Escondido, Calif.-based Palomar Health, a two-hospital system, reported a $165.1 million operating loss (-18.5% margin) for the fiscal year ending June 30, a notable slump from the $29.5 million loss (-3% margin) posted in the previous fiscal year.
Revenue for the system decreased 9.8% year over year to $890 million while expenses grew by 3.8% to $1.06 billion, according to financial results published Nov. 27.
After factoring in nonoperating income, including investment returns, Palomar Health reported a net loss of $179 million in FY 2024, compared to a $26.4 million net loss in FY 2023.
To combat rising losses, Palomar reduced its workforce by 2%, about 85 people, focusing on leadership and back-office roles, sparing clinical and patient-facing staff.
"This was a profoundly difficult decision that involved careful deliberation," Palomar Health President and CEO Diane Hansen said in a news release. "These steps, while challenging, are necessary to stabilize our finances and prepare us for the future."
Moody's downgraded Palomar Health's rating to "B2" from "Baa3" in October. The downgrade reflects "very thin" cash balances and ongoing cash flow losses. Moody's said that prior financial challenges were exacerbated by a cyberattack on the system's outpatient arm, Palomar Health Medical Group.
"These factors contribute to Palomar's escalating governance risks in the areas of financial strategy and risk management, as well as management credibility and track record, a key driver of the rating action," Moody's said.