![Dual computer screens with data.](https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2020/05/investors_GettyImages-1158800340_2000x1125-860x484.jpg)
National home care and hospice provider LHC Group sees nothing but tailwinds ahead, despite ongoing uncertainty over the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chairman and CEO Keith Myers told analysts during an earnings call Thursday that his company is “beginning a new period of unprecedented opportunity,” citing the extension of sequestration, innovative Medicaid waiver policies, possible telehealth expansion, the Biden administration’s plan to direct $400 billion into home- and community-based services (HCBS) and other policies friendly to HCBS.
![](https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/05/Keith-Myers-1-470x706-1.jpg)
“We are particularly encouraged by the administration, the House and the Senate’s focus to improve coordination of the traditional Medicare home health benefit with Medicaid in-home services,” Myers said.
Choose Home momentum
Myers also said congressional support is building for “Choose Home,” a proposal that would provide Medicare coverage of in-home care as an alternative to skilled nursing. He expected a “Choose Home” bill would be introduced later this year.
On Wednesday, LHC Group reported first quarter earnings of $1.39 per diluted share on revenues of $524.8 million, a marked improvement over the same quarter the previous year.
Acquisition options
LHC Group provides in-home healthcare, personal care and hospice services in 35 states and the District of Columbia. Myers said the company plans to add up to $150 million in revenues this year through acquisitions. The company’s primary focus will be acquiring hospice agencies in regions where LHC Group already has a heavy home healthcare presence.
But Myers admitted LHC Group’s acquisition strategy could change depending on how the proposed $400 billion in HCBS funding will be spent. He said if much of that money goes towards expanding Medicaid in-home services, the company might pivot and beef up its personal care business.
“We’re keeping a close eye on it and if there is opportunity there and the risk profile is good for us, we’ll move in that direction,” Myers said.