form10-q_093009.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

[X] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2009

or

[  ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from _____  to _____

Commission File Number 000-19364

GRAPHIC
HEALTHWAYS, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)


Delaware
 
62-1117144
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization)
 
Identification No.)

701 Cool Springs Boulevard, Franklin, TN  37067
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

615-614-4929
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

 
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes   x  No   ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

 
 

 


Yes   ¨   No   ¨

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 definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer x                                           Accelerated filer ¨

Non-accelerated filer ¨
(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  x

As of November 2, 2009 there were outstanding 33,799,238 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock, par value $.001 per share.

 
2

 


Healthways, Inc.
Form 10-Q
Table of Contents


       
Page
 
 
Part I
       
   
4
 
   
 
21
 
   
39
 
   
39
 
 
Part II
       
   
40
 
   
42
 
   
42
 
   
42
 
   
43
 
   
43
 
   
43
 


 
3

 

Part I

Item 1.
Financial Statements
 

HEALTHWAYS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

ASSETS

     
September 30,
     
December 31,
     
     
2009
     
2008
     
 
Current assets:
                   
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
2,309
     
$
5,157
   
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
121,924
       
115,108
   
 
Prepaid expenses
   
11,325
       
13,479
   
 
Other current assets
   
5,618
       
3,810
   
 
Income taxes receivable
   
8,415
       
   
 
Deferred tax asset
   
26,404
       
30,488
   
 
  Total current assets
   
175,995
       
168,042
   
                       
 
Property and equipment:
                   
 
Leasehold improvements
   
41,270
       
34,635
   
 
Computer equipment and related software
   
148,212
       
138,369
   
 
Furniture and office equipment
   
29,006
       
29,610
   
 
Capital projects in process
   
32,577
       
17,462
   
       
251,065
       
220,076
   
 
Less accumulated depreciation
   
(132,841
)
     
(108,635
)
 
       
118,224
       
111,441
   
                       
 
Other assets
   
7,063
       
18,089
   
                       
 
Customer contracts, net
   
28,652
       
32,715
   
 
Other intangible assets, net
   
66,563
       
68,207
   
 
Goodwill, net
   
484,584
       
484,596
   
                       
 
Total assets
 
$
881,081
     
$
883,090
   
                       
 
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
                   





 
4

 

HEALTHWAYS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

     
September 30,
     
December 31,
   
     
2009
     
2008
   
 
Current liabilities:
               
 
Accounts payable
$
22,399
   
$
21,633
   
 
Accrued salaries and benefits
 
65,168
     
33,161
   
 
Accrued liabilities
 
26,873
     
26,294
   
 
Deferred revenue
 
5,060
     
6,904
   
 
Contract billings in excess of earned revenue
 
75,099
     
71,406
   
 
Income taxes payable
 
 —
     
8,034
   
 
Current portion of long-term debt
 
2,657
     
2,035
   
 
Current portion of long-term liabilities
 
4,371
     
4,609
   
 
Total current liabilities
 
201,627
     
174,076
   
                   
 
Long-term debt
 
263,852
     
304,372
   
 
Long-term deferred tax liability
 
10,898
     
8,073
   
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
38,181
     
39,533
   
                   
 
Stockholders’ equity:
               
 
Preferred stock
               
 
      $.001 par value, 5,000,000 shares
               
 
authorized, none outstanding
 
 —
     
 —
   
 
Common stock
               
 
      $.001 par value, 120,000,000 shares authorized,
               
 
        33,790,729 and 33,648,976 shares outstanding
 
34
     
34
   
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
220,060
     
213,461
   
 
Retained earnings
 
151,370
     
148,506
   
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
(4,941
)
   
(4,965
)
 
 
  Total stockholders’ equity
 
366,523
     
357,036
   
                   
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
881,081
   
$
883,090
   
                   

 
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
 




 
5

 

HEALTHWAYS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except earnings per share data)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
   
2009
 
2008
 
2009
 
2008
 
                           
Revenues
 
$
181,642
 
$
187,448
 
$
542,214
 
$
561,432
 
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization of $8,517, $9,316, $25,843, and $27,116, respectively, included below)
   
132,498
   
125,628
   
393,097
   
381,884
 
Selling, general & administrative expenses
   
17,816
   
17,493
   
55,050
   
55,156
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
11,956
   
12,949
   
36,155
   
37,813
 
                           
Operating income
   
19,372
   
31,378
   
57,912
   
86,579
 
Gain on sale of investment
   
   
   
(2,581
)
 
 
Interest expense
   
3,888
   
5,366
   
12,091
   
15,529
 
Legal settlement and related costs
   
   
   
39,956
   
 
                           
Income before income taxes
   
15,484
   
26,012
   
8,446
   
71,050
 
Income tax expense
   
6,682
   
10,389
   
5,582
   
28,900
 
                           
Net income
 
$
8,802
 
$
15,623
 
$
2,864
 
$
42,150
 
                           
Earnings per share:
                         
  Basic
 
$
0.26
 
$
0.46
 
$
0.08
 
$
1.22
 
                           
  Diluted
 
$
0.26
 
$
0.45
 
$
0.08
 
$
1.17
 
                           
Weighted average common shares
                         
and equivalents:
                         
  Basic
   
33,745
   
33,599
   
33,701
   
34,474
 
  Diluted
   
34,481
   
34,567
   
34,232
   
35,891
 
                           
 



 
6

 


HEALTHWAYS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

                   
Accumulated
         
           
Additional
     
Other
         
   
Preferred
 
Common
 
Paid-in
 
Retained
 
Comprehensive
         
   
Stock
 
Stock
 
Capital
 
Earnings
 
Income (Loss)
 
Total
     
Balance, December 31, 2008
   
$—
   
$34
   
$213,461
   
$148,506
     
 $(4,965
)
 
$357,036
 
                                         
Comprehensive income:
                                       
                                         
Net income
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
   
2,864
     
 —
   
2,864
 
                                         
Net change in fair value of interest rate
                                       
swaps, net of income taxes of $1,246
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
     
1,591
   
1,591
 
                                         
Change in fair value of investment, net of
                                       
income tax benefit of $49
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
     
(71
)
 
  (71
)
                                         
Sale of investment, net of income taxes of $1,045 
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
     
(1,536
)
 
  (1,536
)
                                         
Foreign currency translation adjustment
   
 —
   
 —
   
 —
   
     
40
   
40
 
                                         
Total comprehensive income
                                   
2,888
 
                                         
Exercise of stock options
   
 —
   
 —
   
265
   
 —
     
 — 
   
265
 
                                         
Tax effect of option exercises
   
 —
   
 —
   
(793
)
 
 — 
     
 — 
   
(793
)
                                         
Repurchase of stock options
   
 —
   
 —
   
(736
)
 
 —
     
 — 
   
(736
)
                                         
Share-based employee compensation expense
   
 —
   
 —
   
7,863
   
 — 
     
 — 
   
7,863
 
                                         
Balance, September 30, 2009
   
$—
   
$34
   
$220,060
   
$151,370
     
 $(4,941
)
 
$366,523
 


See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.


 
7

 

HEALTHWAYS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
   
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
   
2009
     
2008
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net income
 
$
2,864
     
$
42,150
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
                 
operating activities, net of business acquisitions:
                 
Depreciation and amortization
   
36,155
       
37,813
 
Amortization of deferred loan costs
   
1,128
       
881
 
Gain on sale of investment
   
(2,581
)
     
 
Loss on disposal of property and equipment
   
955
       
1,346
 
Share-based employee compensation expense
   
7,863
       
12,714
 
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements
   
(162
)
     
(3,487
)
Increase in accounts receivable, net
   
(6,776
)
     
(19,049
)
(Increase) decrease in other current assets
   
(5,490
)
     
1,926
 
Increase in accounts payable
   
4,462
       
2,968
 
Increase in accrued salaries and benefits
   
31,965
       
15,640
 
(Decrease) increase in other current liabilities
   
(3,667
)
     
2,341
 
Deferred income taxes
   
5,339
       
(7,727
)
Other
   
3,479
       
8,002
 
Increase in other assets
   
(454
)
     
(1,581
)
Payments on other long-term liabilities
   
(2,935
)
     
(2,156
)
Net cash flows provided by operating activities
   
72,145
       
91,781
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
                 
Acquisition of property and equipment
   
(35,638
)
     
(62,026
)
Sale of investment
   
11,626
       
 
Change in restricted cash
   
(538
)
     
 
Other
   
(3,655
)
     
(4,543
)
Net cash flows used in investing activities
   
(28,205
)
     
(66,569
)
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
                 
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
   
283,900
       
87,287
 
Payments of long-term debt
   
(325,826
)
     
(42,965
)
Deferred loan costs
   
(784
)
     
 
Exercise of stock options
   
265
       
3,668
 
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements
   
162
       
3,487
 
Repurchases of common stock
   
       
(94,208
)
Repurchase of stock options
   
(736
)
     
 
Change in outstanding checks and other
   
(3,982
)
     
 
Net cash flows used in financing activities
   
(47,001
)
     
(42,731
)
                   
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
   
213
       
(76
)
                   
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
   
(2,848
)
     
(17,595
)
                   
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
   
5,157
       
40,515
 
                   
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 
$
2,309
     
$
22,920
 

See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
 
 
8

 

HEALTHWAYS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

(1)
Basis of Presentation
 

Our financial statements and accompanying notes are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).  In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Healthways, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries reflect all adjustments consisting of normal, recurring accruals necessary for a fair presentation.  We have reclassified certain items in prior periods to conform to current classifications.

We have omitted certain financial information that is normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP but that is not required for interim reporting purposes. You should read the accompanying consolidated financial statements in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008.  In August 2008, our Board of Directors approved a change in our fiscal year-end from August 31 to December 31. Accordingly, our current fiscal year began on January 1, 2009 following a four-month transition period ending December 31, 2008.

(2)
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
 

In April 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued authoritative guidance requiring disclosures about fair value of financial instruments in both interim reporting periods of publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements, beginning with interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The implementation of this guidance resulted in increased disclosures in our interim periods but did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.

In May 2009, the FASB issued guidance which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for subsequent events.  The guidance defines subsequent events as events that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued for public entities.  It requires companies to disclose the date through which they have evaluated subsequent events and to designate subsequent events as either recognized or non-recognized.  The new guidance is effective for interim or annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The implementation of this guidance resulted in increased disclosures but did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.

In June 2009, the FASB approved the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the “Codification”).  Effective July 1, 2009, the Codification is the single source of authoritative nongovernmental U.S. GAAP, superseding existing FASB, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”), Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”), and related accounting literature.  The Codification reorganizes the thousands of U.S. GAAP pronouncements into approximately 90 accounting topics and displays them using a consistent structure.  Also included is relevant Securities and Exchange Commission guidance organized using the same topical structure in separate sections.  

(3)
Share-Based Compensation
 

We have several shareholder-approved stock incentive plans for employees and directors. We currently have three types of share-based awards outstanding under these plans: stock options, restricted stock, and restricted stock units. We believe that such awards align the interests of our employees and directors with those of our stockholders.

 
9

 


For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, we recognized share-based compensation costs of $2.5 million and $7.9 million, respectively.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, we recognized share-based compensation costs of $4.3 million and $12.7 million, respectively.

A summary of our stock options as of September 30, 2009 and changes during the nine months then ended is presented below:
             
Weighted-
       
             
Average
       
         
Weighted-
 
Remaining
 
Aggregate
   
     
Shares
 
Average
 
Contractual
 
Intrinsic
   
 
Options
 
(000s)
 
Exercise Price
 
Term (years)
 
Value ($000s)
   
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2009
 
4,124
 
$
20.20
           
 
Granted
 
1,153
   
11.69
           
 
Exercised
 
(51
)
 
5.09
           
 
Forfeited or expired
 
(181
)
 
21.62
           
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2009
 
5,045
   
18.36
 
4.96
 
$14,705
   
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2009
 
3,472
   
19.43
 
3.50
 
9,249
   

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 was $7.31 and $6.71, respectively.

The following table shows a summary of our restricted stock and restricted stock units (“nonvested shares”) as of September 30, 2009 as well as activity during the nine months then ended:

              Weighted-  
              Average  
     
Shares
      Grant Date  
 
Nonvested Shares
 
(000s)
      Fair Value  
 
Nonvested at January 1, 2009
 
501
   
$
41.01
 
 
Granted
 
666
     
11.09
 
 
Vested
 
(87
)
   
44.02
 
 
Forfeited
 
(58
)
   
24.02
 
 
Nonvested at September 30, 2009
 
1,022
     
22.23
 

(4)
Income Taxes
 

Our effective tax rate increased to 43.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 39.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to an increase during the three months ended September 30, 2009 in certain expenses for which we do not receive a tax benefit related to international operations and to our participation in the ongoing healthcare reform process.

Our effective tax rate increased to 66.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 40.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.   The increase in the effective rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 was primarily due to the relatively small base of pretax income for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 in relation to certain unrecognized tax benefits and non-deductible expenses.

 
10

 

We file income tax returns in the U.S. Federal jurisdiction and in various state and foreign jurisdictions.  During 2009, the Internal Revenue Service completed an audit of our 2005 and 2006 tax years, the resolution of which did not result in a material adjustment to our financial statements.

(5)
Derivative Investments and Hedging Activities
 

We use derivative instruments to manage risks related to interest rates and foreign currencies.  We record all derivatives at estimated fair value as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and recognize the unrealized gains and losses in either the balance sheet or statement of operations, depending on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument.  As permitted under our master netting arrangements, beginning September 30, 2009, the fair value amounts of our derivative instruments are presented on a net basis by counterparty in the consolidated balance sheet.

Interest Rate

We currently maintain nine interest rate swap agreements to reduce our exposure to interest rate fluctuations on our floating rate debt commitments (see Note 7 for further information).  These interest rate swap agreements effectively modify our exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of our floating rate debt to fixed obligations with interest rates ranging from 3.375% to 4.995%, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on future interest expense.  Under these agreements, we receive a variable rate of interest based on LIBOR, and we pay a fixed rate of interest plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% on revolving advances and a spread of 1.50% on term loan borrowings.  We have designated these interest rate swap agreements as qualifying cash flow hedges.

Foreign Currency

We enter into foreign currency options and/or forward contracts in order to minimize our earnings exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.  Our foreign currency exchange contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment under U.S. GAAP.  We routinely monitor our foreign currency exposures to maximize the overall effectiveness of our foreign currency hedge positions.  We do not execute transactions or hold derivative financial instruments for trading or other purposes.

The estimated gross fair values of derivative instruments at September 30, 2009, excluding the impact of netting derivative assets and liabilities when a legally enforceable master netting agreement exists, were as follows:

 
11

 

 
(In $000s)
 
Foreign currency exchange contracts
 
Interest rate swap agreements
   
 
Assets:
           
 
  Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
           
 
     Other current assets
 
$1,259
 
$—
   
               
 
 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
           
 
     Other assets
 
 
   
 
Total assets
 
$1,259
 
$—
   
               
 
 Liabilities:
           
 
  Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
           
 
     Accrued liabilities
 
$1,333
 
$—
   
 
 
           
 
  Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
           
 
     Accrued liabilities
 
 
845
   
 
     Other long-term liabilities
 
 
7,609
   
 
Total liabilities
 
$1,333
 
$8,454
   
               
 
See also Note 6.

Cash Flow Hedges

Derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded at estimated fair value in the balance sheet, with the effective portion of the gains and losses being reported in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) or loss.  These gains and losses are reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged transaction affects earnings or the period in which all or a portion of the hedge becomes ineffective.  As of September 30, 2009, we expect to reclassify $5.6 million of net losses on interest rate swap agreements from accumulated OCI to interest expense within the next 12 months due to the scheduled payment of interest associated with floating rate debt.

As of September 30, 2009, we are a party to the following interest rate swap agreements for which we receive a variable rate of interest based on LIBOR and for which we pay the following fixed rates of interest plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% on revolving advances and a spread of 1.50% on term loan borrowings:

   
 
Swap #
 
Original Notional
Amount (in $000s)
 
Fixed Interest
Rate
 
Termination Date
         
   
1
 
$184,000
 
4.995
%
March 31, 2010
(1)
       
   
2
 
46,000
 
4.995
%
March 31, 2010
(2)
       
   
3
 
40,000
 
3.987
%
December 31, 2009
         
   
4
 
40,000
 
3.433
%
December 30, 2011
         
   
5
 
50,000
 
3.688
%
December 30, 2011
         
   
6
 
40,000
 
3.855
%
December 30, 2011
(3)
       
   
7
 
30,000
 
3.760
%
March 30, 2011
(4)
       
   
8
 
57,500
 
3.385
%
December 31, 2013
(5)
       
   
9
 
57,500
 
3.375
%
December 31, 2013
(6)
       


 
12

 


(1) The principal value of this swap agreement amortizes over a 39-month period.  During the three months ended September 30, 2009, the
notional amount of this swap was $56 million.
(2) The principal value of this swap agreement amortizes over a 39-month period.  During the three months ended September 30, 2009, the notional amount of this swap was $14 million.
(3) This swap agreement became effective October 1, 2009.
(4) This swap agreement becomes effective January 2, 2010.
(5) This swap agreement becomes effective January 1, 2012.  The principal value of this swap agreement will amortize over a 24-month period.
(6) This swap agreement becomes effective January 3, 2012.  The principal value of this swap agreement will amortize over a 24-month period.

We currently meet the hedge accounting criteria under U.S. GAAP in accounting for these interest rate swap agreements.

Gains and losses representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.  The following table shows the effect of our cash flow hedges on the consolidated statement of operations (or when applicable, the consolidated balance sheet) during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009:
 
   
Three Months Ended September 30, 2009
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009
 
 
 
 
Derivatives in
Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
 
 
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion)
 
 
Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
 
 
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
 
 
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion)
 
Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
 
 
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
Interest rate swap agreements, gross of tax effect
 
$(2,603) 
 
Interest expense
 
$(1,818) 
 
$(2,167)
 
Interest expense
 
$(5,005) 
 
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, there were no gains or losses on cash flow hedges recognized in income resulting from hedge ineffectiveness.

Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Our foreign currency exchange contracts require current period mark-to-market accounting, with any change in fair value being recorded each period in the statement of operations in selling, general and administrative expenses.  As of September 30, 2009, we had the following outstanding net foreign currency forward contracts that were entered into to hedge forecasted foreign net income (loss) and intercompany debt.

       
Notional
   
   
Foreign Currency
 
Amount (000s)
   
   
Euro
 
231
   
   
British Pound Sterling
 
£107
   
   
Australian Dollar
 
AUD 925
   

These forward contracts did not have a material effect on our consolidated statement of operations during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009.

 
13

 


Fair Value Measurements
 

We account for certain assets and liabilities at fair value.  Fair value is defined as the price that would be received upon sale of an asset or paid upon transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, assuming the transaction occurs in the principal or most advantageous market for that asset or liability.
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
The hierarchy below lists three levels of fair value based on the extent to which inputs used in measuring fair value are observable in the market. We categorize each of our fair value measurements in one of these three levels based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. These levels are:
 

 
Level 1:  Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
 
 
 
Level 2:  Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-based valuation techniques in which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and
 
 
 
Level 3:  Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and typically reflect management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
 

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following table presents our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2009, all of which are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy:

     
 
Gross Fair Value –
Level 2
   
 
 
 
Netting (1)
   
 
 
Net Fair Value
     
 
Assets:
                     
 
Foreign currency exchange contracts
$
1,259
 
$
(1,259
)
$
     
 
Interest rate swap agreements
$
 
$
 
$
     
 
Liabilities:
                     
 
Foreign currency exchange contracts
$
1,333
 
$
(1,259
)
$
74
     
 
Interest rate swap agreements
$
8,454
 
$
 
$
8,454
     

(1) This column reflects the impact of netting derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty when a legally enforceable master netting agreement exists.


 
14

 

The fair values of forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued using broker quotations of similar assets or liabilities in active markets.  The fair values of interest rate swap agreements are primarily determined based on the present value of future cash flows using internal models and third-party pricing services with observable inputs, including interest rates, yield curves and applicable credit spreads.

Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments

In addition to foreign currency exchange contracts and interest rate swap agreements, the estimated fair values of which are disclosed above, the estimated fair value of each class of financial instruments at September 30, 2009 was as follows:
 
 
·
Cash and cash equivalents – The carrying amount of $2.3 million approximates fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments (less than three months).
 
 
·
Long-term debt –The estimated fair value of outstanding borrowings under the Third Amended Credit Agreement is based on the average of the prices set by the issuing bank given current market conditions and is not necessarily indicative of the amount we could realize in a current market exchange. The estimated fair value and carrying amount of outstanding borrowings under the Third Amended Credit Agreement at September 30, 2009 are $242.8 million and $261.5 million, respectively.

(7)
Long-Term Debt
 

On December 1, 2006, we entered into a Third Amended and Restated Revolving Credit and Term Loan Agreement (the “Third Amended Credit Agreement”).  The Third Amended Credit Agreement provides us with a $400.0 million revolving credit facility, including a swingline sub facility of $10.0 million and a $75.0 million sub facility for letters of credit, a $200.0 million term loan facility, and an uncommitted incremental accordion facility of $200.0 million.
 
Revolving advances under the Third Amended Credit Agreement generally bear interest, at our option, at 1) LIBOR plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% or 2) the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or the prime rate, plus a spread of 0.000% to 0.250%.  Term loan borrowings bear interest, at our option, at 1) LIBOR plus 1.50% or 2) the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or the prime rate.  See Note 5 for a description of our interest rate swap agreements.  The Third Amended Credit Agreement also provides for a fee ranging between 0.150% and 0.300% of unused commitments.  The Third Amended Credit Agreement is secured by guarantees from most of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and by security interests in substantially all of the Company’s and such subsidiaries’ assets.

We are required to repay outstanding revolving loans on the revolving commitment termination date, which is December 1, 2011. We are required to repay term loans in quarterly principal installments aggregating $0.5 million each, which commenced on March 31, 2007, and the entire unpaid principal balance of the term loans is due and payable at maturity on December 1, 2013.


 
15

 

The Third Amended Credit Agreement contains various financial covenants, which require us to maintain, as defined, ratios or levels of 1) total funded debt to EBITDA, 2) fixed charge coverage, and 3) net worth.  In connection with a legal settlement (see Note 9), in March 2009 we entered into a sixth amendment to the Third Amended Credit Agreement to expressly exclude up to $40 million of expenses attributable to this settlement from the calculation of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, for purposes of covenant calculations.  The Third Amended Credit Agreement also restricts the payment of dividends and limits the amount of repurchases of the Company’s common stock.  As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all of the covenant requirements of the Third Amended Credit Agreement.

As described in Note 5 above, as of September 30, 2009, we are currently a party to nine interest rate swap agreements for which we receive a variable rate of interest based on LIBOR and for which we pay a fixed rate of interest plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% on revolving advances and a spread of 1.50% on term loan borrowings.

(8)
Restructuring and Related Charges
 

In 2008, we began a restructuring of the Company primarily focused on streamlining management and better positioning the Company to deliver fully integrated solutions, which was largely completed by the end of calendar 2008.  Through September 30, 2009, we had incurred cumulative net charges of approximately $9.1 million.  These restructuring charges primarily consisted of severance costs, net of equity forfeitures, and costs associated with capacity consolidation.  For the four months ended December 31, 2008, these charges were presented in a separate line on the consolidated statement of operations.

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, we recorded net restructuring credits of ($0.1) million and ($1.2) million, respectively, which are included in cost of services and selling, general, and administrative expenses.  We do not expect to incur significant additional costs or adjustments related to this restructuring.

The change in accrued restructuring and related charges during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 was as follows:

   
(In 000s)
             
                   
   
Accrued restructuring and related charges at January 1, 2009
$
10,460
         
   
Additions
 
191
         
   
Payments
 
(7,619
)
       
   
Adjustments (1)
 
(1,209
)
       
   
Accrued restructuring and related charges at September 30, 2009
$
1,823
         
                   
(1) Adjustments for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 resulted from actual severance amounts differing from initial estimates due to employees who were expected to be terminated but were instead transitioned to new roles, as well as a favorable adjustment to lease termination costs due to unanticipated demand for certain unused office space.
 

 
16

 


(9)
Commitments and Contingencies
 

Former Employee Action

In June 1994, a former employee whom we dismissed in February 1994 filed a “whistle blower” action on behalf of the United States government.  Subsequent to its review of this case, the federal government determined not to intervene in the litigation.  The employee sued Healthways, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiary, American Healthways Services, Inc. (“AHSI”), as well as certain named and unnamed medical directors and one named client hospital, West Paces Medical Center (“WPMC”), and other unnamed client hospitals.

Healthways, Inc. was subsequently dismissed as a defendant.  In addition, WPMC settled claims filed against it as part of a larger settlement agreement that WPMC’s parent organization, HCA Inc., reached within the United States government.  The plaintiff dismissed his claims against the medical directors with prejudice, and on February 7, 2007 the court granted the plaintiff’s motion and dismissed all claims against all named medical directors.

Effective as of April 1, 2009, the Company and AHSI entered into a settlement agreement with the United States of America, acting through the United States Department of Justice and on behalf of the Department of Health and Human Services (collectively, the “United States”), and the former employee in connection with the settlement of the lawsuit.  Pursuant to the settlement agreement, we paid $28 million to the United States in settlement of the litigation.  Additionally, we paid an additional $12 million for other costs and fees related to the settlement, including the estimated legal costs and expenses of the plaintiff’s attorneys.  As a result of the settlement, the court has dismissed the lawsuit with prejudice.

In a related matter, we have settled the arbitration claim filed against us by WPMC and the arbitration counter-claim we filed against WPMC in February 2006, both of which sought indemnification for certain costs and expenses incurred in connection with the qui tam case.  The arbitration has been dismissed with prejudice.

Securities Class Action Litigation

Beginning on June 5, 2008, Healthways and certain of its present and former officers and/or directors were named as defendants in two putative securities class actions filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, Nashville Division. On August 8, 2008, the court ordered the consolidation of the two related cases, appointed lead plaintiff and lead plaintiff’s counsel, and granted lead plaintiff leave to file a consolidated amended complaint. 

The amended complaint, filed on September 22, 2008, alleges that the Company and the individual defendants violated Sections 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Act”) and that the individual defendants violated Section 20(a) of the Act as “control persons” of Healthways.  The amended complaint further alleges that certain of the individual defendants also violated Section 20A of the Act based on their stock sales.  The plaintiff purports to bring these claims for unspecified monetary damages on behalf of a class of investors who purchased Healthways stock between July 5, 2007 and August 25, 2008. 



 
17

 


In support of these claims, the lead plaintiff alleges generally that, during the proposed class period, the Company made misleading statements and omitted material information regarding (1) the purported loss or restructuring of certain contracts with customers, (2) the Company’s participation in the Medicare Health Support (“MHS”) pilot program for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and (3) the Company’s guidance for fiscal year 2008.  The defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint on November 13, 2008.  On March 9, 2009, the Court denied the defendants’ motion to dismiss.  The parties have exchanged discovery requests, and the discovery phase of the lawsuit is presently underway. 

Shareholder Derivative Lawsuits

Also, on June 27, 2008 and July 24, 2008, respectively, two shareholders filed putative derivative actions purportedly on behalf of Healthways in the Chancery Court for the State of Tennessee, Twentieth Judicial District, Davidson County, against certain directors and officers of the Company.  These actions are based upon substantially the same facts alleged in the securities class action litigation described above.  The plaintiffs are seeking to recover damages in an unspecified amount and equitable and/or injunctive relief. 

On August 13, 2008, the Court consolidated these two lawsuits and appointed lead counsel.  On October 3, 2008, the Court ordered that the consolidated action be stayed until the motion to dismiss in the securities class action had been resolved by the District Court.  By stipulation of the parties, the plaintiffs filed their consolidated complaint on May 9, 2009.  On June 19, 2009, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint.  The Court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss on October 14, 2009.

ERISA Lawsuits

Additionally, on July 31, 2008, a purported class action alleging violations of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”) was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, Nashville Division against Healthways, Inc. and certain of its directors and officers alleging breaches of fiduciary duties to participants in the Company’s 401(k) plan.  The central allegation is that Company stock was an imprudent investment option for the 401(k) plan. 

The complaint was amended on September 29, 2008.  The named defendants are: the Company, the Board of Directors, certain officers, and members of the Investment Committee charged with administering the 401(k) plan.  The amended complaint alleges that the defendants violated ERISA by failing to remove the Company stock fund from the 401(k) plan when it allegedly became an imprudent investment, by failing to disclose adequately the risks and results of the MHS pilot program to 401(k) plan participants, and by failing to seek independent advice as to whether to continue to permit the plan to hold Company stock.  It further alleges that the Company and its directors should have been more closely monitoring the Investment Committee and other plan fiduciaries.  The amended complaint seeks damages in an undisclosed amount and other equitable relief.  The defendants filed a motion to dismiss on October 29, 2008.   On January 28, 2009, the Court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the plaintiff’s claims for breach of the duty to disclose with regard to any non-public information and information beyond the specific disclosure requirements of ERISA and denied Defendants’ motion to dismiss as to the remainder of the plaintiff’s claims.  A period of discovery ensued.


 
18

 


On May 12, 2009, the plaintiff filed a motion for class certification.  After the plaintiff did not appear for his scheduled deposition, the Court issued an Order on July 10, 2009 warning the plaintiff that his failure to participate in the lawsuit could result in sanctions, including but not limited to dismissal.  After the plaintiff’s failure to participate continued, on July 23, 2009, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss for failure to prosecute the action.  On August 6, 2009, the parties filed a stipulation of dismissal with prejudice as to the named plaintiff but otherwise without prejudice, and the Court entered an Order to that effect on the same date.  No subsequent lawsuits have been filed alleging these same claims.

Outlook

We are also subject to other claims and suits that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of our business.  We do not believe that any of the legal proceedings pending against us as of the date of this report will have a material adverse effect on our liquidity or financial condition.  We may settle claims, sustain judgments or incur expenses relating to legal proceedings in a particular fiscal quarter which may adversely affect our results of operations.  As these matters are subject to inherent uncertainties, our view of these matters may change in the future.

(10)
Sale of Investment
 

In January 2009, a private company in which we held preferred stock (recorded in “other assets”) was acquired by a third party.  As part of this sale, we received two payments totaling $11.6 million in January and February 2009 and recorded a gain of $2.6 million during the first quarter of 2009.

(11)
Comprehensive Income
 

Comprehensive income, net of income taxes, was $8.4 million and $14.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and $2.9 million and $42.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

(12)
Earnings Per Share
 

The following is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008:

 
19

 

(In 000s, except per share data)
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
   
Nine Months Ended
September  30,
 
   
2009
 
2008
 
 
2009
 
2008
 
Numerator:
                           
Net income - numerator for basic earnings per share
 
$
8,802
 
$
15,623
   
$
2,864
 
$
42,150
 
                             
Denominator:
                           
Shares used for basic earnings per share
   
33,745
   
33,599
     
33,701
   
34,474
 
Effect of dilutive securities outstanding:
                           
Non-qualified stock options
   
389
   
809
     
281
   
1,267
 
Restricted stock units
   
347
   
159
     
250
   
150
 
Shares used for diluted earnings per share
   
34,481
   
34,567
     
34,232
   
35,891
 
                             
Earnings per share:
                           
Basic
 
$
0.26
 
$
0.46
   
$
0.08
 
$
1.22
 
Diluted
 
$
0.26
 
$
0.45
   
$
0.08
 
$
1.17
 
                             
Dilutive securities outstanding not included in the computation of earnings per share because their effect is antidilutive:
                           
Non-qualified stock options
   
3,354
   
2,688
     
3,633
   
1,724
 
        Restricted stock units
   
104
   
204
     
195
   
132
 

(13)
Subsequent Events
 

On October 14, 2009, we acquired HealthHonors®, a company that specializes in behavior change science and optimized use of incentives, for $14.7 million in cash in addition to a multi-year earn-out arrangement.  
 
We have evaluated subsequent events through November 9, 2009, the date of issuance of the financial statements.

 
20

 


Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 

Overview

Founded in 1981, Healthways, Inc. provides specialized, comprehensive solutions to help people improve physical, emotional and social well-being, reducing both direct healthcare costs and the costs associated with the loss of health-related employee productivity.

We provide highly specific and personalized interventions for each individual in a population, irrespective of health status, age or payor.  Our evidence-based health, prevention and well-being services are made available to consumers via phone, direct mail, the Internet, face-to-face consultations and venue-based interactions.

In North America, our customers include health plans, governments, employers and hospitals in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We also provide health improvement programs and services in Germany, Brazil and Australia.  We operate care enhancement and coaching centers worldwide staffed with licensed health professionals.  Our fitness center network encompasses more than 15,000 U.S. locations.  We also maintain an extensive network of over 37,000 complementary and alternative medicine and chiropractic practitioners, which offers convenient access to the significant number of individuals who seek health services outside of the traditional health care system.

Our guiding philosophy and approach to market is predicated on the fundamental belief that healthier people cost less and are more productive.  As described more fully below, our programs are designed to help keep healthy individuals healthy, mitigate and delay the progression to disease associated with family or lifestyle risk factors, and promote the best possible health habits for those who are already affected by health conditions or disease.

First, our programs are designed to help keep healthy people healthy by:

 
·
fostering wellness and disease prevention through total population screening, health risk assessments and supportive interventions; and
 
·
providing access to health improvement programs, such as fitness, weight management, complementary and alternative medicine and smoking cessation.

Our prevention programs focus on education, physical fitness, health coaching, behavior change techniques and support, and evidence-based interventions to drive adherence to proven standards of care, medication regimens and physicians’ plans of care.  We believe this approach optimizes the health status of member populations and reduces the short- and long-term direct healthcare costs for participants, including costs associated with the loss of health-related employee productivity.

Second, our programs are designed to drive healthy behaviors and mitigate lifestyle risk by:

 
·
promoting the reduction of lifestyle behaviors that lead to poor health or chronic conditions; and
 
·
providing educational materials and personal interactions with highly trained nurses and other healthcare professionals to create and sustain healthier behaviors for those individuals at-risk or in the early stages of chronic conditions.

 
21

 

We enable health plans and employers to engage everyone in their covered populations through specific interventions that are sensitive to each individual’s health risks and needs. Our products are designed to motivate people to make positive lifestyle changes and accomplish individual goals, such as increasing physical activity for seniors through the Healthways SilverSneakers® fitness program or overcoming nicotine addiction through the QuitNet® on-line smoking cessation community.

Finally, our programs are designed to optimize care for those with existing conditions or disease by:

 
·
incorporating the latest, evidence-based clinical guidelines into interventions to optimize patient health outcomes;
 
·
developing care support plans and motivating members to set attainable goals for themselves;
 
·
providing local market resources to address acute episodic interventions;
 
·
coordinating members’ care with their healthcare providers; and
 
·
providing software licensing and management consulting in support of health and care support services.

We provide programs for people with chronic diseases or persistent conditions, including: diabetes, coronary artery disease, heart failure, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, end-stage renal disease, cancer, chronic kidney disease, depression, high-risk obesity, metabolic syndrome, acid-related stomach disorders, atrial fibrillation, decubitus ulcer, fibromyalgia, hepatitis C, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, low-back pain, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and urinary incontinence. We also provide high-risk care management for members at risk for hospitalization due to complex conditions. We believe creating real and sustainable behavior change generates measurable, long-term cost savings.

We recognize that each individual plays a variety of roles in his or her pursuit of health, often simultaneously.  By providing the full spectrum of services to meet each individual’s needs, we believe our interventions can be delivered at scale and in a manner that reflects those unique needs over time.

Forward-Looking Statements

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements, which are based upon current expectations and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include all statements that do not relate solely to historical or current facts, and can be identified by the use of words like “may,” “believe,” “will,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “plan,” or “continue.”  In order for us to use the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we caution you that the following important factors, among others, may affect these forward-looking statements. Consequently, actual operations and results may differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. The important factors include but are not limited to:

 
·
our ability to sign and implement new contracts for our solutions;
 
·
our ability to accurately forecast performance and the timing of revenue recognition under the terms of our customer contracts ahead of data collection and reconciliation in order to provide forward-looking guidance;
 
·
the impact of national healthcare reform proposals and the potential impact of healthcare reform legislation, if enacted, on our operations and/or the demand for our services;
 
·
the impact of any new or proposed legislation, regulations and interpretations relating to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, including the potential expansion to Phase II for Medicare Health Support programs and any legislative or regulatory changes with respect to Medicare Advantage;

 
22

 

 
·
our ability to reach mutual agreement with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”) with respect to results under Phase I of Medicare Health Support;
 
·
our ability to anticipate the rate of market acceptance of our solutions in potential international markets;
 
·
our ability to accurately forecast the costs necessary to implement our strategy of establishing a presence in international markets;
 
·
the risks associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and our ability to hedge against such fluctuations;
 
·
the risks associated with a significant concentration of our revenues with a limited number of customers;
 
·
our ability to effect cost savings and clinical outcomes improvements under our contracts and reach mutual agreement with customers with respect to cost savings, or to effect such savings and improvements within the time frames contemplated by us;
 
·
our ability to achieve estimated annualized revenue in backlog in the manner and within the timeframe we expect, which is based on certain estimates regarding the implementation of our services;
 
·
our ability and/or the ability of our customers to enroll participants in our programs in a manner and within the timeframe anticipated by us;
 
 
·
the ability of our customers to provide timely and accurate data that is essential to the operation and measurement of our performance under the terms of our contracts;
 
·
our ability to favorably resolve contract billing and interpretation issues with our customers;
 
·
our ability to service our debt and make principal and interest payments as those payments become due;
 
·
the risks associated with changes in macroeconomic conditions, which may reduce the demand and/or the timing of purchases for our services from customers or potential customers, reduce the number of covered lives of our existing customers, restrict our ability to obtain additional financing, or impact the availability of credit under our Third Amended Credit Agreement;
 
·
counterparty risk associated with our interest rate swap agreements and foreign currency exchange contracts;
 
·
our ability to integrate acquired businesses or technologies into our business;
 
·
the impact of any impairment of our goodwill or other intangible assets;
 
·
our ability to develop new products and deliver outcomes on those products;
 
·
our ability to implement our new integrated data and technology solutions platform within the timeframe and cost estimates that we expect;
 
·
our ability to retain existing customers and to renew or maintain contracts with our customers under existing terms or restructure these contracts on terms that would not have a material negative impact on our results of operations;
 
·
our ability to obtain adequate financing to provide the capital that may be necessary to support our operations and to support or guarantee our performance under new contracts;
 
·
unusual and unforeseen patterns of healthcare utilization by individuals with diabetes, cardiac, respiratory and/or other diseases or conditions for which we provide services;
 
·
the ability of our customers to maintain the number of covered lives enrolled in the plans during the terms of our agreements;
 
·
the impact of litigation involving us and/or our subsidiaries;
 
·
the impact of future state, federal, and international healthcare and other applicable legislation and regulations on our ability to deliver our services and on the financial health of our customers and their willingness to purchase our services;

 
23

 

 
·
current geopolitical turmoil, the continuing threat of domestic or international terrorism, and the potential emergence of a health pandemic; and
 
·
other risks detailed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008 and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

We undertake no obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements.

Customer Contracts

Contract Terms

We generally determine our contract fees by multiplying a contractually negotiated rate per member per month (“PMPM”) by the number of members covered by our services during the month. We typically set the PMPM rates during contract negotiations with customers based on the value we expect our programs to create and a sharing of that value between the customer and the Company.  In addition, some of our services, such as the SilverSneakers fitness program, are billed on a fee for service basis.

Our contracts with health plans generally range from three to five years with provisions for subsequent renewal; contracts with self-insured employers, either directly or through their health plans or pharmacy benefit manager, typically have one to three-year terms. Some of our contracts allow the customer to terminate early.

Some of our contracts provide that a portion (up to 100%) of our fees may be refundable to the customer (“performance-based”) if our programs do not achieve, when compared to a baseline year, a targeted percentage reduction in the customer’s healthcare costs and selected clinical and/or other criteria that focus on improving the health of the members. Approximately 4% of revenues recorded during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 were performance-based and were subject to final reconciliation as of September 30, 2009.  We anticipate that this percentage will fluctuate due to the level of performance-based fees in new contracts and the timing and amount of revenue recognition associated with performance-based fees.  Some contracts also provide opportunities for us to receive incentive bonuses in excess of the contractual PMPM rate if we exceed contractual performance targets.

Technology

Our customer contracts require sophisticated analytical, data management, Internet and computer-telephony solutions based on state-of-the-art technology. These solutions help us deliver our services to large populations within our customer base. Our predictive modeling capabilities allow us to identify and stratify those participants who are most at risk for an adverse health event. We incorporate behavior-change science with consumer-friendly interactions such as face-to-face, telephonic, print materials and web portals to facilitate consumer preferences for engagement and convenience. We use sophisticated data analytical and reporting solutions to validate the impact of our programs on clinical and financial outcomes. We continue to invest heavily in technology and are continually expanding and improving our proprietary clinical, data management, and reporting systems to continue to meet the information management requirements of our services.  The behavior change techniques incorporated in our technology identify an individual’s readiness to change and provide personalized support through appropriate messaging and convenient venues to motivate and sustain healthy behaviors.


 
24

 

Contract Revenues

Our contract revenues depend on the contractual terms we establish and maintain with customers to provide our services to their members. Some of our contracts allow the customer to terminate early.  Restructurings of contracts and possible terminations at, or prior to, renewal could have a material negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Approximately 20% and 19% of our revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009, respectively, were derived from one customer. The loss of this customer or any other large customer or a reduction in the profitability of a contract with any large customer could have a material negative impact on our results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.

Domestic Commercial Available and Billed Lives

The number of domestic commercial available and billed lives as of September 30, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

     
September 30,
 
September 30,
         
     
2009
 
2008
         
 
Available lives(1)
 
196,100,000
 
192,500,000
         
 
Billed lives
 
35,900,000
 
31,700,000
         

(1) Estimated based on the Atlantic Information Services, Inc. (AIS) Directory of Health Plans and publicly available information.

Business Strategy

The World Health Organization defines health as “…not only the absence of infirmity and disease, but also a state of physical, mental, and social well-being.”

Our business strategy reflects our passion to enhance health and well-being, and as a result, reduce overall costs and improve productivity.  Our programs are designed to:

 
·
keep healthy individuals healthy;
 
·
mitigate and slow the progression of disease associated with family or lifestyle risk factors; and
 
·
promote the best possible health for those who are already affected by existing health conditions or disease.

Through our solutions, we work to optimize the health and well-being of entire populations, one person at a time, domestically and internationally, thereby creating value by reducing overall costs and improving productivity for individuals, families, health plans, governments and employers.

We believe it is critical to impact an entire population’s underlying health status and well-being in a long-term, cost effective way.  Believing that what gets measured gets acted upon, in January 2008, we entered into an exclusive, 25-year relationship with Gallup to provide a national, daily pulse of individual and collective well-being.  The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being IndexTM is a unique partnership in well-being measurement and research that is based on surveys of 1,000 Americans every day, seven days a week.  Under the agreement, Gallup evaluates and reports on the well-being of individuals by state, congressional district, and community, as well as by non-geographic segments.  We perform similar services for companies, families and individuals.

 
25

 



To improve measurements like the Well-Being Index and thus enhance health and well-being within their respective populations, our current and prospective customers require solutions that focus on the underlying drivers of healthcare demand, address worsening health status, reverse or slow unsustainable cost trends, foster healthy behaviors, mitigate health risks, and manage chronic conditions.  Our strategy is to deliver programs that engage individuals and help them enhance their health status and well-being regardless of their starting point.  We believe we can achieve health and well-being improvements in a population and generate significant cost savings and increases in productivity by providing effective programs that support the individual throughout his or her health journey.

We are adding and enhancing solutions to extend our reach and effectiveness and to meet increasing demand for integrated solutions.  The flexibility of our programs allows customers to provide those services they deem appropriate for their organizations.  Customers may select from certain single program options up to a total-population approach, in which all members of a customer’s population are eligible to receive benefits.

We plan to leverage our scalable, state-of-the-art call centers, medical information content, behavior change processes and techniques, strategic relationships, health provider networks, fitness center relationships, and proprietary technologies and techniques in order to continue to gain a competitive advantage in delivering our services.  We anticipate we will continue to enhance, expand and further integrate capabilities, pursue opportunities in domestic government and international markets, and enhance our information technology support.  We may add some of these new capabilities and technologies through internal development, strategic alliances with other entities and/or through selective acquisitions or investments.

Critical Accounting Policies

We describe our accounting policies in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008.  We prepare the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP, which requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

We believe the following accounting policies are the most critical in understanding the estimates and judgments that are involved in preparing our financial statements and the uncertainties that could impact our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Revenue Recognition

We generally determine our contract fees by multiplying a contractually negotiated rate per member per month (“PMPM”) by the number of members covered by our services during the month.  We typically set the PMPM rates during contract negotiations with customers based on the value we expect our programs to create and a sharing of that value between the customer and the Company.  In addition, some of our services, such as the SilverSneakers fitness program, are billed on a fee for service basis.

 
26

 


Our contracts with health plans generally range from three to five years with provisions for subsequent renewal; contracts with self-insured employers, either directly or through their health plans or pharmacy benefit manager, typically have one to three-year terms.  Some of our contracts allow the customer to terminate early.

Some of our contracts provide that a portion (up to 100%) of our fees may be refundable to the customer (“performance-based”) if our programs do not achieve, when compared to a baseline year, a targeted percentage reduction in the customer’s healthcare costs and selected clinical and/or other criteria that focus on improving the health of the members.  Approximately 4% of revenues recorded during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 were performance-based and were subject to final reconciliation as of September 30, 2009.  We anticipate that this percentage will fluctuate due to the level of performance-based fees in new contracts and the timing and amount of revenue recognition associated with performance-based fees.  Some contracts also provide opportunities for us to receive incentive bonuses in excess of the contractual PMPM rate if we exceed contractual performance targets.

We generally bill our customers each month for the entire amount of the fees contractually due for the prior month’s enrollment, which typically includes the amount, if any, that is performance-based and may be subject to refund should we not meet performance targets.  Deferred revenues arise from contracts which permit upfront billing and collection of fees covering the entire contractual service period, generally 12 months.  Contractually, we cannot bill for any incentive bonus until after contract settlement. Fees for service are typically billed in the month after the services are provided.

We recognize revenue as follows: 1) we recognize the fixed portion of PMPM fees and fees for service as revenue during the period we perform our services; 2) we recognize the performance-based portion of the monthly fees based on the most recent assessment of our performance, which represents the amount that the customer would legally be obligated to pay if the contract were terminated as of the latest balance sheet date; and 3) we recognize additional incentive bonuses based on the most recent assessment of our performance, to the extent we consider such amounts collectible.

We assess our level of performance for our contracts based on medical claims and other data that the customer is contractually required to supply. A minimum of four to six months’ data is typically required for us to measure performance. In assessing our performance, we may include estimates such as medical claims incurred but not reported and a medical cost trend compared to a baseline year. In addition, we may also provide contractual allowances for billing adjustments (such as data reconciliation differences) as appropriate.


 
27

 

In 2005, we began participating in two Medicare Health Support pilots, which concluded in January 2008 and July 2008, respectively.  Substantially all of the fees under these pilots were performance-based.  Our original cooperative agreements required that, by the end of the third year, we achieve a cumulative net savings (total savings for the intervention population as compared to the control group less fees received from CMS) of 5.0%.  Under an amendment to our agreement for our stand-alone Medicare Health Support pilot in Maryland and the District of Columbia, we began serving a “refresh population” of approximately 4,500 beneficiaries on August 1, 2006, which was measured as a separate cohort for two years, by the end of which the program was required to achieve a 2.5% cumulative net savings when compared to a new control cohort.  In April 2008, we signed an amendment to our Medicare Health Support protocol with CMS, which changed the financial performance target for both the initial and the refresh populations to budget neutrality.  In late April 2009, we received the final reconciliation report from CMS’ independent financial reconciliation contractor.  Based upon this final reconciliation report as well as our performance over the term of the pilots, we have recognized $9.5 million of cumulative performance-based fees related to these pilots.  At September 30, 2009, approximately $57.8 million of performance-based fees related to these pilots was recorded in contract billings in excess of earned revenue, $50.3 million of which related to fees collected, and the remaining $7.5 million of which related to fees billed but not collected due to CMS withholding payment of these fees.  We submitted our objections to the final reconciliation report and are involved in ongoing discussions with CMS regarding certain issues related to the reconciliation but have not yet reached a final resolution at this time.

If data is insufficient or incomplete to measure performance, or interim performance measures indicate that we are not meeting performance targets, we do not recognize performance-based fees subject to refund as revenues but instead record them in a current liability account entitled “contract billings in excess of earned revenue.”  Only in the event we do not meet performance levels by the end of the measurement period, typically one year, are we contractually obligated to refund some or all of the performance-based fees. We would only reverse revenues that we had already recognized if performance to date in the measurement period, previously above targeted levels, subsequently dropped below targeted levels. Historically, any such adjustments have been immaterial to our financial condition and results of operations.
 
During the settlement process under a contract, which generally occurs six to eight months after the end of a contract year, we settle any performance-based fees and reconcile healthcare claims and clinical data. As of September 30, 2009, performance-based fees that have not yet been settled with our customers but that have been recognized as revenue in the current and prior years totaled $54.0 million, all of which was based on actual data received from our customers. Data reconciliation differences, for which we provide contractual allowances until we reach agreement with respect to identified issues, can arise between the customer and us due to customer data deficiencies, omissions, and/or data discrepancies.

Performance-related adjustments (including any amounts recorded as revenue that were ultimately refunded), changes in estimates, data reconciliation differences, or adjustments to incentive bonuses may cause us to recognize or reverse revenue in a current fiscal year that pertains to services provided during a prior fiscal year.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2009, we recognized a net increase in revenue of approximately $6.6 million that related to services provided prior to January 1, 2009.

 
28

 

Impairment of Intangible Assets and Goodwill

We review goodwill for impairment on an annual basis (during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year) or more frequently whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

We completed our annual goodwill impairment test as of June 30, 2009 and concluded that no impairment of goodwill exists.  Due to the recent change in our fiscal year-end from August 31 to December 31, the date of our annual impairment test will be changing to October 31 beginning on October 31, 2009.   

We estimate the fair value of each reporting unit using a discounted cash flow model and reconcile the aggregate fair value of our reporting units to our consolidated market capitalization.  The discounted cash flow model requires significant judgments, including management’s estimate of future cash flows, which is dependent on internal forecasts, estimation of the long-term growth rate for our business, the useful life over which cash flows will occur, and determination of our weighted average cost of capital.  Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the estimate of fair value and goodwill impairment for each reporting unit.

If we determined that the carrying value of goodwill was impaired based upon an impairment review, we would calculate any impairment using a fair-value-based goodwill impairment test as required by accounting literature.  The fair value of a reporting unit is the price that would be received to sell the unit as a whole in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

Except for a trade name which has an indefinite life and is not subject to amortization, we amortize identifiable intangible assets, such as acquired technologies and customer contracts, using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives.  We assess the potential impairment of intangible assets subject to amortization whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable.

We review intangible assets not subject to amortization on an annual basis or more frequently whenever events or circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired.  We estimate the fair value of the trade name using a present value technique, which requires management’s estimate of future revenues attributable to this trade name, estimation of the long-term growth rate for these revenues, and determination of our weighted average cost of capital.  Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the estimate of fair value for the trade name.

If we determine that the carrying value of other identifiable intangible assets may not be recoverable, we calculate any impairment using an estimate of the asset’s fair value based on the estimated price that would be received to sell the asset in an orderly transaction between market participants.

Future events could cause us to conclude that impairment indicators exist and that goodwill and/or other intangible assets associated with our acquired businesses are impaired. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

 
29

 


Income Taxes

The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns.  Accounting for income taxes requires significant judgment in determining income tax provisions, including determination of deferred tax assets, deferred tax liabilities, and any valuation allowances that might be required against deferred tax assets, and in evaluating tax positions.

We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.  Accounting literature also provides guidance on derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures.  Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. Variations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could materially impact our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Share-Based Compensation

We measure and recognize compensation expense for all share-based payment awards based on estimated fair values at the date of grant.  Determining the fair value of share-based awards at the grant date requires judgment in developing assumptions, which involve a number of variables.  These variables include, but are not limited to, the expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards and expected stock option exercise behavior.  In addition, we also use judgment in estimating the number of share-based awards that are expected to be forfeited.


 
30

 

Results of Operations

The following table shows the components of the statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 expressed as a percentage of revenues.

     
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
             
     
September 30,
   
September 30,
             
     
2009
 
2008
   
2009
 
2008
             
                                   
 
Revenues
 
100.0
%
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
100.0
%
           
 
Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation
                               
 
and amortization included below)
 
72.9
%
67.0
%
 
72.5
%
68.0
%
           
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
9.8
%
9.3
%
 
10.2
%
9.8
%
           
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
6.6
%
6.9
%
 
6.7
%
6.7
%
           
 
Operating income (1)
 
10.7
%
16.7
%
 
10.7
%
15.4
%
           
                                   
 
Gain on sale of investment
 
 
   
(0.5
)%
             
 
Interest expense
 
2.1
%
2.9
%
 
2.2
%
2.8
%
           
 
Legal settlement and related costs
 
 
   
7.4
%
             
                                   
 
Income before income taxes (1)
 
8.5
%
13.9
%
 
1.6
%
12.7
%
           
 
Income tax expense
 
3.7
%
5.5
%
 
1.0
%
5.1
%
           
                                   
 
Net income (1)
 
4.8
%
8.3
%
 
0.5
%
7.5
%
           

(1) Figures may not add due to rounding.

Revenues

Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2009 decreased $5.8 million, or 3.1%, compared to the three months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:

 
·
contract restructurings and terminations with certain customers; and
 
·
decreased revenues related to one of the Medicare Health Support pilots, which ended in July 2008 and for which we recognized $2.2 million of revenue during the three months ended September 30, 2008 based on performance data.

These decreases were somewhat offset by increases in revenues primarily due to the following:

 
·
increased revenues from fitness center programs, primarily due to an increase in participation in these programs as well as in the number of members eligible for them;
 
·
increased performance-based revenues due to our ability to measure and achieve performance targets on certain contracts during the three months ended September 30, 2009; and
 
·
the commencement of contracts with new customers.


 
31

 

Revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 decreased $19.2 million, or 3.4%, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:
 
·
contract restructurings and terminations with certain customers; and
 
·
decreased revenues related to one of the Medicare Health Support pilots, which ended in July 2008 and for which we recognized $7.5 million of revenue during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 based on performance data.

These decreases were somewhat offset by increases in revenues primarily due to the following:

 
·
increased revenues from fitness center programs, primarily due to an increase in participation in these programs as well as in the number of members eligible for them;
 
·
increased performance-based revenues due to our ability to measure and achieve performance targets on certain contracts during the nine months ended September 30, 2009;
 
·
the commencement of contracts with new customers; and
 
·
growth in the number of self-insured employer lives under existing customer contracts.

Cost of Services

Cost of services (excluding depreciation and amortization) as a percentage of revenues increased to 72.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 67.0% for the three months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:

 
·
an increased portion of our revenue generated by fitness center programs, which typically have a higher cost of services as a percentage of revenue than our other programs;
 
·
the addition of certain participating locations to our fitness center network that have a higher cost of services as a percentage of revenue;
 
·
contract restructurings and volume incentives with certain customers that resulted in either decreased revenues or lower per member fees without a proportional corresponding decrease in costs;
 
·
an increase in the level of employee bonus provision based on the Company’s year-to-date financial performance against established internal targets during these periods; and
 
·
costs related to our new integrated data and technology solutions platform.

These increases were somewhat offset by the following decreases in cost of services as a percentage of revenues:

 
·
a decrease in salaries and benefits expense, primarily due to a restructuring of the Company that was largely completed during the fourth quarter of calendar 2008 and a decrease in health insurance costs related to changes in employee medical plan design in calendar 2009, which included a number of wellness initiatives aimed at improving employee health;
 
·
cost savings related to certain cost management initiatives; and
 
·
a decrease in stock-based compensation costs, primarily due to the Company’s repurchase of certain employee stock options in December 2008.

Cost of services (excluding depreciation and amortization) as a percentage of revenues increased to 72.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 68.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:

 
32

 
 
 
·
an increased portion of our revenue generated by fitness center programs, which typically have a higher cost of services as a percentage of revenue than our other programs;
 
·
the addition of certain participating locations to our fitness center network that have a higher cost of services as a percentage of revenue;
 
·
contract restructurings and volume incentives with certain customers that resulted in either decreased revenues or lower per member fees without a proportional corresponding decrease in costs; and
 
·
an increase in the level of employee bonus provision based on the Company’s year-to-date financial performance against established internal targets during these periods.
 
These increases were somewhat offset by the following decreases in cost of services as a percentage of revenues:

 
·
a decrease in salaries and benefits expense, primarily due to a restructuring of the Company that was largely completed during the fourth quarter of calendar 2008 and a decrease in health insurance costs related to changes in employee medical plan design in calendar 2009, which included a number of wellness initiatives aimed at improving employee health;
 
·
cost savings related to certain cost management initiatives; and
 
·
a decrease in stock-based compensation costs, primarily due to the Company’s repurchase of certain employee stock options in December 2008.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 9.8% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 9.3% for the three months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:

 
·
a net increase in salaries and benefits expense, primarily due to the recent Company restructuring, which included an increased focus on research and development activities, resulting in an increase in personnel dedicated to these activities that more than offset the reduction in headcount resulting from this restructuring and other workforce reductions;
 
·
an increase in the level of employee bonus provision based on the Company’s year-to-date financial performance against established internal targets during these periods; and
 
·
costs associated with positioning our brand and solutions in conjunction with ongoing healthcare reform proposals.

These increases were partially offset by a decrease in professional consulting fees related to product innovation initiatives in 2008.

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 10.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 9.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:

 
·
a net increase in salaries and benefits expense, primarily due to severance costs and the recent Company restructuring, which included an increased focus on research and development activities, resulting in an increase in personnel dedicated to these activities that more than offset the reduction in headcount resulting from this restructuring and other workforce reductions; and

 
33

 

 
·
an increase in the level of employee bonus provision based on the Company’s year-to-date financial performance against established internal targets during these periods.

These increases were partially offset by a decrease in professional consulting fees related to product innovation initiatives in 2008.

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $1.0 million, or 7.7%, for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2008 and $1.7 million, or 4.4%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:
 
 
·
a decrease in amortization expense related to certain intangible assets that became fully amortized in September 2008;
 
·
a decrease in depreciation expense related to retirements of fixed assets as part of the Company restructuring in December 2008 (see Note 8); and
 
·
a decrease in depreciation expense related to certain computer hardware that became fully depreciated during 2009.

These decreases were somewhat offset by increased depreciation expense resulting from capital expenditures related to computer software.

Gain on Sale of Investment

In January 2009, a private company in which we held preferred stock was acquired by a third party.  As part of this sale, we received two payments totaling $11.6 million in January and February 2009 and recorded a gain of $2.6 million during the first quarter of 2009.

Interest Expense

Interest expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 decreased $1.5 million and $3.4 million, respectively, compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily as a result of a decrease in floating interest rates on outstanding borrowings under the Third Amended Credit Agreement during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008.

 
34

 

Legal Settlement and Related Costs

In March 2009, our Board of Directors approved a settlement of a qui tam lawsuit filed in 1994 on behalf of the United States government related to the Company’s former Diabetes Treatment Center of America business.  As a result of the settlement, which was effective as of April 1, 2009, we incurred a charge of approximately $40 million, including a $28 million payment to the United States government and payment of approximately $12 million for other costs and fees related to the settlement, including the estimated legal costs and expenses of the plaintiff’s attorneys. 

Income Tax Expense

Our effective tax rate increased to 43.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 39.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to an increase during the three months ended September 30, 2009 in certain expenses for which we do not receive a tax benefit related to international operations and to our participation in the ongoing healthcare reform process.

Our effective tax rate increased to 66.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to 40.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.   The increase in the effective rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 was primarily due to the relatively small base of pretax income for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 in relation to certain unrecognized tax benefits and non-deductible expenses.

Outlook

We anticipate that revenues for the remainder of fiscal 2009 will likely decrease compared to the same period in 2008 primarily due to contract restructurings and terminations with certain customers, which will likely more than offset increases in revenue from higher fitness center participation and from new or existing customers.

Cost of services and selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues for the remainder of fiscal 2009 will likely decrease compared to the same period in 2008 due to the completion of a tender offer in December 2008, which resulted in significant additional stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended December 31, 2008.  We expect that this decrease in cost of services and selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues will be somewhat offset by increases due to certain costs that cannot be reduced in the same proportion and/or timeframe as the anticipated decrease in revenues discussed above, implementation costs associated with new contracts expected to begin in 2010, and the net cost impact of our acquisition of HealthHonors in October 2009.  In addition, we anticipate that a larger proportion of our revenues for the remainder of 2009 when compared to the same period in 2008 will come from wellness and prevention products, which generally carry a higher cost of services as a percentage of revenue.

As discussed in “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below, a significant portion of our long-term debt is subject to fixed interest rate swap agreements; however, we cannot predict the potential for changes in interest rates, which would impact our variable rate debt, especially in light of current economic conditions that have created uncertainty and credit constraints in the markets.  We anticipate that our effective tax rate for the remainder of calendar 2009 will increase compared to the same period in 2008 primarily due to the change from a pretax loss for the three months ended December 31, 2008 to an expected pretax profit for the three months ended December 31, 2009.

 
35

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 generated cash of $72.1 million compared to $91.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.  The decrease in operating cash flow is primarily due to the following:

 
·
payments during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 related to the aforementioned legal settlement and related costs and fees;
 
·
a decrease in cash collections on accounts receivable for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily as a result of the decrease in revenues in 2009;
 
·
payments during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 related to a restructuring of the Company that was largely completed during the fourth quarter of calendar 2008, which primarily consisted of severance costs and costs associated with capacity consolidation; and
 
·
a higher amount of lease incentives received during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2009, primarily related to our new corporate headquarters in 2008.

These decreases were partially offset by an increase in operating cash flow during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2008, primarily due to the following:

 
·
a decrease in income tax payments primarily related to higher estimated payments in 2008; and
 
·
a decrease in interest payments, primarily as a result of a decrease in floating interest rates on outstanding borrowings under the Third Amended Credit Agreement.

Investing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 used $28.2 million in cash, which primarily consisted of costs associated with software development and purchases of property and equipment associated with relocating one of our regional offices, offset by proceeds from the sale of an investment, described above.

Financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2009 used $47.0 million in cash, primarily due to net payments on borrowings under the Third Amended Credit Agreement.

On December 1, 2006, we entered into the Third Amended Credit Agreement. The Third Amended Credit Agreement provides us with a $400.0 million revolving credit facility, including a swingline sub facility of $10.0 million and a $75.0 million sub facility for letters of credit, a $200.0 million term loan facility, and an uncommitted incremental accordion facility of $200.0 million.  As of September 30, 2009, availability under our revolving credit facility and swingline sub facility totaled $133.8 million.

Revolving advances under the Third Amended Credit Agreement generally bear interest, at our option, at 1) LIBOR plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% or 2) the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or the prime rate, plus a spread of 0.000% to 0.250%. Term loan borrowings bear interest, at our option, at 1) LIBOR plus 1.50% or 2) the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or the prime rate. The Third Amended Credit Agreement also provides for a fee ranging between 0.150% and 0.300% of unused commitments. The Third Amended Credit Agreement is secured by guarantees from most of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and by security interests in substantially all of the Company’s and such subsidiaries’ assets.

 
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We are required to repay outstanding revolving loans on the revolving commitment termination date, which is December 1, 2011. We are required to repay term loans in quarterly principal installments aggregating $0.5 million each, which commenced on March 31, 2007, and the entire unpaid principal balance of the term loans is due and payable at maturity on December 1, 2013.

The Third Amended Credit Agreement contains various financial covenants, which require us to maintain, as defined, ratios or levels of 1) total funded debt to EBITDA, 2) fixed charge coverage, and 3) net worth.  In connection with the aforementioned legal settlement, in March 2009 we entered into a sixth amendment to the Third Amended Credit Agreement to expressly exclude up to $40 million of expenses attributable to this settlement from the calculation of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, for purposes of covenant calculations.  The Third Amended Credit Agreement also restricts the payment of dividends and limits the amount of repurchases of the Company’s common stock.  As of September 30, 2009, we were in compliance with all of the covenant requirements of the Third Amended Credit Agreement.

As of September 30, 2009, we are a party to the following interest rate swap agreements for which we receive a variable rate of interest based on LIBOR and for which we pay the following fixed rates of interest plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% on revolving advances and a spread of 1.50% on term loan borrowings:

   
 
Swap #
 
Original Notional
Amount (in $000s)
 
Fixed Interest
Rate
 
Termination Date
         
   
1
 
$184,000
 
4.995
%
March 31, 2010
(1)
       
   
2
 
46,000
 
4.995
%
March 31, 2010
(2)
       
   
3
 
40,000
 
3.987
%
December 31, 2009
         
   
4
 
40,000
 
3.433
%
December 30, 2011
         
   
5
 
50,000
 
3.688
%
December 30, 2011
         
   
6
 
40,000
 
3.855
%
December 30, 2011
(3)
       
   
7
 
30,000
 
3.760
%
March 30, 2011
(4)
       
   
8
 
57,500
 
3.385
%
December 31, 2013
(5)
       
   
9
 
57,500
 
3.375
%
December 31, 2013
(6)
       

(1) The principal value of this swap agreement amortizes over a 39-month period.  During the three months ended September 30, 2009, the notional amount of this swap was $56 million.
(2) The principal value of this swap agreement amortizes over a 39-month period.  During the three months ended September 30, 2009, the notional amount of this swap was $14 million.
(3) This swap agreement became effective October 1, 2009.
(4) This swap agreement becomes effective January 2, 2010.
(5) This swap agreement becomes effective January 1, 2012.  The principal value of this swap agreement will amortize over a 24-month period.
(6) This swap agreement becomes effective January 3, 2012.  The principal value of this swap agreement will amortize over a 24-month period.

We currently meet the hedge accounting criteria under U.S. GAAP in accounting for these interest rate swap agreements.

 
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We believe that cash flows from operating activities, our available cash, and our expected available credit under the Third Amended Credit Agreement will continue to enable us to meet our contractual obligations and to fund our current operations for the foreseeable future. However, if our
operations require significant additional financing resources, such as capital expenditures for technology improvements, additional call centers and/or letters of credit or other forms of financial assurance to guarantee our performance under the terms of new contracts, or if we are required to refund performance-based fees pursuant to contract terms, or if there is an adverse resolution to certain outstanding litigation, we may need to raise additional capital by expanding our existing credit facility and/or issuing debt or equity. If we face a limited ability to arrange such financing, it may restrict our ability to effectively operate our business.  Current economic conditions, including turmoil and uncertainty in the financial services industry, have created constraints on liquidity and the ability to obtain credit in the markets.  Should the credit markets not improve, we cannot assure you that we would be able to secure additional financing if needed and, if such funds were available, whether the terms or conditions would be acceptable to us.
 
If contract development accelerates or acquisition opportunities arise, we may need to issue additional debt or equity to provide the funding for these increased growth opportunities. We may also issue equity in connection with future acquisitions or strategic alliances. We cannot assure you that we would be able to issue additional debt or equity on terms that would be acceptable to us.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In April 2009, the FASB issued authoritative guidance requiring disclosures about fair value of financial instruments in both interim reporting periods of publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements, beginning with interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The implementation of this guidance resulted in increased disclosures in our interim periods but did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.

In May 2009, the FASB issued guidance which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for subsequent events.  The guidance defines subsequent events as events that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued for public entities.  It requires companies to disclose the date through which they have evaluated subsequent events and to designate subsequent events as either recognized or non-recognized.  The new guidance is effective for interim or annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The implementation of this guidance resulted in increased disclosures but did not have an impact on our financial position or results of operations.

In June 2009, the FASB approved the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the “Codification”).  Effective July 1, 2009, the Codification is the single source of authoritative nongovernmental U.S. GAAP, superseding existing FASB, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”), Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”), and related accounting literature.  The Codification reorganizes the thousands of U.S. GAAP pronouncements into approximately 90 accounting topics and displays them using a consistent structure.  Also included is relevant Securities and Exchange Commission guidance organized using the same topical structure in separate sections.  

 
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Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 

We are subject to market risk related to interest rate changes, primarily as a result of the Third Amended Credit Agreement, which bears interest based on floating rates. Revolving advances under the Third Amended Credit Agreement generally bear interest, at our option, at 1) LIBOR plus a spread of 0.875% to 1.750% or 2) the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or the prime rate, plus a spread of 0.000% to 0.250%. Term loan borrowings bear interest, at our option, at 1) LIBOR plus 1.50% or 2) the greater of the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or the prime rate.

In order to manage our interest rate exposure under the Third Amended Credit Agreement, we have entered into nine interest rate swap agreements effectively converting a portion of our floating rate debt to fixed obligations with interest rates ranging from 3.375% to 4.995%.

A one-point interest rate change would have resulted in interest expense fluctuating approximately $0.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.

As a result of our investment in international initiatives, as of September 30, 2009 we are also exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risks. Because a significant portion of these risks is economically hedged with currency options and/or forwards contracts and because our international initiatives are not yet material to our consolidated results of operations, a 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates would not have had a material impact on our results of operations or financial position for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.  We do not execute transactions or hold derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.

Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) as of September 30, 2009.  Based on that evaluation, the chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.  They are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specific in the Commission’s rules and forms and to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, to allow timely decision regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the three months ended September 30, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 
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Part II

Item 1.
Legal Proceedings
 

Former Employee Action

In June 1994, a former employee whom we dismissed in February 1994 filed a “whistle blower” action on behalf of the United States government.  Subsequent to its review of this case, the federal government determined not to intervene in the litigation.  The employee sued Healthways, Inc. and our wholly-owned subsidiary, American Healthways Services, Inc. (“AHSI”), as well as certain named and unnamed medical directors and one named client hospital, West Paces Medical Center (“WPMC”), and other unnamed client hospitals.

Healthways, Inc. was subsequently dismissed as a defendant.  In addition, WPMC settled claims filed against it as part of a larger settlement agreement that WPMC’s parent organization, HCA Inc., reached within the United States government.  The plaintiff dismissed his claims against the medical directors with prejudice, and on February 7, 2007 the court granted the plaintiff’s motion and dismissed all claims against all named medical directors.

Effective as of April 1, 2009, the Company and AHSI entered into a settlement agreement with the United States of America, acting through the United States Department of Justice and on behalf of the Department of Health and Human Services (collectively, the “United States”), and the former employee in connection with the settlement of the lawsuit.  Pursuant to the settlement agreement, we paid $28 million to the United States in settlement of the litigation.  Additionally, we paid an additional $12 million for other costs and fees related to the settlement, including the estimated legal costs and expenses of the plaintiff’s attorneys.  As a result of the settlement, the court has dismissed the lawsuit with prejudice.

In a related matter, we have settled the arbitration claim filed against us by WPMC and the arbitration counter-claim we filed against WPMC in February 2006, both of which sought indemnification for certain costs and expenses incurred in connection with the qui tam case.  The arbitration has been dismissed with prejudice.

Securities Class Action Litigation

Beginning on June 5, 2008, Healthways and certain of its present and former officers and/or directors were named as defendants in two putative securities class actions filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, Nashville Division. On August 8, 2008, the court ordered the consolidation of the two related cases, appointed lead plaintiff and lead plaintiff’s counsel, and granted lead plaintiff leave to file a consolidated amended complaint. 

The amended complaint, filed on September 22, 2008, alleges that the Company and the individual defendants violated Sections 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Act”) and that the individual defendants violated Section 20(a) of the Act as “control persons” of Healthways.  The amended complaint further alleges that certain of the individual defendants also violated Section 20A of the Act based on their stock sales.  The plaintiff purports to bring these claims for unspecified monetary damages on behalf of a class of investors who purchased Healthways stock between July 5, 2007 and August 25, 2008. 

 
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In support of these claims, the lead plaintiff alleges generally that, during the proposed class period, the Company made misleading statements and omitted material information regarding (1) the purported loss or restructuring of certain contracts with customers, (2) the Company’s participation in the Medicare Health Support (“MHS”) pilot program for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and (3) the Company’s guidance for fiscal year 2008.  The defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint on November 13, 2008.  On March 9, 2009, the Court denied the defendants’ motion to dismiss.  The parties have exchanged discovery requests, and the discovery phase of the lawsuit is presently underway. 

Shareholder Derivative Lawsuits

Also, on June 27, 2008 and July 24, 2008, respectively, two shareholders filed putative derivative actions purportedly on behalf of Healthways in the Chancery Court for the State of Tennessee, Twentieth Judicial District, Davidson County, against certain directors and officers of the Company.  These actions are based upon substantially the same facts alleged in the securities class action litigation described above.  The plaintiffs are seeking to recover damages in an unspecified amount and equitable and/or injunctive relief. 

On August 13, 2008, the Court consolidated these two lawsuits and appointed lead counsel.  On October 3, 2008, the Court ordered that the consolidated action be stayed until the motion to dismiss in the securities class action had been resolved by the District Court.  By stipulation of the parties, the plaintiffs filed their consolidated complaint on May 9, 2009.  On June 19, 2009, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint.  The Court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss on October 14, 2009.

ERISA Lawsuits

Additionally, on July 31, 2008, a purported class action alleging violations of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”) was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, Nashville Division against Healthways, Inc. and certain of its directors and officers alleging breaches of fiduciary duties to participants in the Company’s 401(k) plan.  The central allegation is that Company stock was an imprudent investment option for the 401(k) plan. 

The complaint was amended on September 29, 2008.  The named defendants are: the Company, the Board of Directors, certain officers, and members of the Investment Committee charged with administering the 401(k) plan.  The amended complaint alleges that the defendants violated ERISA by failing to remove the Company stock fund from the 401(k) plan when it allegedly became an imprudent investment, by failing to disclose adequately the risks and results of the MHS pilot program to 401(k) plan participants, and by failing to seek independent advice as to whether to continue to permit the plan to hold Company stock.  It further alleges that the Company and its directors should have been more closely monitoring the Investment Committee and other plan fiduciaries.  The amended complaint seeks damages in an undisclosed amount and other equitable relief.  The defendants filed a motion to dismiss on October 29, 2008.   On January 28, 2009, the Court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the plaintiff’s claims for breach of the duty to disclose with regard to any non-public information and information beyond the specific disclosure requirements of ERISA and denied Defendants’ motion to dismiss as to the remainder of the plaintiff’s claims.  A period of discovery ensued.

 
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On May 12, 2009, the plaintiff filed a motion for class certification.  After the plaintiff did not appear for his scheduled deposition, the Court issued an Order on July 10, 2009 warning the plaintiff that his failure to participate in the lawsuit could result in sanctions, including but not limited to dismissal.  After the plaintiff’s failure to participate continued, on July 23, 2009, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss for failure to prosecute the action.  On August 6, 2009, the parties filed a stipulation of dismissal with prejudice as to the named plaintiff but otherwise without prejudice, and the Court entered an Order to that effect on the same date.  No subsequent lawsuits have been filed alleging these same claims.

Outlook

We are also subject to other claims and suits that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of our business.  We do not believe that any of the legal proceedings pending against us as of the date of this report will have a material adverse effect on our liquidity or financial condition.  We may settle claims, sustain judgments or incur expenses relating to legal proceedings in a particular fiscal quarter which may adversely affect our results of operations.  As these matters are subject to inherent uncertainties, our view of these matters may change in the future.

Item 1A.
Risk Factors
 

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties previously reported under the caption “Part I — Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008, the occurrence of which could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results. The risks previously reported and described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008 and in this report are not the only risks facing our business. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or those we currently deem to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business operations.

There have been no material changes to our risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008, except as set forth in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009.

Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 

 
Not Applicable.
 

Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
 

 
Not Applicable.
 

 
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Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 

 
Not Applicable.
 

Item 5.
Other Information
 

 
Not Applicable.
 

Item 6.
 

 
(a)
Exhibits

     
 
     
 
     
 


 
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

       
Healthways, Inc.
       
(Registrant)
         
         
         
         
Date
November 9, 2009
 
By
/s/ Mary A. Chaput
       
Mary A. Chaput
       
Chief Financial Officer
       
(Principal Financial Officer)
         
         
         
         
Date
November 9, 2009
 
By
/s/ Alfred Lumsdaine
       
Alfred Lumsdaine
       
Chief Accounting Officer
       
(Principal Accounting Officer)




 
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