the refinancing of the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility in August 2009. Proceeds from the Senior Secured Notes offering along with cash on hand were used to repay the $436.7 million senior secured term loan facility maturing in 2010 and 2011 and the $300 million 9.0% senior notes due 2012. Cash flow used by US Oncology for financing activities also includes distributions totaling $11.1 million to finance the payment of interest on the Holdings Notes and to settle amounts due under its interest rate swap agreement.

During the year ended December 31, 2008, $36.3 million was used in financing activities which relates primarily to repayments made on the senior secured credit facility, including a payment of $29.4 million due under the “excess cash flow” provision of our senior secured facility which was paid in April, 2008. Cash flow used by US Oncology for financing activities also includes a distribution of $13.0 million to its parent company to finance the payment of interest on the Holdings Notes and to settle amounts due under its interest rate swap agreement.

Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization

“EBITDA” represents earnings before interest expense, net, taxes, depreciation, amortization (including amortization of stock-based compensation), noncontrolling interest and other income (expense). “Adjusted EBITDA” is EBITDA before impairment and restructuring charges, loss on early extinguishment of debt and other non-cash charges. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not calculated in accordance with GAAP; rather they are derived from relevant items in our GAAP-based financial statements. A reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows is included in this document.

We believe EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful to investors in evaluating the value of companies in general, and in evaluating the liquidity of companies with debt service obligations and their ability to service their indebtedness. Management uses EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as key indicators to evaluate liquidity and financial condition, both with respect to the business as a whole and with respect to individual sites in our network. Our senior secured revolving credit facility requires that we comply on a quarterly basis with certain financial covenants that include EBITDA as a financial measure. As of December 31, 2009, our senior secured revolving credit facility required that we maintain a leverage ratio (indebtedness divided by EBITDA, as defined by the credit agreement) of no more than 7.00:1.

 

71


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

For more information regarding our use of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA and their limitations, see “Discussion of Non-GAAP Information.”

The following table reconciles net income (loss) as shown in our Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) to EBITDA, and reconciles EBITDA to Adjusted EBITDA and net cash provided by operating activities as shown in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Net income (loss)

   $ (48,004   $ (409,210   $ (31,354   $ 10      $ (367,166   $ 10,805   

Interest expense, net

     139,591        136,474        137,496        101,249        92,757        95,342   

Income taxes

     (2,101     (16,923     (17,447     1,593        6,351        7,447   

Depreciation and amortization

     103,208        102,807        89,331        103,208        102,807        89,331   

Amortization of stock compensation

     2,282        2,103        753        2,282        2,103        753   

Loss on interest rate swap

     13,086        21,219        11,885        —          —          —     

Other (income) expense

     (1,315     (2,213     —          (1,315     (2,213     —     
                                                

EBITDA

     206,747        (165,743     190,664        207,027        (165,361     203,678   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     25,081        —          12,917        25,081        —          —     

Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net

     8,504        384,929        15,126        8,504        384,929        15,126   

Other non-cash charges

     391        —          —          391        —          —     
                                                

Adjusted EBITDA

     240,723        219,186        218,707        241,003        219,568        218,804   

Other non-cash charges

     (391     —          —          (391     —          —     

Changes in assets and liabilities

     64,413        39,592        77,708        34,933        19,533        81,023   

Deferred income taxes

     (5,459     (10,728     (11,689     (110     1,494        992   

Interest expense, net

     (139,591     (136,474     (137,496     (101,249     (92,757     (95,342

Income taxes

     2,101        16,923        17,447        (1,593     (6,351     (7,447
                                                

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 161,796      $ 128,499      $ 164,677      $ 172,593      $ 141,487      $ 198,030   
                                                

 

72


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Segment Information. The table below presents information about reported segments for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2009  
     Medical
Oncology
Services
    Cancer
Center
Services
    Pharmaceutical
Services
    Research/
Other
    Corporate
Costs
    Eliminations (1)     Total  

US Oncology, Inc.

              

Product revenues

   $ 1,776,431      $ —        $ 2,421,536      $ —        $ —        $ (1,834,143   $ 2,363,824   

Service revenues

     624,452        387,555        65,864        69,985        —          —          1,147,856   
                                                        

Total revenues

     2,400,883        387,555        2,487,400        69,985        —          (1,834,143     3,511,680   

Operating expenses

     (2,329,601     (291,010     (2,388,444     (67,775     (133,871     1,834,143        (3,376,558

Impairment and restructuring charges

     (176     —          —          (2,235     (6,093     —          (8,504
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     71,106        96,545        98,956        (25     (139,964     —          126,618   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —          —          —          —          (25,081     —          (25,081

Add back:

              

Depreciation and amortization

     —          38,882        2,118        270        61,938        —          103,208   

Amortization of stock-based compensation

     —          —          —          —          2,282        —          2,282   
                                                        

EBITDA

     71,106        135,427        101,074        245        (100,825     —          207,027   
                                                        

Add back:

              

Other non-cash charges

     —          —          —          —          391        —          391   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —          —          —          —          25,081        —          25,081   

Impairment and restructuring charges

     176        —          —          2,235        6,093        —          8,504   
                                                        

Adjusted EBITDA

     71,282        135,427        101,074        2,480        (69,260     —          241,003   
                                                        

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

              

Operating expenses

     —          —          —          —          (280     —          (280
                                                        

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 71,282      $ 135,427      $ 101,074      $ 2,480      $ (69,540   $ —        $ 240,723   
                                                        

 

(1)

Eliminations represent the sale of pharmaceuticals from our distribution center (pharmaceutical services segment) to our affiliated practices (medical oncology segment).

 

73


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2008  
     Medical
Oncology
Services
    Cancer
Center
Services
    Pharmaceutical
Services
    Research/
Other
    Corporate
Costs
    Eliminations (1)     Total  

US Oncology, Inc.

              

Product revenues

   $ 1,658,484      $ —        $ 2,426,155      $ —        $ —        $ (1,859,935   $ 2,224,704   

Service revenues

     592,890        367,062        60,530        58,991        —          —          1,079,473   
                                                        

Total revenues

     2,251,374        367,062        2,486,685        58,991        —          (1,859,935     3,304,177   

Operating expenses

     (2,178,154     (279,063     (2,391,050     (64,118     (137,069     1,859,935        (3,189,519

Impairment and restructuring charges

     (380,018     (150     —          —          (4,761     —          (384,929
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (306,798     87,849        95,635        (5,127     (141,830     —          (270,271

Add back:

              

Depreciation and amortization

     —          37,916        4,332        374        60,185        —          102,807   

Amortization of stock- based compensation

     —          —          —          —          2,103        —          2,103   
                                                        

EBITDA

     (306,798     125,765        99,967        (4,753     (79,542     —          (165,361
                                                        

Add back:

              

Impairment and restructuring charges

     380,018        150        —          —          4,761        —          384,929   
                                                        

Adjusted EBITDA

     73,220        125,915        99,967        (4,753     (74,781     —          219,568   
                                                        

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

              

Operating expenses

     —          —          —          —          (382     —          (382
                                                        

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 73,220      $ 125,915      $ 99,967      $ (4,753   $ (75,163   $ —        $ 219,186   
                                                        

 

(1)

Eliminations represent the sale of pharmaceuticals from our distribution center (pharmaceutical services segment) to our affiliated practices (medical oncology segment).

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2007  
     Medical
Oncology
Services
    Cancer
Center
Services
    Pharmaceutical
Services
    Research/
Other
    Corporate
Costs
    Eliminations (1)     Total  

US Oncology, Inc.

              

Product revenues

   $ 1,541,186      $ —        $ 2,200,178      $ —        $ —        $ (1,771,258   $ 1,970,106   

Service revenues

     547,000        349,900        82,583        51,189        —          —          1,030,672   
                                                        

Total revenues

     2,088,186        349,900        2,282,761        51,189        —          (1,771,258     3,000,778   

Operating expenses

     (2,008,528     (262,190     (2,191,828     (51,982     (128,788     1,771,258        (2,872,058

Impairment and restructuring charges

     (1,552     (4,235     —          —          (9,339     —          (15,126
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     78,106        83,475        90,933        (793     (138,127     —          113,594   

Add back:

              

Depreciation and amortization

     —          39,131        5,196        542        44,462        —          89,331   

Amortization of stock-based compensation

     —          —          —          —          753        —          753   
                                                        

EBITDA

     78,106        122,606        96,129        (251     (92,912     —          203,678   
                                                        

Add back:

              

Impairment and restructuring charges

     1,552        4,235        —          —          9,339        —          15,126   
                                                        

Adjusted EBITDA

     79,658        126,841        96,129        (251     (83,573     —          218,804   
                                                        

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

              

Operating expenses

     —          —          —          —          (97     —          (97
                                                        

Adjusted EBITDA

   $ 79,658      $ 126,841      $ 96,129      $ (251   $ (83,670   $ —        $ 218,707   
                                                        

 

(1)

Eliminations represent the sale of pharmaceuticals from our distribution center (pharmaceutical services segment) to our affiliated practices (medical oncology segment).

Below is a discussion of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA generated by our three primary operating segments. Please refer to “Results of Operations” for a discussion of our consolidated results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

Medical Oncology Services. Medical Oncology Services EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 increased $377.9 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2008 primarily due to the goodwill impairment charge recorded in the prior year period. Excluding the impairment and restructuring charges, Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 decreased $1.9 million from the prior year as revenue growth was offset by higher management fee rebates earned under our incentive programs for efficient capital use by affiliated practices and $2.9 million less EBITDA due to declining ESA drug utilization. Additionally, personnel and supplies expenses increased by $9.5 million, or 6 percent, which is less than the revenue growth rate associated with expanding physician network and patient volumes.

Medical Oncology Services EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2008 decreased $384.9 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2007 primarily due to a $380.0 million non-cash impairment charge to goodwill in 2008 compared to a $1.6 million impairment charge in the prior year. The remaining $6 million decrease was due to reduced utilization of ESAs, increased drug costs and the impact of contractual amendments in 2007 partially offset by revenue growth due to the increase in physicians affiliated by comprehensive strategic alliance.

Cancer Center Services. Cancer Center Services EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 was $135.4 million compared to $125.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. Excluding the impairment and restructuring charges, Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 increased $9.5 million from the prior year

 

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Index to Financial Statements

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

which reflects higher radiation treatments and diagnostic scans resulting from an increase in physicians, same market productivity, additional technology investments and a shift towards more technologically advanced radiation therapies. In addition, we continue to experience a shift toward advanced targeted radiation therapies.

Cancer Center Services EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2008 was $125.8 million, representing an increase of 2.6 percent over the year ended December 31, 2007. Excluding the impairment and restructuring charges, Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2009 increased $0.9 million from the prior year which reflects higher volumes, an increase in physicians affiliated through comprehensive strategic alliances, and continued migration toward advanced targeted radiation therapies offset by reduced management fees due to contractual amendments in 2007.

Pharmaceutical Services. Pharmaceutical services EBITDA was $101.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, an increase of $1.1 million, or 1.1 percent, from the year ended December 31, 2008 due primarily to higher earnings from our Healthcare Informatics and patient assistance services programs, as well as higher pharmaceutical volumes associated with revenue growth in our Medical Oncology Services segment and from physicians affiliated in targeted service relationships. These increases were partially offset by the impact of lower ESA utilization and start up costs related to investments in our physician and patient web portals.

Pharmaceutical services EBITDA was $100.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2008, an increase of $3.8 million, or 4.0 percent, over the year ended December 31, 2007. The increase is consistent with the revenue increase driven by the increase in physicians affiliated through comprehensive alliance and targeted physician services agreements which more than offset the impact of reduced ESA utilization.

Anticipated Capital Requirements

We currently expect our principal uses of funds in the near future to include the following:

 

   

Payments for acquisition of assets and additional consideration in connection with new practice affiliations with comprehensive strategic alliances;

 

   

Purchase of real estate and medical equipment for the development of new cancer centers, as well as installation of upgraded and replacement medical equipment at existing centers;

 

   

Funding of working capital;

 

   

Investments in information systems, including systems related to our electronic medical record product, iKnowMed;

 

   

Debt service requirements on our outstanding indebtedness; and

 

   

Payments made for possible acquisitions to support strategic initiatives or capital investments in new businesses, such as Innovent.

For all of 2010, we anticipate spending $75 to $85 million for the development of cancer centers, purchases of clinical equipment, investments in information systems and other capital expenditures. While the Company has traditionally focused on disciplined use of its capital, we expect to maintain levels of capital investment as a mechanism to preserve cash given the current instability in the general economy and financial markets.

As of March 2, 2010, we had cash and cash equivalents of $103.9 million and $89.6 million available under our $120.0 million revolving credit facility (which had been reduced by outstanding letters of credit, totaling $30.4 million). This entire amount is available to be drawn without violating leverage ratio requirements under financial covenants of the senior secured revolving credit facility. In the event that cash on hand, combined with amounts available under the senior secured revolving credit facility, are insufficient to fund our anticipated working capital requirements, we may be required to obtain additional financing. Recently, due to instability in the credit markets, a number of financial institutions have failed or announced plans to merge with other institutions. The credit markets have not yet stabilized and continued weakness in the financial sector may create the potential risk of additional failures and consolidation, which may negatively impact the ability

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

of institutions that participate in our senior secured revolving credit facility to satisfy their financial commitments to us. We continue to monitor the credit worthiness of financial institutions that participate in our credit facility and will periodically test the availability of funds through short-term advances under the facility. However, there is no assurance that all such lenders will fund future borrowing requests for amounts currently available under our senior secured revolving credit facility in accordance with the terms of the facility. In the event we require additional capital and are unable to utilize our existing credit facility to finance our operations, we would be required to seek alternative funding. There can be no assurance that additional funding would be available to us on terms that we consider acceptable.

We expect to fund our current capital needs with (i) cash flow generated from operations, (ii) borrowings under the senior secured revolving credit facility, (iii) lease or purchase money financing for certain equipment purchases and (iv) indebtedness to physicians in connection with new affiliations. Our success in implementing our capital plans could be adversely impacted by poor operating performance which would result in reduced cash flow from operations. In addition, to the extent that poor performance or other factors impact our compliance with financial and other covenants under our senior secured revolving credit facility, our ability to borrow under that facility or to find other financing sources could be limited. Furthermore, capital at financing terms satisfactory to management may be limited, due to market conditions or operating performance.

The Company and its subsidiaries, affiliates (subject to certain limitations imposed by existing indebtedness) or significant shareholders, in their sole discretion, may from time to time, purchase, redeem, exchange or retire any of the Company’s outstanding debt in open market purchases (privately negotiated or open market transactions) or otherwise. Such transactions, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors.

Indebtedness

We have a significant amount of indebtedness. On December 31, 2009, we had aggregate indebtedness of approximately $1,578.8 million of which $1,084.9 million, including current maturities of $10.6 million, represents obligations of US Oncology, Inc., and $494.0 million represents an obligation of Holdings.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company’s long-term indebtedness consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     December 31,  
     2009     2008  

US Oncology, Inc.

    

9.125% Senior Secured Notes, due 2017

   $ 759,680      $ —     

Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility

     —          —     

Senior Secured Credit Facility

     —          436,666   

9.0% Senior Notes, due 2012

     —          300,000   

10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2014

     275,000        275,000   

9.625% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012

     3,000        3,000   

Subordinated notes

     25,945        34,956   

Mortgages, capital lease obligations and other

     21,242        22,188   
                
     1,084,867        1,071,810   

Less current maturities

     (10,579     (10,677
                
   $ 1,074,288      $ 1,061,133   
                

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

    

Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes, due 2012

     493,954        456,751   
                
   $ 1,568,242      $ 1,517,884   
                

On June 18, 2009, US Oncology, Inc. issued $775.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes maturing August 15, 2017, or the Senior Secured Notes, in a private offering to institutional investors. Interest on these notes accrues at a fixed rate of 9.125% per annum and are payable semi-annually in arrears on February 15 and August 15,

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

commencing on August 15, 2009. As of December 31, 2009, the net carrying value of the Senior Secured Notes was $759.7 million, which reflects their $775.0 million face value, net of unamortized original issue discount in the amount of $15.3 million.

Net proceeds from the Senior Secured Notes of approximately $744.4 million, along with cash on hand, were used to repay the previously existing $436.7 million Senior Secured Term Loan facility maturing in 2010 and 2011 and the $300 million 9.0% Senior Notes due 2012, which effectively extended these maturities through August 15, 2017 when the Senior Secured Notes are due.

As a result of these transactions, we will incur approximately $20 to $30 million in additional annual interest cost due primarily to the difference between the fixed 9.125% interest rate on the Senior Secured Notes and the variable rate interest (LIBOR plus 2.75%) associated with the retired Senior Secured Term Loan facility. The 9.0% Senior Notes were refinanced at a rate consistent with their existing coupon. Because the Senior Secured Term Loan facility was scheduled to mature in quarterly installments beginning on September 30, 2010, and because we expected to refinance the facility, likely at rates exceeding its existing terms, prior to its ultimate maturity on August 20, 2011, we anticipate a portion, if not all, of this incremental interest would have been incurred at the time the Senior Secured Term Loan facility was refinanced. In addition, due to recent instability in the financial markets, we could not be assured of future opportunities to refinance the Senior Secured Term Loan facility prior to its maturity.

We incurred approximately $17.5 million in transaction expenses related to the Senior Secured Notes offering which are included as Other Assets in our balance sheet at December 31, 2009. In connection with retiring the Senior Secured Term Loan facility and 9.0% Senior Notes, we recognized a $22.4 million loss on early extinguishment of debt primarily related to payment of a 2.25 percent call premium and call period interest on the 9.0% Senior Notes and the write off of unamortized issuance costs related to the retired Senior Notes and Senior Secured Term Loan facility.

On August 26, 2009 and in connection with the refinancing of the Senior Secured Term Loan facility and the 9.0% Senior Notes, we entered into a credit agreement for a $120.0 million Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, including a letter of credit sub-facility and a swingline loan sub-facility, which matures on August 31, 2012. At December 31, 2009, availability had been reduced by outstanding letters of credit amounting to $30.4 million and $89.6 million was available for borrowing. At December 31, 2009, no amounts had been borrowed under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility.

We incurred approximately $4.2 million in transaction expenses related to the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility which are included as Other Assets in our balance sheet at December 31, 2009. In connection with terminating the previous revolving credit facility, we recognized a $3.7 million loss on early extinguishment of debt primarily related to the write off of unamortized debt issuance costs and transaction costs associated with terminating the previous credit agreement.

The unsecured notes consist of $275.0 million in 10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014. The sale of the Senior Subordinated Notes was exempt from registration under the Securities Act. The initial purchasers subsequently resold their notes to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act and to non-U.S. persons outside the United States in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act. The notes were subsequently exchanged for substantially identical notes in an exchange offer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, the Senior Secured Notes and the Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 contain affirmative and negative covenants including the maintenance of certain financial ratios, restrictions on sales, leases or other dispositions of property, restrictions on other indebtedness, prohibitions on the payment of dividends and other customary restrictions. Events of default under the Senior Secured Notes and the unsecured notes include cross-defaults to all material indebtedness, including each of those financings. Substantially all of our assets, including certain real property, are pledged as security on a second lien basis under the Senior Secured Notes.

Holdings Notes

During the year ended December 31, 2007, Holdings, whose principal asset is its investment in US Oncology, issued $425.0 million of senior floating rate PIK toggle notes, due 2012. A portion of the proceeds of the notes were used to repay Holdings’ $250.0 million floating rate notes. These notes are senior unsecured obligations of Holdings. Holdings may elect to pay interest on the Notes entirely in cash, by increasing the principal amount of the Notes (“PIK interest”) or by paying 50%

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

in cash and 50% by increasing the principal amount of the Notes. Cash interest will accrue on the Notes at a rate per annum equal to 6-month LIBOR plus the applicable spread. PIK interest will accrue on the Notes at a rate per annum equal to the cash interest rate plus 0.75%. LIBOR will be reset semiannually. The Company must make an election regarding whether subsequent interest payments will be made in cash or through PIK interest prior to the start of the applicable interest period. The applicable spread of 4.50% was increased by 0.50% on March 15, 2009 and will increase by another 0.50% on March 15, 2010. A portion of the impact of the spread increases has been recognized in interest expense as they are amortized over the term of the Notes. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company elected to PIK interest on the Holdings Notes and total interest expense was $38.3 million, $43.7 million and $42.2 million, respectively, which includes cash or PIK interest, as well as interest related to future spread increases and the amortization of debt issuance costs.

US Oncology’s senior subordinated notes limit its ability to make restricted payments from US Oncology, including dividends paid by US Oncology to Holdings. As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology has the ability to make approximately $26.5 million in restricted payments, which amount increases based on capital contributions to US Oncology, Inc. and by 50 percent of US Oncology’s net income and is reduced by i) the amount of any restricted payments made and ii) 50 percent of net losses of US Oncology, excluding certain non-cash charges such as the $380.0 million goodwill impairment during 2008 and the $25.1 million loss on early extinguishment of debt during 2009. Because the Senior Secured Notes result in incremental debt and interest expense to US Oncology, the refinancing transaction will negatively impact the amount available to make future restricted payments to Holdings. The Senior Secured Notes also restrict such payments to Holdings but are generally less restrictive than the senior subordinated notes. Delaware law also requires that US Oncology be solvent both at the time, and immediately following, a dividend payment to Holdings. Because Holdings relies on dividends from US Oncology to fund cash interest payments on the Holdings Notes, in the event that such restrictions prevent US Oncology from paying such a dividend, Holdings would be unable to pay interest on the notes in cash and would instead be required to pay PIK interest. Unlike interest on the Holdings Notes, which may be settled in cash or through the issuance of additional notes, payments due to the swap counterparty must be made in cash. As a result of the current and projected low interest rate environment, and the related expectation that Holdings will continue to be net payer on the interest rate swap, the Company believes that cash payments for the interest rate swap obligations will reduce the availability under the restricted payments provisions in US Oncology’s indebtedness to a level that additional payments for cash interest for the Holdings Notes may not be prudent and therefore, no longer remain probable for the foreseeable future. Based on projected LIBOR interest rates as of December 31, 2009, the Company expects there will be available funds under the restricted payments provision in order to service, at a minimum, the estimated interest rate swap obligations through the end of 2010. The Company’s semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap increase by $2.1 million for each 1.00% that the fixed interest rate of 4.97% paid to the counterparty exceeds the variable interest rate received from the counterparty. Similarly, the Company’s semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap decrease by $2.1 million when the difference between the fixed interest rate paid to the counterparty and the variable interest rate received from the counterparty reduces by 1.00%. In the event amounts available under the restricted payments provision are insufficient for the Company to service interest on the Holdings Notes, including any obligation related to the interest rate swap, the Company may be required to arrange a capital infusion and use such proceeds to satisfy these obligations. There can be no assurance that additional financing, if available, will be made on terms that are acceptable to the Company. The indenture required that the initial interest payment of $21.2 million due September 15, 2007 be made in cash, which was provided by US Oncology, Inc. in the form of a dividend paid to Holdings. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the outstanding principal amounts of the notes were increased by $37.2 million and $31.8 million, respectively, under elections to pay PIK interest. Also, during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, US Oncology paid dividends to Holdings in the amount of $11.1 million and $13.0 million, respectively, to finance interest payments settled in cash, obligations under the interest rate swap and Holdings’ general corporate expenses.

For the interest payment due March 15, 2010, the Company elected to settle the interest payment due entirely by increasing the principal amount of outstanding notes, and expects to issue $15.7 million in notes on that date. In addition, we are required to pay $9.2 million to settle the obligation under our interest rate swap agreement for the interest period ending March 15, 2010.

Financial Covenants

The senior secured revolving credit facility contains the most restrictive covenants related to our indebtedness and requires US Oncology to comply, on a quarterly basis, with certain financial covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio test, which becomes more restrictive over time. At December 31, 2009, the terms of the senior secured revolving credit facility required that we maintain a maximum leverage ratio of 7.00:1. As of December 31, 2009, the maximum leverage

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

ratio, as calculated under the terms of the senior secured revolving credit facility, was 4.70:1. The ratio becomes more restrictive (generally semiannually beginning in 2011) and, at maturity in 2012, the maximum leverage ratio may not be more than 6.00:1. At December 31, 2009, we were in compliance with the financial covenants of the senior secured revolving credit facility and we expect to remain in compliance through the end of December 31, 2010. Our ability to access the senior secured revolving credit facility may be limited if we are not able to maintain compliance with these covenants through the facility’s maturity in August 2012.

Excess Cash Flow Sweep

This provision was terminated when the term loan portion of the senior secured credit facility was retired in June 2009.

Under its previously existing senior secured credit facility, the Company was obligated (based on certain leverage thresholds) to make payments on its term loan facility of up to 75% of “excess cash flow.” Excess cash flow, as defined by the senior secured credit facility, was approximately equal to operating cash flow, as presented in our statement of cash flows, less capital expenditures, consideration paid in affiliation transactions, principal repayments of indebtedness, restricted payments (primarily distributions from US Oncology, Inc. to US Oncology Holdings, Inc.) and cash paid for taxes. There were no payments required for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 under this provision. The payment required for the year ended December 31, 2007 under this provision was $29.4 million, which was paid in April, 2008.

Excess Proceeds Prepayment Offers

Under its Senior Secured Notes indenture, the Company may be obligated (based on certain thresholds) to make prepayment offers on the Senior Secured Notes of up to 100% of “allocable excess proceeds” from any permitted asset sales. No prepayment offer was required for the year ended December 31, 2009. The term “allocable excess proceeds” is equal to the product of the Excess Proceeds (defined below), and a fraction:

 

   

the numerator of which is the aggregate principal amount of the notes outstanding on the date of the prepayment offer, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to such date, and

 

   

the denominator of which is the sum of (x) the aggregate principal amount of the notes outstanding on the date of the prepayment offer, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to such date, and (y) the aggregate principal amount of certain other debt of the Company outstanding on the date of the prepayment offer, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to such date.

Excess Proceeds are approximately equal to cash payments received from the asset sale reduced by:

 

   

certain taxes, fees and other expenses associated with the asset sale,

 

   

all payments made on debt secured by the asset being sold,

 

   

all distributions and payments to noncontrolling interest holders,

 

   

appropriate reserve amounts accrued in accordance with GAAP,

 

   

all payments made on debt secured by a first priority security interest (excluding affiliate debt), and

 

   

any cash reinvested in Additional Assets, as defined by the notes indenture.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Scheduled Maturities

The following table summarizes scheduled maturities of indebtedness for the next five years (in thousands):

 

     2010    2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter

US Oncology payments due

   $ 10,579    $ 7,877    $ 8,174    $ 8,215    $ 282,600    $ 782,741

Holdings payments due

     —        —        493,954      —        —        —  

As a result of the refinancing transaction in June 2009, the Company has effectively extended maturities of the refinanced indebtedness through August 2017. Previously, the terminated senior secured credit facility matured in four quarterly installments of approximately $110 million each beginning on September 30, 2010 and concluding on August 20, 2011 and the retired $300.0 million of 9% Senior Notes matured in August, 2012.

Currently, $494.0 million of indebtedness is outstanding under the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes and we expect to settle future interest payments on this indebtedness in kind for the foreseeable future. Based on LIBOR rates as of December 31, 2009, if the Company were to settle all future interest payments in kind, the principal balance of the Notes would be approximately $584 million at maturity in March, 2012.

The maturities due in 2010 are expected to be settled through cash on hand and cash generated through operations. Based on our financial projections, however, the Company may need to seek additional financing to satisfy its capital needs by accessing the public or private equity markets, refinancing existing obligations through issuance of new indebtedness, modifying the terms of existing indebtedness or through a combination of these alternatives. There can be no assurance that additional financing, if available, will be made on terms acceptable to the Company.

Equity Restructuring

On October 1, 2009, the Board of Directors and stockholders of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. approved the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Pursuant to the terms of the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of US Oncology Holdings, Inc, the number of authorized $0.001 par value common shares increased from 300.0 million common shares to 500.0 million common shares.

In addition, pursuant to this amendment, each outstanding share of Series A Preferred Stock and Series A-1 Preferred Stock of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. was converted into a number of common shares equal to its liquidation preference divided by $1.50 plus one additional common share. As a result of the conversion, 13.9 million shares of Series A Preferred Stock and 1.9 million shares of Series A-1 Preferred Stock, with a liquidation preference of $332.2 million and $50.2 million, respectively, were exchanged for an aggregate 270.8 million common shares.

Also, on October 1, 2009, the Board of Directors and stockholders of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. approved amendments to the Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan and the 2004 Director Stock Option Plan.

The amendment to the Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, which was effective October 1, 2009, among other things, increased the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the plan from 32.0 million shares to 59.6 million shares. The aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance includes awards issued and outstanding prior to the effective date of the amendment. Of the shares reserved for issuance under the plan, 33.2 million shares may be in the form of restricted stock and the remaining shares are available in the form of options to purchase common stock. In connection with the amendment, on October 1, 2009, US Oncology Holdings, Inc. issued an additional 3.4 million shares of restricted stock and 13.8 million options to purchase common stock. Subsequent to these awards, 13.1 million shares remain available for future grants under the plan, of which 1.7 million shares may be in the form of restricted common stock.

The amendment to the 2004 Director Stock Option Plan, also effective October 1, 2009, increased the number of shares reserved for issuance under the plan to 1.0 million in addition to modifying certain other aspects of the plan. The amendment also provided for a grant of 25,000 shares of common stock for eligible directors first elected to the board during the year ending December 31, 2009 and of 15,000 shares of common stock for other eligible directors as of the effective date of the amendment. Beginning with the year ending December 31, 2010, eligible directors (in office after giving effect to the annual meeting of stockholders) will receive annual grants of 10,000 shares of common stock plus an additional 1,000 shares of common stock for each committee on which such eligible director serves.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

As a result of the aforementioned transactions, the Series A and Series A-1 Preferred Stock is no longer outstanding and its aggregate carrying value, in the amount of $405.3 million, was eliminated and the stockholders’ deficit of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. was adjusted by the same amount. The fair value of the 270.8 million common shares issued upon conversion was estimated to be approximately $108.3 million, or $0.40 per common share, and increased the par value and additional paid in capital in respect of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. common stock by $270,831 and $108.0 million, respectively. The excess of preferred stock carrying value over the estimated fair value of common shares issued upon conversion, in the amount of $297.0 million, reduced the accumulated deficit of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following summarizes our contractual obligations relating to our indebtedness, capital leases, noncancelable leases and outstanding purchase obligations at December 31, 2009. Our contractual obligations related to the indebtedness of US Oncology and US Oncology Holdings include both scheduled principal repayments and interest that will accrue on the outstanding principal balance. We have estimated interest obligations on variable rate indebtedness using the base rate in effect as of December 31, 2009, plus the spread paid over that base rate on the related indebtedness. In most circumstances, our variable rate indebtedness bears interest based upon a spread over the six month LIBOR which was 0.43% as of December 31, 2009.

 

Obligations

   2010    2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter
     (dollars in thousands)

US Oncology debt and interest payments due

   $ 113,165    $ 110,384    $ 110,149    $ 109,632    $ 372,370    $ 967,742

Holdings debt and interest payments due (1)

     29,172      29,172      500,031      —        —        —  

Holdings interest rate swap payments (2)

     18,643      13,603      4,490      —        —        —  

Capital lease payments due

     967      328      330      339      347      2,239

Noncancelable operating leases

     82,467      73,838      67,417      59,245      51,094      271,471

 

(1)

Interest payments on the Holdings Notes can be made in cash, in-kind or through a 50/50 combination thereof. Contractual obligations reflect interest expected to accrue during the specified period without regard to the elected method of interest payment. Interest associated with additional notes issued as a result of electing to pay interest in kind will be reflected in future periods once those notes have been issued. Interest on notes to be issued in March, 2010, as a result of our election to settle interest due March 15, 2010 in kind, has not been reflected in the table above as those notes were not outstanding as of December 31, 2009.

 

(2)

When projected six-month LIBOR rates are less than 4.97%, the Company will be in a liability position related to its interest rate swap instrument. Amounts included in the table represent the estimated payment due from the Company as of December 31, 2009, based on the difference between 4.97% and the projected six-month LIBOR rates on December 31, 2009. Amounts have not been discounted.

 

(3)

As of December 31, 2009, there was a $2.7 million accrual for uncertain tax positions of which approximately $1.8 million is expected to settle within the next twelve months.

Purchase obligations consist of outstanding amounts on purchase orders issued for capital improvements and fixed asset purchases. We do not aggregate purchase orders for purchases other than capital improvements and fixed assets, because the period of time between the date of the commitment and the receipt of the supplier invoice is deemed immaterial. We impose preauthorized limits of authority for all expenditures.

We are obligated to pay $0.5 million under pending construction contracts, which we would expect to pay during 2010, based on the progress of the construction projects. For further discussion of our commitments and contingencies, see Note 10 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report.

 

82


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Leases

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements, other than noncancelable operating lease commitments entered into in the normal course of business. We lease office space, integrated cancer centers and certain equipment under noncancelable operating lease agreements. As of December 31, 2009, total future minimum lease payments, including escalation provisions and leases with parties affiliated with practices are reflected in the preceding table as noncancelable operating leases.

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

In the normal course of business, our financial position is subject to a variety of risks. We regularly assess these risks and have established policies and business practices, which may include the use of derivative instruments, such as interest rate swaps, to protect against the adverse effects of these and other potential exposures. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes.

Interest Rates

We are subject to interest rate risk on our long-term fixed and variable-interest rate borrowings. Fixed rate debt, where the interest rate is fixed over the life of the instrument, exposes us (i) to changes in market interest rates reflected in the fair value of the debt and (ii) to the risk that we may need to refinance maturing debt with new debt at a higher rate. Variable rate debt, where the interest rate fluctuates over the life of the instrument, exposes us to short-term changes in market interest rates as our interest obligations on these instruments are periodically redetermined based on prevailing market interest rates, primarily the LIBOR.

Our long-term fixed rate borrowings subject to interest rate risk consist of the following:

 

     As of December 31,
     2009    2008
     Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value    Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value
     (in thousands)

9.125% Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 (a)

   $ 775,000    $ 804,063    $ —      $ —  

9.0% Senior Notes, due 2012

     —        —        300,000      273,000

10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2014

     275,000      287,375      275,000      224,125

Holdings Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes, due 2012

     493,954      456,907      456,751      262,632

 

(a)

Does not include $15.3 million unamortized original issue discount balance

In general, quoted market prices are available for the borrowings summarized above and, when available, we believe quoted market prices are the best measure of fair value. Absent the availability of quoted market prices, the fair values for long-term fixed rate debt would be computed based on the present value of future cash flows as impacted by the changes in the market rates for similar instruments.

As a result of the refinancing transaction in June 2009, substantially all of our outstanding indebtedness either bears a fixed rate of interest or is subject to an interest rate swap agreement where the Company has fixed the LIBOR rate associated with outstanding variable indebtedness. Our variable-interest rate borrowings include $494 million floating rate PIK toggle notes issued by Holdings and, potentially, any future borrowings under our revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2009, we had no outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility. As discussed below, we have used an interest rate swap to manage our exposure to variable interest rates. Our variable interest rate exposure has been hedged, in part, by an interest rate swap agreement through March 15, 2012.

We use sensitivity analysis to determine the impact that market risk exposures may have on our variable interest rate borrowings. To perform this sensitivity analysis, we assess the impact of hypothetical changes in interest rates on variable interest rate instruments. A one percent increase or decrease in the market interest rates, with all other variables held constant, would result in a corresponding increase or decrease in our annual interest expense of approximately $4.9 million for borrowings associated with the Holdings Notes. At the Company’s option, subject to restrictions in other indebtedness, the Company has the option to pay interest expense on the Holdings Notes in cash, through additional notes, or as 50% cash/50% additional notes combination. A portion of the exposure to variable interest rates on the Holdings Notes has been hedged through an interest rate swap agreement with a notional amount of $425.0 million that expires on March 15, 2012 (see “Interest Rate Swap” below).

 

83


Index to Financial Statements

The carrying value of current maturities of indebtedness of $10.6 million at December 31, 2009 and $10.7 million at December 31, 2008 approximates its fair value.

Interest Rate Swap

We manage our debt portfolio to achieve an overall desired position of fixed and variable rates and may employ interest rate swaps to achieve that goal. The major risks from interest rate derivatives include changes in the interest rates affecting the fair value of such instruments and the creditworthiness of the counterparty in such transactions. We engage in interest rate swap transactions only with commercial financial institutions we believe to be creditworthy. In connection with issuing the Notes, Holdings entered into an interest rate swap agreement, with a notional amount of $425.0 million, fixing the LIBOR base rate at 4.97% through maturity in 2012. Our interest rate swap counterparty is a subsidiary of Wachovia Corporation, which was recently acquired by Wells Fargo & Company. The circumstances of Wachovia Corporation have not impacted Wachovia Bank, NA’s credit rating and Wachovia Bank, NA remains highly rated (AA by Standard & Poor’s). Although we believe that our swap counterparty remains creditworthy, we cannot provide assurance that we are not at risk of counterparty default.

The swap agreement was initially designated as a cash flow hedge against the variability of cash future interest payments on the Holdings Notes. Based on our financial projections and due to limitations on the restricted payments that will be available to service the Notes, we no longer believe that payment of cash interest on the Holdings Notes remains probable and have discontinued cash flow hedge accounting for this instrument.

The Company recorded an unrealized loss of $13.1 million and $21.2 million during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 include a liability of $32.9 million and $30.5 million, respectively, to reflect the fair market value of the interest rate swap as of that date and is classified as follows (in thousands):

 

     Fair Value
as of
December 31,
2009
   Fair Value
as of
December 31,
2008

Liabilities

     

Other accrued liabilities

   $ 17,742    $ 10,537

Other long-term liabilities

     15,204      19,999
             

Total

   $ 32,946    $ 30,536
             

In addition, we expect to pay $9.2 million to settle the obligation under our interest rate swap agreement for the six month period ending March 15, 2010.

The fair value of the interest rate swap is estimated based upon the expected future cash settlements, as reported by the counterparty, using observable market information. The most significant factors in estimating the value of the interest rate swap is the assumption made regarding the future interest rates that will be used to establish the variable rate payments to be received by the Company and the discount rate used to determine the present value of those estimated future payments. The Company considers both counterparty credit risk and its own credit risk when estimating the fair market value of the interest rate swap. Because of negative differential between the current (and projected) LIBOR rate and the fixed interest rate paid by the Company, as well as the counterparty’s high credit rating, counterparty credit risk is assessed to be minimal and did not impact the fair value of the interest rate swap. The Company also assesses its own credit risk in the valuation of its obligation under the interest rate swap using Company-specific market information. The most significant market information considered was the credit spread between the Holdings Notes, an instrument with a similar credit profile and term as the interest rate swap, and the like term treasury spread (as an estimate of a risk free rate). As a result of evaluating the Company’s nonperformance risk, the estimated fair value of the interest rate swap was reduced by $3.4 million and $10.8 million during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. An increase in future LIBO rates of 1.00 percent would increase (in the Company’s favor) the fair value of the of the interest rate swap by $7.4 million and a decrease in future interest rates of 1.00 percent would negatively impact its fair value by the same amount.

 

84


Index to Financial Statements

Because the fair market value of the interest rate swap is based upon expectations of future interest rates, changes in its fair value reflect the anticipation of future rates that are not reflected in the carrying value of our indebtedness or interest expense for the period. As a result, changes in the fair market value of the interest rate swap that relate to expectations of future interest rates are recorded currently in earnings and are not offset by changes in the fair market of our indebtedness or changes in interest expense for the current period. Cash settlements related to the interest rate swap are established semiannually to coincide with the determination of the variable interest rate associated with the Holdings Notes.

The Company does not believe the election to pay all or a portion of the interest due on the Holdings Notes in kind results in the instrument no longer being an economically effective hedge because the notional principal of Holdings Notes issued to pay interest will increase or decrease based on market interest rates in the same manner as if cash had been paid for interest.

 

85


Index to Financial Statements
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

     Page

Audited Consolidated Financial Statements:

  

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   87

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008

   89

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December  31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

   90

Consolidated Statement of Equity (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

   91

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

   93

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   95

 

86


Index to Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), of stockholders’ deficit and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements 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, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for noncontrolling interests effective January 1, 2009 and uncertain tax positions effective January 1, 2007.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Houston, Texas

March 2, 2010

 

87


Index to Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholder of US Oncology, Inc.:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), of stockholder’s equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of US Oncology, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements 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, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for noncontrolling interests effective January 1, 2009 and uncertain tax positions effective January 1, 2007.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Houston, Texas

March 2, 2010

 

88


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share information)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     December 31,
2009
    December 31,
2008
    December 31,
2009
    December 31,
2008
 
ASSETS         

Current assets:

        

Cash and equivalents

   $ 161,811      $ 104,477      $ 161,589      $ 104,476   

Accounts receivable

     349,659        364,336        349,659        364,336   

Other receivables

     30,928        25,707        30,928        25,707   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     20,818        26,182        20,818        20,682   

Inventories

     152,642        131,062        152,642        131,062   

Deferred income taxes

     12,136        9,749        6,002        4,373   

Due from affiliates

     48,052        75,789        30,699        66,333   
                                

Total current assets

     776,046        737,302        752,337        716,969   

Property and equipment, net

     404,928        410,248        404,928        410,248   

Service agreements, net

     251,397        273,646        251,397        273,646   

Goodwill

     377,270        377,270        377,270        377,270   

Other assets

     78,586        72,434        73,259        64,720   
                                
   $ 1,888,227      $ 1,870,900      $ 1,859,191      $ 1,842,853   
                                
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY (DEFICIT)         

Current liabilities:

        

Current maturities of long-term indebtedness

   $ 10,579      $ 10,677      $ 10,579      $ 10,677   

Accounts payable

     279,948        266,443        279,788        266,190   

Due to affiliates

     110,888        136,913        110,888        136,913   

Accrued compensation cost

     50,775        40,776        50,775        40,776   

Accrued interest payable

     40,373        26,266        40,373        26,266   

Income taxes payable

     4,702        —          3,114        2,727   

Other accrued liabilities

     51,450        45,341        33,691        34,804   
                                

Total current liabilities

     548,715        526,416        529,208        518,353   

Deferred revenue

     4,636        6,894        4,636        6,894   

Deferred income taxes

     12,711        15,783        36,658        35,139   

Long-term indebtedness

     1,568,242        1,517,884        1,074,288        1,061,133   

Other long-term liabilities

     44,796        47,472        15,739        12,347   
                                

Total liabilities

     2,179,100        2,114,449        1,660,529        1,633,866   

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)

        

Preferred stock Series A, 15,000,000 shares authorized, 13,938,657 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008

     —          329,322        —          —     

Preferred stock Series A-1, 2,000,000 shares authorized, 1,948,251 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008

     —          56,629        —          —     

Equity (deficit):

        

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 422,951,505 and 148,281,420 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively

     423        148        —          —     

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100 shares authorized, issued and outstanding

     —          —          1        1   

Additional paid-in capital

     108,723        —          551,986        560,768   

Accumulated deficit

     (415,624     (643,220     (368,930     (365,354
                                

Total Company stockholders’ (deficit) equity

     (306,478     (643,072     183,057        195,415   

Noncontrolling interests

     15,605        13,572        15,605        13,572   
                                

Total (deficit) equity

     (290,873     (629,500     198,662        208,987   
                                

Total liabilities and (deficit) equity

   $ 1,888,227      $ 1,870,900      $ 1,859,191      $ 1,842,853   
                                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

89


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Product revenue

   $ 2,363,824      $ 2,224,704      $ 1,970,106      $ 2,363,824      $ 2,224,704      $ 1,970,106   

Service revenue

     1,147,856        1,079,473        1,030,672        1,147,856        1,079,473        1,030,672   
                                                

Total revenue

     3,511,680        3,304,177        3,000,778        3,511,680        3,304,177        3,000,778   

Cost of products

     2,312,443        2,163,943        1,925,547        2,312,443        2,163,943        1,925,547   

Cost of services:

            

Operating compensation and benefits

     558,181        523,939        479,177        558,181        523,939        479,177   

Other operating costs

     330,792        321,947        293,677        330,792        321,947        293,677   

Depreciation and amortization

     72,312        72,790        73,159        72,312        72,790        73,159   
                                                

Total cost of services

     961,285        918,676        846,013        961,285        918,676        846,013   

Total cost of products and services

     3,273,728        3,082,619        2,771,560        3,273,728        3,082,619        2,771,560   

General and administrative expense

     72,214        77,265        84,423        71,934        76,883        84,326   

Impairment and restructuring charges

     8,504        384,929        15,126        8,504        384,929        15,126   

Depreciation and amortization

     30,896        30,017        16,172        30,896        30,017        16,172   
                                                
     3,385,342        3,574,830        2,887,281        3,385,062        3,574,448        2,887,184   

Income (loss) from operations

     126,338        (270,653     113,497        126,618        (270,271     113,594   

Other income (expense):

            

Interest expense, net

     (139,591     (136,474     (137,496     (101,249     (92,757     (95,342

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     (25,081     —          (12,917     (25,081     —          —     

Loss on interest rate swap

     (13,086     (21,219     (11,885     —          —          —     

Other income (expense)

     1,315        2,213        —          1,315        2,213        —     
                                                

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (50,105     (426,133     (48,801     1,603        (360,815     18,252   

Income tax benefit (provision)

     2,101        16,923        17,447        (1,593     (6,351     (7,447
                                                

Net income (loss)

     (48,004     (409,210     (31,354     10        (367,166     10,805   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619
                                                

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

   $ (51,590   $ (412,534   $ (34,973   $ (3,576   $ (370,490   $ 7,186   
                                                

Other comprehensive income (loss):

            

Net income (loss)

   $ (48,004   $ (409,210   $ (31,354   $ 10      $ (367,166   $ 10,805   

Change in unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedge, net of tax

     —          1,534        (2,485     —          —          —     
                                                

Comprehensive income (loss)

     (48,004     (407,676     (33,839     10        (367,166     10,805   

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619
                                                

Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the Company

   $ (51,590   $ (411,000   $ (37,458   $ (3,576   $ (370,490   $ 7,186   
                                                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

90


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EQUITY (DEFICIT)

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Shareholders              
     Shares
Issued
    Par
Value
    Additional
Paid-In
Capital
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
    Accumulated
Deficit
    Noncontrolling
Interests
    Total  

Balance at December 31, 2006

   141,022      $ 141      $ —        $ 951      $ (19,129   $ 14,148      $ (3,889

Restricted stock award issuances

   250        —          —          —          —          —          —     

Forfeiture of restricted stock awards

   (1,129     —          —          —          —          —          —     

Share-based compensation

   —          —          753        —          —          —          753   

Exercise of options to purchase common stock

   476        —          1,227        —          —          —          1,227   

Dividends paid

   —          —          —          —          (133,580     —          (133,580

Accretion of preferred stock dividends

   —          —          (1,980     —          (21,078     —          (23,058

Accumulated other comprehensive loss for unrealized loss on interest rate swap, net of tax

   —          —          —          (2,485     —          —          (2,485

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   —          —          —          —          —          (4,550     (4,550

Net loss

   —          —          —          —          (34,973     3,619        (31,354
                                                      

Balance at December 31, 2007

   140,619        141        —          (1,534     (208,760     13,217        (196,936

Shares issued in affiliation transactions

   193        —          300        —          —          —          300   

Restricted stock award issuances

   9,754        9        —          —          (9     —          —     

Forfeiture of restricted stock awards

   (2,310     (2     —          —          —          —          (2

Share-based compensation

   —          —          2,103        —          —          —          2,103   

Exercise of options to purchase common stock

   25        —          25        —          —          —          25   

Accretion of preferred stock dividends

   —          —          (2,428     —          (21,917     —          (24,345

Accumulated other comprehensive loss for unrealized loss on interest rate swap, net of tax

   —          —          —          1,534        —          —          1,534   

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   —          —          —          —          —          (3,545     (3,545

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

   —          —          —          —          —          576        576   

Net loss

   —          —          —          —          (412,534     3,324        (409,210
                                                      

Balance at December 31, 2008

   148,281        148        —          —          (643,220     13,572        (629,500

Shares issued upon conversion of preferred stock

   270,831        272        108,015        —          296,954        —          405,241   

Restricted stock award issuances

   4,436        3        (3     —          —          —          —     

Forfeiture of restricted stock awards

   (597     —          —          —          —          —          —     

Share-based compensation

   —          —          2,282        —          —          —          2,282   

Accretion of preferred stock dividends

   —          —          (1,571     —          (17,768     —          (19,339

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   —          —          —          —          —          (2,773     (2,773

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

   —          —          —          —          —          1,220        1,220   

Net loss

   —          —          —          —          (51,590     3,586        (48,004
                                                      

Balance at December 31, 2009

   422,951      $ 423      $ 108,723      $ —        $ (415,624   $ 15,605      $ (290,873
                                                      

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

91


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EQUITY

(in thousands, except share information)

 

     US Oncology, Inc. Shareholder              
     Shares
Issued
   Par
Value
   Additional
Paid-In
Capital
    Retained
Earnings/
Accumulated
(Deficit)
    Noncontrolling
Interests
    Total  

Balance at December 31, 2006

   100    $ 1    $ 580,740      $ —        $ 14,148      $ 594,889   

Share-based compensation

   —        —        753        —            753   

Contribution of proceeds from exercises of options to purchase common stock

   —        —        535        —            535   

Dividends paid

   —        —        (32,842     (2,050       (34,892

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   —        —        —          —          (4,550     (4,550

Net income

   —        —        —          7,186        3,619        10,805   
                                            

Balance at December 31, 2007

   100      1      549,186        5,136        13,217        567,540   

Share-based compensation

   —        —        2,103        —            2,103   

Contribution of proceeds from exercises of options to purchase common stock

   —        —        25        —            25   

Non-cash capital contribution

   —        —        22,458        —            22,458   

Dividends paid

   —        —        (13,004         (13,004

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   —        —        —          —          (3,545     (3,545

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

   —        —        —          —          576        576   

Net loss

   —        —        —          (370,490     3,324        (367,166
                                            

Balance at December 31, 2008

   100      1      560,768        (365,354     13,572        208,987   

Share-based compensation

   —        —        2,282        —          —          2,282   

Dividends paid

   —        —        (11,064     —          —          (11,064

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   —        —        —          —          (2,773     (2,773

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

   —        —        —          —          1,220        1,220   

Net loss

   —        —        —          (3,576     3,586        10   
                                            

Balance at December 31, 2009

   100    $ 1    $ 551,986      $ (368,930   $ 15,605      $ 198,662   
                                            

The accompanying notes are an integral part of this statement.

 

92


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Cash flows from operating activities:

            

Net income (loss)

   $ (48,004   $ (409,210   $ (31,354   $ 10      $ (367,166   $ 10,805   

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

            

Depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred financing costs

     112,205        112,286        98,151        109,819        109,901        96,115   

Deferred income taxes

     (5,459     (10,728     (11,689     (110     1,494        992   

Non-cash compensation

     2,282        2,103        753        2,282        2,103        753   

(Gain)/loss on sale of assets

     —          (2,213     151        —          (2,213     151   

Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net

     25,081        —          12,917        25,081        —          —     

Impairment and restructuring charges

     8,696        384,929        15,126        8,696        384,929        15,126   

Equity earnings in joint venture

     (2,668     (1,929     (1,576     (2,668     (1,929     (1,576

Loss on interest rate swap

     13,086        22,372        11,885        —          —          —     

Non-cash interest under PIK option

     35,376        29,768        13,154        —          —          —     

(Increase) Decrease in:

            

Accounts and other receivables

     9,937        49,218        7,589        9,937        49,218        7,589   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     (52     2,087        (4,906     (52     2,086        (4,553

Inventories

     (21,675     (47,428     (4,441     (21,675     (47,428     (4,441

Other assets

     25        79        (5,650     24        79        (5,387

Increase (Decrease) in:

            

Accounts payable

     16,964        31,059        47,427        17,057        31,885        46,813   

Due from/to affiliates

     (130     (38,102     17,655        7,815        (32,054     29,519   

Income taxes receivable/payable

     10,202        (1,758     (3,670     339        3,562        (3,033

Other accrued liabilities

     5,930        5,966        3,155        16,038        7,020        9,157   
                                                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     161,796        128,499        164,677        172,593        141,487        198,030   

Cash flows from investing activities:

            

Acquisition of property and equipment

     (78,261     (88,743     (90,850     (78,261     (88,743     (90,850

Net payments in affiliation transactions

     (4,493     (52,467     (134     (4,493     (52,467     (134

Net proceeds from sale of assets

     —          5,347        750          5,347        750   

Loan to noncontrolling interests

     (382     —          —          (382     —          —     

Acquisition of business, net

     (467     —          —          (467     —          —     

Distributions from unconsolidated subsidiaries

     11,032        2,116        254        11,032        2,116        254   

Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries

     (8,447     (3,257     (4,745     (8,447     (3,257     (4,745

Proceeds from contract separations

     —          —          1,555        —          —          1,555   
                                                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (81,018     (137,004     (93,170     (81,018     (137,004     (93,170

(Continued on following page)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

93


Index to Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS-continued

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Cash flows from financing activities:

            

Proceeds from Senior Floating Rate Notes

     —          —          413,232        —          —          —     

Proceeds from Senior Secured Notes

     758,926        —          —          758,926        —          —     

Proceeds from other indebtedness

     —          4,000        1,323        —          4,000        1,323   

Repayment of term loan

     (436,666     (34,937     (7,487     (436,666     (34,937     (7,487

Repayment of Senior Notes

     (311,578     —          —          (311,578     —          —     

Repayment of Senior Subordinated Notes

     —          —          (256,766     —          —          —     

Repayment of other indebtedness

     (10,847     (2,235     (136     (10,847     (2,235     (136

Debt financing costs

     (21,726     (159     (1,575     (21,680     (143     (1,554

Net distributions to parent

     —          —          —          (11,064     (13,004     (75,501

Repayment of advance from parent

     —          —          —          —          —          (150,000

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

     (2,773     (3,545     (4,550     (2,773     (3,545     (4,550

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

     1,220        576        —          1,220        576        —     

Payment of dividends on preferred stock

     —          —          (25,000     —          —          —     

Payment of dividends on common stock

     —          —          (323,580     —          —          —     

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     —          25        521        —          —          —     

Contributions of proceeds from exercise of stock options

     —          —          —          —          25        535   
                                                

Net cash used in financing activities

     (23,444     (36,275     (204,018     (34,462     (49,263     (237,370

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     57,334        (44,780     (132,511     57,113        (44,780     (132,510

Cash and cash equivalents:

            

Beginning of year

     104,477        149,257        281,768        104,476        149,256        281,766   
                                                

End of year

   $ 161,811      $ 104,477      $ 149,257      $ 161,589      $ 104,476      $ 149,256   
                                                

Interest paid

   $ 80,290      $ 93,932      $ 129,493      $ 80,265      $ 85,784      $ 92,822   

Taxes paid (refunded)

     (6,847     (4,412     3,053        1,367        (4,412     3,053   

Non-cash investing and financing transactions:

            

Notes issued in affiliation transactions

     75        34,328        650        75        34,328        650   

Notes issued for interest paid-in-kind

     37,203        31,751        —          —          —          —     

Accretion of dividends on preferred stock

     19,339        24,345        23,058        —          —          —     

Issuance of common stock by conversion from preferred stock

     405,241        —          —          —          —          —     

Non-cash capital contribution

     —          —          —          —          22,458        —     

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 

94


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

NOTE 1—DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS

Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms, “Holdings,” or the “Company,” refer to US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries. US Oncology, Inc., or US Oncology, refers to Holdings’ wholly owned subsidiary.

The Company was formed in March, 2004, when a wholly owned subsidiary of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. (“Holdings”) agreed to merge with and into US Oncology, Inc., with US Oncology continuing as the surviving corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Holdings (the “Merger”). On August 20, 2004, the Merger, valued at approximately $1.6 billion, was consummated. Currently, Holdings’ principal asset is 100% of the shares of common stock of US Oncology, Inc. (“US Oncology”). Holdings conducts all of its business through US Oncology and its subsidiaries which provide services to a network of affiliated practices, made up of 1,310 affiliated physicians in 496 locations, with the mission of expanding access to and improving the quality of cancer care in local communities. The services the Company offers include:

 

   

Medical Oncology Services. Under its comprehensive strategic alliances, the Company acts as the exclusive manager and administrator for non-medical business functions connected with its affiliated practices. As such, the Company is responsible for billing and collecting for medical oncology services, physician recruiting, data management, accounting, information systems and capital allocation to facilitate growth in practice operations. The Company also purchases and manages specialty oncology pharmaceuticals for its affiliated practices (part of the $2.4 billion of pharmaceuticals mentioned below).

 

   

Cancer Center Services. For practices affiliated under comprehensive strategic alliances, the Company develops and manages community-based cancer centers that integrate all aspects of outpatient cancer care, from laboratory and radiology diagnostic capabilities to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The Company operates 100 community-based radiation facilities, including 83 integrated cancer centers that include medical oncology and radiation oncology operations, and 17 radiation-only facilities. The Company also has installed and manages 39 Positron Emission Tomography (“PET”) systems including 30 Positron Emission Tomography/Computerized Tomography (“PET/CT”) systems. Additionally, the Company operates 67 CT systems and also provides the comprehensive management and financial services described above in connection with the cancer centers.

 

   

Pharmaceutical Services. The Company contracts with practices solely for the purchase and management of specialty oncology pharmaceuticals under the targeted physician services model, which does not encompass all of the Company’s other practice management services. During 2009, the Company was responsible for purchasing, delivering and managing over $2.4 billion of pharmaceuticals through a network of 46 licensed pharmacies, 142 pharmacists and 360 pharmacy technicians. Targeted physician services revenues are included in the pharmaceutical services segment. In addition to providing services to affiliated physicians, in this segment the Company capitalizes on the network’s size and scope by providing services to pharmaceutical manufacturers and payers, to improve the delivery of cancer care in America.

 

   

Research/Other Services. The Company facilitates a broad range of cancer research and drug development activities through its network. It contracts with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to provide a comprehensive range of services relating to clinical trials. During 2009, the Company supervised 89 clinical trials, supported by a network of 640 participating physicians in 234 research locations and enrolled 3,004 new patients in research studies.

The Company provides these services through two business models. Under the comprehensive services model known as comprehensive strategic alliance, the Company owns or leases all of the real and personal property used by its affiliated practices. In addition, the Company generally manages the non-medical business operations of its affiliated practices and facilitates communication with its affiliated physicians. Each management agreement contemplates a policy board consisting of representatives from the affiliated physician practice and the Company. The responsibilities of each board include strategic planning, decision-making and preparation of an annual budget for that practice. While both the Company and the affiliated practice have an equal vote in matters before the policy board, the practice physicians are solely responsible for all medical decisions, including the hiring and termination of physicians. The Company is responsible for non-medical decisions, including facilities management and information systems management.

 

95


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Under most comprehensive strategic alliances, the Company is compensated under the earnings model. Under that model, the Company accounts for all expenses that it incurs in connection with managing a practice, including rent, pharmaceutical expenses, and salaries and benefits of non-physician employees of the practices, and is paid a management fee based on a percentage of the practice’s earnings before income taxes, subject to certain adjustments. During the year ended December 31, 2009, 73.7% of revenue was derived from comprehensive strategic alliances related to practices managed under the earnings model. The Company’s other comprehensive strategic alliances are on a fixed management fee basis, as required in some states.

The Company’s services are increasingly being offered through targeted arrangements where a subset of the services offered through its comprehensive strategic alliances are provided separately to oncologists on a fee-for-service basis. Targeted physician services represented 15.6% of revenue during the year ended December 31, 2009 which was primarily fees for payment for pharmaceuticals and supplies used by the practice and reimbursement for certain pharmacy-related expenses under the targeted physician services model. A smaller portion of revenue from targeted arrangements was payment for other services the Company provides. Rates for services typically are based on the level of services desired by the practice.

NOTE 2—SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The Company has determined that none of its existing service agreements meet the requirements for consolidation under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Specifically, the Company does not have an equity ownership interest in any of the practices managed under any service agreement. Furthermore, the Company’s service agreements specifically do not give the Company “control” as described by authoritative accounting guidance for contractual management arrangements which would be required for the Company to consolidate the managed practices based upon such service agreements. The Company records noncontrolling interest associated with consolidated subsidiaries that are less than 100% owned.

Reclassifications

Certain previously reported financial information has been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Such reclassifications did not materially affect the Company’s financial condition, net income or cash flows.

Use of estimates

The preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, as well as disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities.

Management considers many factors in selecting appropriate financial accounting policies and controls, and in developing the estimates and assumptions that are used in the preparation of these financial statements. Management must apply significant judgment in this process. In addition, other factors may affect estimates. Among the factors that may be considered by management in these processes include: choosing a particular accounting principle from a range of accounting principles permitted by GAAP, expected rates of business and operational change, sensitivity and volatility associated with the assumptions used in developing estimates, and whether historical trends are expected to be representative of future trends. The estimation process often may yield a range of potentially reasonable estimates of the ultimate future outcomes and management must select an amount that falls within that range of reasonable estimates. This process may result in the selection of estimates which could be viewed as conservative or aggressive—based upon the quantity, quality and risks relating to the estimate, possible variability that might be expected in the actual outcome and the factors considered in developing the estimate. Because of inherent uncertainties in this process, actual future amounts will differ from those estimated amounts used in the preparation of the financial statements.

 

96


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Revenues

The Company derives revenue primarily in four areas:

 

   

Comprehensive management fees. Under the comprehensive strategic alliance model, the Company recognizes revenues equal to the reimbursement it receives for all expenses it incurs in connection with managing a practice plus an additional management fee based upon a percentage of the practice’s earnings before income taxes, subject to certain adjustments.

 

   

Targeted physician services fees. Under the Company’s targeted physician services agreements, the Company bills practices for services rendered. These revenues include payment for the pharmaceutical agents used by the practice for which the Company must pay the pharmaceutical manufacturers and a service fee for the pharmacy-related services provided by the Company.

 

   

GPO, data and other service fees. The Company receives fees from pharmaceutical companies for acting as a distributor, as a group purchasing organization (“GPO”) for its affiliated practices, and for providing informational and other services to pharmaceutical companies. GPO fees are typically based upon the volume of drugs purchased by the practices. Fees for other services include amounts paid for data the Company collects, compiles and analyzes, as well as fees for other services provided to pharmaceutical companies, including reimbursement support.

 

   

Clinical research fees. The Company receives fees for clinical research services from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. These fees are separately negotiated for each study and typically include a management fee, per patient accrual fees and fees for achieving various study milestones.

Comprehensive management fees

For both product and service revenues under the comprehensive strategic alliance model, the Company recognizes revenue when the fees are earned and are deemed realizable based upon the contractual amount of such fees. Product revenues are recognized as drugs are dispensed by affiliated physician practices. Service fee revenues are recognized when the fees are deemed determinable and realizable, which is typically at the time these services are provided. Revenue is based upon established or negotiated rates, net of contractual adjustments, allowances for doubtful accounts and amounts to be retained by affiliated practices.

On a monthly basis, under the comprehensive strategic alliance model, fees are paid to the Company and adjustments are made to its fees to reconcile prior estimates to actual amounts. Adjustments are recognized as increases or reductions in revenue in the period they become known. Such reconciliation would also occur upon termination of a contract.

Under the comprehensive strategic alliance model, the revenue recognized includes specific reimbursements related to practice operations and an additional fee based upon practice performance. In recognizing revenue, the Company takes into consideration the priority of payments relating to amounts retained by practices. The Company does not recognize revenue to the extent funds are unavailable to pay such fees as a result of such priority of payments.

Under this model, the Company receives a service fee that includes an amount equal to the direct expenses associated with operating the practice plus an amount that is calculated based on the service agreement for each of the practices. The direct expenses include rent, depreciation, amortization, provision for uncollectible accounts, pharmaceutical expenses, medical supply expenses, interest, and salaries and benefits of non-physician employees who support the practices. The direct expenses do not include salaries and benefits of physicians. The non-expense reimbursement related portion of the service fee is a percentage, ranging from approximately 15% to 30%, of the earnings before income taxes of the affiliated practice subject to certain adjustments relating to practice efficiency in the deployment of capital and use of its pharmaceuticals distribution function. The earnings of an affiliated practice are determined by subtracting direct expenses from revenues.

A portion of the Company’s revenue under its comprehensive strategic alliances and its revenue with targeted physician services affiliated practices is derived from sales of pharmaceutical products and is reported as product revenues. The Company’s remaining revenues under its comprehensive strategic alliances and its revenues from GPO fees, data fees and research fees are reported as service revenues. Physician practices that enter into comprehensive strategic alliances with the Company receive pharmaceutical products and a broad range of services. These products and services represent multiple

 

97


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

deliverables rendered under a single contract, with a single fee. The Company has analyzed the component of the contract attributable to the provision of products (pharmaceuticals) and the component of the contract attributable to the provision of services and attributed fair value to each component. For revenue recognition purposes, the product revenues and service revenues have each been accounted for separately under authoritative accounting guidance for revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables.

In a minority of the Company’s comprehensive strategic alliances, if the affiliated practice were to incur losses prior to the payment of any physician compensation during a quarter, the Company would be required to bear a portion of those losses up to the amount of the performance-based portion of the fee recognized in previous quarters during the year. This reduction would be reported as a reduction in fees from that practice in the quarter during which such losses were incurred.

Oncology pharmaceutical services fees

Under its targeted physician services arrangements, the Company recognizes revenue as drugs are accepted by the affiliated practices. The Company recognizes revenue based upon the cost of pharmaceuticals purchased by the affiliated practice plus a fee for pharmaceutical services. Such amounts are recorded as product revenues and the related costs are included as cost of products. The Company recognizes revenue for admixture services as those services are performed.

GPO, data and other service fees

The Company receives GPO fees for providing services to pharmaceutical manufacturers and other suppliers. The Company recognizes revenue for GPO fees as it performs the services. GPO fees are distinct from discounts and rebates in that they are not passed back to affiliated practices and are paid to the Company for identifiable services provided to the drug supplier rather than in respect of drug purchases. The Company also provides suppliers with, among other things, data relating to, and analysis of, pharmaceutical use by affiliated practices, access to electronic order entry software from its pharmacy locations and physician practice sites, contract management services and other informational services.

Clinical research fees

Research revenue is derived from services provided to pharmaceutical companies and other trial sponsors and includes the initial activity to begin the research trial, patient enrollment and completion of the treatment cycle. Revenue is recognized as the Company performs its obligations related to such research. On occasion, the Company receives an upfront fee for administrative services necessary to perform the research trial. These amounts are deferred and recognized over the duration of the trial as services are rendered.

Product Revenues

Product revenues consist of sales of pharmaceuticals to practices in connection with the comprehensive strategic alliance and targeted physician services models. Under all of its arrangements with affiliated practices, the Company furnishes the practice with pharmaceuticals and supplies. In certain cases, the Company takes legal title to the pharmaceuticals and resells them to practices. In other cases, title to the pharmaceuticals passes directly from the supplier to the practices under arrangements negotiated and managed by the Company pursuant to its service agreements with practices. The Company has analyzed its contracts with physician practices and suppliers of pharmaceutical products purchased pursuant to its arrangements with affiliated practices and determined that, in all cases, it acts as a principal as described by authoritative accounting guidance for reporting gross revenue. For this reason, the Company recognizes the gross amounts from pharmaceuticals as revenue because the Company (i) has separate contractual relationships with affiliated practices and with suppliers of pharmaceutical products under which it is the primary obligor, and has discretion to select those suppliers (ii) is physically responsible for managing, ordering and processing the pharmaceuticals until they are used by affiliated practices, (iii) bears the carrying cost and maintains the equipment, staff and facilities used to manage the inventory of pharmaceuticals, (iv) manages the overall pharmaceutical program, including management of admixture and implementation of programs to minimize waste, enhance charge capture, and otherwise increase the efficiency of the operations of affiliated practices, and (v) bears credit risk for the amounts due from affiliated practices.

Because the Company acts as principal, revenues are recognized as the cost of the pharmaceutical product (which is reimbursed to the Company pursuant to all of its contractual arrangements with physician practices) plus an additional amount. Under the targeted physician services model, this additional amount is the actual amount charged to practices as such services are directly related to and not separable from the delivery of the products. Under the comprehensive strategic alliance model, the contracts do not provide for a separate fee for supplying pharmaceuticals other than reimbursement of the cost of

 

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pharmaceuticals. Accordingly, the additional amount included in product revenue reflects the Company’s estimate of the portion of its service fee that represents fair value of product sales. The portion of the service fee allocated to product revenue is based upon the terms upon which the Company offers pharmaceuticals under its targeted physician services model. The Company provides the same services related to delivery and management of pharmaceutical products under its comprehensive strategic alliance as under its targeted physician services model agreements. Accordingly, the Company believes this allocation is appropriate. Discounts and rebates are deducted from product revenues and costs.

Service Revenues

Under the Company’s comprehensive strategic alliance model, service fees are recognized and paid on a monthly basis pursuant to contractual terms. The Company’s fees are calculated based upon (i) reimbursement of costs incurred by the Company on the affiliated practice’s behalf in accordance with the contract terms plus (ii) an additional amount based on performance of the practice that is generally a percentage of earnings before income taxes and physician compensation of the practice for the month. Certain expenses and other allowances included in the calculation of fees are based upon estimates made by the Company. The Company may make certain changes in these estimates in subsequent periods to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. Upon termination of an agreement, fees recognized through the date of termination would not be refundable by the Company, other than as a result of such insignificant adjustments as of the date of termination.

Concentration of Revenue

Changes in payer reimbursement rates, particularly Medicare and Medicaid, or in affiliated practices’ payer mix could materially and adversely affect the Company’s revenues. Governmental programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, are collectively the affiliated practices’ largest payers. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the affiliated practices derived approximately 39.2%, 38.2%, and 37.8%, respectively, of their net patient revenue from services provided under the Medicare program (of which 6.9%, 5.5%, and 3.8%, respectively, relates to Medicare managed care programs) and approximately 3.7%, 3.3%, and 3.0%, respectively of their net patient revenue from services provided under state Medicaid programs. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, capitation revenues were less than 1% of total net patient revenue.

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (“ESAs”) are drugs used for the treatment of anemia, which is a condition that occurs when the level of healthy red blood cells in the body becomes too low, thus inhibiting the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Many cancer patients suffer from anemia either as a result of their disease or as a result of the treatments they receive for their cancer. ESAs have historically been used by oncologists to treat anemia. ESAs are administered to increase levels of healthy red blood cells as an alternative to blood transfusions.

On July 30, 2007, CMS issued a national coverage decision (“NCD”) establishing criteria for reimbursement by Medicare for ESA usage which led to a significant decline in utilization of these drugs by oncologists, including those affiliated with US Oncology. In addition, the Oncology Drug Advisory Committee (“ODAC”) of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) met on March 13, 2008, to further consider the use of ESAs in oncology, Based upon the ODAC findings, on July 30, 2008, the FDA published a final new label for the ESA drugs Aranesp and Procrit. Unlike the NCD from CMS, which governs reimbursement (rather than prescribing) for Medicare beneficiaries only, the label indication directs appropriate physician prescribing and applies to all patients and payers.

The FDA also mandated implementation of a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (“REMS”) for ESAs. A proposed REMS for ESAs was filed by ESA manufacturers with the FDA in August 2008 and approved on February 16, 2010 to become effective on March 24, 2010. The REMS is focused on ESA prescribing guidelines and requires additional patient consent, education requirements, medical guides and physician registration over a one year period beginning on March 24, 2010. The REMS also outlines additional procedural steps that will be required for qualified physicians to prescribe ESAs for their patients. We believe a possible impact of the REMS could be further reductions in ESA utilization, which could be significant. Because the use of ESAs relates to specific clinical determinations and the Company does not make clinical decisions for affiliated physicians, analysis of the financial impact of these restrictions is a complex process. As a result, there is inherent uncertainty in making an estimate or range of estimates as to the ultimate financial impact on the Company. Factors that could significantly affect the financial impact on the Company include ongoing clinical interpretations of the REMS, coverage restrictions and risks related to ESA use.

 

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The decline in ESA usage has had a significant adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, and, particularly, its Medical Oncology Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments. Operating income attributable to ESAs administered by our network of affiliated physicians decreased $9.5 million and $25.9 million during the years ended 2009 and 2008, respectively, from the comparable prior year periods. The operating income reflects results from the Company’s Medical Oncology Services segment which relate primarily to the administration of ESAs by practices receiving comprehensive management services and from the Pharmaceutical Services segment which includes purchases by physicians affiliated under the targeted physician services model, as well as distribution and group purchasing fees received from pharmaceutical manufacturers for pharmaceuticals purchased by physicians affiliated under either of these arrangements.

Decreasing financial performance of affiliated practices as a result of declining ESA usage also affects their relationship with the Company and, in some instances, has led to increased pressure to amend the terms of their management services agreements. In addition, reduced utilization of ESAs may adversely impact the Company’s ability to continue to receive favorable pricing from ESA manufacturers. Decreased financial performance may also adversely impact the Company’s ability to obtain acceptable credit terms from pharmaceutical manufacturers, including pharmaceutical manufacturers of products other than ESAs.

The Company expects continued payer scrutiny of the side effects of supportive care products and other drugs that represent significant costs to payers. Such scrutiny by payers or additional scientific data could lead to future restrictions on usage or reimbursement for other pharmaceuticals as a result of payer or FDA action or reductions in usage as a result of the independent determination of oncologists practicing in the Company’s network. Any such reduction could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business. In the Company’s evidence-based medicine initiative, affiliated physicians continually review emerging scientific information to develop clinical pathways for use in oncology and remain engaged with payers in determining optimal usage for all pharmaceuticals.

Medicare reimbursement for physician services is based on a fee schedule, which establishes payment for a given service, in relation to actual resources used in providing the service, through the application of relative value units (“RVUs”). The resources used are converted into a dollar amount of reimbursement through a conversion factor, which is updated annually by CMS, based on a formula.

On October 30, 2009, CMS announced final changes to policies and payment rates for services to be furnished during 2010 by physicians and nonphysician practitioners who are paid under the Medicare physician fee schedule. Under the statutory formula, the conversion factor for 2010 is estimated to decrease reimbursement by 21.3% unless Congress again enacts superseding legislation. In addition, CMS projects that changes to policies and payment rates for 2010 would result in a 1% decrease (6% decrease in 2013 under 4-year phase-in) in overall payments to the specialty of hematology/oncology and a 1% decrease (5% decrease in 2013) in overall payments to the specialty of radiation oncology. In December 2009, President Obama signed the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 (H.R. 3326) into law which delayed the 21.3% payment reduction under the current Sustainable Growth Rate, or SGR, formula until March 1, 2010. As of March 2, 2010, President Obama signed into law a bill that includes a 30 day extension of the SGR Fix. The stopgap legislation has been approved to extend the SGR freeze through March 31, 2010. It is not expected that the technical application of the SGR cut to claims from March 1 and March 2 will have any practical impact on Medicare physician payments.

On April 6, 2009, CMS issued a final NCD to expand coverage for initial testing with positron emission tomography (“PET”) as a cancer diagnostic tool for Medicare beneficiaries who are diagnosed with and treated for most solid tumor cancers. This NCD also extends coverage to patients to allow PET usage beyond initial diagnosis, to include subsequent treatment strategies and expanded usage of PET scans, including at US Oncology affiliated practices, beginning in the second quarter of 2009. In April, 2009, US Oncology affiliated practices began accepting patients under the expanded coverage. However, a number of claims were delayed because CMS had not issued the official change request informing Medicare contractors to alter their claims processing until October 31, 2009. The claim reimbursement was retroactive to April 6, 2009 and the expanded coverage on PET utilization and reimbursement was not material.

On October 30, 2008, CMS issued a final rule for the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for calendar year 2009. The final rule establishes Medicare policy changes and payment rates that went into effect for services furnished by physicians and nonphysician practitioners as of January 1, 2009. The 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule included a 5% decrease in the conversion factor from the 2008 rates reflecting the discontinuation of a budget neutrality adjustor that had been applied to a portion of the fee schedule calculation for the past two years. This change negatively impacted technical services and increased reimbursement for services with greater physician work components such as Evaluation and Management services. Under this fee schedule, pretax income for the year ended December 31, 2009, decreased by approximately $1.2 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2008.

In November, 2006, CMS released its Final Rule of the Five-Year Review of Work Relative Value Units (“RVUs” or “Work RVUs”) under the Physician Fee Schedule and Proposed Changes to the Practice Expense (“PE”) Methodology (the

 

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“Final Rule”). The Work RVUs changes were implemented in full beginning January 1, 2007, while the PE methodology changes are being phased in over a four-year period (2007-2010). For the year ended December 31, 2009, the Final Rule resulted in an increase in pretax income of $2.6 million over the comparable prior year period for Medicare non-drug reimbursement excluding the 2009 conversion factor change.

The Company’s most significant, and only service agreement to provide more than 10% of total revenues, is with Texas Oncology, P.A. which accounted for approximately 25% of revenue for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. Set forth below is selected, unaudited financial and statistical information for Texas Oncology (in thousands):

 

     Year ended December 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Revenue from Texas Oncology, P.A.

   $ 876,577    $ 804,032    $ 779,167

Less: Reimbursement of expenses

     827,320      758,393      715,521
                    

Earnings component of management fee

     49,257      45,639      63,646
                    

Physicians associated with Texas Oncology at end of period

     328      299      277

Cancer centers utilized by Texas Oncology at end of period

     35      37      38

The Company’s operating margin for the Texas Oncology service agreement was 5.6%, 5.7%, and 8.2% for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. Operating margin is computed by dividing the earnings component of the service fee by the total service fee.

Cost of Products

Cost of products includes the cost of pharmaceuticals, personnel costs for pharmacy staff, shipping and handling fees and other related costs. Cost of products is net of rebates earned from pharmaceutical manufacturers and cash discounts, if any. Rebates receivable from pharmaceutical manufacturers are accrued in the period earned by multiplying rebate eligible drug purchases of affiliated practices by the estimated contractually agreed manufacturer rebate amount. Rebate estimates are revised to actual, with the difference recorded to cost of products, upon billing to the manufacturer, generally within 30 days subsequent to the end of the applicable quarter, based upon usage data. Cash discounts for prompt payments to pharmaceutical manufacturers are recognized as a reduction to cost of products when payment for the related pharmaceutical purchases are made. The cost of pharmaceutical drugs in inventory is reduced for estimated rebates.

Cost of Services

Cost of services consists principally of personnel costs, lease costs or depreciation for real estate and equipment used in providing the service and other operating costs.

Other Income (Expense)

Other income (expense) for the year ended December 31, 2009 includes $0.9 million in cash consideration received from a departing physician that had received cash consideration in connection with an affiliation transaction. Other income (expense) for the year ended December 31, 2008 includes a $1.4 million gain on the sale of an investment in a tissue banking company and $0.8 million gain on the sale of undeveloped property.

Cash and Cash equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Accounts receivable

Reimbursements relating to healthcare accounts receivable, particularly governmental receivables, are complex, change frequently and could in the future adversely impact the Company’s ability to collect accounts receivable and the accuracy of its estimates.

 

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To the extent the Company is legally permitted to do so, the Company purchases accounts receivable generated by treating patients from its comprehensive strategic alliance practices. The Company purchases these receivables at their estimated net realizable value, which in management’s judgment is the amount that it expects to collect, taking into account contractual agreements that reduce gross fees billed and allowances for accounts that may otherwise be uncollectible. For accounts receivable that the Company is not legally permitted to purchase (generally receivables from government payers), the Company lends an amount equal to the net realizable value of such receivables to the practice, secured by the applicable receivable and payable from proceeds of collecting such receivables. Whether receivables are purchased or funds are advanced in the form of a loan, such amounts appear on the balance sheet as accounts receivable. If the Company determines that accounts are uncollectible after purchasing them from a practice, its contracts require the practice to reimburse the Company for the additional uncollectible amount. Such reimbursement reduces the practice’s earnings for the applicable period. Because the Company’s management fees are partly based upon practice earnings, this adjustment would also reduce its service fees.

The Company maintains decentralized billing systems, which vary by individual practice. The Company evaluates the realizability of receivables and records appropriate allowances, based upon the risks of collection inherent in such a structure. In the event subsequent collections are higher or lower than the Company’s estimates, results of operations in subsequent periods could be either positively or negatively impacted as a result of prior estimates. This risk is particularly relevant for periods in which there is a significant shift in reimbursement from large payers.

The Company’s accounts receivable are a function of net patient revenue of the affiliated practices rather than the Company’s revenue. Receivables from the Medicare and state Medicaid programs accounted for approximately 45.1% and 45.6% of the Company’s gross trade receivables for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and are considered to have minimal credit risk. No other payer accounted for more than 10.0% of accounts receivable for the years ended December 31, 2009 or 2008.

Accounts receivable also include amounts due from practices affiliated under the targeted physician services model which relate primarily to their purchases of pharmaceuticals. Unlike practices affiliated through the comprehensive strategic alliance model, the Company does not maintain billing and collection systems for practices affiliated under the targeted physician services model and its collection of receivables from targeted physician services customers is subject to their willingness and ability to pay for products and services delivered by the Company. Payment terms for targeted physician services customers vary, ranging from daily debit to 45 days from the date products and services are delivered. Where appropriate, the Company seeks to obtain personal guarantees from affiliated physicians to support the collectibility of these receivables. The Company provides an allowance for uncollectible amounts based upon both an estimate for specifically-identified doubtful accounts and an estimate based on an evaluation of the aging of receivable balances.

Other receivables

Other receivables consist of amounts due from pharmaceutical manufacturers and other miscellaneous receivables. Rebates are accrued based upon internally monitored usage data and expectations of usage during the measurement period for which rebates are accrued. Rebate estimates accrued prior to invoicing pharmaceutical manufacturers (which generally occurs 10-30 days after the end of the measurement period) are revised to reflect actual usage data for the measurement period invoiced. For certain agreements, the Company records market share rebates at the time it invoices the manufacturer, as information necessary to reliably assess whether such amounts will be earned is not available until that time. Billings are subject to review, and possible adjustment, by the manufacturer.

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

Prepaid expenses and other current assets consist of prepaid expenses, such as insurance, and certain other assets expected to be realized within one year.

Inventories

Inventories consist of pharmaceutical drugs and are stated at the lower of cost, using the average cost method, or market. Inventory quantities are determined from physical counts.

Due from and to affiliates

The Company has advanced to certain of its practices amounts needed for working capital purposes, primarily to purchase pharmaceuticals. In addition, from time to time the Company advances funds to assist with the development of new markets, to support the addition of physicians, and support the development of new services. Depending on the terms of

 

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specific transactions, certain advances bear interest at a market rate which may be based on either the prime interest rate or at the Company’s average cost of capital. These advances are unsecured and are repaid in accordance with the terms of the agreement evidencing the advance.

Amounts due from affiliates are reviewed when events or changes in circumstances indicate their recorded amount may not be recoverable. If the review indicates that the anticipated recoverable amount is less than the carrying value, the Company’s carrying value of the asset is reduced accordingly.

Amounts due to affiliates primarily represent amounts to be retained by affiliated practices with comprehensive strategic alliances.

Property and equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation of property and equipment is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of (i) three to ten years for computers and software, clinical equipment, and furniture and fixtures, (ii) the lesser of ten years or the remaining lease term for leasehold improvements and (iii) twenty-five years for buildings. These lives reflect management’s best estimate of the respective assets’ useful lives, and subsequent changes in operating plans or technology could result in future impairment charges to these assets. Interest costs incurred during the construction of major capital additions, primarily cancer centers, are capitalized.

Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expense when incurred. Expenditures for major renewals and betterments, which extend the useful lives of existing equipment, are capitalized and depreciated. Upon retirement or disposition of property and equipment, the capitalized cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income.

Service agreements, net

Service agreements represent the consideration paid for the Company’s rights to manage practices. Consideration paid may include the assumption of certain liabilities, the estimated value of nonforfeitable commitments by the Company to issue common stock at specified future dates for no additional consideration, short-term and subordinated notes, cash payments and related transaction costs.

During the initial terms of the agreements, the affiliated practices have agreed to provide medical services on an exclusive basis only through facilities managed by the Company. The agreements are noncancelable except for performance defaults. The Company amortizes these costs on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the term of each agreement or 20 years. Should these agreements be terminated prior to their full amortization, the Company may experience a charge to its operating results for the unamortized portion of the service agreement intangible assets.

Impairment of property and equipment and service agreements, net

Property and equipment that is intended to be held and used by the Company and service agreement intangible assets are reviewed to determine whether any events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If factors exist that indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable, the Company determines whether an impairment has occurred through the use of an undiscounted cash flow analysis and, if necessary, recognizes a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the fair value of the asset. Impairment analysis is subjective and assumptions regarding future growth rates and operating expense levels can have a significant impact on the expected future cash flows and impairment analysis (see Note 6).

Goodwill

The Company tests for the impairment of goodwill on at least an annual basis. The Company’s goodwill impairment test involves a comparison of the fair value of each operating segment with its carrying amount. The Company considers its operating segments to which goodwill has been allocated, Medical Oncology Services, Cancer Center Services and Pharmaceutical Services, to be the reporting units subject to impairment review. With the assistance of a third party valuation firm, fair value is estimated using discounted cash flows and other market-related valuation models, including earnings multiples and comparable asset market values. If the fair value is less than the carrying value, goodwill is considered impaired (see Note 5).

 

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Other assets

Other assets consist primarily of deferred debt financing costs, which are capitalized and amortized over the terms of the related debt agreements, investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries, an intangible asset relating to customer relationships, acquired as part of the AccessMed purchase in 2006, and a receivable from a former affiliated practice (see Notes 5 and 10).

Income taxes

US Oncology, Inc. and subsidiaries are included in the consolidated tax return of its parent, US Oncology Holdings, Inc., and accounts for income taxes based on the “separate return” method. This method provides that current and deferred taxes are accounted for as if US Oncology were a separate taxpayer. Any differences between the tax provision (or benefit) allocated to US Oncology under the separate return method and payments to be made to (or received from) Holdings for tax expense is treated as either dividends or capital contributions. As such, the amount by which US Oncology’s tax liability as stated under the separate return method exceeds the amount of tax liability ultimately settled due to utilizing incremental expenses of the parent, is periodically settled as a capital contribution from Holdings to US Oncology.

The Company reports its consolidated results of operations for federal and state income tax purposes. For operations subject to income taxes, the Company uses the liability method of accounting for taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted marginal tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences reverse. Effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted guidance which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized (see Note 9 - Income Taxes).

Stock-based compensation

For all awards issued after January 1, 2006, compensation expense is recognized in the Company’s financial statements over the requisite service period, usually the vesting period, net of estimated forfeitures, based on the fair value as of the grant date. No compensation expense is recognized for options awarded prior to January 1, 2006, unless these awards are subsequently modified. The Company applies the Black-Scholes method to value option awards granted. Because the Company does not have publicly-traded equity, it has developed a volatility assumption to be used for option valuation based upon an index of publicly-traded peer companies.

Fair value of financial instruments

The Company’s receivables, payables, prepaids and accrued liabilities are current assets and obligations on normal terms and, accordingly, the recorded values are believed by management to approximate fair value. The fair value of indebtedness differs from its carrying value based on current market interest rate conditions as evidenced by market transactions (see Note 7). In September, 2006, the FASB issued guidance which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The Company applied the provisions of the statement to its disclosures related to assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis (at least annually) which for the Company is its interest rate swap liability (see Note 4). Effective January 1, 2009, the fair value guidance was also applicable to non-financial assets and liabilities measured on a non-recurring basis, which would include goodwill and service agreement intangibles if there was an impairment necessary in the current period.

Comprehensive income (loss)

Comprehensive income (loss) includes net income (loss) and all other non-owner changes in stockholders’ equity (deficit) during a period including unrealized fair value adjustments on certain derivative instruments. For the year ended December 31, 2009, fair value adjustments on certain derivative instruments were recorded as a component of net income. For the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company had recorded other comprehensive income, net of tax, for unrealized gains (losses) related to interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges, totaling $1.5 million and $(2.5) million, respectively.

Recent accounting pronouncements

From time to time, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), the SEC and other regulatory bodies seek to change accounting rules, including rules applicable to the Company’s business and financial statements. The Company cannot assure that future changes in accounting rules would not require it to make retrospective application to its financial statements.

 

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In September, 2006, the FASB issued guidance which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February, 2008, the FASB delayed the effective date of the fair value guidance for all non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, except those that are measured on a recurring basis. Effective January 1, 2009, the Company adopted fair value guidance with respect to non-financial assets and liabilities measured on a non-recurring basis. The application of the fair value framework to these fair value measurements did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements (see Note 4 – Fair Value Measurements).

In February, 2007, the FASB issued guidance which permits an entity to choose, at specified election dates, to measure eligible financial instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. This fair value guidance was effective beginning January 1, 2008. The Company did not apply the fair value election under this guidance and, therefore, the guidance did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In June, 2007, the FASB ratified guidance which requires companies to recognize a realized income tax benefit associated with dividends or dividend equivalents paid on nonvested equity-classified employee share-based payment awards that are charged to retained earnings as an increase to additional paid-in capital. This income tax benefit guidance was effective beginning January 1, 2008 and was adopted prospectively by the Company as of January 1, 2008 with no material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In December, 2007, the FASB issued guidance which establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer recognizes and measures in its financial statements identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, any non-controlling interest in an acquiree and the resulting goodwill. The guidance also establishes disclosure requirements to enable the evaluation of the nature and financial effects of the business combination. This guidance was effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2008 and was adopted without material impact. The guidance is to be applied prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009.

In April, 2009, the FASB amended and clarified earlier guidance to address application issues raised on the initial recognition and measurement, subsequent measurement and accounting and disclosure of assets and liabilities arising from contingencies in a business combination. This generally applies to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination that arise from contingencies if not acquired or assumed in a business combination for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements; however, it may have an impact on the accounting for any future acquisitions or divestitures.

In December, 2007, the FASB issued guidance which establishes new standards governing the accounting for and reporting of noncontrolling interests (NCIs) in partially-owned subsidiaries and the loss of control of subsidiaries. Certain provisions of this standard indicate, among other things, that NCIs (previously referred to as minority interests) be treated as a separate component of equity, rather than a liability; that increases and decreases in the parent’s ownership interest that leave control intact be treated as equity transactions, rather than as step acquisitions or dilution gains or losses; and that losses of a partially-owned consolidated subsidiary be allocated to the NCI even when such allocation might result in a deficit balance. This standard also requires changes to certain presentation and disclosure requirements and was effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2008. The provisions of the standard were applied to all NCIs prospectively, except for the presentation and disclosure requirements, which were applied retrospectively to all periods presented and have been disclosed as such in the Company’s consolidated financial statements contained herein.

In March, 2008, the FASB issued guidance to improve financial reporting for derivative instruments and hedging activities by requiring enhanced disclosures regarding the impact on financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. The guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2009, and was adopted without a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In April, 2008, the FASB issued guidance which amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset. The intent of this guidance is to improve the consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under other U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The guidance was effective January 1, 2009 for the Company and was adopted without impact to the Company.

 

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In April, 2009, the FASB issued disclosure requirements about the fair value of financial instruments which are to be applied in interim period financial statements, in addition to the existing requirements for annual periods. The guidance reiterates requirements to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate fair value. Disclosures for earlier periods are not required to be presented for comparative purposes at initial adoption. The guidance was effective for the Company’s interim period ended June 30, 2009 and adoption did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements (see Note 7 – Indebtedness).

In June, 2009, the FASB issued guidance for subsequent events which establishes general standards of accounting and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued and requires disclosure of the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events and whether that was the date the financial statements were issued or available to be issued. In February 2010, the FASB revised the guidance to remove the requirement for SEC filers to disclose the date through which the subsequent events evaluation has been completed. The guidance became effective for the Company on June 30, 2009 and has been adopted, as revised, without material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In June, 2009, the FASB issued consolidation guidance for variable interest entities (“VIE”). The new consolidation model is a more qualitative assessment of power and economics that considers which entity has the power to direct the activities that “most significantly impact” the VIE’s economic performance and has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be potentially significant to the VIE. The guidance is effective for the Company as of January 1, 2010. The Company does not expect adoption of the guidance to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In July, 2009, the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“Codification”) became the source of authoritative GAAP recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities. Rules and interpretive releases of the SEC under authority of federal securities laws are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants. On the effective date, the Codification superseded all then-existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards. Codification was effective for the Company July 1, 2009, and was adopted without material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In August, 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2009-05 Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures - Measuring Liabilities at Fair Value which amends Subtopic 820-10. This update provides clarification that in circumstances in which a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability is not available, a reporting entity is required to measure fair value using one or more of certain techniques including alternative quoted prices and valuation techniques consistent with the principles of Subtopic 820. This update also clarifies that when estimating the fair value of a liability, a reporting entity is not required to include a separate input or adjustment to other inputs relating to the existence of a restriction that prevents the transfer of the liability. In addition, this update clarifies that both a quoted price in an active market for the identical liability at the measurement date and the quoted price for the identical liability when traded as an asset in an active market when no adjustments to the quoted price of the asset are required are Level 1 fair value measurements. The amendments in this update were effective in the interim period ended September 30, 2009, and was adopted without material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In October, 2009, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No. 2009-13 to Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements. This update provides amendments to the criteria in Subtopic 605-25 for separating consideration in multiple-deliverable arrangements. As a result of those amendments, multiple-deliverable arrangements will be separated in more circumstances than under existing U.S. GAAP. The update also addresses how to measure and allocate arrangement consideration to one or more units of accounting. The amendments in this update will be effective for the Company prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified on or after January 1, 2011. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

NOTE 3—PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company’s property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     December 31,  
     2009     2008  

Land

   $ 38,084      $ 38,084   

Buildings and leasehold improvements

     261,950        234,102   

Clinical equipment and furniture

     421,039        386,803   

Construction in progress

     51,730        50,155   
                
     772,803        709,144   

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (367,875     (298,896
                
   $ 404,928      $ 410,248   
                

Amounts recorded as construction in progress at December 31, 2009 and 2008 primarily relate to construction costs incurred in the development of cancer centers for the Company’s affiliated practices. Interest costs incurred during the construction of major capital additions, primarily cancer centers, is capitalized. Capitalized interest for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $1.2 million, $1.1 million, and $1.0 million, respectively.

Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $81.3 million, $81.8 million, and $74.1 million, respectively.

NOTE 4—FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

The accounting standard which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements became effective January 1, 2009, at which time the Company prospectively adopted the standard with respect to non-financial assets and liabilities measured on a non-recurring basis. The application of the fair value framework established by the standard to these fair value measurements on a non-recurring basis, which would include goodwill (generally as a result of an impairment assessment), did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements as there was no fair value measurement recorded for goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2009. The provisions of the standard related to assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis (at least annually) were effective a year earlier. As a result, the standard was applied to the Company’s disclosures regarding its interest rate swap liability beginning January 1, 2008.

Disclosures are required that categorize assets and liabilities measured at fair value into one of three different levels depending on the observability of the inputs employed in the measurement. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs are observable inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly through market-corroborated inputs. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability reflecting our assumptions about pricing by market participants. The Company classifies assets and liabilities in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company’s methodology for categorizing assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value pursuant to this hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and the lowest level to unobservable inputs.

Liabilities consist of the Company’s interest rate swap (see Note 8 – Derivative Financial Instruments), only, which are valued using models based on readily observable market parameters for all substantial terms of the derivative contract and, therefore, are classified as Level 2. Under the interest rate swap, the Company pays a fixed rate of 4.97% and receives a floating rate based on the six-month LIBOR on a notional amount of $425.0 million. The floating rate is set at the start of each semi-annual interest period with the final interest settlement date on March 15, 2012. The fair value of the interest rate swap is estimated based upon the expected future cash settlements, as reported by the counterparty, using observable market information. The most significant factors in estimating the value of the interest rate swap is the assumption made regarding the future interest rates that will be used to establish the variable rate payments to be received by the Company and the discount rate used to determine the present value of those estimated future payments. The Company considers both counterparty credit risk and its own credit risk when estimating the fair market value of the interest rate swap. Because of negative differential

 

107


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

between the current (and projected) LIBOR rate and the fixed interest rate paid by the Company, which results in a net liability position, as well as the counterparty’s credit rating, counterparty credit risk is assessed to be minimal and did not impact the fair value of the interest rate swap. The Company also assesses its own credit risk in the valuation of its obligation under the interest rate swap using Company-specific market information. The most significant market information considered was the credit spread between the Holdings Notes (exchange notes registered with the SEC in 2007), an instrument with a similar credit profile and term as the interest rate swap, and the like term treasury spread (as an estimate of a risk free rate). As a result of evaluating the Company’s nonperformance risk, the estimated fair value of the interest rate swap was reduced by $3.4 million and $10.8 million during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. An increase in future LIBOR rates of 1.00 percent would increase (in the Company’s favor) the fair value of the interest rate swap by $7.4 million and a decrease in future interest rates of 1.00 percent would negatively impact its fair value by the same amount. As of December 31, 2009, $69.0 million of the Company’s indebtedness remains exposed to changes in variable interest rates. As such, movements that favorably impact the fair market value of the interest rate swap will increase the interest expense associated with our indebtedness that remains subject to variable interest rate risk.

The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2009 (in thousands).

 

     Fair Value as of
December 31, 2009
   Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)

Assets

   $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —  

Liabilities

           

Other accrued liabilities

     17,742      —        17,742      —  

Other long-term liabilities

     15,204      —        15,204      —  
                           

Total

   $ 32,946    $ —      $ 32,946    $ —  
                           

NOTE 5—INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND GOODWILL

The following table summarizes changes in the Company’s service agreement, customer relationship intangible assets and goodwill from December 31, 2006 to December 31, 2009 (in thousands):

 

     Service
Agreements, net
    Customer
Relationships, net
    Goodwill (1), (2)  

Balance at December 31, 2006

   $ 240,100      $ 4,740      $ 757,870   

Practice affiliations and other additions, net

     7,573        —          —     

Impairment charges

     (9,339     —          —     

Amortization expense and other

     (14,484     (498     (600
                        

Balance at December 31, 2007

     223,850        4,242        757,270   

Practice affiliations and other additions, net

     70,806        —          —     

Impairment charges

     —          —          (380,000

Amortization expense and other

     (21,010     (499     —     
                        

Balance at December 31, 2008

     273,646        3,743        377,270   

Practice affiliations and other additions, net

     4,730        —          —     

Impairment charges

     (150     —          —     

Amortization expense and other

     (26,829     (499     —     
                        

Balance at December 31, 2009

   $ 251,397      $ 3,244      $ 377,270   
                        

Average of straight-line based amortization period in years as of December 31, 2009

     12        10        n/a   

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

(1)

Changes in goodwill noted in the table above impacted the Company's reporting segments as follows:

 

     Medical Oncology
Services
    Cancer Center Services     Pharmaceutical Services    Total  

December 31, 2006

   $ 409,322      $ 191,615      $ 156,933    $ 757,870   

Other adjustments

     (409     (191     —        (600
                               

December 31, 2007

     408,913        191,424        156,933      757,270   

Impairment charges

     (380,000     —          —        (380,000
                               

December 31, 2008

     28,913        191,424        156,933      377,270   
                               

December 31, 2009

   $ 28,913      $ 191,424      $ 156,933    $ 377,270   
                               

 

(2)

The following components represent net goodwill for the periods listed as follows:

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Balance at January 1

      

Goodwill

   $ 757,270      $ 757,270      $ 757,870   

Accumulated impairment loss

     (380,000     —          —     
                        

Goodwill, net

     377,270        757,270        757,870   

Other adjustments

     —          —          (600

Impairment losses

     —          (380,000     —     
                        

Balance at December 31

      

Goodwill

     757,270        757,270        757,270   

Accumulated impairment loss

     (380,000     (380,000     —     
                        

Goodwill, net

   $ 377,270      $ 377,270      $ 757,270   
                        

As of December 31, 2009, goodwill associated with the Medical Oncology Services, Cancer Center Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments was $28.9 million, $191.4 million and $157.0 million, respectively. The carrying values of goodwill and service agreements are subject to impairment tests on at least an annual basis and more frequently if events or circumstances arise that indicate the recorded value of goodwill may not be recoverable. In our most recent annual assessment, during the fourth quarter of 2009, we estimated that the fair values of our Medical Oncology Services, Cancer Center Services and Pharmaceutical Services segments exceeded their carrying values by approximately $142.0 million, $47.0 million and $445.0 million, respectively. The Company’s practice has been to perform its annual assessment of goodwill for each operating segment during the fourth quarter and to complete the assessment in connection with preparation of its year-end financial statements. The Company considers its operating segments to which goodwill has been allocated, Medical Oncology Services, Cancer Center Services and Pharmaceutical Services, to be the reporting units subject to impairment review.

In connection with the preparation of the financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2008, and as a result of the decline in the financial performance of the medical oncology services segment, the Company assessed the recoverability of goodwill related to that segment. During the year ended December 31, 2007, the financial performance of the medical oncology segment was negatively impacted by reduced coverage for ESAs as a result of revised product labeling issued by the FDA and coverage restrictions imposed by CMS. Goodwill was tested for impairment during both the three months ended September 30, 2007 and December 31, 2007 and no impairment was identified. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, additional price increases from pharmaceutical manufacturers of ESAs and additional safety concerns related to the use of ESAs continued to result in reduced utilization by affiliated physicians and adversely impact both current and projected operating results for the medical oncology services segment. On March 13, 2008, the ODAC met to consider safety concerns related to the use of these drugs in oncology and recommended further restrictions. These factors, along with a lower market valuation at March 31, 2008 resulting from unstable credit markets, led the Company to recognize a non-cash goodwill impairment charge in the amount of $380.0 million related to its medical oncology services segment during the three months ended March 31, 2008. The impairment charge is not expected to result in future cash expenditures. Further, the charge was a non-cash item that did not impact the financial covenants of US Oncology’s senior secured credit facility. There were no impairments identified for the year ended December 31, 2009. However, future adverse changes in actual or anticipated operating results, as well as unfavorable changes in economic factors and market multiples used to estimate the fair value of the Company, could result in future non-cash impairment charges.

When an impairment is identified, as was the case for the three months ended March 31, 2008, an impairment charge is necessary to state the carrying value of goodwill at its implied fair value, based upon a hypothetical purchase price allocation assuming the segment was acquired for its estimated fair value. With the assistance of a third party valuation firm, the fair value of the medical oncology services segment was estimated by considering the segment’s recent and expected financial performance as well as a market analysis of transactions involving comparable entities for which public information

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

is available. Determining the implied fair value of goodwill also requires the identification and valuation of intangible assets that have either increased in value or have been created through the Company’s initiatives and investments since the goodwill was initially recognized. In connection with assessing the impairment charge in 2008, the Company identified previously unrecognized intangible assets, as well as increases to the fair value of the recognized management service agreement intangible assets, which amounted to approximately $160 million in the aggregate. Value assigned to these intangible assets reduced the amount attributable to goodwill in a hypothetical purchase price allocation and, consequently, increased the impairment charge necessary to state goodwill at its implied fair value by a like amount. In accordance with GAAP, these increases in the fair value of other intangible assets were not recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2008.

During 2008, additions to service agreements of $70.8 million (consideration of $39.2 million in cash, $34.3 million in notes and $0.3 million in equity less $3.0 million accrued in 2007) included affiliation transactions with 75 physicians under contracts with remaining terms between 10 and 20 years. During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company impaired service agreement intangibles with a carrying value of $9.3 million (see Note 6 “Impairments and Restructuring Charges”).

Accumulated amortization relating to service agreements was $73.4 million and $52.6 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Customer relationships, net, are classified as Other Assets in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The amortization expense of amortizable intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $21.5 million, $20.7 million and $15.0 million, respectively, and the estimated amortization expense for the five succeeding years is approximately $20 million per year.

NOTE 6—IMPAIRMENT AND RESTRUCTURING CHARGES

During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company recognized impairment and restructuring charges of $8.5 million, $384.9 million and $15.1 million, respectively. The components of the charges are as follows (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31,
     2009    2008    2007

Goodwill

   $ —      $ 380,000    $ —  

Severance costs

     6,093      3,891      —  

Service agreements, net

     150      —        9,339

Property and equipment, net

     985      —        4,974

Future lease obligations

     1,257      950      792

Other

     19      88      21
                    

Total

   $ 8,504    $ 384,929    $ 15,126
                    

During 2009, the Company recorded $6.1 million of severance charges primarily related to certain corporate personnel which include $4.1 million related to benefits payable to its former Executive Chairman. These charges will be paid through the fourth quarter of 2011. Also during 2009, an unamortized service agreement intangible was impaired for $0.2 million related to a practice that converted from a comprehensive strategic alliance model to a targeted physician services relationship. In connection with the Company’s evaluation of growth strategies during the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company determined that it would cease operations of Oncology Reimbursement Solutions, its centralized billing and collection service. As a result, the Company recognized restructuring charges of $2.3 million related to employee severance payments, vacating leased office space and impairment of certain fixed assets. Payments on the liability for the terminated lease will be made through 2017.

During the three months ended March 31, 2008, the Company recorded an impairment of its goodwill related to the Medical Oncology services segment of $380.0 million (see Note 5 “Intangible Assets and Goodwill”). Also, during 2008, charges of $4.8 million were recognized primarily related to employee severance and lease termination fees for which payment was made by the end of the fourth quarter of 2009.

 

110


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

During 2007, the Company recognized impairment and restructuring charges amounting to $7.4 million in two markets. In the first of these two markets (during the three months ended September 30, 2006), state regulators reversed a prior determination and ruled that, under the state’s certificate of need law, the affiliated practice was required to cease providing radiation therapy services to patients at a newly constructed cancer center. The Company appealed this determination, however, during the three months ended March 31, 2007, efforts had not advanced sufficiently, and, therefore, the resumption of radiation services or other means to recover the investment were not considered likely. Consequently, an impairment charge of $1.6 million was recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2007. During the three months ended March 31, 2008, the Company received a ruling in its appeal, which mandated a rehearing by the state agency. The state agency conducted a rehearing and issued a new ruling upholding the practice’s right to provide radiation services. That decision was appealed, and the appellants also sought a stay of the state’s decision. The request for a stay was denied in July 2008 while the appeal is still pending. As a result, the practice resumed diagnostic services in September, 2008 and radiation services in February, 2009.

In the second market, financial performance deteriorated as a result of an excessive cost structure relative to practice revenue. During the three months ended March 31, 2007, the Company recorded impairment and restructuring charges of $5.8 million because, based on anticipated operating results, it did not expect that practice performance would be sufficient to recover the value of certain assets and the intangible asset associated with the management service agreement.

Also during the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company agreed to terminate comprehensive service agreements with two practices previously affiliated with it and to instead contract with them under the targeted physician services model. Impairment and restructuring charges of $7.7 million was recognized related to these practices, which relate primarily to a $5.0 million write-off of service agreement intangible assets, where the comprehensive service agreement was terminated in connection with the conversions. Also included in the impairment charge is $2.5 million related to assets operated by the practices, which represents the excess of our carrying value over the acquisition price paid by the practices.

NOTE 7—INDEBTEDNESS

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company’s long-term indebtedness consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     December 31,  
     2009     2008  

US Oncology, Inc.

    

9.125% Senior Secured Notes, due 2017

   $ 759,680      $ —     

Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility

     —          —     

Senior Secured Credit Facility

     —          436,666   

9.0% Senior Notes, due 2012

     —          300,000   

10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2014

     275,000        275,000   

9.625% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2012

     3,000        3,000   

Subordinated notes

     25,945        34,956   

Mortgages, capital lease obligations and other

     21,242        22,188   
                
     1,084,867        1,071,810   

Less current maturities

     (10,579     (10,677
                
   $ 1,074,288      $ 1,061,133   
                

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

    

Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes, due 2012

     493,954        456,751   
                
   $ 1,568,242      $ 1,517,884   
                

 

111


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Future principal obligations under US Oncology’s and Holdings’ long-term indebtedness as of December 31, 2009, are as follows (in thousands):

 

     2010    2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter

US Oncology payments due

   $ 10,579    $ 7,877    $ 8,174    $ 8,215    $ 282,600    $ 782,741

Holdings payments due

     —        —        493,954      —        —        —  

As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology, Inc. and US Oncology Holdings, Inc. were in compliance with the covenants of their indebtedness.

Senior Secured Credit Facility

At December 31, 2008, the senior secured credit facility consisted of a $160.0 million revolving credit facility and $436.7 million outstanding under a term loan facility. In June 2009, the term loan portion of the facility, in the amount of $436.7 million, was repaid with proceeds from the 9.125% Senior Secured Notes described below. In August 2009, the revolving credit portion of the facility was replaced with the new Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility described below.

Senior Notes

As of December 31, 2008, the Company had $300.0 million in 9.0% senior notes outstanding. These notes, which were scheduled to mature on August 15, 2012, were redeemed with proceeds from the 9.125% Senior Secured Notes described below.

Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt

During 2009 the Company recognized a $25.1 million loss on early extinguishment of debt, as detailed below.

In the second quarter of 2009 and primarily in connection with issuing the Senior Secured Notes and refinancing the Term Loan facility and 9.0% Senior Notes, the Company recognized a $22.4 million loss which is primarily related to payment of a 2.25 percent call premium and call period interest on the Senior Notes and the write-off of unamortized issuance costs related to the retired Senior Notes and the senior secured credit facility.

In the third quarter of 2009 and in connection with replacing the revolving credit portion of the senior secured credit facility, the Company recognized a $3.7 million loss related to the write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs and transaction costs associated with terminating the facility.

In the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company recognized a $0.9 million gain related to the forgiveness of a portion of subordinated notes owed to a physician practice due to the disaffiliation of one of its physicians.

Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility

On August 26, 2009, US Oncology terminated its previous senior secured credit facility and entered into a $120.0 million Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility, including a letter of credit sub-facility and a swingline loan sub-facility, which matures on August 31, 2012. At December 31, 2009, availability had been reduced by outstanding letters of credit amounting to $30.4 million and $89.6 million was available for borrowing. At December 31, 2009, no amounts had been borrowed under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility.

The Company incurred $4.2 million in transaction expenses related to the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility which are included as Other Assets in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2009 and is being amortized into interest expense on a straight-line basis over the three year term of the facility.

Borrowings under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the Company’s option, either (a) a base rate determined by reference to the higher of (1) the prime rate of Deutsche Bank, (b) the one month LIBO rate plus 1% and (3) the federal funds effective rate plus  1/2 of 1% or (b) a LIBO rate determined by reference to the costs of funds for U.S. dollar deposits for the interest period relevant to such borrowing, in each case plus an applicable

 

112


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

margin. The applicable margin is 3.50% with respect to base rate borrowings and 4.50% with respect to LIBO rate borrowings. The Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility is guaranteed on a senior secured basis by the Company’s wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries and is secured on a first lien priority basis (subject to certain exceptions and permitted liens) by substantially all the tangible and intangible assets and properties of the Company and such guarantors.

On the last business day of each calendar quarter, the Company is required to pay each lender a commitment fee in respect of any unused commitment under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility. The commitment fee is 1.00% annually.

The Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility requires the Company to comply, on a quarterly basis, with certain financial covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio test, which is our most restrictive covenant and becomes more restrictive over time. Upon maturity in August 2012, the maximum leverage ratio will be 6.00:1. At December 31, 2009, the Company was required to maintain a maximum leverage ratio of no more than 7.00:1. As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology’s actual leverage ratio was 4.70:1.

In addition, the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility includes various negative covenants, including with respect to indebtedness, dividends, liens, investments, permitted businesses and transactions and other matters, as well as certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default, including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, cross defaults to certain indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy, certain events under ERISA, material judgments, actual or asserted failure of any guaranty or security document supporting the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility to be in full force and effect and change of control. If such an event of default occurs, the lenders under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.

9.125% Senior Secured Notes

On June 18, 2009, US Oncology issued $775.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes due August 15, 2017 (the “Senior Secured Notes”) in a private offering to institutional investors. Interest on the notes accrues at a fixed rate of 9.125% per annum and are payable semi-annually in arrears on February 15 and August 15, commencing on August 15, 2009. As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology’s Consolidated Balance Sheet included $759.7 million of debt outstanding which reflects the $775.0 million principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes net of an unamortized original issue discount in the amount of $15.3 million. During the year ended December 31, 2009, interest expense on the Senior Secured Notes was $38.3 million.

These notes are senior secured obligations of US Oncology and rank equally in right of payment with all of the Company’s and the guarantors’ existing and future senior indebtedness. Indebtedness under the Senior Secured Notes is guaranteed by all of US Oncology’s current restricted subsidiaries (see Note 17 – Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors and Non-Subsidiary Guarantors) and all of US Oncology’s future restricted subsidiaries, and is secured by a second-priority security interest, subject to permitted liens, in substantially all of US Oncology’s existing and future real and personal property, including accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, intellectual property, investment property, cash and a first priority pledge of US Oncology’s capital stock and the capital stock of the guarantor subsidiaries, subject to certain limitations.

US Oncology has the right to redeem some or all of the Senior Secured Notes prior to August 15, 2013 at a price equal to 100.0% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest and a “make whole” premium. Thereafter, the Company may redeem some or all of the notes at the redemption prices set forth below:

 

Redemption period

   Price  

On or after August 15, 2013 and prior to August 15, 2014

   104.560

On or after August 15, 2014 and prior to August 15, 2015

   102.280

On or after August 15, 2015

   100.000

In addition, prior to August 15, 2012, US Oncology may redeem up to a maximum of 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the senior secured notes, including any additional notes subsequently issued, with the net proceeds of certain equity offerings at a redemption price of 109.125% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, provided that, if the equity offering is an offering by Holdings, a portion of the net cash proceeds thereof equal to the amount required to redeem any such notes is contributed to the equity capital of US Oncology or used to acquire capital stock of US Oncology, subject to certain limitations.

 

113


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology issued the Senior Secured Notes pursuant to an indenture dated June 18, 2009 between US Oncology and a Trustee. Among other provisions, the indenture contains certain covenants that limit the ability of US Oncology and certain of its restricted subsidiaries to incur additional debt, pay dividends on, redeem or repurchase capital stock, make certain investments, enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates, engage in unrelated businesses, incur certain liens and sell certain assets or merge with or into other companies.

US Oncology may be obligated (based on certain thresholds) to make prepayment offers on the Senior Secured Notes of up to 100% of “allocable excess proceeds”, as defined by the notes indenture, from certain asset sales. In addition, the Senior Secured Notes include various negative covenants, including with respect to indebtedness, liens, investments, permitted businesses and transactions and other matters, as well as certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default, including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant defaults, cross defaults to certain indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy, certain events under ERISA, material judgments, actual or asserted failure of any guaranty or security document supporting the Senior Secured Notes to be in full force and effect and change of control. If such an event of default occurs, the lenders under the Senior Secured Notes are entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the Senior Secured Notes and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.

In connection with the issuance of the Senior Secured Notes, the Company entered into a Purchase Agreement providing for the initial sale of the Senior Secured Notes and a Registration Rights Agreement with respect to registration rights for the benefit of the holders of the Senior Secured Notes. The Registration Rights Agreement required that US Oncology and the guarantors file an exchange offer registration statement with the SEC not later than 120 days and use their reasonable best efforts to cause the registration statement to become effective within 210 days from the Senior Secured Notes closing date of June 18, 2009. If US Oncology and the guarantors did not comply with its obligations under the Registration Rights Agreement, the interest rate on the notes would increase by 0.25% for each 90 day period US Oncology did not comply with these obligations, not to exceed 1.0%. Pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, the exchange offer registration statement was filed with the SEC on October 15, 2009, subsequently amended and declared effective on November 3, 2009. The Company completed the exchange offer during the fourth quarter of 2009 and did not incur any increased interest under the Registration Rights Agreement.

The Company incurred $17.5 million in transaction expenses related to the Senior Secured Notes offering which are included as Other Assets in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2009 and will be amortized into interest expense on a straight-line basis over the eight year term of the notes. Proceeds from the offering of approximately $744.4 million, along with cash on hand, were used to repay the $436.7 million senior secured credit facility maturing in 2010 and 2011 and the $300 million 9.0% Senior Notes due 2012.

10.75 % Senior Subordinated Notes

On August 20, 2004, the Company sold $275.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014.

The 10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes mature on August 15, 2014 and bear interest at a fixed rate of 10.75% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on February 15 and August 15. The senior subordinated notes are unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally and on an unsecured senior subordinated basis, by most of the Company’s subsidiaries.

On and after August 15, 2009, the Company is entitled at its option to redeem all or a portion of the Senior Subordinated Notes at the following redemption prices (expressed in percentages of principal amount on the redemption date), plus accrued interest to the redemption date, if redeemed during the 12-month period ending on August 15 of the years set forth below:

 

Redemption period

   Price  

On or after August 15, 2009 and prior to August 15, 2010

   105.375

On or after August 15, 2010 and prior to August 15, 2011

   103.583

On or after August 15, 2011 and prior to August 15, 2012

   101.792

On or after August 15, 2013

   100.000

 

114


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

The Company is not required to make any mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with respect to the Senior Subordinated Notes. However, upon the occurrence of any change of control of the Company, each holder of Senior Subordinated Notes shall have the right to require the Company to repurchase such holder’s notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof on the date of purchase plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of purchase.

The indentures governing the Senior Subordinated Notes contain customary events of default and affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, limit the Company’s ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, pay dividends or make other equity distributions, purchase or redeem capital stock, make certain investments, enter into arrangements that restrict dividends from subsidiaries, transfer and sell assets, engage in certain transactions with affiliates and effect a consolidation or merger.

9.625% Senior Subordinated Notes

US Oncology has senior subordinated notes with an original aggregate principal amount of $175.0 million maturing February 2012. Interest on these notes accrues at a fixed rate of 9.625% per annum payable semi-annually in arrears on each February 1 and August 1 to the holders of record of such notes as of each January 15 and July 15 prior to each such respective payment date.

In August 2004, US Oncology commenced a tender offer to acquire the outstanding 9.625% senior subordinated notes due 2012, obtain holder consents to eliminate substantially all of the restrictive covenants and make other amendments to the indenture governing such notes. The Company acquired $172.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Company’s existing 9.625% senior subordinated notes.

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated notes were issued to certain physicians with whom the Company entered into service agreements. Substantially all of the subordinated notes outstanding at December 31, 2009 bear interest from 6% to 7%, are due in installments through 2013 and are subordinated to senior bank and certain other debt. During the year ended December 31, 2009, $0.1 million in subordinated notes were issued in affiliation transactions. If the Company fails to make payments under any of the notes, the respective practice can terminate its service agreement with the Company.

Mortgages and Capital Lease Obligations

In January, 2005, the Company incurred mortgage indebtedness of $13.1 million to finance the acquisition of real estate and construction of a cancer center. The mortgage debt bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 6.2% on $8.5 million of the initial balance and the remaining balance bears interest at a variable rate equal to the 30-day LIBOR plus 2.15%. The Company pays monthly installments of principal and interest and the mortgage matures in January, 2015. In December 2006, the Company incurred an additional $4.5 million to finance the acquisition of real estate and construction of a cancer center. This mortgage debt bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 7.25% on $2.9 million of the initial balance and the remaining balance bears interest at a variable rate equal to the 30-day LIBOR plus 2.15%. The Company pays monthly installments of principal and interest and the mortgage matures in December 2016. In April 2008, the Company incurred an additional $4.0 million to finance the acquisition of real estate and construction of a cancer center. This mortgage debt bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 6.25%. The Company pays monthly installments of principal and interest and the mortgage matures in May, 2018. As of December 31, 2009, the outstanding indebtedness on total mortgages was $18.4 million.

Leases for medical and office space, which meet the criteria for capitalization, are capitalized using effective interest rates between 8.0% and 12.0% with original lease terms up to 20 years. As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, capitalized lease obligations were approximately $2.2 million and $2.6 million and relate to cancer centers in which the Company is the sole tenant.

 

115


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Holdings Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes

On March 13, 2007, Holdings issued $425.0 million aggregate principal amount of Senior Unsecured Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes due 2012 (the “Notes”) in a private offering to institutional investors. In connection with the issuance of the Notes, Holdings entered into a Purchase Agreement providing for the initial sale of the Notes and a Registration Rights Agreement with respect to registration rights for the benefit of the holders of the Notes. As required under the Registration Rights Agreement, the exchange offer was completed within 240 days after issuance of the Notes.

Holdings may elect to pay interest on the Notes entirely in cash, by increasing the principal amount of the Notes (“PIK interest”), or by paying 50% in cash and 50% by increasing the principal amount of the Notes. Cash interest accrues on the Notes at a rate per annum equal to six-month LIBOR plus the applicable spread. PIK interest accrues on the Notes at a rate per annum equal to the cash interest rate plus 0.75%. LIBOR is reset semiannually. The Company must make an election regarding whether subsequent interest payments will be made in cash or through PIK interest prior to the start of the applicable interest period. The applicable spread of 4.50% was increased by 0.50% on March 15, 2009 and will increase by another 0.50% on March 15, 2010. A portion of the impact of the spread increases has been recognized in interest expense as they are amortized over the term of the Notes. The Notes mature on March 15, 2012. Simultaneously with the financing, Holdings entered into an interest rate swap fixing the LIBOR base interest on the Notes at 4.97% throughout their term. The initial interest payment due September 15, 2007 was made in cash. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company elected to PIK interest on the Holdings Notes and total interest expense was $38.3 million, $43.7 million and $42.2 million, respectively, which includes cash or PIK interest, as well as interest related to future spread increases and the amortization of debt issuance costs.

Holdings may redeem all or any of the Notes at the redemption prices set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date:

 

Redemption period

   Price  

On or after September 15, 2009 and prior to September 15, 2010

   101.0

On or after September 15, 2010

   100.0

Because Holdings’ principal asset is its investment in US Oncology, US Oncology provides funds to service Holdings’ indebtedness through payment of dividends to Holdings. US Oncology’s senior secured notes and senior subordinated notes limit its ability to make restricted payments from US Oncology, including dividends paid by US Oncology to Holdings. As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology has the ability to make approximately $26.5 million in restricted payments, which amount increases based on capital contributions to US Oncology, Inc. and by 50 percent of US Oncology’s net income and is reduced by i) the amount of any restricted payments made and ii) 50 percent of the net losses of US Oncology, excluding certain non-cash charges such as the $380.0 million goodwill impairment in 2008 and the $25.1 million loss on early extinguishment of debt in 2009. Delaware law also requires that US Oncology be solvent both at the time, and immediately following, a dividend payment to Holdings. Because Holdings relies on dividends from US Oncology to fund cash interest payments on the Holdings Notes, in the event that such restrictions prevent US Oncology from paying such a dividend, Holdings would be unable to pay interest on the notes in cash and would instead be required to pay PIK interest. In connection with issuing the Notes, Holdings entered into an interest rate swap agreement, with a notional amount of $425.0 million, fixing the LIBOR base rate at 4.97% through maturity in 2012 (see Note 4 – Fair Value Measurements). Unlike interest on the Holdings Notes, which may be settled in cash or through the issuance of additional notes, payments due to the swap counterparty must be made in cash. As a result of the current and projected low interest rate environment, and the related expectation that Holdings will continue to be a net payer on the interest rate swap, the Company believes that cash payments for the interest rate swap obligations will reduce the availability under the restricted payments provisions in US Oncology’s indebtedness to a level that additional payments for cash interest for the Holdings Notes may not be prudent and therefore, no longer remain probable. Based on projected LIBOR interest rates as of December 31, 2009, there will be available funds under the restricted payments provision in order to service, at a minimum, the estimated interest rate swap obligations through December 31, 2010. The Company’s semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap increase by $2.1 million for each 1.00% that the fixed interest rate of 4.97% paid to the counterparty exceeds the variable interest rate received from the counterparty. Similarly, the Company’s semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap decrease by $2.1 million when the difference between the fixed interest rate paid to the counterparty and the variable interest rate received from the

 

116


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

counterparty is reduced by 1.00%. In the event amounts available under the restricted payments provision are insufficient for the Company to service interest on the Holdings Notes, including any obligation related to the interest rate swap, the Company may be required to arrange additional financing or a capital infusion and use such proceeds to satisfy these obligations. There can be no assurance that additional financing or a capital infusion, if available, will be made on terms that are acceptable to the Company. The indenture required that the initial interest payment of $21.2 million due September 15, 2007 be made in cash, which was provided by US Oncology, Inc. in the form of a dividend paid to Holdings. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the outstanding principal amounts of the notes were increased by $37.2 million and $31.8 million, respectively, under elections to pay PIK interest. Also, during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, US Oncology paid dividends to Holdings in the amount of $11.1 million and $13.0 million, respectively, to finance interest payments settled in cash and obligations under the interest rate swap.

Holdings issued the Notes pursuant to an Indenture dated March 13, 2007. Among other provisions, the Indenture contains certain covenants that limit the ability of Holdings and certain restricted subsidiaries, including US Oncology, to incur additional debt, pay dividends on, redeem or repurchase capital stock, issue capital stock of restricted subsidiaries, make certain investments, enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates, engage in unrelated businesses, create liens securing the debt of Holdings and sell certain assets or merge with or into other companies.

Fair Value of Notes

The fair value of the Company’s long term indebtedness is estimated based on quoted market prices or prices quoted from third party financial institutions. The carrying amount and fair value of the indebtedness, including the current portion, are as follows:

 

     As of December 31,
     2009    2008
     Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value    Carrying
Amount
   Fair Value
     (in thousands)

9.125% Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 (a)

   $ 775,000    $ 804,063    $ —      $ —  

9.0% Senior Notes, due 2012

     —        —        300,000      273,000

10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, due 2014

     275,000      287,375      275,000      224,125

Holdings Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes, due 2012

     493,954      456,907      456,751      262,632

 

(a)

Does not include $15.3 million unamortized original issue discount balance

Deferred Debt Financing Costs

The carrying value of deferred debt financing costs for US Oncology was $25.9 million and $24.5 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. US Oncology recorded amortization expense related to debt financing costs of $6.6 million, $7.1 million, and $6.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

The incremental carrying value of deferred debt financing costs for Holdings was $5.3 million and $7.7 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Holdings recorded amortization expense related to debt financing costs of $2.4 million, $2.4 million and $2.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

NOTE 8DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Holdings has entered into derivative financial agreements for the purpose of hedging risks relating to the variability of cash flows caused by movements in interest rates. The Company documents its risk management strategy and hedge effectiveness at the inception of the hedge, and, unless the instrument qualifies for the short-cut method of hedge accounting, over the term of each hedging relationship. Holdings’ use of derivative financial instruments has historically been limited to interest rate swaps, the purpose of which is to hedge the cash flows of variable-rate indebtedness. Holdings does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivatives that have been designated and qualify as cash flow hedging instruments are reported at fair value. The gain or loss on the effective portion of the hedge is initially reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) in

 

117


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Holdings’ Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity. The gain or loss that does not effectively hedge the identified exposure, if any, is recognized currently in earnings. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified into net income in the same period in which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings.

When it is determined that a derivative has ceased to be a highly effective hedge or when a hedge is de-designated, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively. When hedge accounting is discontinued for cash flow hedges, the derivative asset or liability remains on the consolidated balance sheet at its fair value, and gains and losses that were recorded as accumulated other comprehensive income are frozen and amortized to earnings as the hedged transaction affects income unless it becomes probable that the hedged transactions will not occur. If it becomes probable that a hedged transaction will not occur, amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to earnings when that determination is made.

In connection with issuing the Notes, Holdings entered into an interest rate swap agreement, with a notional amount of $425.0 million, fixing the LIBOR base rate at 4.97% through maturity in 2012. The swap agreement was initially designated as a cash flow hedge against the variability of cash future interest payments on the Notes. Due to the uncertainty regarding the impact of reduced Medicare coverage for ESA’s, the Company elected to pay interest in kind on the Notes for the semiannual period ending March 15, 2008. Based on its financial projections, which included the adverse impact of reduced ESA coverage, and due to limitations on the amount of restricted payments that will be available to service the Notes, the Company no longer believed that payment of cash interest on the entire principal of the outstanding Notes remained probable. As a result of these circumstances, the Company discontinued cash flow hedge accounting for this interest rate swap effective September 30, 2007. Subsequent to discontinuation of hedge accounting, the Company recognized all unrealized gains and losses in earnings, rather than deferring such amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income. As a result of discontinuing cash flow hedge accounting for this instrument, Holdings recognized an unrealized loss of $13.1 million, $19.9 million and $11.9 million related to the interest rate swap as Other Expense in its Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

At December 31, 2007, accumulated other comprehensive income included $1.5 million related to the interest rate swap which represents the activity while the instrument was designated as a cash flow hedge that was associated with future interest payments that could not be considered probable of not occurring. For interest periods beginning March 15, 2008, and thereafter, cash interest payments on Notes with a principal amount of $225.0 million could not be considered probable of not occurring as of December 31, 2007. This amount was based upon the principal amount of Notes on which cash interest was expected to be paid, taking into consideration approximately $22.7 million incremental Notes issued for the semiannual interest payment due March 15, 2008. As a result of the current and projected low interest rate environment, and the related expectation that payments due on the interest rate swap will increase, the Company believes that cash payments for interest rate swap obligations will reduce the availability under the restricted payments provisions in US Oncology’s indebtedness to a level that additional payments for cash interest for the Holdings Notes no longer remain probable. As a result, at December 31, 2008 all amounts previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income related to interest rate swap activity while that instrument was designated as a cash flow hedge (amounting to $0.8 million, net of tax) were reclassified to Other Income (Expense), Net in the consolidated statement of income for US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

The following is a summary of the changes in the net loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for Holdings (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
2008
 

Balance, beginning of year

   $ (2,435

Net loss during the year

     —     

Amounts reclassified to earnings

     2,435   
        

Unrealized loss

     —     

Deferred income taxes on unrealized loss

     —     
        

Balance, end of year

   $ —     
        

 

118


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

NOTE 9—INCOME TAXES

The Company’s income tax provision (benefit) consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Federal:

            

Current

   $ —        $ (7,328   $ (7,755   $ —        $ 2,635      $ 3,893   

Deferred

     (149     (10,530     (11,177     763        2,371        1,359   

State:

            

Current

     2,770        1,621        1,997        2,770        1,621        2,562   

Deferred

     (4,722     (686     (512     (1,940     (276     (367
                                                

Income tax provision (benefit)

   $ (2,101   $ (16,923   $ (17,447   $ 1,593      $ 6,351      $ 7,447   
                                                

The effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ (50,105   $ (426,133   $ (48,801   $ 1,603      $ (360,815   $ 18,252   

Less: Income before income taxes attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619     (3,586     (3,324     (3,619
                                                

Income (loss) before income taxes attributable to the Company

     (53,691     (429,457     (52,420     (1,983     (364,139     14,633   
                                                

Income tax provision (benefit) attributable to the Company

   $ (2,101   $ (16,923   $ (17,447   $ 1,593      $ 6,351      $ 7,447   
                                                

Effective tax rate

     3.9     3.9     33.3     -80.3     -1.7     50.9
                                                

The difference between the effective tax rate for Holdings and US Oncology relates primarily to incremental expenses associated with Holdings’ separate capitalization and general and administrative expenses incurred by Holdings. These differences increase Holdings’ taxable loss and, consequently, alter the impact of non-deductible costs and certain state income taxes assessed on a different basis than federal income taxes on its effective tax rate. In addition, because these differences result in Holdings reporting taxable losses for each year in the past three years, a valuation allowance has been established to reduce the net deferred tax asset of Holdings to their estimated realizable value.

The difference between the effective income tax rate and the amount that would be determined by applying the statutory U.S. income tax rate to income (loss) before income taxes is as follows (dollars in thousands):

 

    US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
    Year Ended December 31,     Year Ended December 31,  
    2009     2008     2007     2009     2008     2007  

U.S. statutory income tax (benefit) provision

  $ (18,792   35.0   $ (150,310   35.0   $ (18,347   35.0   $ (694   35.0   $ (127,449   35.0   $ 5,121      35.0

Non-deductible expenses (1)

    949      (1.8     132,626      (30.9     1,065      (2.0     949      (47.8     132,626      (36.4     1,050      7.2   

State income taxes, net of federal benefit (2)

    (1,761   3.3        675      (0.2     105      (0.2     503      (25.4     1,087      (0.3     585      4.0   

Reserve for uncertain tax positions

    619      (1.2     —        —          700      (1.3     619      (31.2     —        —          700      4.8   

Valuation allowance

    16,457      (30.7     —        —          —        —          —        —          —        —          —     

Other

    427      (0.7     86      —          (970   1.8        216      (10.9     87      —          (9   (0.1
                                                                                   

Effective tax (benefit) provision

  $ (2,101   3.9   $ (16,923   3.9   $ (17,447   33.3   $ 1,593      -80.3   $ 6,351      -1.7   $ 7,447      50.9
                                                                                   

 

(1)

The year ended December 31, 2008 includes the impact of a $380 million goodwill impairment charge of which $376.0 million was not deductible for tax purposes. Consequently, there is no tax benefit associated with the majority of the goodwill impairment.

 

(2)

The Texas state margin tax became effective January 1, 2007. Under the Texas margin tax, a Company’s tax obligation is computed based on its receipts less, in the case of the Company, the cost of pharmaceuticals. As such, significant costs which are deductible for income tax purposes of an entity may not be deductible for calculating the margin tax obligation.

 

119


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc. and subsidiaries are included in the consolidated tax return of its parent, US Oncology Holdings, and accounts for income taxes based on the “separate return” method. This method provides that current and deferred taxes are accounted for as if US Oncology were a separate taxpayer. During the year ended December 31, 2008, Holdings contributed tax benefits associated with its taxable losses from the date of the Merger (August 20, 2004) through December 31, 2007 of $22.5 million to US Oncology. These tax benefits have been realized through the utilization of Holdings’ losses in the consolidated tax return of Holdings, which includes its wholly-owned subsidiary, US Oncology and subsidiaries. The forgiveness of this intercompany receivable by Holdings is shown as a contribution of realized tax benefits in US Oncology’s Consolidated Statement of Stockholder’s Equity for the year ended December 31, 2008. During the year ended December 31, 2009, no tax-related capital contributions were recognized by US Oncology, Inc. as its tax liability as stated under the separate return method did not exceed the amount of tax liability ultimately settled by its parent company.

Deferred income taxes are comprised of the following (in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.     US Oncology, Inc.  
     December 31,     December 31,  
     2009     2008     2009     2008  

Deferred tax assets:

        

Net operating loss

   $ 42,074      $ 15,808      $ 7,405      $ 1,269   

Unrealized loss on interest rate swap

     12,380        11,443        —          —     

Allowance for bad debts

     4,386        4,946        4,386        4,946   

Deferred revenue

     1,230        1,511        1,230        1,511   

Debt issue and loan costs

     1,601        1,145        1,601        1,145   

Accrued compensation costs

     2,394        453        2,394        453   

Accrued expenses

     434        294        434        294   

Stock options

     307        206        307        206   

Restricted stock

     575        —          575        —     

Other

     2,654        876        1,190        876   

Deferred tax liabilities:

        

Service agreements and other intangibles

     (41,324     (33,870     (41,324     (33,870

Depreciation

     (7,624     (6,005     (7,624     (6,005

Prepaid expenses

     (1,231     (1,349     (1,231     (1,349

Original issue discount

     (1,975     (1,249     —          —     

Restricted stock

     —          (242     —          (242

Valuation allowance

     (16,457     —          —          —     
                                

Net deferred tax asset (liability)

   $ (576   $ (6,033   $ (30,657   $ (30,766
                                

At December 31, 2009 the Company’s deferred tax assets include a federal net operating loss carryforward (expiring in 2027-2028) of approximately $106.4 million. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management evaluates a variety of factors in considering whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will ultimately be realized. Management considers earnings expectations, the existence of taxable temporary differences, tax planning strategies, and the periods in which estimated losses can be utilized. Based upon this analysis, management has concluded that it is not more likely than not that Holdings will realize the benefits of its deferred tax assets. Accordingly, Holdings has recorded a valuation allowance of $16.5 million against its deferred tax assets.

 

120


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US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company had an accrual for uncertain tax positions of $2.7 million and $2.2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, approximately $1.8 million is expected to settle within twelve months. A reconciliation of the liability for uncertain tax positions is as follows (in thousands):

 

     2009     2008  

Balance at January 1

   $ 2,173      $ 2,270   

Additions for tax positions relating to prior years

     483        97   

Additional interest and penalties

     158        156   

Reductions for tax positions relating to prior years

     —          —     

Settlements with tax authorities

     (68     (350
                

Balance at December 31

   $ 2,746      $ 2,173   
                

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to the liability for uncertain tax positions as income tax expense. The tax years 2006, 2007 and 2008 remain open to examination by the major taxing jurisdictions to which the Company is subject. US Oncology Holdings, Inc., and its subsidiaries, are currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service for the period from January 1, 2004 through August 31, 2004.

NOTE 10—COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Leases

The Company leases office space, certain comprehensive cancer centers and certain equipment under noncancelable operating lease agreements. As of December 31, 2009, total future minimum lease payments, including escalation provisions are as follows (in thousands):

 

     2010    2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter

Payments due

   $ 82,467    $ 73,838    $ 67,417    $ 59,245    $ 51,094    $ 271,471

Rental expense was $105.1 million, $98.5 million, and $89.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

During 2007, the Company became a 50% partner in a joint venture that constructed its new corporate headquarters in The Woodlands, Texas and leased this property from the joint venture. On December 9, 2009, the joint venture sold the property to an unrelated party for $42.0 million. The sale resulted in a gain of $1.0 million, which has been deferred and will be amortized over the remaining term of the lease. The terms of the lease were not changed in connection with the sale.

The Company enters into commitments with various construction companies and equipment suppliers primarily in connection with the development of cancer centers. As of December 31, 2009, the Company’s commitments amounted to approximately $0.5 million.

Guarantees

Beginning January 1, 1997, the Company guaranteed that the amounts retained by the Company’s affiliated practice in Minnesota will amount to a minimum of $5.2 million annually under the terms of the related service agreement, provided that certain targets are met. The Company has not been required to make any payments associated with this guarantee.

Insurance

The Company and its affiliated practices maintain insurance with respect to medical malpractice and associated vicarious liability risks on a claims-made basis in amounts believed to be customary and adequate. The Company is not aware of any outstanding claims or unasserted claims that are likely to be asserted against the Company or its affiliated practices, which would have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.

The Company maintains all other traditional insurance coverage on either a fully insured or high deductible basis, using loss funds for any estimated losses within the retained deductibles.

 

121


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Holdings Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan

In addition to stock-based incentive plans, Holdings has adopted the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. 2004 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan (the “2004 Cash Incentive Plan”). As of December 31, 2007, no amounts were available for payment under the 2004 Cash Incentive Plan. Effective January 1, 2008, the 2004 Cash Incentive Plan was cancelled and the 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan (“2008 Cash Incentive Plan”) was adopted. Under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan, which is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Holdings, management will receive a portion of the enterprise value created as determined by the plan provided that the maximum value that can be paid to management under the plan is limited to $100 million. The value of the awards under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan is based upon financial performance of the Company for the period beginning January 1, 2008 and ending on the earlier of the occurrence of a payment event or December 31, 2012, and will only be paid in the event of an initial public offering or a change of control, provided that all shares of preferred stock, together with accrued dividends, have been redeemed or exchanged for common stock. No events occurred during 2009 that would require a payment under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan.

If any of the payment events described above occur, the Company may incur an additional obligation and compensation expense as a result of such an event. As of December 31, 2009, $12.3 million was available for payment under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan. Because payments of awards under the Plan are based upon occurrence of a specific event, obligations arising under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan will be recognized in the period when a payment event, as discussed above, occurs.

Legal Matters

The Company believes the allegations in suits against it are customary for the size and scope of the Company’s operations. However, adverse judgments, individually or in the aggregate, could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

Assessing the Company’s financial and operational exposure on litigation matters requires the application of substantial subjective judgments and estimates based upon facts and circumstances, resulting in estimates that could change as more information becomes available.

U.S. Attorney Subpoena

On July 29, 2009 the Company received a subpoena from the United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York, seeking documents relating to its contracts and relationships with a pharmaceutical manufacturer and its business and activities relating to that manufacturer’s products. The Company believes that the subpoena relates to an ongoing investigation being conducted by that office regarding the manufacturer’s sales and marketing practices. The Company intends to fully cooperate with the request. At the present time, the U.S. Attorney has not made any allegation of wrongdoing on the part of the Company. However, the Company cannot provide assurance that such an allegation or litigation will not result from this investigation. While the Company believes that it is operating and has operated its business in compliance with the law, including with respect to the matters covered by the subpoena, the Company cannot provide assurance that the U.S. Attorney will not make a determination that wrongdoing has occurred. We have devoted significant resources responding to the subpoena and anticipate that such resources will be required on an ongoing basis to fully respond.

U.S. Department of Justice Subpoena

During the fourth quarter of 2005, the Company received a subpoena from the United States Department of Justice’s Civil Litigation Division (“DOJ”) requesting a broad range of information about the Company and its business, generally in relation to its contracts and relationships with pharmaceutical manufacturers. The Company has cooperated fully with the DOJ in responding to the subpoena. All outstanding document requests from the DOJ were addressed in early 2008, and the Company awaits further direction and feedback from the DOJ. At the present time, the DOJ has not made any allegation of wrongdoing on the part of the Company. However, the Company cannot provide assurance that such an allegation or litigation will not result from this investigation. While the Company believes that it is operating and has operated its business in compliance with the law, including with respect to the matters covered by the subpoena, the Company cannot provide assurance that the DOJ will not make a determination that wrongdoing has occurred. In addition, the Company has devoted significant resources to responding to the DOJ subpoena.

Qui Tam Lawsuits

From time to time, the Company has become aware that the Company and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliated practices have been the subjects of qui tam lawsuits (commonly referred to as “whistle-blower” suits). Because qui tam actions are filed under seal, it is possible that the Company is the subject of other qui tam actions of which it is unaware.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

In previous qui tam suits which the Company has been made aware of, the DOJ has declined to intervene in such suits and the suits have been dismissed. Qui tam suits are brought by private individuals, and there is no minimum evidentiary or legal threshold for bringing such a suit. The DOJ is legally required to investigate the allegations in these suits. The subject matter of many such claims may relate both to alleged actions of the Company and alleged actions of an affiliated practice. Because the affiliated practices are separate legal entities not controlled by the Company, such claims necessarily involve a more complicated, higher cost defense, and may adversely impact the relationship between the Company and the practices. If the individuals who file complaints and/or the United States were to prevail in these claims against the Company, and the magnitude of the alleged wrongdoing were determined to be significant, the resulting judgment could have a material adverse financial and operational effect on the Company, including potential limitations in future participation in governmental reimbursement programs. In addition, addressing complaints and government investigations requires the Company to devote significant financial and other resources to the process, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the claims.

Other Litigation

The provision of medical services by the Company’s affiliated practices entails an inherent risk of professional liability claims. The Company does not control the practice of medicine by the clinical staff or their compliance with regulatory and other requirements directly applicable to practices. In addition, because the practices purchase and prescribe pharmaceutical products, they face the risk of product liability claims. In addition, because of licensing requirements and affiliated practices’ participation in governmental healthcare programs, the Company and affiliated practices are, from time to time, subject to governmental audits and investigations, as well as internally initiated audits, some of which may result in refunds to governmental programs. Although the Company and its affiliated practices maintain insurance coverage, successful malpractice, regulatory or product liability claims asserted against the Company or one of its affiliated practices, in excess of insurance coverage, could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

The Company and its network physicians are defendants in a number of lawsuits involving employment and other disputes and breach of contract claims. In addition, the Company is involved from time to time in disputes with, and claims by, its affiliated practices against the Company.

The Company is also involved in litigation with a practice in Oklahoma that was affiliated with the Company under the net revenue model until April 2006. While the Company was still affiliated with the practice, the Company initiated arbitration proceedings pursuant to a provision in the service agreement providing for contract reformation in certain events. The practice countered with a lawsuit that alleges, among other things, that the Company has breached the service agreement and that the service agreement is unenforceable as a matter of public policy due to alleged violations of healthcare laws. The practice sought unspecified damages and a termination of the contract. The Company believes that its service agreement is lawful and enforceable and that it is operating in accordance with applicable law. As a result of alleged breaches of the service agreement by the practice, the Company terminated the service agreement in April 2006. In March 2007, the Oklahoma Supreme Court overturned a lower court’s ruling that would have compelled arbitration in this matter and remanded the case back to the lower court to hold hearings to determine whether and to what extent the arbitration provisions of the service agreement will be applicable to the dispute. The Company expects those hearings to occur in 2010. Because of the need for further proceedings, the Company believes that the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling will extend the amount of time it will take to resolve this dispute and increase the risk of the litigation to the Company. In any event, as with any complex litigation, the Company anticipates that this dispute may take several years to resolve.

As a result of the ongoing litigation, the Company has been unable to collect on a timely basis a receivable owed to the Company relating to accounts receivable purchased by the Company under the service agreement and amounts for reimbursement of expenses paid by the Company on the practice’s behalf. At December 31, 2009, the total receivable owed to the Company of $22.4 million is reflected on its balance sheet as other assets. Currently, a deposit of approximately $14.8 million is held in an escrowed bank account into which the practice has been making monthly deposits as required. In late 2009, the practice filed a motion to discontinue the monthly deposits and until a ruling is made the requirement has been suspended. These amounts will be released upon resolution of the litigation. In addition, approximately $7.6 million is being held in a bank account that has been frozen pending the outcome of related litigation regarding that account. In addition, the Company has filed a security lien on the receivables of the practice. The Company’s management believes that the amounts held in the bank accounts combined with the receivables of the practice in which the Company has filed a security lien represent adequate collateral to recover the $22.4 million receivable recorded as other noncurrent assets at December 31, 2009. Accordingly, the Company expects to realize the amount that is recorded on its balance sheet as owed by the practice. However, realization is subject to a successful conclusion to the litigation with the practice.

 

123


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

The Company intends to vigorously pursue its claims, including claims for any costs and expenses that it incurs as a result of the termination of the service agreement and to defend against the practice’s allegations that it breached the agreement and that the agreement is unenforceable. However, the Company cannot provide assurance as to what the outcome of the litigation will be, or, even if it prevails in the litigation, whether it will be successful in recovering the full amount, or any, of its costs associated with the litigation and termination of the service agreement. The Company expects to continue to incur expenses in connection with its litigation with the practice.

Certificate of Need Regulatory Action

During the third quarter of 2006, one of the Company’s affiliated practices in North Carolina lost (through state regulatory action) the ability to provide radiation services at its cancer center in Asheville. The practice continued to provide medical oncology services, but was not permitted to use the radiation services area of the center (approximately 18% of the square footage of the cancer center). The practice appealed the regulatory action and the North Carolina Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the practice on procedural grounds and ordered the state agency to hold a new hearing on its regulatory action. In the first quarter of 2008, the practice received a ruling in its appeal, which mandated a rehearing by the state agency. The state agency conducted a rehearing and issued a new ruling upholding the practice’s right to provide radiation services. That decision was appealed, and the appellants also sought a stay of the state’s decision. The request for a stay was denied in July 2008 while the appeal is pending. As a result, the practice resumed diagnostic services in September, 2008 and radiation services in February, 2009.

Delays during the first quarter of 2007 in pursuing strategic alternatives led to uncertainty regarding the form and timing associated with alternatives to a successful appeal. Consequently, the Company performed impairment testing as of March 31, 2007 and it recorded an impairment charge of $1.6 million relating to a management services agreement asset and equipment in the first quarter of 2007. No additional impairment charges relating to this regulatory action have been recorded through December 31, 2009.

As of December 31, 2009, the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet included net assets in the amount of $0.7 million related to this practice, which includes working capital in the amount of $0.2 million. The construction of the cancer center in which the practice operates was financed as an operating lease and, as such, is not recorded on the Company’s balance sheet. At December 31, 2009, the lease had a remaining term of 16 years and the net present value of minimum future lease payments is approximately $7.2 million.

Antitrust Inquiry

The United States Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) and a state Attorney General have informed one of the Company’s affiliated physician practices that they have opened an investigation to determine whether a recent transaction in which another group of physicians became employees of that affiliated group violated relevant state or federal antitrust laws. In addition, the FTC has requested information from the Company regarding its role in that transaction. The Company is in the process of responding to a request for information on this matter. At present, the Company believes that the scope of the investigation is limited to a single transaction, but the Company cannot provide assurance that the scope will remain limited. The Company believes that it and its affiliated physician practices comply with relevant antitrust laws. However, if this investigation were to result in a claim against the Company or its affiliated physician practice in which the FTC or Attorney General prevails, the resulting judgment could have a material adverse financial and operational effect on the Company or that practice, including the possibility of monetary damages or fines, a requirement that it unwind the transaction at issue or the imposition of restrictions on future operations and development. In addition, addressing government investigations requires the Company to devote significant financial and other resources to the process, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the claims. Furthermore, because of the size and scope of the Company’s network, there is a risk that it could be subjected to greater scrutiny by government regulators with regard to antitrust issues.

NOTE 11—COMPENSATION AND BENEFIT PROGRAMS

The Company maintains health, dental and life insurance plans for the benefit of eligible employees, including named executive officers. Each of these benefit plans requires the employee to pay a portion of the premium, with the Company paying the remainder of the premiums. These benefits are offered on the same basis to all employees. The Company also maintains a 401(k) retirement plan that is available to all eligible employees. The Company currently matches elective employee-participant contributions on a basis of 100% of the employee’s contribution up to 3.0% of their compensation and 50% of the employee’s contribution of up to an additional 2.0% of their compensation. The Company’s contributions amounted to $4.8 million, $4.7 million, and $4.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

124


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

Life, accidental death, dismemberment and disability, and short and long-term disability insurance coverage is also offered to all eligible employees and premiums are paid in full by the Company. Other voluntary benefits, such as vision insurance, supplemental life and specific coverage insurance supplements are also made available and paid for by the employee.

NOTE 12—STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

The following disclosures relate to the stock incentive plans involving shares of Holdings common stock or options to purchase Holdings’ common stock. Activity related to Holding’s stock-based compensation is also included in the financial statements of US Oncology as the participants in such plans are employees of US Oncology.

Compensation expense is recognized in the Company’s financial statements over the requisite service period, net of estimated forfeitures, and based on the fair value as of the grant date.

US Oncology Holdings, Inc. 2004 Equity Incentive Plan

The Holdings’ Board of Directors adopted the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. 2004 Equity Incentive Plan effective in August, 2004. The purpose of the plan is to attract and retain the best available personnel and to provide additional incentives to employees and consultants to promote the success of the business. Effective January 1, 2008, the Company amended the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan to (i) eliminate the distinction between shares available for grant under restricted common shares and those available for grant under stock options and (ii) increase the number of shares available for awards from 27,223,966 to 32,000,000. Also, on January 1, 2008, the Company awarded 7,882,000 shares of restricted stock to employees, a portion of which related to the cancellation of 2,606,250 employee stock options. The cancellation of options in exchange for restricted shares was accounted for as a modification of the original award. As a result, the unrecognized compensation expense associated with the original award continues to be recognized over the service period related to the original award. In addition, incremental compensation cost equal to the excess of the fair value of the new award over the fair value of the original award as of the date the new award was granted, is recognized over the service period related to the new award. Effective October 1, 2009, the Company amended its Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan (as so amended, the “Equity Incentive Plan”) in order to: (a) increase the number of shares available for grant from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; (b) increase the number of shares available for grant as stock options from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; (c) increase the number of shares available for grant as restricted stock from 32,000,000 to 33,169,419; and (d) decrease the maximum number of shares which may be granted as stock options to any single participant in any 12 month period from 3,933,595 to 666,667. Also on October 1, 2009, the Company awarded 3,350,300 shares of restricted stock and 13,770,800 options to acquire common stock to employees. Based on the individual vesting criteria for each award, the Company recorded compensation expense of approximately $2.3 million, $2.1 million and $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, related to restricted stock and stock option awards made under the Equity Incentive Plan. At December 31, 2009, 1,477,219 shares of either restricted stock or stock options and 12,385,681 shares of stock options were available for future awards.

Restricted Stock

The aggregate fair value at the time of grant of the restricted stock awards issued during each of the three years ended December 31, 2009 was approximately $1.5 million, $13.1 million and $0.7 million, respectively. Depending on the individual grants, awards vest either at the grant date, over defined service periods, or upon achieving a return on invested capital in excess of established thresholds. Previously recognized expense of $0.2 million, $0.5 million and $0.3 million related to the forfeited shares was reversed in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

125


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

The following summarizes activity for restricted shares awarded under the Equity Incentive Plan for the three years ended December 31, 2009:

 

      Restricted
Shares
 

Restricted shares outstanding, December 31, 2006

   10,751,000   

Granted

   250,000   

Vested

   (6,485,000

Forfeited

   (1,129,000
      

Restricted shares outstanding, December 31, 2007

   3,387,000   

Granted

   9,754,500   

Vested

   (1,317,000

Forfeited

   (2,310,000
      

Restricted shares outstanding, December 31, 2008

   9,514,500   

Granted

   4,436,300   

Vested

   (2,483,349

Forfeited

   (597,600
      

Restricted shares outstanding, December 31, 2009

   10,869,851   
      

Compensation expense for each of the next five years, based on restricted stock awards granted as of December 31, 2009, is estimated to be as follows (in millions):

 

      2010    2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter

Compensation expense

   $ 1.9    $ 1.9    $ 1.9    $ 0.3    $ 0.2    $ 0.1

Stock Options

Stock options are granted at the fair value of common stock as of the date of grant (as determined with the assistance of an independent valuation), vest over periods ranging from 5 to 6 years and have an option term not to exceed 10 years. Assumptions used for the Black-Scholes method calculation of the fair value of stock options granted during the year ended December 31, 2009 were volatility of approximately 65%, a risk-free rate of approximately 3%, expected term of 10 years and $1.50 exercise price.

The following summarizes the activity for the Equity Incentive Plan for the three years ended December 31, 2009 (shares in thousands):

 

      Shares Represented by
Options
    Weighted Average
Exercise Price

Balance, December 31, 2006

   3,581,500      $ 1.25

Granted

   785,500        2.48

Exercised

   (472,500     1.10

Forfeited

   (555,500     1.45
        

Balance, December 31, 2007

   3,339,000      $ 1.53

Granted

   105,000        0.67

Exercised

   (25,000     1.00

Cancelled

   (2,606,250     1.55

Forfeited

   (224,000     1.14
        

Balance, December 31, 2008

   588,750      $ 1.44

Granted

   13,770,800        1.50

Forfeited

   (1,040,500     1.51
        

Balance, December 31, 2009

   13,319,050      $ 1.50
        

 

126


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

The following table summarizes information about the Company’s stock options outstanding under the Equity Incentive Plan at December 31, 2009 (in thousands):

 

Options Outstanding   Options Exercisable
Range of
Exercise Price
  Number
Outstanding at
12/31/09
  Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
  Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)
  Number
Exercisable
at 12/31/09
  Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
  Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
  Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)
$0.23 to $2.72   13,319,050   9.6 years   $ 1.50   $ —     339,850   $ 1.34   5.7 years   $ —  

Holdings’ Amended and Restated Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Award Plan

The Holdings’ Board of Directors adopted the US Oncology Holdings 2004 Director Stock Option Plan (the “Director Stock Option Plan”), which became effective in October 2004 upon stockholder approval. Effective October 1, 2009, Holdings amended and restated its Director Stock Option Plan in order to: (a) allow directors to be granted shares of restricted stock; (b) provide grants to directors; and (c) increase the number of shares of common stock of Holdings available for awards under the plan from 500,000 to 1,000,000; in each case, as more fully set forth in the Amended and Restated Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Award Plan (the “Amended Director Plan”).

Under the Amended Director Plan, each eligible director at the effective date of the Director Stock Option Plan is automatically granted an option to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock at fair value. In addition, each such director is automatically granted an option to purchase 1,000 shares of common stock for each board committee on which such director served. Each eligible director at the effective date of the Amended Director Plan is granted 15,000 shares of restricted common stock unless such director was first elected to the Board during or after 2009, in which case such director is granted 25,000 shares of restricted common stock at the later of the effective date of the Amended Director Plan or the date of his or her election to the Board. In addition, each such director is granted 1,000 shares of restricted common stock for each board committee on which such director served. On the date of the 2010 annual meeting of stockholders and for each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter, each eligible director will be granted 10,000 shares of restricted common stock. At the first board meeting following the 2010 annual meeting of stockholders and each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter, each eligible director will be granted 1,000 shares of restricted common stock for each board committee such director served. All grants of restricted common stock are contingent upon execution of a restricted stock agreement.

Through December 31, 2009, options to purchase 209,000 shares of common stock, net of forfeitures, have been granted to directors under the Amended Director Plan with exercise prices ranging from $0.23 to $2.72. At December 31, 2009, 126,000 options to purchase Holdings common stock were outstanding. The options vest six months after the date of grant. During the year ended December 31, 2009, there were no exercises of options issued under the Amended Director Plan. Through December 31, 2009, 136,000 shares of restricted common stock have been granted to directors under the Amended Director Plan. At December 31, 2009, 136,000 shares of restricted common stock were outstanding. At December 31, 2009, 655,000 shares were available for future awards under the Amended Director Plan.

Holdings’ Long-Term Cash Incentive Plans

In addition to stock-based incentive plans, Holdings has adopted the US Oncology Holdings, Inc. 2004 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan (the “Cash Incentive Plan”). Effective January 1, 2008, the 2004 Cash Incentive Plan was cancelled and the 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan (“2008 Cash Incentive Plan”) was adopted. Under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan, which is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Holdings, certain members of management will receive a portion of the enterprise value created as determined by the plan provided that the maximum value that can be paid to management under the plan is limited to $100 million. The value of the awards under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan is based upon financial performance of the Company for the period beginning January 1, 2008 and ending on the earlier of the occurrence of a

 

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US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

payment event or December 31, 2012, and will only be paid in the event of an initial public offering or a change of control, provided that all shares of preferred stock, together with accrued dividends, have been redeemed or exchanged for common stock. No events occurred during 2009 that would require a payment under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan.

If any of the payment events described above occur, the Company may incur an additional obligation and compensation expense as a result of such an event. As of December 31, 2009, $12.3 million was available for payment under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan. Because payments of awards under the Plan are based upon occurrence of a specific event, obligations arising under the 2008 Cash Incentive Plan will be recognized in the period when a payment event, as discussed above, occurs.

NOTE 13—STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Capital Stock of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

On October 1, 2009, the Board of Directors and stockholders of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. approved the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Pursuant to the terms of the Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of US Oncology Holdings, Inc., the number of authorized $0.001 par value common shares increased from 300.0 million common shares to 500.0 million common shares.

In addition, pursuant to this amendment, each outstanding share of Series A Preferred Stock and Series A-1 Preferred Stock of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. was converted into a number of common shares equal to its liquidation preference divided by $1.50 plus one additional common share. As a result of the conversion, 13.9 million shares of Series A Preferred Stock and 1.9 million shares of Series A-1 Preferred Stock, with a liquidation preference of $332.2 million and $50.2 million, respectively, were exchanged for an aggregate 270.8 million common shares.

As a result of the aforementioned transactions as well as the transactions involving the Equity Incentive Plan and the Amended Director Plan (see Note 12 – Stock Incentive Plans), the number of outstanding shares of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. common stock increased from 148.4 million shares to 423.0 million shares as of October 1, 2009. In addition, the Series A and Series A-1 Preferred Stock is no longer outstanding and its aggregate carrying value, in the amount of $405.3 million, was eliminated and the stockholders’ deficit of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. was adjusted by the same amount. The fair value of the 270.8 million common shares issued upon conversion was estimated to be approximately $108.3 million, or $0.40 per common share, and increased the par value and additional paid in capital in respect of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. common stock by $270,831 and $108.0 million, respectively. The excess of preferred stock carrying value over the estimated fair value of common shares issued upon conversion, in the amount of $297.0 million, reduced the accumulated deficit of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

The capital stock of Holdings consists of the following (shares and dollars in thousands):

 

           December 31, 2009         December 31, 2008
     Authorized
Shares
   Outstanding
Shares
   Carrying
Value
   Authorized
Shares
   Outstanding
Shares
   Carrying
Value

Common Stock

   500,000    422,952    $ 423    300,000    148,281    $ 148

Participating Preferred Stock Series A

   —      —        —      15,000    13,939      329,322

Participating Preferred Stock Series A-1

   —      —        —      2,000    1,948      56,629

Because no ready market exists for Holding’s equity securities, the outstanding common and preferred shares were recorded at their respective fair values, as determined with the assistance of an independent valuation firm on the date of issuance.

Common Stock

Holders of Holdings’ common stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders, including the election of directors, subject to the rights of holders of participating preferred stock to elect directors. Upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Holdings, holders of Holdings’ common stock will be entitled to share ratably in Holdings’ assets legally available for distribution to stockholders in such event. On December 21, 2006, Holdings declared a $190.0 million dividend of which $170.1 million was due to its common shareholders of record as of

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

December 20, 2006, which was paid on January 3, 2007 (see “Series A-1 Participating Preferred Stock”). During the quarter ended March 31, 2007, Holdings declared and paid a dividend of $158.6 million to holders of its common stock.

As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the outstanding shares of common stock include 31,828,200 and 27,989,000 shares, respectively, of common stock issued pursuant to restricted stock awards granted to members of Holdings’ management and board of directors, which shares are subject to forfeiture until the satisfaction of vesting requirements. Excluding the shares which have met the vesting requirements, 10,869,851 and 9,514,500 restricted shares of common stock were outstanding as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Series A Participating Preferred Stock

On October 1, 2009, each outstanding share of Series A Preferred Stock of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. was converted into a number of common shares equal to its liquidation preference divided by $1.50 plus one additional common share.

The following table presents activity related to the outstanding Series A participating preferred stock (shares and dollars in thousands):

 

     Shares Issued     Carrying Value     Unpaid Dividends     Unpaid
Dividends
Per Share

Balance at December 31, 2006

   13,939      $ 312,749      $ 34,374     

Accretion of cumulative 7% dividends

   —          20,068        20,068     

Dividend paid

   —          (24,643     (24,643  
                        

Balance at December 31, 2007

   13,939        308,174        29,799      2.14

Accretion of cumulative 7% dividends

   —          21,148        21,148     
                        

Balance at December 31, 2008

   13,939        329,322        50,947      3.65

Accretion of cumulative 7% dividends

   —          16,797        16,797     

Conversion to common shares

   (13,939     (346,119     (67,744  
                        

Balance at December 31, 2009

   —        $ —        $ —        —  
                        

Prior to October 1, 2009, Series A participating preferred stock was entitled to receive cumulative preferred dividends on a non-cash accrual basis at a rate equal to 7% per annum, compounded quarterly. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, accretion of this dividend was recorded in the amount of $16.8 million, $21.1 million, and $20.1 million, respectively, and was recorded as a component of the carrying value of preferred stock and as a reduction of retained earnings.

Series A-1 Participating Preferred Stock

On October 1, 2009, each outstanding share of Series A-1 Preferred Stock of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. was converted into a number of common shares equal to its liquidation preference divided by $1.50 plus one additional common share.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

The following table presents activity related to the outstanding Series A-1 participating preferred stock (shares and dollars in thousands):

 

     Shares Issued     Carrying Value     Unpaid Dividends     Unpaid
Dividends
Per Share

Balance at December 31, 2006

   1,948      $ 50,797      $ 72     

Accretion of cumulative 7% dividends

   —          2,990        2,990     

Dividend paid

   —          (356     (356  
                        

Balance at December 31, 2007

   1,948        53,431        2,706      1.39

Accretion of cumulative 7% dividends

   —          3,198        3,198     
                        

Balance at December 31, 2008

   1,948        56,629        5,904      3.03

Accretion of cumulative 7% dividends

   —          2,539        2,539     

Conversion to common shares

   (1,948     (59,168     (8,443  
                        

Balance at December 31, 2009

   —        $ —        $ —        —  
                        

Prior to October 1, 2009, Series A-1 participating preferred shares had dividend rights substantially identical to those of the outstanding Series A participating preferred shares. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, accretion of this dividend was recorded in the amount of $2.5 million, $3.2 million, and $3.0 million, respectively, and was recorded as a component of the carrying value of preferred stock and as a reduction of retained earnings.

Capital Stock of US Oncology, Inc.

The capital stock of US Oncology, Inc. consists of 100 authorized, issued and outstanding common shares, with a par value of $0.01 per share, all of which are owned by US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Because Holdings’ principal asset is its investment in US Oncology, US Oncology provides funds to service the indebtedness of Holdings through payment of semi-annual dividends. US Oncology also provides funds for payment of general and administrative expenses incurred by Holdings to maintain its corporate existence and comply with the terms of the indenture governing its senior floating rate notes (the “Notes”). During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, US Oncology paid Holdings dividends of $11.1 million, $13.0 million and $34.9 million, respectively, to finance the semi-annual interest payments on its indebtedness, including amounts related to its interest rate swap agreement, and to support its corporate existence.

NOTE 14—SEGMENT FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The Company’s reportable segments are based on internal management reporting that disaggregates the business by service line. The Company’s reportable segments are medical oncology services, cancer center services, pharmaceutical services, and research/other services (primarily consisting of cancer research services). The Company provides comprehensive practice management services for the non-clinical aspects of practice management to affiliated practices in its medical oncology and cancer center services segments. In addition to managing their non-clinical operations, the medical oncology segment provides oncology pharmaceutical services to practices affiliated through comprehensive strategic alliances. The cancer center services segment develops and manages comprehensive, community-based cancer centers, which integrate various aspects of outpatient cancer care, from laboratory and radiology diagnostic capabilities to radiation therapy for practices affiliated by comprehensive strategic alliance. The pharmaceutical services segment distributes oncology pharmaceuticals to affiliated practices, including practices affiliated under the targeted physician services model, and provides informational and other services to pharmaceutical manufacturers. The research/other services segment contracts with pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms to provide a comprehensive range of services relating to clinical trials.

Balance sheet information by reportable segment is not reported since the Company does not prepare such information internally.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

The tables below present information about reported segments for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively (in thousands):

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2009  
     Medical
Oncology
Services
    Cancer
Center
Services
    Pharmaceutical
Services
    Research/
Other
    Corporate
Costs
    Eliminations (1)     Total  

US Oncology, Inc.

              

Product revenues

   $ 1,776,431      $ —        $ 2,421,536      $ —        $ —        $ (1,834,143   $ 2,363,824   

Service revenues

     624,452        387,555        65,864        69,985        —          —          1,147,856   
                                                        

Total revenues

     2,400,883        387,555        2,487,400        69,985        —          (1,834,143     3,511,680   

Operating expenses

     (2,329,601     (252,128     (2,386,326     (67,505     (71,933     1,834,143        (3,273,350

Impairment and restructuring

              

charges

     (176     —          —          (2,235     (6,093     —          (8,504

Depreciation and amortization

     —          (38,882     (2,118     (270     (61,938     —          (103,208
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

   $ 71,106      $ 96,545      $ 98,956      $ (25   $ (139,964   $ —        $ 126,618   
                                                        

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Operating expenses

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ (280   $ —        $ (280
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

   $ 71,106      $ 96,545      $ 98,956      $ (25   $ (140,244   $ —        $ 126,338   
                                                        

Goodwill (2)

   $ 28,913      $ 191,424      $ 156,933      $ —        $ —        $ —        $ 377,270   
                                                        

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2008  
     Medical
Oncology
Services
    Cancer
Center
Services
    Pharmaceutical
Services
    Research/
Other
    Corporate
Costs
    Eliminations (1)     Total  

US Oncology, Inc.

              

Product revenues

   $ 1,658,484      $ —        $ 2,426,155      $ —        $ —        $ (1,859,935   $ 2,224,704   

Service revenues

     592,890        367,062        60,530        58,991        —          —          1,079,473   
                                                        

Total revenues

     2,251,374        367,062        2,486,685        58,991        —          (1,859,935     3,304,177   

Operating expenses

     (2,178,154     (241,147     (2,386,718     (63,744     (76,884     1,859,935        (3,086,712

Impairment and restructuring

              

charges

     (380,018     (150     —          —          (4,761     —          (384,929

Depreciation and amortization

     —          (37,916     (4,332     (374     (60,185     —          (102,807
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

   $ (306,798   $ 87,849      $ 95,635      $ (5,127   $ (141,830   $ —        $ (270,271
                                                        

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Operating expenses

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ (382   $ —        $ (382
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

   $ (306,798   $ 87,849      $ 95,635      $ (5,127   $ (142,212   $ —        $ (270,653
                                                        

Goodwill

   $ 28,913      $ 191,424      $ 156,933      $ —        $ —        $ —        $ 377,270   
                                                        

 

131


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31, 2007  
     Medical
Oncology
Services
    Cancer
Center
Services
    Pharmaceutical
Services
    Research/
Other
    Corporate
Costs
    Eliminations (1)     Total  

US Oncology, Inc.

              

Product revenues

   $ 1,541,186      $ —        $ 2,200,178      $ —        $ —        $ (1,771,258   $ 1,970,106   

Service revenues

     547,000        349,900        82,583        51,189        —          —          1,030,672   
                                                        

Total revenues

     2,088,186        349,900        2,282,761        51,189        —          (1,771,258     3,000,778   

Operating expenses

     (2,008,528     (223,059     (2,186,632     (51,440     (84,326     1,771,258        (2,782,727

Impairment and restructuring

              

charges

     (1,552     (4,235     —          —          (9,339     —          (15,126

Depreciation and amortization

     —          (39,131     (5,196     (542     (44,462     —          (89,331
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

   $ 78,106      $ 83,475      $ 90,933      $ (793   $ (138,127   $ —        $ 113,594   
                                                        

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

              

Operating expenses

   $ —        $ —        $ —        $ —        $ (97   $ —        $ (97
                                                        

Income (loss) from operations

   $ 78,106      $ 83,475      $ 90,933      $ (793   $ (138,224   $ —        $ 113,497   
                                                        

Goodwill

   $ 408,913      $ 191,424      $ 156,933      $ —        $ —        $ —        $ 757,270   
                                                        

 

(1)

Eliminations represent the sale of pharmaceuticals from the distribution center (pharmaceuticals services segment) to the Company’s practices affiliated under comprehensive strategic alliances (medical oncology segment).

 

(2)

During the year ended December 31, 2008, the Company recognized a $380.0 million impairment charge to goodwill in the medical oncology services segment.

NOTE 15—RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company receives a contractual service fee for providing services to its comprehensive strategic alliance practices. The Company also advances to its affiliated practices amounts needed for the purchase of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies necessary in the treatment of cancer. The advances are reflected on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet as due from/to affiliated practices and are reimbursed to the Company as part of the service fee payable under its service agreements with its affiliated practices. Additionally, the Company may advance affiliated practices funds necessary to invest in or establish new ventures, including ventures in which the affiliated practice, rather than the Company, may have a direct interest.

The Company leases a portion of its medical office space and equipment from entities affiliated with certain of the stockholders of practices affiliated with the Company. Payments under these leases were $13.6 million, $10.1 million and $8.0 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Total future commitments are $91.2 million as of December 31, 2009.

As of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, two of the Company’s directors, Dr. Mark Myron and Dr. Steven Paulson, are practicing physicians, whose practices are affiliated with the Company. In 2009, the practices in which these directors participate generated total net revenue of $1,222.4 million of which $259.9 million was retained by the practices and $962.5 million was included in the Company’s revenue. In 2008, those practices generated total net revenue of $1,126.4 million of which $266.2 million was retained by the practices and $860.2 million was included in the Company’s revenue. In 2007, those practices generated total net revenue of $1,087.9 million of which $221.4 million was retained by the practices and $866.5 million was included in the Company’s revenue.

Through May 2007, Dr. Burton Schwartz was one of the Company’s directors who was also a practicing physician with an affiliated practice. In 2007, the practice in which this director participated generated total net revenue of $150.8 million of which $36.7 million was retained by the practices and $114.2 million was included in the Company’s revenue. Dr. Schwartz’s term as a director expired in May 2007.

On December 21, 2006, the Company consummated a private offering of 21,649,849 shares of common stock and 1,948,251 shares of Series A-1 participating preferred stock to Morgan Stanley Principal Investments for aggregate proceeds of $150.0 million. In January, 2007, proceeds from the private offering, along with cash on hand, were used to pay a $190.0 million dividend to holders of common shares and preferred stock, under their participating rights, immediately before consummation of the private offering. On October 1, 2009, all of these outstanding shares of Series A-1 Preferred Stock were converted into common shares (see Note 13 – Stockholders’ Equity). In connection with the investment by Morgan Stanley,

 

132


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

the Company agreed, subject to certain conditions, to give preferential consideration to retaining Morgan Stanley, or its designated affiliate, in connection with future securities offerings, financings and certain other transactions, to provide financial services. Mr. Vannucci, a member of the Company’s board of directors, is a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley & Co Incorporated. Morgan Stanley served as Joint Book Running Manager and was an initial purchaser of $191,250,000 of the Holdings Notes issued in March 2007, which notes were sold to Morgan Stanley for 97.5% of face value.

NOTE 16—QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

The following table presents unaudited quarterly information (in thousands):

 

     US Oncology Holdings, Inc.  
     2009 Quarter Ended     2008 Quarter Ended  
     Mar 31     Jun 30     Sep 30     Dec 31     Mar 31     Jun 30     Sep 30     Dec 31  

Revenue

   $ 842,561      $ 881,647      $ 901,454      $ 886,018      $ 810,607      $ 829,175      $ 821,736      $ 842,659   

Income (loss) from operations

     27,962        36,791        30,281        31,304        (355,503     30,431        28,170        26,249   

Other expense, net

     (33,772     (56,153     (48,895     (37,623     (50,917     (18,103     (37,318     (27,923

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

     (5,458     (17,393     (20,290     (8,449     (397,388     7,142        (5,753     (16,535

 

     US Oncology, Inc.  
     2009 Quarter Ended     2008 Quarter Ended  
     Mar 31     Jun 30     Sep 30     Dec 31     Mar 31     Jun 30     Sep 30     Dec 31  

Revenue

   $ 842,561      $ 881,647      $ 901,454      $ 886,018      $ 810,607      $ 829,175      $ 821,736      $ 842,659   

Income (loss) from operations

     28,002        36,825        30,402        31,389        (355,452     30,479        28,308        26,394   

Other expense, net

     (22,622     (44,800     (31,688     (25,905     (22,829     (22,435     (22,679     (22,601

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

     1,017        (7,595     (866     3,868        (378,074     3,239        3,875        470   

NOTE 17—FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS AND NON-SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS

The 9.125% Senior Secured Notes (the “Senior Secured Notes”), the 9% Senior Secured Notes (the “Senior Notes”) which were redeemed with proceeds from the Senior Secured Notes and the 10.75% Senior Subordinated Notes (the “Senior Subordinated Notes”) issued by US Oncology, Inc. are guaranteed fully and unconditionally, and on a joint and several basis, by all of the US Oncology’s wholly-owned subsidiaries. Certain of US Oncology’s subsidiaries, primarily joint ventures, do not guarantee the Senior Secured Notes, the Senior Notes and the Senior Subordinated Notes.

Presented on the following pages are condensed consolidating financial statements for US Oncology, Inc. (the issuer of the Senior Secured Notes, the Senior Notes and the Senior Subordinated Notes), the subsidiary guarantors and the non-guarantor subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 and for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The equity method has been used with respect to US Oncology’s investments in its subsidiaries.

As of December 31, 2009, the non-guarantor subsidiaries include Cancer Treatment Associates of Northeast Missouri, Ltd., Colorado Cancer Centers, L.L.C., Southeast Texas Cancer Centers, L.P., East Indy CC, L.L.C., KCCC JV, L.L.C., AOR Real Estate of Greenville, L.P., The Carroll County Cancer Center, Ltd, CCCN NW Building JV, L.L.C., Oregon Cancer Center, Ltd., and WFCC Radiation Management Co., L.L.C.

 

133


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

As of December 31, 2009

(in thousands, except share information)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent

Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
   Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

ASSETS

           

Current assets:

           

Cash and equivalents

   $ —        $ 160,487    $ 1,102        $ 161,589   

Accounts receivable

     —          342,633      7,026          349,659   

Other receivables

     —          30,928      —            30,928   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     720        19,106      992          20,818   

Inventories

     —          152,642          152,642   

Deferred income taxes

     6,002        —            6,002   

Due from affiliates

     539,531        —          (508,832 (a)      30,699   

Investment in subsidiaries

     505,850        —          (505,850 (b)      —     
                                       

Total current assets

     1,052,103        705,796      9,120        (1,014,682 )      752,337   

Property and equipment, net

     —          360,521      44,407          404,928   

Service agreements, net

     —          248,577      2,820          251,397   

Goodwill

     —          371,677      5,593          377,270   

Other assets

     25,986        45,631      1,642          73,259   
                                       
   $ 1,078,089      $ 1,732,202    $ 63,582      $ (1,014,682 )    $ 1,859,191   
                                       

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

           

Current liabilities:

           

Current maturities of long-term indebtedness

   $ 8,757      $ 516    $ 1,306      $ —        $ 10,579   

Accounts payable

     —          278,658      1,130        —          279,788   

Intercompany accounts

     (248,738     258,199      (9,461     —          —     

Due to affiliates

     —          605,098      14,622        (508,832 (a)      110,888   

Accrued compensation cost

     —          50,322      453        —          50,775   

Accrued interest payable

     40,373        —        —          —          40,373   

Income taxes payable

     3,114        —        —          —          3,114   

Other accrued liabilities

     —          33,437      254        —          33,691   
                                       

Total current liabilities

     (196,494     1,226,230      8,304        (508,832 )      529,208   

Deferred revenue

     —          4,636      —          —          4,636   

Deferred income taxes

     36,658        —        —          —          36,658   

Long-term indebtedness

     1,054,868        2,092      17,328        —          1,074,288   

Other long-term liabilities

     —          12,369      3,370        —          15,739   
                                       

Total liabilities

     895,032        1,245,327      29,002        (508,832 )      1,660,529   
                                       

Commitments and contingencies

           

Equity:

           

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100 shares authorized issued and outstanding

     1        —        —          —          1   

Additional paid-in capital

     551,986        —        —          —          551,986   

Accumulated deficit

     (368,930     —        —          —          (368,930
                                       

Total Company stockholder’s equity

     183,057        —        —          —          183,057   
                                       

Noncontrolling interests

     —          —        15,605        —          15,605   

Subsidiary equity

     —          486,875      18,975        (505,850 (b)      —     
                                       

Total equity

     183,057        486,875      34,580        (505,850 )      198,662   
                                       
   $ 1,078,089      $ 1,732,202    $ 63,582      $ (1,014,682 )    $ 1,859,191   
                                       

 

(a)

Elimination of intercompany balances

 

(b)

Elimination of investment in subsidiaries

 

134


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

As of December 31, 2008

(in thousands, except share information)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
   Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

ASSETS

           

Current assets:

           

Cash and equivalents

   $ —        $ 104,475    $ 1      $ —        $ 104,476   

Accounts receivable

     —          354,889      9,447        —          364,336   

Other receivables

     —          25,707      —          —          25,707   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     527        20,155      —          —          20,682   

Inventories

     —          131,062      —          —          131,062   

Deferred income taxes

     4,373        —        —          —          4,373   

Due from affiliates

     649,233        —        —          (582,900 (a)      66,333   

Investment in subsidiaries

     381,549        —        —          (381,549 (b)      —     
                                       

Total current assets

     1,035,682        636,288      9,448        (964,449 )      716,969   

Property and equipment, net

     —          368,145      42,103        —          410,248   

Service agreements, net

     —          269,211      4,435        —          273,646   

Goodwill

     —          371,677      5,593        —          377,270   

Other assets

     24,339        38,724      1,657        —          64,720   
                                       
   $ 1,060,021      $ 1,684,045    $ 63,236      $ (964,449 )    $ 1,842,853   
                                       

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

           

Current liabilities:

           

Current maturities of long-term indebtedness

   $ 9,507      $ —      $ 1,170      $ —        $ 10,677   

Accounts payable

     —          265,311      879        —          266,190   

Intercompany accounts

     (249,113     252,374      (3,261     —          —     

Due to affiliates

     —          714,957      4,856        (582,900 (a)      136,913   

Accrued compensation cost

     —          40,070      706        —          40,776   

Accrued interest payable

     26,266        —        —          —          26,266   

Income taxes payable

     2,727        —        —          —          2,727   

Other accrued liabilities

     —          35,636      (832     —          34,804   
                                       

Total current liabilities

     (210,613     1,308,348      3,518        (582,900 )      518,353   

Deferred revenue

     —          6,894      —          —          6,894   

Deferred income taxes

     35,139        —        —          —          35,139   

Long-term indebtedness

     1,040,080        2,418      18,635        —          1,061,133   

Other long-term liabilities

     —          8,797      3,550        —          12,347   
                                       

Total liabilities

     864,606        1,326,457      25,703        (582,900 )      1,633,866   
                                       

Commitments and contingencies

           

Equity:

           

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100 shares authorized issued and outstanding

     1        —        —          —          1   

Additional paid-in capital

     560,768        —        —          —          560,768   

Accumulated deficit

     (365,354     —        —          —          (365,354
                                       

Total Company stockholder’s equity

     195,415        —        —          —          195,415   
                                       

Noncontrolling interests

     —          —        13,572        —          13,572   

Subsidiary equity

     —          357,588      23,961        (381,549 (b)      —     
                                       

Total equity

     195,415        357,588      37,533        (381,549 )      208,987   
                                       
   $ 1,060,021      $ 1,684,045    $ 63,236      $ (964,449 )    $ 1,842,853   
                                       

 

(a)

Elimination of intercompany balances

 

(b)

Elimination of investment in subsidiaries

 

135


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Year Ended December 31, 2009

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Product revenue

   $ —        $ 2,329,883      $ 33,941      $ —        $ 2,363,824   

Service revenue

     —          1,124,706        23,150        —          1,147,856   
                                        

Total revenue

     —          3,454,589        57,091        —          3,511,680   

Cost of products

     —          2,279,239        33,204        —          2,312,443   

Cost of services:

          

Operating compensation and benefits

     —          548,215        9,966        —          558,181   

Other operating costs

     —          329,046        1,746        —          330,792   

Depreciation and amortization

     —          67,941        4,371        —          72,312   
                                        

Total cost of services

     —          945,202        16,083        —          961,285   

Total cost of products and services

     —          3,224,441        49,287        —          3,273,728   

General and administrative expense

     446        71,488        —          —          71,934   

Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net

     —          8,504        —          —          8,504   

Depreciation and amortization

     —          30,896        —          —          30,896   
                                        
     446        3,335,329        49,287        —          3,385,062   
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (446     119,260        7,804        —          126,618   

Other income (expense)

          

Interest expense, net

     (100,757     1,182        (1,674     —          (101,249

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     (25,081     —          —          —          (25,081

Loss on interest rate swap

     —          —          —          —          —     

Other income (expense)

     —          1,315        —          —          1,315   
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (126,284     121,757        6,130        —          1,603   

Income tax provision

     (1,593       —          —          (1,593

Equity in subsidiaries

     127,887          —          (127,887 ) (a)      —     
                                        

Net income (loss)

     10        121,757        6,130        (127,887 )      10   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     —          (2,582     (1,004     —          (3,586
                                        

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

   $ 10      $ 119,175      $ 5,126      $ (127,887   $ (3,576
                                        

 

(a)

Elimination of intercompany balances

 

(b)

Elimination of investment in subsidiaries

 

136


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Year Ended December 31, 2008

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Product revenue

   $ —        $ 2,178,113      $ 46,591      $ —        $ 2,224,704   

Service revenue

     —          1,044,411        35,062        —          1,079,473   
                                        

Total revenue

     —          3,222,524        81,653        —          3,304,177   

Cost of products

     —          2,118,624        45,319        —          2,163,943   

Cost of services:

          

Operating compensation and benefits

     —          507,192        16,747        —          523,939   

Other operating costs

     —          317,419        4,528        —          321,947   

Depreciation and amortization

     —          68,650        4,140        —          72,790   
                                        

Total cost of services

     —          893,261        25,415        —          918,676   

Total cost of products and services

     —          3,011,885        70,734        —          3,082,619   

General and administrative expense

     343        76,540        —          —          76,883   

Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net

     —          384,929        —          —          384,929   

Depreciation and amortization

     —          30,017        —          —          30,017   
                                        
     343        3,503,371        70,734        —          3,574,448   
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (343     (280,847     10,919        —          (270,271

Other income (expense)

          

Interest expense, net

     (93,235     1,881        (1,403     —          (92,757

Other income (expense), net

     —          2,213          —          2,213   
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (93,578     (276,753     9,516        —          (360,815

Income tax provision

     (6,351     —          —          —          (6,351

Equity in subsidiaries

     (270,561     —          —          270,561  (a)      —     
                                        

Net income (loss)

     (370,490     (276,753     9,516        270,561        (367,166

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     —          (567     (2,757     —          (3,324
                                        

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

   $ (370,490   $ (277,320   $ 6,759      $ 270,561      $ (370,490
                                        

 

(a)

Elimination of intercompany balances

 

137


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations

For the Year Ended December 31, 2007

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Product revenue

   $ —        $ 1,923,071      $ 47,035      $ —        $ 1,970,106   

Service revenue

     —          997,280        33,392        —          1,030,672   
                                        

Total revenue

     —          2,920,351        80,427        —          3,000,778   

Cost of products

     —          1,879,576        45,971        —          1,925,547   

Cost of services:

          

Operating compensation and benefits

     —          463,088        16,089        —          479,177   

Other operating costs

     —          289,301        4,376        —          293,677   

Depreciation and amortization

     —          69,217        3,942        —          73,159   
                                        

Total cost of services

     —          821,606        24,407        —          846,013   

Total cost of products and services

     —          2,701,182        70,378        —          2,771,560   

General and administrative expense

     201        84,125        —          —          84,326   

Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net

     —          15,126        —          —          15,126   

Depreciation and amortization

     —          16,172        —          —          16,172   
                                        
     201        2,816,605        70,378        —          2,887,184   
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (201     103,746        10,049        —          113,594   

Other income (expense)

          

Interest expense, net

     (98,831     4,885        (1,396     —          (95,342

Intercompany interest

     24,167        (24,167     —          —          —     
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (74,865     84,464        8,653        —          18,252   

Income tax provision

     (7,447     —          —          —          (7,447

Equity in subsidiaries

     89,498        —          —          (89,498 (a)      —     
                                        

Net income

     7,186        84,464        8,653        (89,498 )      10,805   

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     —          (1,191     (2,428     —          (3,619
                                        

Net income attributable to the Company

   $ 7,186      $ 83,273      $ 6,225      $ (89,498   $ 7,186   
                                        

 

(a)

Elimination of investment in subsidiaries

 

138


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Year Ended December 31, 2009

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Cash flows from operating activities:

          

Net cash provided by operating activities

     30,485        134,006        8,102        —          172,593   
          

Cash flows from investing activities:

          

Acquisition of property and equipment

     —          (73,984     (4,277     —          (78,261

Net payments in affiliation transactions

     (440     (4,053     —          —          (4,493

Investment in subsidiary

     (382     —          —          —          (382

Net proceeds from sale of assets

     —          —          —          —          —     

Distributions from unconsolidated subsidiaries

     —          11,032        —          —          11,032   

Investment in unconsolidated subsidiaries

     —          (8,447     —          —          (8,447

Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired

     —          (467     —          —          (467
                                        

Net cash used in investing activities

     (822     (75,919     (4,277     —          (81,018

Cash flows from financing activities:

          

Proceeds from Senior Secured Notes

     758,926        —          —          —          758,926   

Repayment of term loan

     (436,666     —          —          —          (436,666

Repayment of Senior Notes

     (311,578     —          —          —          (311,578

Repayment of other indebtedness

     (7,601     (2,075     (1,171     —          (10,847

Debt financing costs

     (21,680     —          —          —          (21,680

Net distribution to parent

     (11,064     —          —          —          (11,064

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

     —          —          (2,773     —          (2,773

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

     —          —          1,220        —          1,220   
                                        

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (29,663     (2,075     (2,724     —          (34,462
                                        

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     —          56,012        1,101        —          57,113   

Cash and cash equivalents:

          

Beginning of period

     —          104,475        1        —          104,476   
                                        

End of period

   $ —        $ 160,487      $ 1,102      $ —        $ 161,589   
                                        

 

139


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Year Ended December 31, 2008

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Cash flows from operating activities:

          

Net cash provided by operating activities

     14,420        119,860        7,207        —          141,487   

Cash flows from investing activities:

          

Acquisition of property and equipment

     —          (81,727     (7,016     —          (88,743

Net payments in affiliation transactions

     34,328        (86,795     —          —          (52,467

Net proceeds from sale of assets

     —          5,347        —          —          5,347   

Distributions from unconsolidated subsidiaries

     —          2,116        —          —          2,116   

Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries

     —          (3,257     —          —          (3,257
                                        

Net cash used in investing activities

     34,328        (164,316     (7,016     —          (137,004

Cash flows from financing activities:

          

Proceeds from other indebtedness

     —          —          4,000        —          4,000   

Repayment of term loan

     (34,937     —          —          —          (34,937

Repayment of other indebtedness

     (832     (324     (1,079     —          (2,235

Debt issuance costs

     —          —          (143     —          (143

Net distributions to parent

     (13,004     —          —          —          (13,004

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

     —            (3,545     —          (3,545

Contributions from noncontrolling interests

     —          —          576        —          576   

Contributions of proceeds from exercise of stock options

     25        —          —          —          25   
                                        

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (48,748     (324     (191     —          (49,263
                                        

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

     —          (44,780     —          —          (44,780

Cash and cash equivalents:

          

Beginning of period

     —          149,255        1        —          149,256   
                                        

End of period

   $ —        $ 104,475      $ 1      $ —        $ 104,476   
                                        

 

140


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

 

US Oncology, Inc.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

For the Year Ended December 31, 2007

(in thousands)

 

     US Oncology, Inc.
(Parent
Company Only)
    Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Cash flows from operating activities:

          

Net cash provided by operating activities

     235,151        (42,351     5,230        —          198,030   

Cash flows from investing activities:

          

Acquisition of property and equipment

     —          (88,618     (2,232     —          (90,850

Net payments in affiliation transactions

     —          (134     —          —          (134

Net proceeds from sale of assets

     —          750        —          —          750   

Distribution from minority interest

     —          254        —          —          254   

Investment in joint venture

     —          (4,745     —          —          (4,745

Proceeds from contract separation

     —          1,555        —          —          1,555   
                                        

Net cash used in investing activities

     —          (90,938     (2,232     —          (93,170

Cash flows from financing activities:

          

Proceeds from other indebtedness

     658        —          665        —          1,323   

Repayment of term loan

     (7,487     —          —          —          (7,487

Repayment of advance to parent

     (150,000     —          —          —          (150,000

Repayment of other indebtedness

     (1,802     778        888        —          (136

Debt issuance costs

     (1,554     —          —          —          (1,554

Net distributions to parent

     (75,501     —          —          —          (75,501

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

     —          —          (4,550     —          (4,550

Contributions of proceeds from exercise of stock options

     535        —          —          —          535   
                                        

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (235,151     778        (2,997     —          (237,370
                                        

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     —          (132,511     1        —          (132,510

Cash and cash equivalents:

          

Beginning of period

     —          281,766        —          —          281,766   
                                        

End of period

   $ —        $ 149,255      $ 1      $ —        $ 149,256   
                                        

 

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Index to Financial Statements
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a – 15 as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them to material information relating to the Company (including its consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in our periodic SEC filings.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

 

  (i)

pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets;

 

  (ii)

provide reasonable assurance that the transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with the authorization of management and/or our Board of Directors; and

 

  (iii)

provide reasonable assurance regarding the prevention or timely detection of any unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.

Due to 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 due to changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control –Integrated Framework. Based on its evaluation, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2009.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the Company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

(c) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There was no change in internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B. Other Information

None

 

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Index to Financial Statements

PART III

 

Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

Directors and Executive Officers

The following table sets forth information about our directors and executive officers:

 

Name

  

    Age    

    

Position(s)

Bruce D. Broussard

   47     

President and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

Michael A. Sicuro

   51     

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Glen C. Laschober

   59     

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Kevin F. Krenzke

   37     

Vice President – Finance, Chief Accounting Officer

David B. Bronsweig

   50     

Executive Vice President of Human Resources

Grant Bogle

   52     

Executive Vice President of Integrated Oncology Solutions

Roy Beveridge, M.D.

   52     

Executive Vice President and Medical Director

Frank Saputo

   53     

Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

Russell L. Carson

   66     

Director

James E. Dalton, Jr.

   67     

Director

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.

   66     

Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors

Yon Y. Jorden

   55     

Director

Daniel S. Lynch

   51     

Director

D. Scott Mackesy

   41     

Director

Richard B. Mayor

   75     

Director

Mark C. Myron, M.D.

   63     

Director

Robert A. Ortenzio

   52     

Director

R. Steven Paulson, M.D.

   58     

Director

Boone Powell, Jr.

   73     

Director

Todd Vannucci

   48     

Director

Set forth below is a brief description of the business experience of each of our directors and executive officers.

Bruce D. Broussard joined us in August 2000 with primary responsibility for financial and accounting activities, including financial reporting, treasury and taxation. In November 2005, he was appointed our President and he also served as Chief Financial Officer until July 31, 2006. In February 2008, Mr. Broussard was appointed Chief Executive Officer. Also effective February 2008, he was elected to the Board. Effective September 1, 2009, Mr. Broussard assumed the responsibility of Chairman of the Board of Directors in addition to his role as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Broussard was Chief Executive Officer of HarborDental from December 1997 until July 2000. From January 1996 to October 1997, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Regency Health Services, Inc. From 1993 to 1996, he was the Chief Financial Officer and a director of Sun Healthcare Group. He currently serves as a director and a compensation committee member at U.S. Physical Therapy, Inc.

Michael A. Sicuro joined us as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in September, 2008. Prior to joining us, Mr. Sicuro was employed since January 2007 as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Asyst Technologies, Inc., a global automation and technology company. From 2004 until 2006, Mr. Sicuro was employed as the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary of Progressive Gaming International Corporation, a global supplier of integrated casino and jackpot management solutions for the gaming industry. From 2001 until 2004, Mr. Sicuro was employed as the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary of Lightspan, Inc., an educational software and internet company. Prior to that time, he served in financial and executive capacities at various companies in the technology, financial and healthcare industries.

 

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Index to Financial Statements

Glen C. Laschober joined us as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in January, 2008. Mr. Laschober comes to us with more than 30 years of healthcare operations experience. Most recently, from 2005 to 2007, Mr. Laschober was employed as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Omnicare, Inc., a national provider of pharmaceutical services to long-term care facilities and other institutions. From 2001 to 2005, Mr. Laschober was employed as Chief Operating Officer of CVS Corporation’s Pharmacare Division, its pharmacy benefit management and specialty pharmacy business. In addition, he has been an executive operating officer in several pharmacy-related organizations including Provantage and Caremark.

Kevin F. Krenzke was named Chief Accounting Officer effective May 5, 2009. Prior to that, Mr. Krenzke was Vice President of Finance. Mr. Krenzke joined us in July 2005 as Director of Financial Reporting. Prior to joining us, Mr. Krenzke worked as a senior manager in the mergers and acquisitions practice of Deloitte LLP, a public accounting firm, from October 2004 to July 2005 and held positions in the financial statement assurance practices of Arthur Andersen LLP and BDO Seidman, LLP from June 1996 to October 2004. Mr. Krenzke is a Certified Public Accountant and earned his Masters in Professional Accounting and Bachelors in Business Administration degrees from the University of Texas at Austin.

David B. Bronsweig joined us in March 2008 as Senior Vice President of Human Resources and currently serves as Executive Vice President. Prior to joining us, Mr. Bronsweig served as Vice President, Human Resources-Worldwide for seven years at Alberto-Culver, a consumer packed goods company, and over ten years with Bristol-Myers Squibb where he directed an oncology division and served as Vice President for two separate divisions of the organization.

Grant Bogle was named Executive Vice President for the newly created Integrated Oncology Solutions Group, effective July 1, 2009. Mr. Bogle joined us in June 2007, as Senior Vice President, Regional Operations for the Northeast region. Prior to joining US Oncology, Mr. Bogle held several senior vice president level commercial leadership positions in the following pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies: Knoll Pharmaceutical Company, 1997-2001; Roche Pharmaceuticals, 2001-2002; Viacell, 2002-2004; and, most recently, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, 2004-2007.

Roy Beveridge, M.D. joined us as Executive Vice President and Medical Director effective September 1, 2009, although he has been actively involved in many activities with us over the years. Dr. Beveridge began his practice in 1988 at Fairfax Northern Virginia Hematology-Oncology after completing medical school at Cornell University Medical College, residency in Internal Medicine at University of Chicago Hospitals, and fellowship at The Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Frank A. Saputo was named Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer effective October 2008. Mr. Saputo joined US Oncology in October 2000 as Vice President for Internal Audit. In 2002, he became Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance and Audit Officer. In 2008, Mr. Saputo added the additional responsibilities of risk management, real estate and construction, and corporate office administrative services. Mr. Saputo has over 25 years of health care management experience. Prior to joining US Oncology, he was the Vice President of Audit Services for Clarent Hospital Corporation (formerly Paracelsus), and also held audit management positions at UniHealth America and Home Savings. Mr. Saputo has a bachelor’s degree in finance from California State University at Fullerton. He is a Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Fraud Examiner, and has also obtained the designation of Certified Information Systems Auditor.

Russell L. Carson became a director in 1992. Mr. Carson is a general partner of Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, which he co-founded in 1978. Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe has created 15 institutionally funded limited partnerships with total capital of more than $18 billion invested in over 200 companies. Mr. Carson has focused on healthcare. Mr. Carson is also a director of Select Medical Corp. and various privately held healthcare companies. Mr. Carson has also served as a Director of Ardent Health Services.

James E. Dalton, Jr. joined our Board in July 2005. Mr. Dalton was President and Chief Executive Officer and a director of Quorum Health Group, Inc., a healthcare company, from 1990 until 2001, when Quorum was acquired by Triad Hospitals. Mr. Dalton now serves as Chairman of Signature Hospital Corporation. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of Universal Health Realty Income Trust and on the Board of Directors as well as the audit committee of Select Medical Corporation. Mr. Dalton has extensive experience in the Healthcare is a Life Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D. was our President from November 1993 until March 2001. He was a director from 1993 until 1999 and from 2001 until the present. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and his oncology training at Memorial Sloan Kettering and at the National Cancer Institute. He is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. Dr. Everson has published widely in the field of oncology and is a member of numerous professional associations. He also has served as President of the Association of Community Cancer Centers and as Associate Chairman for Community Programs for the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group. In 2006, Dr. Everson was appointed to the National Cancer Advisory Board by President George W. Bush.

Yon Y. Jorden was elected to serve as a director in September 2009 and was also appointed to serve on the audit committee. Ms. Jorden most recently was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of AdvancePCS, a publicly-traded provider of pharmacy benefits management from 2002 until 2004. Previously, she was Chief Financial Officer of

 

144


Index to Financial Statements

Informix, a technology company, Oxford Health Plans, a provider of managed health care services, and WellPoint Health Networks, a managed care company, each of which was a publicly-traded company. She currently serves as a director of Magnatek, Inc., a manufacturer of digital power control systems, and Maxwell Technologies, a manufacturer of energy storage and power delivery solutions.

Daniel S. Lynch was elected to serve as a director in August 2006. Mr. Lynch is currently Executive Chairman of the Board of two private biotech companies: Stromedix, Inc. and Avila Therapeutics. From January 2007 through 2009, Mr. Lynch served as Chief Executive Officer and a director of Ivrea Pharmaceuticals, a private pharmaceutical company. From 2001 until 2005, Mr. Lynch was employed by Imclone Systems Incorporated, a publicly-traded biotechnology company, serving as its Chief Financial Officer from 2001 until 2003 and as its Chief Executive Officer and a member of its Board of Directors from 2003 until 2005. Prior to that time, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Derby Cycle Corporation, a designer, manufacturer and marketer of bicycles, from 1999 until 2001, and in various finance capacities at Bristol-Myers Squibb, a pharmaceutical company, from 1984 until 1999.

D. Scott Mackesy joined our Board upon consummation of the Merger. Mr. Mackesy is a general partner of Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, where he focuses on investments in the healthcare industry and is a managing member of the general partner of Welsh Carson IX. Prior to joining Welsh Carson in 1998, Mr. Mackesy was a Vice President in the Investment Research Department at Morgan Stanley Dean Witter, where he was a healthcare equity research analyst. Mr. Mackesy received his bachelor’s degree from The College of William and Mary. Mr. Mackesy is also a director of MedAssets, Inc. and several privately held healthcare companies. Mr. Mackesy has also served as a director of Concentra, Inc., Ardent Health Services and Ameripath, Inc.

Richard B. Mayor was a director of US Oncology from 1993 until consummation of the Merger. He rejoined our Board in October 2004. Mr. Mayor was of counsel in the Houston law firm Mayor, Day, Caldwell & Keeton, L.L.P. from January 1999 until its merger with Andrews Kurth LLP in October 2001. Mr. Mayor continued as of counsel to Andrews Kurth until December 2003. Mr. Mayor has informed the Board that he will be retiring from the Board, effective April 1, 2010.

Mark C. Myron, M.D. was elected to serve as a director in May 2007. Dr. Myron is a practicing physician with Kansas City Cancer Centers, or KCCC, a physician practice that has entered into a comprehensive strategic alliance with us, and serves as KCCC’s president. Dr. Myron is board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He is on the Board of Directors for the Midwest Biotech Center and is a founding Board member of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Care.

Robert A. Ortenzio has been a director since 1992. He has been President and Chief Executive Officer of Select Medical Corporation since September 2001 and was President and Chief Operating Officer of Select Medical Corporation from February 1997 until September 2001. He is also a director of Select Medical Corporation. Prior to that time, Mr. Ortenzio was a co-founder and president of Continental Medical Systems, Inc., a provider of comprehensive medical rehabilitation programs and services, and a director of Horizon/CMS Healthcare Corporation, and served in various capacities at Continental Medical Systems, Inc. since February 1986. Mr. Ortenzio serves as a director of Odyssey Healthcare, a publicly-traded healthcare company providing services to terminally ill patients.

R. Steven Paulson, M.D. was elected to serve as a director in April 2006. Dr. Paulson is a practicing physician with Texas Oncology, P.A., or Texas Oncology, and has served as Texas Oncology’s president and chairman of its Board of Directors since 2000. Dr. Paulson is a Diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine with a subspecialty certification in medical oncology.

Boone Powell, Jr. was a director from 1999 until consummation of the Merger and re-joined the Board in November 2004. Mr. Powell was President and Chief Executive Officer of Baylor Healthcare System from 1980 until 2000 and Chairman from 2000 until 2001. Mr. Powell serves as an active member of Voluntary Hospitals of America. He is a director of Abbott Laboratories, United Surgical Partners International and Comerica Bank–Texas and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Todd Vannucci was elected to serve as a director in September 2009 as the designee for Morgan Stanley. Mr. Vannucci is a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley & Co., Incorporated, or Morgan Stanley, and assists in overseeing the investment portfolio of Morgan Stanley Principal Investments for the Americas. Mr. Vannucci joined Morgan Stanley in 1998 in its Global Capital Markets business. Mr. Vannucci has extensive capital markets experience.

 

145


Index to Financial Statements

Audit Committee Matters

The Board of Directors has a standing Audit Committee. The Board has confirmed that all members of the Audit Committee are “independent” within the meaning of Item 7(d)(3)(iv) of Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. The Audit Committee members are Richard B. Mayor (Chairman), James E. Dalton, Jr., Daniel S. Lynch and Yon Y. Jorden. The Board has determined that Yon Y. Jorden is an “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of applicable SEC rules. Richard Mayor has informed the Board that he will be retiring, effective April 1, 2010. The Board has selected Ms. Jorden as his successor as Chairman of the Audit Committee.

Board Committees

Our Board directs the management of our business and affairs as provided by Delaware law and conducts its business through meetings of the full Board of Directors and two standing committees: the audit committee and the compensation committee. In addition, from time to time, other committees may be established under the direction of the Board of Directors when necessary to address specific issues.

The duties and responsibilities of the audit committee include the appointment or termination of the engagement of our independent public accountants, otherwise overseeing the independent auditor relationship, reviewing our significant accounting policies and internal controls and reporting its recommendations and findings to the full Board of Directors. The compensation committee reviews and approves the compensation of our chief executive officer and administers our long-term awards.

Messrs. Dalton, Lynch, and Mayor and Ms. Jorden serve on the audit committee. Messrs. Powell, Carson and Ortenzio serve on the compensation committee.

 

146


Index to Financial Statements
Item 11. Executive Compensation

COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

Overview

This compensation discussion describes the material elements of the compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to our officers who are considered to be “named executive officers” during our last fiscal year. Named executive officers consist of each individual who served as our Chief Executive Officer in 2009, each individual who served as our Chief Financial Officer during 2009, and the three other executive officers who received the highest amount of total compensation in 2009. In addition, up to two additional employees who would have been included in the table, but for the fact that they were not serving as executive officers as of the end of 2009, may be included. For purposes of this section, “named executive officers” refers to Bruce D. Broussard, Chairman of the Board of Directors (as of September 1, 2009), President and Chief Executive Officer; R. Dale Ross, Former Chairman of the Board of Directors (through September 1, 2009); Michael A. Sicuro, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; Glen C. Laschober, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; David B. Bronsweig, Executive Vice President of Human Resources; and Lloyd K. Everson, M.D. who serves as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee of the Board has responsibility for establishing, implementing and continually monitoring adherence with our compensation philosophy. The Committee ensures that the total compensation paid to our named executive officers is fair, reasonable and competitive. Generally, the types of compensation and benefits provided to our named executive officers are similar to those provided to other executive officers. Our Compensation Committee met four times during 2009.

Our compensation committee reviews the compensation of our named executive officers on at least an annual basis. In addition, our compensation committee is responsible for determining all stock-based and long-term compensation for our named executive officers. Bonus targets are generally determined during the first two months of each year and are based on calendar year performance.

From time to time, our compensation committee has retained independent compensation experts to evaluate our compensation policies and practices and to make recommendations regarding compensation. During 2007, Mercer, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc., was retained to assist with an executive compensation study.

Role of Our Executive Officers in Compensation Process

In 2009, the compensation committee considered the compensation recommendations made by our current Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Broussard, regarding the performance and qualifications of each named executive officer. One of the Company’s key initiatives in 2009 was to reduce the Company’s general and administrative expenses, and in order to achieve that goal, the executive officers agreed to forego raises and maintain current salaries for that year. In addition, the compensation committee approved, on Mr. Broussard’s recommendation, a reduction in his salary for 2009.

General Compensation Philosophy

Our executive compensation program is designed to reward the achievement of specific annual, long-term and strategic goals by the Company, which aligns executives’ interests with those of the stockholders by rewarding performance above established goals, with the ultimate objective of improving shareholder value. The Committee evaluates both performance and compensation to ensure that the Company maintains its ability to attract and retain superior employees in key positions and that compensation provided to key employees remains competitive. To that end, the Committee believes executive compensation packages provided by the Company to its executives, including the named executive officers, should include both cash and stock-based compensation that reward performance as measured against established goals.

All senior management members, including the named executive officers, have a significant element of compensation at risk in the form of equity compensation and bonuses tied to the creation of shareholder value. Each year our incentive plans are established to ensure that the specific criteria and measures for awards are based on relevant market-driven needs, as well as driving continued improvement in the creation of shareholder value.

 

147


Index to Financial Statements

As an integral part of the Merger, each of the named executive officers employed at that time made a significant cash investment in the equity securities of the Company upon the same terms as the other stockholders investing in that transaction. In addition, at that time, each of the named executive officers received grants of restricted stock under our 2004 Equity Incentive Plan and grants of units under our 2004 Long Term Cash Incentive Plan. Effective January 1, 2008, we cancelled the 2004 Long Term Cash Incentive Plan and all outstanding awards under the plan and adopted a new 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan.

The investments by the named executive officers, combined with these awards, were designed to incentivize their continued engagement in the company after the Merger and to align their incentives with those of the other stockholders who acquired shares at the time of the Merger, by giving them a significant percentage of our equity at that time. The purpose of requiring out-of-pocket investment and awarding restricted stock (rather than options) was to ensure a close alignment of interests between management and the other stockholders invested in the deal, including with respect to downside risks. The units under our cash incentive plan specifically provide rewards to the executives up to a certain percentage of the common equity value of the company based on the amount by which return on invested capital exceeds thresholds set forth in the plan, in order to incentivize efficient use of capital in the context of a company that was becoming significantly more leveraged in the Merger. Payments under the units are triggered by certain liquidity events which benefit the stockholders of the company generally and use the date of the Merger as the starting point for payment calculations – further providing a commonality of interest between the named executive officers and the other investors in the Merger.

Elements of Compensation

The principal elements of our compensation program for the named executive officers have been base salaries, bonuses and, as discussed above, long-term equity incentives in the form of restricted stock and units under our cash incentive plan. An additional potential element of compensation is post-termination severance and acceleration of restricted stock vesting for certain named executive officers, upon a change of control. As a general matter, subject only to limited exceptions, we do not provide perquisites for our named executive officers on a basis that is different from other eligible employees. The decision to pay each of these elements to a given employee or executive is based upon our assessment of that individual’s role in creation of stockholder value and in rewarding success in areas under the specific control of that individual. For our named executive officers, this typically results in a large portion of overall compensation being tied to overall company performance and increases in overall enterprise value.

Base Salaries

We provide named executive officers and other employees with base salary to compensate them for services rendered during the fiscal year. Base salary ranges for named executive officers are determined for each executive based on his position and responsibility by using market data. During its review of base salaries for executives, the Committee primarily considers:

 

   

Internal review of the executive’s compensation, both individually and relative to other officers; and

 

   

Individual performance of the executive.

In addition, from time to time, the Committee has retained independent consultants to offer advice regarding compensation structure relative to the marketplace. During 2007, Mercer was retained to assist with an executive compensation study. The 17 companies referenced for the project were all publicly traded healthcare companies with sales ranging from $0.6 million to $6.5 billion and assets ranging from $0.9 million to $7.4 billion. The overall median sales and assets for these companies were similar to US Oncology. Additionally, private equity company survey data was referenced from Mercer’s proprietary database of executive salaries. Salary levels are typically considered annually as part of the Company’s performance review process as well as upon a promotion or other change in job responsibility. Merit-based increases to salaries are based on the Committee’s assessment of the individual’s performance.

 

148


Index to Financial Statements

Bonuses

Bonuses paid in 2009 were based on 2008 performance. For bonuses payable in 2009, the target bonus levels were equal to 50% of base salary for each of the named executive officers, other than Mr. Ross and Mr. Broussard, whose target bonus was 100% of base salary. Bonuses in respect of 2008, which were paid in 2009, were at the target bonus level, as a result of Company performance as adjusted to reflect reductions in ESA reimbursement.

For bonuses to be paid in 2010 based upon 2009 results, the bonus will be determined based solely on achievement of predetermined Adjusted EBITDA targets, with each such officer earning 100% of his targeted bonus if we reached these targets and up to 150% of his targeted bonus if we exceeded them, with the exceptions of Mr. Broussard and Dr. Everson, whose earnings are capped at 100% of his targeted bonus. The compensation committee has discretion to adjust targets and bonus awards in the event targets are not met due to events beyond management’s ability to foresee, estimate and/or control. Targets are based upon the Company’s internal financial planning and include assumptions regarding the Company’s success in implementing its strategies, including with respect to new businesses and development. In the event that the Company does not achieve its target results, or in the event of unexpected other events, bonus targets may not be achieved. Bonuses in respect of 2009, which are being paid in 2010, are expected to be paid at the full target bonus level, as a result of Company performance. Even though the 2009 bonus target initially was $235 million of Adjusted EBITDA and was exceeded, management recommended and the compensation committee approved limiting the bonus payout to 100% of the target award.

Stock Options, Restricted Stock and Long-Term Cash Incentive

We believe that positive long-term performance is achieved in part by providing our named executive officers with incentives that align their financial interests with the interests of our shareholders. The compensation committee believes that the use of stock option and restricted stock awards accomplishes such alignment.

Our stock option plans authorize the compensation committee to grant options to purchase shares of common stock and shares of restricted stock to our employees, directors and consultants. Stock option grants are made at the commencement of employment and occasionally following a significant change in job responsibilities or to meet other special retention or performance objectives. The compensation committee reviews and approves stock option awards to all employees, including named executive officers based upon a review of competitive compensation data, its assessment of individual performance, a review of each executive’s existing long-term incentives and retention considerations.

All stock options awarded by Holdings have been awarded at or above the fair market value of our common stock at the grant date. We have not back-dated any option awards. We assessed the valuations of our common stock as of the applicable grant dates in 2009 by obtaining the assistance of an independent valuation firm to perform independent valuations of our common stock.

As a privately-owned company, there has been no market for our common stock. Accordingly, in 2009, we had no program, plan or practice pertaining to the timing of stock option grants to executive officers, coinciding with the release of material non-public information.

Effective October 1, 2009, Holdings amended its Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, or the 2004 Equity Plan (as so amended), in order to: (a) increase the aggregate number of shares of common stock of Holdings available for awards under the 2004 Equity Plan from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; (b) increase the aggregate number of shares of common stock of Holdings available for awards under the 2004 Equity Plan as Stock Options from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; (c) increase the aggregate number of shares of common stock of Holdings available for awards under the 2004 Equity Plan as Restricted Stock from 32,000,000 to 33,169,419; and (d) decrease the maximum number of shares with respect to which Stock Options may be granted under the 2004 Equity Plan to any single participant in any 12 month period from 3,933,595 to 666,667; in each case, as more fully set forth in Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, a copy of which is filed as an Exhibit to the Form 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on October 7, 2009.

Effective January 1, 2008, Holdings canceled its 2004 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan and all outstanding awards thereunder and adopted a new 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan, or the 2008 cash plan. The total number of units available under the 2008 cash plan for awards may not exceed 175,000. If any awards are terminated, forfeited or cancelled, units granted under such awards are available for award again under the 2008 cash plan. No participant may receive more than 175,000 units.

 

149


Index to Financial Statements

The aggregate amount payable under awards is payable only upon the occurrence of a Qualified IPO or Change in Control, each as defined in Holdings’ Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation as currently in effect (any such event a “Bonus Payment Event.”) Upon the occurrence of a Bonus Payment Event, the full amount payable under the plan would be paid in cash.

The value of awards under the 2008 cash plan is based upon financial performance of Holdings for the period starting January 1, 2008 and ending on the earlier of (a) December 31, 2012 or (b) the date of the first Bonus Payment Event, according to a formula set forth in the 2008 cash plan. In no event may the bonus pool available for payments under the 2008 cash plan exceed $100,000,000. Until a Bonus Payment Event is deemed probable by us, no expense for any award is reflected in our financial statements.

The calculation of the bonus pool available under the Cash Incentive Plan is designed as an estimate of a fixed percentage of the increase in enterprise value of the Company over the period of the plan. This percentage of increase in value is, as stated above, only payable upon the occurrence of certain events, which represent events in which stockholders of the Company will generally participate or (as in the case of a Qualified IPO) which will provide stockholders with the ability to realize the value of their investments in the Company. So in overall design, the 2008 Cash Plan is intended to take into consideration both the increase in value of the Company that accrues to stockholders and the timing of stockholders ability to realize that value in paying cash awards to executives.

Effective October 1, 2009, the following awards were made under the 2004 Equity Plan and the 2008 Cash Plan to Holdings principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal operating officer and other named executive officers.

 

Name and Principal Position(s)

   Shares of Restricted
Stock Awarded
Under 2004 Equity
Plan

Bruce D. Broussard

President and Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board (as of September 1, 2009)

   1,000,000

Michael A. Sicuro

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

   —  

Glen C. Laschober

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

   300,000

David B. Bronsweig

Executive Vice President of Human Resources

   200,000

Lloyd K. Everson,

M.D. Vice Chairman of the Board

   200,000

The grants of restricted stock in the table above are reflected in the summary tables, as of December 31, 2009, located in this section.

Perquisites and other benefits

We maintain health, dental and life insurance plans for the benefit of eligible employees, including named executive officers. Each of these benefit plans requires the employee to pay a portion of the premium, with the company paying the remainder of the premiums. These benefits are offered on the same basis to all employees. We also maintain a 401(k) retirement plan that is available to all eligible US Oncology employees. We currently match elective employee-participant contributions on a basis of 100% of the employee’s contribution up to 3.0% of their compensation and 50% of the employee’s contribution of up to an additional 2.0% of their compensation as limited by section 401(a)(17) of the Internal Revenue Code. Life, accidental death, dismemberment and disability, and short and long-term disability insurance coverage is also offered to

 

150


Index to Financial Statements

all eligible employees and premiums are paid in full by the Company. Other voluntary benefits, such as vision insurance, supplemental life and specific coverage insurance supplements are also made available and paid for by the employee. The above benefits are available to the named executive officers on the same basis as all other eligible employees, subject to relevant regulatory requirements. In addition, we reimburse named executive officers for the cost of an annual physical examination. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman of the Company each is entitled to limited use of the Company’s leased corporate aircraft for personal purposes. Such use is subject to availability of the aircraft, with business use taking precedence over personal use, and is reimbursable by the executive at a rate calculated in accordance with the Standard Industry Fare Level (SIFL) rates promulgated by the United States Department of Transportation and used by the Internal Revenue Service in determining income attributable to personal use of company aircraft. Any difference between this reimbursement and the incremental cost to the Company of such flights is reflected in the summary compensation table below under the heading “All Other Compensation.”

How we choose amounts of each element of compensation

Each executive’s current and prior compensation is considered in setting future compensation. In addition, we review the compensation practices of other companies. To some extent, our compensation plan is based on the market and the companies we compete against for executive officers and employees. The elements of our plan (base salary, bonus, stock-based compensation and long-term cash incentives) are clearly similar to the elements used by many companies. As discussed above, most of the named executive officers’ long-term compensation was awarded at the time of the Merger.

Regarding the grant process, the Compensation Committee does not delegate any related function, and executives are not treated differently from other Executive officers and employees.

Accounting and Tax Considerations

Our annual tax aggregate deductions for each named executive officer’s compensation are potentially limited by Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code to the extent the aggregate amount paid to an executive officer exceeds $1.0 million per year, unless it is paid under a predetermined objective performance plan meeting certain requirements, or satisfies one of various other exceptions provided under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. At our current named executive officer compensation levels, we do not presently anticipate that Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code should be applicable, and our compensation committee considered its impact in determining compensation levels for our named executive officers in 2008. In addition, the provisions under Section 162(m) would only be applicable if the Company were to become a public entity.

 

151


Index to Financial Statements

Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth the compensation earned by our named executive officers. No other executive officers who would have otherwise been includable in the following table on the basis of salary and bonus earned for the year ended December 31, 2009 have been excluded by reason of their termination of employment or change in executive status during that year.

Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and Principal Position(s)

   Fiscal
Year
   Salary    Stock Awards (1)     Option
Awards
   Non-Equity
Incentive Plan,
Payable in
Future
Compensation (2)
   All Other
Compensation (3)
    Total

R. Dale Ross

   2009    $ 599,451    $ —        $ —      $ —      $ 1,230,819 (4)(7)    $ 1,830,270

Former Chairman of the Board (through September 1, 2009) and Former Chief Executive Officer (through January 31, 2008)

   2008

2007

    

 

899,176

899,176

    

 

—  

—  

  

  

   

 

—  

—  

    

 

899,176

764,300

    

 

174,784

108,679

(4) 

(4)  

   

 

1,973,136

1,772,155

Bruce D. Broussard

   2009      875,995      400,000        800,000      866,003      9,800        2,951,798

President and Chief
Executive Officer (as of
February 1, 2008)

   2008

2007

    

 

884,173

600,000

    

 

2,673,750

—  

  

  

   

 

—  

—  

    

 

899,004

510,000

    

 

18,441

32,407

(4) 

(4)  

   

 

4,475,368

1,142,407

Michael A. Sicuro

   2009      400,008      —          100,000      200,004      89,941 (5)      789,953

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(as of September 2, 2008)

   2008      133,336      230,000        —        66,668      3,033 (5)       433,037

Glen C. Laschober

   2009      450,000      120,000        200,000      225,000      95,076 (5)      1,090,076

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (as of January 2, 2008)

   2008      448,295      1,550,000        —        225,000      135,043 (5)      2,358,338

David B. Bronsweig

   2009      300,000      80,000        60,000      150,000      103,027 (5)      693,027

Executive Vice President of Human Resources

   2008      237,500      465,000        —        125,000      19,365 (5)      846,865

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.

   2009      382,200      80,000        200,000      191,100      9,800        863,100

Vice Chairman of the Board

   2008      382,200      —          —        191,100      12,453        585,753
   2007      378,525      —          —        160,873      12,482        551,880

 

(1)

Includes the difference between the fair value of restricted stock issued and of the stock options cancelled as a result of amending the Company’s 2004 Equity Incentive Plan as of January 1, 2008.

 

(2)

Represents compensation earned under the current year incentive plan which is estimated to be paid out in the following year.

 

(3)

For all named executive officers, includes Company match on 401(k) contributions.

 

(4)

In addition to Company 401(k) match, includes the value of the personal use of the Company’s fractional interest in corporate aircraft based on the aggregate unreimbursed incremental costs of such flights to the Company for the following executive officers:

 

     Mr. Ross    Mr. Broussard

2009

   $ 22,117    $ —  

2008

     160,783      4,192

2007

     94,678      19,956

 

(5)

Reimbursement of relocation costs.

 

(6)

All stock awards granted in 2008 were forfeited.

 

(7)

In addition to Company 401(k) match, includes $299,725 in severance payments during 2009.

 

152


Index to Financial Statements

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

The following table lists each grant of stock options or restricted stock during the year ended December 31, 2009 to the named executive officers. No stock appreciation rights have been granted to these individuals.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

 

Name

 

Plan

  Grant
Date
  Approval
Date
  Estimated Future Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards
  All Other
Stock Awards:
Number of
Shares of
Stock or Units
(#)
  All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options (#)
  Exercise or
Base Price of
Option
Awards
($/Sh)
        Threshold ($)   Target ($)   Maximum ($)      

R. Dale Ross

  2009 Bonus Plan   N/A   3/9/2009     $ —     $ —     —     —     $ —  

Bruce D. Broussard

  2009 Bonus Plan   N/A   3/9/2009       866,003     866,003   —     —       —  
 

2004 Equity Incentive Plan

  10/1/2009   9/16/2009       —       —     1,000,000   4,000,000     1.50

Michael A. Sicuro

  2009 Bonus Plan   N/A   3/9/2009       200,004     300,006   —     —       —  
 

2004 Equity Incentive Plan

  10/1/2009   9/16/2009       —       —     —     500,000     1.50

Glen C. Laschober

  2009 Bonus Plan   N/A   3/9/2009       225,000     337,500   —     —       —  
 

2004 Equity Incentive Plan

  10/1/2009   9/16/2009       —       —     300,000   1,000,000     1.50

David B. Bronsweig

  2009 Bonus Plan   N/A   3/9/2009       150,000     225,000   —     —       —  
 

2004 Equity Incentive Plan

  10/1/2009   9/16/2009       —       —     200,000   300,000     1.50

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.

  2009 Bonus Plan   N/A   3/9/2009       191,100     191,100   —     —       —  
 

2004 Equity Incentive Plan

  10/1/2009   9/16/2009       —       —     200,000   1,000,000     1.50

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

The following table sets forth information for the named executive officers regarding the number of shares subject to both exercisable and unexercisable stock options, as well as the exercise prices and expiration.

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End Table

 

Name

   Option Awards    Stock Awards
   Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
   Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
   Equity
Incentive Plan
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned
Options (#)
   Option
Exercise
Price
($)
   Option
Expiration
Date
   Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested (#)
   Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock
That Have
Not
Vested ($)
   Exercisable    Unexercisable               

R. Dale Ross

   —      —      —      $ —      —      —      $ —  

Bruce D. Broussard

   —      —      4,000,000      1.50    10/1/2019    2,380,000      952,000

Michael A. Sicuro

   —      —      500,000      1.50    10/1/2019    800,000      320,000

Glen C. Laschober

   —      —      1,000,000      1.50    10/1/2019    1,100,000      440,000

David B. Bronsweig

   —      —      300,000      1.50    10/1/2019    500,000      200,000

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.

   —      —      1,000,000      1.50    10/1/2019    225,000      90,000

 

(1)

Market value has been calculated as the price per share attributed to the common shares in the valuation performed by an independent third party of the fair value of the Company’s common stock at October 1, 2009 times the number of shares that have not vested.

 

153


Index to Financial Statements

Option Exercises and Restricted Stock Vested

The following table sets forth information for each of the named executive officers regarding vesting of restricted stock during 2009 and the value realized upon such vesting. During 2009, there have been no exercises of stock options by our named executive officers.

Vesting of Restricted Stock

 

Name

   Stock Awards
   Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Vesting (#)
   Value
Realized on
Vesting ($)(1)

R. Dale Ross

   350,000    $ 140,000

Bruce D. Broussard

   680,000      272,000

Michael A. Sicuro

   —        —  

Glen C. Laschober

   200,000      80,000

David B. Bronsweig

   —        —  

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.

   125,000      50,000

 

(1) Value realized on vesting has been calculated as the price per share for the latest restricted stock grant prior to each vesting date times the number of shares acquired on vesting in 2009.

Employment Agreements; Effect of Change in Control

Each of our named executive officers is party to an employment agreement with the Company. Under each agreement, the executive officer is entitled to receive an annual salary and annual bonus, each as determined by the compensation committee of the Board of Directors of Holdings. The employment agreements provide that if an executive officer is terminated for cause, or terminates his employment without certain enumerated good reasons, he shall be paid any accrued or unpaid base salary through the date of termination and any earned but unpaid bonus. In addition, if the executive officer is terminated without cause, or if he terminates his employment for certain enumerated good reasons (which include a material diminution of such officer’s duties following a change in control of the company), such executive officer (1) will be paid any accrued and unpaid base salary through the date of termination and any earned but unpaid bonus, along with a prorated bonus for the period beginning immediately after the end of the last period for which he earned a bonus and ending with the date of his termination, basing such prorated bonus on the bonus earned by him for the full year prior to the year in which his termination occurs, (2) will be paid his base salary in effect for the year in which the termination occurred, plus the bonus earned by him for the full year prior to the year in which the termination occurred, for, (a) in the case of Messrs Everson, Ross and Broussard a period of two years plus the number of months until the next anniversary date of his agreement and (b) in the case of the other named executive officers, a period of one year, and (3) under certain circumstances will be able to continue to participate in the Company’s health plans on terms similar to those offered to current employees of the Company.

The named executive officers’ restricted stock grants provide that upon a change in control, the restrictions relating to all shares of restricted stock granted to such executive officer shall lapse and the shares thereunder shall become fully vested. In addition, upon the occurrence of a qualified initial public offering, 25% of the shares subject to such grants that remain subject to restrictions shall vest and no longer be subject to such restrictions.

 

154


Index to Financial Statements

Director Compensation

The following table sets forth a summary of the compensation we paid to our directors in 2009.

Director Compensation Table

 

Name

   Fiscal
Year
   Fees Earned
or Paid in
Cash
   Option
Awards
   Total

Russell L. Carson

   2009    $ —      $ —      $ —  

James E. Dalton, Jr.

   2009      41,500      6,400      47,900

Thomas L. Doster (1)

   2009      —        —        —  

Daniel S. Lynch

   2009      40,250      6,400      46,650

D. Scott Mackesy

   2009      —        —        —  

Richard B. Mayor

   2009      66,500      6,400      72,900

Mark C. Myron, M.D.

   2009      34,000      6,000      40,000

Robert A. Ortenzio

   2009      35,250      6,400      41,650

R. Steven Paulson, M.D.

   2009      36,500      6,000      42,500

Boone Powell, Jr.

   2009      37,750      6,400      44,150

Yon Y. Jorden

   2009      19,500      10,400      29,900

Todd Vannucci (1)

   2009      —        —        —  

 

(1)

Effective September 2009, Mr. Vannucci replaced Mr. Doster as the Morgan Stanley designee.

Each member of the board of directors of Holdings, other than directors who are employed by us, who are employees or partners of Welsh Carson IX or who are representatives of Morgan Stanley Strategic Investments is paid $6,000 per quarter and $2,500 for each board meeting attended ($1,250 if attended by telephone). Each audit committee member also receives $2,500 for each audit committee meeting attended ($1,250 if attended by telephone). In addition, the chairman of the audit committee receives an annual fee of $20,000. Directors are also reimbursed for expenses incurred in connection with attending board meetings. Each member of the board of directors of Holdings, other than directors who are employed by us, who are employees or partners of Welsh Carson IX or who are representatives of Morgan Stanley Strategic Investments is also eligible to participate in Holdings’ Amended Director Plan. Under the Amended Director Plan, each eligible director at the October 1, 2009 effective date of the Director Stock Option Plan is automatically granted an option to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock at fair value. In addition, each such director is automatically granted an option to purchase 1,000 shares of common stock for each board committee on which such director served. Each eligible director at the effective date of the Amended Director Plan is granted 15,000 shares of restricted common stock unless such director was first elected to the Board during or after 2009, in which case such director is granted 25,000 shares of restricted common stock at the later of the effective date of the Amended Director Plan or the date of his or her election to the Board. In addition, each such director is granted 1,000 shares of restricted common stock for each board committee on which such director served. On the date of the 2010 annual meeting of stockholders and for each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter, each eligible director will be granted 10,000 shares of restricted common stock. At the first board meeting following the 2010 annual meeting of stockholders and each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter, each eligible director will be granted 1,000 shares of restricted common stock for each board committee such director served. All grants of restricted common stock are contingent upon execution of a restricted stock agreement. In each case, eligible directors do not include directors who are employed by us, who are employees or partners of Welsh Carson IX or who are representatives of Morgan Stanley Strategic Investments.

Code of Ethics

US Oncology has, for many years, maintained a Code of Ethics and Business Standards, or Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics applies to officers and employees, including our principal executive officer and principal financial and accounting officer. The Code of Ethics is filed as Exhibit 14 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our Code of Ethics is a part of our comprehensive compliance program, which is designed to assist us, our employees and our affiliated practices in complying with applicable law.

 

155


Index to Financial Statements

401(k) Plan

We maintain a tax-qualified retirement plan in the United States that provides all regular employees an opportunity to save for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis. The plan is designed to meet the requirements of a tax-qualified defined contribution profit-sharing plan under Sections 401(a) and 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Under the plan, participants may elect to defer a portion of their compensation on a pre-tax basis, or effective January 1, 2007, on a “designated Roth” after-tax basis and have the amounts contributed to the plan subject to applicable annual Internal Revenue Code limits. Pre-tax contributions are allocated to each participant’s individual account and are then invested in selected investment alternatives according to the participants’ directions. Employee elective deferrals are 100% vested at all times. We currently match elective employee-participant contributions on a basis of 100% of the employee’s contribution up to 3.0% of their compensation and 50% of the employee’s contribution of up to an additional 2.0% of their compensation.

Limitation of Liability; Indemnification of Officers and Directors

Our certificate of incorporation provides that none of our directors shall be personally liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for liability (i) for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) in respect of unlawful dividend payments or stock redemptions or repurchases as provided in Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the law of the Company’s state of incorporation) or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. The effect of these provisions is to eliminate our rights and the rights of our stockholders (through stockholders’ derivative suits on behalf of US Oncology) to recover monetary damages against a director for breach of fiduciary duty as a director (including breaches resulting from grossly negligent behavior), except in the situations described above. The Securities and Exchange Commission has taken the position that the provision will have no effect on claims arising under federal securities laws.

Our bylaws provide that we will indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permissible under Delaware law. These indemnification provisions require us to indemnify such persons against certain liabilities and expenses to which they may become subject by reason of their service as a director or officer of US Oncology or any of its affiliated enterprises. The provisions also set forth certain procedures, including the advancement of expenses, that apply in the event of a claim for indemnification. The Company maintains director and officer liability insurance.

Restricted Stock and Option Plan

We adopted a 2004 Equity Incentive Plan which became effective contemporaneously with the consummation of the August, 2004 Merger, which we refer to as the equity plan. Effective January 1, 2008, we amended the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan which eliminated the distinction between shares available for grant of stock options and for grant of restricted stock and increased the total number of shares available for grant from 27,223,966 to 32,000,000. Effective October 1, 2009, we amended the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan which increased the total number of shares available for grant from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; increased the total number of shares available for grant as stock options from 32,000,000 to 59,599,150; increased the total number of shares of common stock available for grant as restricted stock from 32,000,000 to 33,169,419; and decreased the maximum number of shares that may be granted as stock options to any single participant in any 12 month period from 3,933,595 to 666,667.

Shares of common stock relating to expired or terminated options may again be subject to an option or award under the equity plan, subject to limited restrictions, including any limitation required by the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code. The equity plan provides for the grants of incentive stock options, within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, to selected employees, and for grants of non-qualified stock options and awards and restricted stock awards. The purposes of the equity plan are to attract and retain the best available personnel, provide additional incentives to our employees, directors and consultants and to promote the success of our business.

The compensation committee of our board of directors administers the equity plan. If there is no compensation committee, our board of directors will appoint a committee to administer the equity plan, which shall be comprised of at least two members of the board of directors who are non-employee directors and outside directors as defined in the Code. The administrator of the equity plan has the authority to select participants to receive awards of stock options or restricted stock pursuant to the equity plan. The administrator will also have the authority to determine the time of receipt, the types of awards and number of shares covered by awards, and to establish the terms, conditions and other provisions of the awards under the equity plan.

 

156


Index to Financial Statements

The exercise price of any incentive stock option granted to an employee who possesses more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of our shares within the meaning of Section 422(b)(6) of the Code must be at least 110% of the fair market value of the underlying share at the time the option is granted. Furthermore, the aggregate fair market value of shares of common stock purchased under an incentive stock option for the first time by an employee during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000. The term of any incentive stock option cannot exceed ten years from the date of grant.

Shares of restricted stock granted under the equity plan may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise encumbered by the participant until the satisfaction of conditions set by the compensation committee.

The equity plan will terminate ten years following its effective date but our board of directors may terminate the equity plan at any time in its sole discretion. Our board of directors may amend the equity plan subject to restrictions requiring the approval of WCAS IX.

Cash Incentive Plan

We adopted a 2004 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan which became effective upon the consummation of the August, 2004 Merger, which we refer to as the cash plan. The total number of units available under the cash plan for awards may not exceed 100,000. If any awards are terminated, forfeited or cancelled, units granted under such awards are available for award again under the cash plan. No participant may receive more than 100,000 units. The purposes of the cash plan are to attract and retain the best available personnel, provide additional incentives to our employees, directors and consultants and to promote the success of our business.

The compensation committee of our board of directors administers the cash plan. If there is no compensation committee, our board of directors will appoint a committee to administer the cash plan, which shall be comprised of at least two members of the board of directors who are non-employee directors and outside directors as defined in the Code. The administrator of the cash plan has the authority, in its sole discretion, to select participants to receive awards of units. The administrator will also have the authority to determine the time of receipt, the types of awards and number of units conveyed by awards, and to establish the terms, conditions and other provisions of the awards under the cash plan.

As of December 31, 2007, no amounts were available for payment under the Cash Incentive Plan. Effective January 1, 2008, we cancelled the 2004 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan and all outstanding awards under the plan and adopted a new 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan, or 2008 LTIP. Under the 2008 LTIP, management will receive five percent of the enterprise value created by annual EBITDA exceeding a certain threshold, using a stated multiple, provided that the maximum value that can be paid to management under the plan is limited to $100 million. Each year, additions to the amount available under the 2008 LTIP are calculated as 5% of the increase in enterprise value for that year. Increase in enterprise value is based upon an 8x multiple for EBITDA in excess of the greater of (i) $210 million and (ii) the highest annual EBITDA previously achieved by the Company since adoption of the 2008 LTIP. Amounts earned under the 2008 LTIP will only be paid upon the earlier of an initial public offering or a change of control, provided that all shares of preferred stock, together with accrued dividends, have been redeemed or converted to common stock. Again, until such an event is deemed probable by us, no expense for any award is reflected in our financial statements.

Amended Director Plan

Our board of directors adopted a 2004 Director Stock Option Plan which became effective in October of 2004. Effective October 1, 2009, we amended and restated our 2004 Director Stock Option Plan in order to: (a) allow directors to be granted shares of restricted stock; (b) provide grants to directors; and (c) increase the number of shares of our common stock available for awards under the plan from 500,000 to 1,000,000; in each case, as more fully set forth in the Amended and Restated Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Award Plan, or the director plan, a copy of which is filed as an Exhibit to the Form 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on October 7, 2009.

Shares of common stock relating to expired or terminated options or restricted stock awards may again be subject to an option or award under the director plan, subject to limited restrictions, including any limitation required by the Code. The director plan provides for the grants of non-qualified stock options and restricted stock awards. The purposes of the director plan are to attract and retain qualified non-employees to serve on our board of directors and to enhance the future growth of our company by aligning such persons’ interests with ours and those of stockholders.

 

157


Index to Financial Statements

The compensation committee of our board of directors administers the director plan. If there is no compensation committee, our board of directors of Holdings shall administer the director plan.

Options and restricted stock awards under the director plan may only be awarded to eligible directors. Eligible directors are members of our board of directors who are not officers of our company or any subsidiary, not full-time employees of our company or any subsidiary and are not employees, partners or affiliates of Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe. Upon effectiveness of the 2004 Director Stock Option Plan, each eligible director automatically received an option to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock. In addition, each such director who served on a committee of our board of directors on such effective date or who serves on the audit committee of US Oncology, automatically received an option to purchase 1,000 shares of common stock for each board committee on which such director served. Each eligible director at the effective date of the director plan received 15,000 shares of restricted common stock unless such director was first elected to the Board during or after 2009, in which case such director receives 25,000 shares of restricted common stock at the later of the effective date of the director plan or the date of his or her election to the board. In addition, each eligible director who served on a committee of our board of directors on such effective date or who serves on the audit committee of US Oncology receives 1,000 shares of restricted common stock for each board committee on which such director serves. Each eligible director serving on our board of directors on the date of our 2010 annual meeting of stockholders, and each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter, and each eligible director elected at such meeting will receive 10,000 shares of restricted common stock. At the first board meeting following the 2010 annual meeting of stockholders and each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter, each eligible director appointed at such meeting to any committee of the board of directors, or who is a member of any committee of the board of directors or the audit committee of US Oncology will receive 1,000 shares of restricted common stock for each board committee such director is appointed or served.

The director plan will terminate ten years following the effective date of the 2004 Director Stock Option Plan. Our board of directors may amend the director plan, subject to certain limitations.

 

158


Index to Financial Statements
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

The following table sets forth information as of March 1, 2010, with respect to the beneficial ownership of our capital stock by (i) our chief executive officer and each of the other named executive officers set forth below, (ii) each of our directors, (iii) all of our directors and executive officers as a group and (iv) each holder of five percent (5%) or more of any class of our outstanding capital stock. See ‘Certain Relationships and Related Transactions—Arrangements with Management—Stock Offering,” and ‘Certain Relationships and Related Transactions—Arrangements with Non-Employee Directors—Other Directors.”

 

Name of Beneficial Owner(1)

   Common Shares
Beneficially Owned
   Percent of
Outstanding
Common Shares
 

Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe(2)

   309,142,716    73.1

Morgan Stanley Principal Investments(3)

   57,083,716    13.5

Bruce D. Broussard(4)

   6,811,699    1.6

Russell L. Carson(5)

   5,645,505    1.3

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.(6)

   1,490,062    *   

Michael A. Sicuro(7)

   1,000,000    *   

Glen C. Laschober(8)

   1,300,000    *   

Robert A. Ortenzio(9)

   952,198    *   

Richard B. Mayor(10)

   925,750    *   

Boone Powell Jr.(11)

   343,250    *   

Mark C. Myron, M.D.(12)

   263,000    *   

James E. Dalton, Jr.(9)

   183,173    *   

R. Steven Paulson, M.D.(12)

   180,625    *   

Daniel S. Lynch(13)

   40,000    *   

D. Scott Mackesy(14)

   68,210    *   

Yon Y. Jorden(15)

   26,000    *   

Todd Vannucci

   —      *   

All directors and executive officers as a group(16)

   21,500,522    5.1

 

*

Less than one percent

 

(1)

Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each of the beneficial owners identified is 10101 Woodloch Forest, The Woodlands, Texas 77380.

 

(2)

Represents (A) 255,047,963 common shares held by Welsh Carson IX over which Welsh Carson IX has sole voting and investment power, (B) 29,907 common shares held by WCAS Management Corporation, over which WCAS Management Corporation has sole voting and investment power, (C) an aggregate 16,301,084 common shares held by individuals who are general partners of WCAS IX Associates LLC, the sole general partner of Welsh Carson IX and/or otherwise employed by an affiliate of Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, and (D) an aggregate 37,763,761 common shares held by other co-investors, over which Welsh Carson IX has sole voting power. WCAS IX Associates LLC, the sole general partner of Welsh Carson IX and the individuals who serve as general partners of WCAS IX Associates LLC, including Russell L. Carson, and D. Scott Mackesy, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares beneficially owned by Welsh Carson IX. Such persons disclaim beneficial ownership of such shares. The principal executive offices of Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe are located at 320 Park Avenue, Suite 2500, New York, New York 10022.

 

(3)

The principal executive offices of Morgan Stanley Principal Investments are located at 1585 Broadway – 2nd Floor, New York, New York 10036.

 

159


Index to Financial Statements
(4)

Includes 3,350,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into at the time of the consummation of the Merger, 100,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in November 2005, 1,725,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into on January 1, 2008 an 1,000,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009. Of the outstanding restricted common shares noted herein, 2,035,000 shares remain unvested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(5)

Includes 5,645,505 common shares over which Mr. Carson has sole voting and investment power. Does not include 255,047,963 common shares owned by Welsh Carson IX or 29,907 common shares owned by WCAS Management Corporation. Mr. Carson, as a general partner of Welsh Carson IX and an officer of WCAS Management Corporation, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares beneficially owned by Welsh Carson IX and WCAS Management Corporation. Mr. Carson disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares.

 

(6)

Includes 1,000,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into at the time of the consummation of the Merger, 100,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set for the in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in August 2006 and 200,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009. Of the outstanding restricted common shares noted herein, 225,000 shares remain unvested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(7)

Includes 1,000,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in September, 2008. Of the outstanding restricted common shares noted herein, 800,000 shares remain unvested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(8)

Includes 1,000,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in January 2008 and 300,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009. Of the outstanding restricted common shares noted herein, 900,000 shares remain unvested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(9)

Includes options to purchase 18,000 shares as well as 16,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009, which vested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(10)

Includes 349,500 shares of common stock held by a general partnership in which Mr. Mayor is sole managing partner. Includes options to purchase 18,000 shares as well as 16,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009, which vested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(11)

Includes 291,250 shares of common stock owned by a limited partnership in which Mr. Powell is a general partner. Includes options to purchase 18,000 shares as well as 16,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009, which remain vested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(12)

Includes options to purchase 15,000 which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009, all of which vested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(13)

Includes options to purchase 24,000 shares and 16,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009, all of which vested as of March 1, 2010.

 

(14)

Includes 68,211 common shares over which Mr. Mackesy has sole voting and investment power. Does not include 255,047,963 common shares owned by Welsh Carson IX or 29,907 common shares owned by WCAS Management Corporation. Mr. Mackesy, as a general partner of Welsh Carson IX and an officer of WCAS Management Corporation, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares beneficially owned by Welsh Carson IX and WCAS Management Corporation. Mr. Mackesy disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares.

 

(15)

Includes 26,000 shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in a restricted stock award agreement entered into in October 2009, which vested as of March 1, 2010.

 

160


Index to Financial Statements
(16)

Does not include 255,047,963 common shares owned by Welsh Carson IX, 29,907 common shares owned by WCAS Management Corporation, 57,083,716 common shares owned by Morgan Stanley Principal Investments, Inc., or 8,330,413 common shares owned by R. Dale Ross. Includes an aggregate 12,650,000 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in restricted stock award agreements entered into at the time of the consummation of the Merger and an aggregate 7,735,800 common shares which are subject to restrictions on transfer set forth in restricted stock agreements entered into during the period November 10, 2005 through March 1, 2010. Of the outstanding restricted common shares noted herein, 5,817,600 shares remain unvested as of March 1, 2010.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

Dr. Mark Myron, one of our directors, is a practicing physician and serves as president of KCCC. Dr. Myron was elected to serve as a director in May 2007. Dr. Myron’s medical practice has been affiliated with us under a comprehensive strategic alliance since July 1996. During 2009, KCCC paid us approximately $4.6 million excluding reimbursement for direct expenses of KCCC, pursuant to its service agreement.

Dr. Steven Paulson, one of our directors, is a practicing physician and serves as president and chairman of the board of directors of Texas Oncology. We and Texas Oncology entered into a service agreement effective November 1, 1993. During 2009, Texas Oncology paid us approximately $49.3 million excluding reimbursement for direct expenses of Texas Oncology, pursuant to its service agreement.

Dr. Burton Schwartz, one of our directors through May, 2007, is a past president and medical director of Minnesota Oncology Hematology, P.A., or Minnesota Oncology. We and Minnesota Oncology entered into a service agreement effective July 1, 1996. During 2007, Minnesota Oncology paid us approximately $9.7 million excluding reimbursement for direct expenses of Minnesota Oncology, pursuant to its service agreement. Dr. Schwartz’s term as a director expired in May, 2007.

On December 21, 2006, we consummated a private offering of 21,649,849 shares of common stock and 1,948,251 shares of Series A-1 participating preferred stock to Morgan Stanley Principal Investments for aggregate proceeds of $150.0 million. In January, 2007, proceeds from the private offering, along with cash on hand, were used to pay a $190.0 million dividend to holders of common shares and preferred stock, under their participating rights, immediately before consummation of the private offering. In connection with the investment by Morgan Stanley, we agreed, subject to certain conditions, to give preferential consideration to retaining Morgan Stanley, or its designated affiliate, in connection with future securities offerings, financings and certain other transactions, to provide financial services. Mr. Vannucci, a member of our board of directors, is a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated. Morgan Stanley served as Joint Book Running Manager and was an initial purchaser of $191,250,000 of the Holdings Notes issued in March 2007, which notes were sold to Morgan Stanley for 97.5% of face value.

Director Independence

Our securities are not listed on a national securities exchange or interdealer quotation system that has requirements as to Board composition. The following members of our Board are “independent directors” as such term is defined in the regulations of the Nasdaq Stock Market: Russell Carson, James E. Dalton, Jr., Yon Y. Jorden, Daniel S. Lynch, D. Scott Mackesy, Richard B. Mayor, Robert A. Ortenzio, Boone Powell, Jr. and Todd Vannucci. Each member of the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee is also independent under the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market that would be applicable to such committee members.

 

161


Index to Financial Statements
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The table below sets forth the aggregate fees billed to us for audit, audit-related, tax and other services provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to us during each of the last two years.

 

     2009    2008
     (in thousands)

Audit fees

   $ 1,000    $ 866

Audit-related fees

     281      —  

Other fees

     2      —  

Tax fees

     —        —  
             

Total

   $ 1,283    $ 866
             

Audit fees represent fees for the audit of our annual financial statements included in the Form 10-K and review of financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Audit fees include approximately $863,000 and $716,000 for services related to US Oncology, Inc. and $137,000 and $150,000 for services related to US Oncology Holdings, Inc. for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Audit-related fees were fees for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Company’s financial statements.

Other fees were for software license fees for a technical accounting research tool.

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

The Audit Committee is responsible for appointing, setting compensation for and overseeing the work of the Company’s independent accountant. The Audit Committee has established a policy requiring its pre-approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by the independent accountant. The policy provides for general pre-approval of certain services, with annual cost limits for each such service. The policy requires specific pre-approval of all other permitted services.

The Audit Committee will not grant approval for any services prohibited by applicable law or by any rule or regulation of the SEC or other regulatory body applicable to the Company. In addition, in determining whether to grant pre-approval of any non-audit services, the Audit Committee will consider all relevant facts and circumstances.

The Audit Committee has discussed the non-audit services provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and the related fees and has considered whether those services and fees are compatible with maintaining auditor independence. The Committee determined that such non-audit services were consistent with the independence of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

 

162


Index to Financial Statements

PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

 

(a)

The following documents are filed as a part of this report

 

  1.

Financial Statements: See Item 8 of this report

 

  2.

Financial Statement Schedules: Schedule I is filed below. All other schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements of notes thereto.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

on

Financial Statement Schedule

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.:

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements referred to in our report dated March 2, 2010 appearing in this Form 10-K also included an audit of the financial statement schedule listed in Item 15(a)(2) of this Form 10-K. In our opinion, this financial statement schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Houston, Texas

March 2, 2010

 

163


Index to Financial Statements

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Schedule I

(Parent Company Only)

Condensed Balance Sheet

(in thousands, except share information)

 

     December 31,  
     2009     2008  
ASSETS     

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 222      $ 1   

Due from affiliates

     15,765        17,683   

Deferred income taxes

     6,134        5,376   
                

Total current assets

     22,121        23,060   

Investment in subsidiary

     183,057        195,415   

Other assets

     29,274        27,070   
                

Total assets

   $ 234,452      $ 245,545   
                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)     

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 160      $ 253   

Other accrued liabilities

     17,759        10,537   
                
     17,919        10,790   

Long-term indebtedness

     493,954        456,751   

Other long-term liabilities

     29,057        35,125   
                

Total liabilities

     540,930        502,666   

Preferred stock Series A, 15,000,000 shares authorized, 13,938,657 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008

     —          329,322   

Preferred stock Series A-1, 2,000,000 shares authorized, 1,948,251 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008

     —          56,629   

Stockholders’ deficit:

    

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 422,951,505 and 148,281,420 shares issued and outstanding in 2009 and 2008, respectively

     423        148   

Additional paid-in capital

     108,723        —     

Accumulated deficit

     (415,624     (643,220
                

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (306,478     (643,072
                

Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit

   $ 234,452      $ 245,545   
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of this condensed financial statement.

 

164


Index to Financial Statements

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Schedule I

(Parent Company Only)

Condensed Statement of Operations

(in thousands)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  

Dividend income

   $ 11,064      $ 13,004      $ 36,453   
                        

Total revenue

     11,064        13,004        36,453   

General and administrative expense

     280        382        97   
                        
     280        382        97   
                        

Income from operations

     10,784        12,622        36,356   

Other income (expense):

      

Interest expense, net

     (38,342     (43,717     (42,154

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —          —          (12,917

Other income (expense)

     (13,086     (21,219     (11,885

Equity in subsidiary earnings, net of tax

     (11,054     (380,170     (25,648
                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (51,698     (432,484     (56,248

Income tax benefit

     3,694        23,274        24,894   
                        

Net income (loss)

   $ (48,004   $ (409,210   $ (31,354
                        

The accompanying notes are an integral part of this condensed financial statement.

 

165


Index to Financial Statements

US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

Schedule I

(Parent Company Only)

Condensed Statement of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2008     2007  

Cash flows from operating activities:

      

Net income (loss)

   $ (48,004   $ (409,210   $ (31,354

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

      

Amortization of deferred financing costs

     2,386        2,385        2,036   

Equity in earnings of subsidiary, net of tax

     (10     367,166        (10,805

Deferred income taxes

     (5,349     (12,222     (13,079

Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net

     —          —          12,917   

Loss on interest rate swap

     13,086        22,372        11,885   

Non-cash interest under PIK option

     35,376        29,768        13,154   

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

      

Increase in other assets

     (7,944     (6,047     (12,480

(Increase) decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities

     (338     (7,200     (5,811
                        

Net cash used in operating activities

     (10,797     (12,988     (33,537

Cash flows from investing activities:

      

Investment in subsidiary

     —          (41     (372

Distributions received from subsidiary

     11,064        13,004        225,501   
                        

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

     11,064        12,963        225,129   

Cash flows from financing activities:

      

Transaction costs related to equity conversion

     (46     —          —     

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     —          25        521   

Proceeds from Senior Floating Rate Notes

     —          —          413,232   

Repayment of Senior Subordinated Notes

     —          —          (256,766

Payment of dividends on preferred stock

     —          —          (25,000

Payment of dividends on common stock

     —          —          (323,580
                        

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (46     25        (191,593

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     221        —          (1

Cash and cash equivalents:

      

Beginning of period

     1        1        2   
                        

End of period

   $ 222      $ 1      $ 1   
                        

The accompanying notes are an integral part of this condensed financial statement.

 

166


Index to Financial Statements

NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION

These condensed parent company financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Rule 12-04, Schedule I of Regulation S-X. US Oncology Holdings, Inc. (“Holdings”) is a holding company that conducts its operations through its wholly-owned subsidiary, US Oncology, Inc. (“US Oncology”). These condensed parent company financial statements are presented as the restricted net assets of US Oncology exceed 25% of the consolidated net assets of Holdings.

The parent company financial statements have been prepared using the same accounting principles and policies described in the notes to the consolidated financial statements with the exception that Holdings accounts for its subsidiary using the equity method. Refer to the footnotes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report.

NOTE 2 – OTHER ASSETS

US Oncology, Inc. and subsidiaries are included in the consolidated tax return of its parent, US Oncology Holdings, and accounts for income taxes based on the “separate return” method. This method provides that current and deferred taxes are accounted for as if US Oncology were a separate taxpayer. Other assets include amounts related to differences between the tax provision of US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and US Oncology, Inc. due to incremental operating and interest expenses incurred by Holdings. From time to time, Holdings may contribute tax benefits associated with these items to US Oncology.

In addition, other assets include unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the separate indebtedness of Holdings.

NOTE 3 – INDEBTEDNESS

Holdings Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Notes

During the year ended December 31, 2007, Holdings, whose principal asset is its investment in US Oncology, issued $425.0 million of senior floating rate PIK toggle notes (“Notes” or “Holdings Notes”), due March 15, 2012. These notes are senior unsecured obligations of Holdings. Holdings may elect to pay interest on the Notes entirely in cash, by increasing the principal amount of the Notes (“PIK interest”), or by paying 50% in cash and 50% by increasing the principal amount of the Notes. Cash interest accrues on the Notes at a rate per annum equal to 6-month LIBOR plus the applicable spread. PIK interest accrues on the Notes at a rate per annum equal to the cash interest rate plus 0.75%. The Company must make an election regarding whether subsequent interest payments will be made in cash or through PIK interest prior to the start of the applicable interest period. The applicable spread of 4.50% was increased by 0.50% on March 15, 2009 and will increase by another 0.50% on March 15, 2010. During the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, the Company elected to PIK interest on the Holdings Notes and total interest expense was $38.3 million, $43.7 million, and $42.2 million respectively, which includes cash or PIK interest, as well as interest related to future spread increases and the amortization of debt issuance costs.

 

167


Index to Financial Statements

Holdings may redeem all or any of the Notes at the redemption prices set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date:

 

Redemption period

   Price  

On or after September 15, 2009 and prior to September 15, 2010

   101.0

On or after September 15, 2010

   100.0

Because Holdings’ principal asset is its investment in US Oncology, US Oncology provides funds to service Holdings’ indebtedness through payment of dividends to Holdings. US Oncology’s senior notes and senior subordinated notes limit its ability to make restricted payments from US Oncology, including dividends paid by US Oncology to Holdings. As of December 31, 2009, US Oncology has the ability to make approximately $26.5 million in restricted payments, which amount increases based on capital contributions to US Oncology, Inc. and by 50 percent of US Oncology’s net income and is reduced by i) the amount of any restricted payments made and ii) 50 percent of the net losses of US Oncology, excluding certain non-cash charges such as the $380.0 million goodwill impairment during the year ended December 31, 2008 and the $26.0 million loss on early extinguishment of debt during the year ended December 31, 2009. Delaware law also requires that US Oncology be solvent both at the time, and immediately following, a dividend payment to Holdings. Because Holdings relies on dividends from US Oncology to fund cash interest payments on the Holdings Notes, in the event that such restrictions prevent US Oncology from paying such a dividend, Holdings would be unable to pay interest on the notes in cash and would instead be required to pay PIK interest. In connection with issuing the Notes, Holdings entered into an interest rate swap agreement, with a notional amount of $425.0 million, fixing the LIBOR base rate at 4.97% through maturity in 2012 (see Note 3 – Fair Value Measurements). Unlike interest on the Holdings Notes, which may be settled in cash or through the issuance of additional notes, payments due to the swap counterparty must be made in cash. As a result of the current and projected low interest rate environment, and the related expectation that Holdings will continue to be a net payer on the interest rate swap, the Company believes that cash payments for the interest rate swap obligations will reduce the availability under the restricted payments provisions in US Oncology’s indebtedness to a level that additional payments for cash interest for the Holdings Notes may not be prudent and therefore, no longer remain probable. Based on projected LIBOR interest rates as of December 31, 2009, there will be available funds under the restricted payments provision in order to service, at a minimum, the estimated interest rate swap obligations through December 31, 2010. The Company’s semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap increase by $2.1 million for each 1.00% that the fixed interest rate of 4.97% paid to the counterparty exceeds the variable interest rate received from the counterparty. Similarly, the Company’s semiannual payment obligations on the interest rate swap decrease by $2.1 million when the difference between the fixed interest rate paid to the counterparty and the variable interest rate received from the counterparty is reduced by 1.00%. In the event amounts available under the restricted payments provision are insufficient for the Company to service interest on the Holdings Notes, including any obligation related to the interest rate swap, the Company may be required to arrange additional financing or a capital infusion and use such proceeds to satisfy these obligations. There can be no assurance that additional financing or a capital infusion, if available, will be made on terms that are acceptable to the Company. The indenture required that the initial interest payment of $21.2 million due September 15, 2007 be made in cash, which was provided by US Oncology, Inc. in the form of a dividend paid to Holdings. During the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, the outstanding principal amounts of the notes were increased by $37.2 million and $31.8 million, respectively, under elections to pay PIK interest. Also, during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, US Oncology paid dividends to Holdings in the amount of $11.1 million and $13.0 million, respectively, to finance interest payments settled in cash, obligations under the interest rate swap and Holdings’ general corporate expenses.

Holdings issued the Notes pursuant to an Indenture dated March 13, 2007 between Holdings and a Trustee. Among other provisions, the Indenture contains certain covenants that limit the ability of Holdings and certain restricted subsidiaries, including US Oncology, to incur additional debt, pay dividends on, redeem or repurchase capital stock, issue capital stock of restricted subsidiaries, make certain investments, enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates, engage in unrelated businesses, create liens securing the debt of Holdings and sell certain assets or merge with or into other companies.

Scheduled maturities of indebtedness for the next five years are as follows (in thousands):

 

     2010    2011    2012    2013    2014    Thereafter

Principal repayments due

   —      —      493,954    —      —      —  

 

168


Index to Financial Statements

NOTE 4DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Holdings has entered into derivative financial agreements for the purpose of hedging risks relating to the variability of cash flows caused by movements in interest rates. The Company documents its risk management strategy and hedge effectiveness at the inception of the hedge, and, unless the instrument qualifies for the short-cut method of hedge accounting, over the term of each hedging relationship. Holdings’ use of derivative financial instruments has historically been limited to interest rate swaps, the purpose of which is to hedge the cash flows of variable-rate indebtedness. Holdings does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivatives that have been designated and qualify as cash flow hedging instruments are reported at fair value. The gain or loss on the effective portion of the hedge is initially reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) in Holdings’ Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity. The gain or loss that does not effectively hedge the identified exposure, if any, is recognized currently in earnings. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified into net income in the same period in which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings.

When it is determined that a derivative has ceased to be a highly effective hedge or when a hedge is de-designated, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively. When hedge accounting is discontinued for cash flow hedges, the derivative asset or liability remains on the consolidated balance sheet at its fair value, and gains and losses that were recorded as accumulated other comprehensive income are frozen and amortized to earnings as the hedged transaction affects income unless it becomes probable that the hedged transactions will not occur. If it becomes probable that a hedged transaction will not occur, amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to earnings when that determination is made.

In connection with issuing the Notes, Holdings entered into an interest rate swap agreement, with a notional amount of $425.0 million, fixing the LIBOR base rate at 4.97% through maturity in 2012. The swap agreement was initially designated as a cash flow hedge against the variability of cash future interest payments on the Notes. Due to the uncertainty regarding the impact of reduced Medicare coverage for ESA’s, the Company elected to pay interest in kind on the Notes for the semiannual period ending March 15, 2008. Based on its financial projections, which include the adverse impact of reduced ESA coverage, and due to limitations on the amount of restricted payments that will be available to service the Notes, the Company no longer believes that payment of cash interest on the entire principal of the outstanding Notes remains probable. As a result of these circumstances, the Company discontinued cash flow hedge accounting for this interest rate swap effective September 30, 2007. Subsequent to discontinuation of hedge accounting, the Company recognized all unrealized gains and losses in earnings, rather than deferring such amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income. As a result of discontinuing cash flow hedge accounting for this instrument, Holdings recognized an unrealized loss of $13.1 million, $19.9 million and $11.9 million related to the interest rate swap as Other Expense in its Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

At December 31, 2007, accumulated other comprehensive income included $1.5 million related to the interest rate swap which represents the activity while the instrument was designated as a cash flow hedge that is associated with future interest payments that cannot be considered probable of not occurring. For interest periods beginning March 15, 2008, and thereafter, cash interest payments on Notes with a principal amount of $225.0 million could not be considered probable of not occurring as of December 31, 2007. This amount was based upon the principal amount of Notes on which cash interest was expected to be paid, taking into consideration approximately $22.7 million incremental Notes issued for the semiannual interest payment due March 15, 2008. As a result of the current and projected low interest rate environment, and the related expectation that payments due on the interest rate swap will increase, the Company believes that cash payments for interest rate swap obligations will reduce the availability under the restricted payments provisions in US Oncology’s indebtedness to a level that additional payments for cash interest for the Holdings Notes no longer remain probable. As a result, at December 31, 2008 all amounts previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income related to interest rate swap activity while that instrument was designated as a cash flow hedge (amounting to $0.8 million, net of tax) were reclassified to Other Income (Expense), Net in the consolidated statement of income for US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

 

169


Index to Financial Statements

3. Exhibit Index

 

Exhibit No.

  

Description

  3.114

   Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

  3.22

   Bylaws of US Oncology Holdings, Inc.

  4.12

   Indenture, dated as of March 13, 2007, between US Oncology Holdings, Inc. and LaSalle Bank National Association as Trustee

  4.22

   Form of Senior Floating Rate PIK Toggle Note due 2012 (included in Exhibit 4.1)

  4.33

   Indenture, dated as of February 1, 2002, among US Oncology, Inc., the Guarantors named therein and JP Morgan Chase Bank as Trustee

  4.44

   Form of 9 5/8% Senior Subordinated Note due 2012 (included in Exhibit 4.4)

  4.54

   First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2004, among US Oncology, Inc., the Guarantors named therein and JP Morgan Chase Bank as Trustee

  4.64

   Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2004, among Oiler Acquisition Corp. and LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee

  4.74

   First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2004, among US Oncology, Inc., the Guarantors named therein and LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee

  4.84

   Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2004, among Oiler Acquisition Corp. and LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee

  4.94

   Form of 10 3/4% Senior Subordinated Note due 2014 (included in Exhibit 4.11)

  4.104

   First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 20, 2004, among US Oncology, Inc., the Guarantors named therein and LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee

  4.114

   Accession Agreement, dated as of August 20, 2004, among the Guarantors listed therein

  4.121

   Amended and Restated Stockholders Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2006

  4.131

   Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2006

  4.1412

   Form of 9.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2017

  4.1512

   Indenture dated June 18, 2009 between the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors named therein and Wilmington Trust FSB, as trustee

  4.1612

   Registration Rights Agreement dated June 4, 2009 between the Company, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, as representative of the initial purchasers

10.111

   Form of Executive Employment Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2008, among US Oncology Holdings, Inc., US Oncology, Inc. and each of its executive officers.

 

170


Index to Financial Statements

10.24

   Form of Restricted Stock Agreement

10.34

   Form of Unit Grant

10.44

   US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan

10.54

   US Oncology Holdings, Inc. 2008 Long-Term Cash Incentive Plan

10.613

   Credit Agreement, dated as of August 26, 2009, among US Oncology Holdings, Inc., US Oncology, Inc., the Lenders party thereto, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Syndication Agents, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as Documentation Agent.

10.713

   Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of August 26, 2009, among US Oncology Holdings, Inc., US Oncology, Inc., the subsidiaries of US Oncology, Inc. identified therein, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Collateral Agent.

10.814

   US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated 2004 Equity Incentive Plan

10.914

   US Oncology Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Award Plan

148

   Code of Ethics

21†

   Subsidiaries of the registrant

31.1†

   Certification of Chief Executive Officer

31.2†

   Certification of Chief Financial Officer

32.1†

   Certification of Chief Executive Officer

32.2†

   Certification of Chief Financial Officer

 

1

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on December 27, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

2

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on March 16, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

3

Filed as Exhibit 3 to the 8-K filed by US Oncology, Inc. on February 5, 2002 and incorporated herein by reference.

 

4

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on January 7, 2008.

 

5

Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the 8-K filed by US Oncology, Inc. on March 29, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

171


Index to Financial Statements
6

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology, Inc. on November 21, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

7

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology, Inc. on July 13, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

8

Filed as Exhibit 14 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 and incorporated herein by reference.

 

9

Filed as Exhibit 10 to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on March 16, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

10

Filed as Exhibit 10 to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on December 4, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

11

Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and incorporated herein by reference.

 

12

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on June 18, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

13

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on August 28, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

14

Filed as an Exhibit to the 8-K filed by US Oncology Holdings, Inc. on October 7, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Filed herewith.

 

172


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized this 2nd day of March, 2010.

 

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC AND

US ONCOLOGY, INC.

/s/ MICHAEL A. SICURO
Michael A. Sicuro,
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(duly authorized signatory and

principal financial officer)

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

 

/s/ BRUCE D. BROUSSARD

Bruce D. Broussard

  

Chief Executive Officer, President and Chairman

of the Board of Directors (Principal Executive Officer)

  March 2, 2010

/s/ MICHAEL A. SICURO

Michael A. Sicuro

  

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial

Officer (Principal Financial Officer)

  March 2, 2010

/s/ KEVIN F. KRENZKE

Kevin F. Krenzke

  

Vice President–Finance and Chief Accounting

Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)

  March 2, 2010

/s/ RUSSELL L. CARSON

Russell L. Carson

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ JAMES E. DALTON, JR.

James E. Dalton, Jr.

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ LLOYD K. EVERSON, M.D.

Lloyd K. Everson, M.D.

   Director   March 2, 2010

 

173


Index to Financial Statements

US ONCOLOGY HOLDINGS, INC. AND US ONCOLOGY, INC.

 

/s/ YON Y. JORDEN

Yon Y. Jorden

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ DANIEL S. LYNCH

Daniel S. Lynch

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ D. SCOTT MACKESY

D. Scott Mackesy

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ RICHARD B. MAYOR

Richard B. Mayor

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ MARK C. MYRON, M.D.

Mark C. Myron, M.D.

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ ROBERT A. ORTENZIO

Robert A. Ortenzio

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ R. STEVEN PAULSON, M.D.

R. Steven Paulson, M.D.

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ BOONE POWELL, JR.

Boone Powell, Jr.

   Director   March 2, 2010

/s/ TODD VANNUCCI

Todd Vannucci

   Director   March 2, 2010

 

174


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