The negative margin for 2023 compounded a -8% operating margin in the same period last year.
While revenues grew, services were cut and overall contract labor was down in the first half of 2023, expenses increased 10% year over year. Non-operating income helped ease the losses further with an overall negative margin of -1% reported.
“Investment income is not reliable and it is critical that operating margins are positive for long-term sustainability of hospitals in our state,” warned Eric Lewis, WSHA CFO. “85% of the organizations responding to our survey had a negative margin. This level of losses is unprecedented.”
Key data:
Total operating revenues:
$16.1 billion (2023)
$14.8 billion (2022)
Total expenses:
$16.9 billion (2023)
$15.9 billion (2022)
Net operating income (loss):
($746.7 million) (2023)
($1.2 billion) (2022)
Operating margin:
-5% (2023)
-8% (2022)
*figures have been rounded
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.