We operate in a highly regulated and litigious industry. Healthcare companies are subject to numerous investigations by various governmental agencies. Further, private parties have the right to bring qui tam or “whistleblower” lawsuits against companies that allegedly submit false claims for payments to, or improperly retain overpayments from, the government and, in some states, private payers. We and our subsidiaries have received inquiries in recent years from government agencies, and we may receive similar inquiries in future periods. We are also subject to class action lawsuits, employment‑related claims, commercial litigation and other legal actions in the ordinary course of business, including potential claims related to, among other things, the care and treatment provided at our hospitals and outpatient facilities, the application of various federal and state labor and privacy laws, tax audits and other matters. Some of these actions may involve large demands, as well as substantial defense costs. We cannot predict the outcome of current or future legal actions against us or the effect that judgments or settlements in such matters may have on us; however, we believe that the ultimate resolution of our existing ordinary‑course claims and lawsuits will not have a material effect on our business or financial condition.

New claims or inquiries may be initiated against us from time to time. These matters could, among other things: (1) require us to pay substantial damages or amounts in judgments or settlements, which, individually or in the aggregate, may exceed amounts, if any, that may be recovered under our insurance policies where coverage applies and is available; (2) cause us to incur substantial expenses; (3) require significant time and attention from our management; and (4) cause us to close or sell hospitals or outpatient facilities or otherwise modify the way we conduct business.

We record accruals for estimated losses relating to claims and lawsuits when available information indicates that a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss or a range of loss. Significant judgment is required in both the determination of the probability of a loss and the determination as to whether a loss is reasonably estimable. These determinations are updated at least quarterly and are adjusted to reflect the effects of negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel and technical experts, and other information and events pertaining to a particular matter, but are subject to significant uncertainty regarding numerous factors that could affect the ultimate loss levels. If a loss on a material matter is reasonably possible and estimable, we disclose an estimate of the loss or a range of loss. We do not disclose an estimate when we have concluded that a loss is either not reasonably possible or a loss, or a range of loss, is not reasonably estimable, based

on available information. Given the inherent uncertainties associated with material legal matters, especially those involving governmental agencies, and the indeterminate damages sought in some cases, we are unable to predict the ultimate liability we may incur from such matters, and an adverse outcome in one or more of these matters may be material to our results of operations or cash flows for any particular reporting period.