U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC. 10-Q
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q
(MARK ONE)
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2006
 
 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 1-11151

U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC.
(NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)

NEVADA
76-0364866
(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF
(I.R.S. EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)
IDENTIFICATION NO.)
 
1300 WEST SAM HOUSTON PARKWAY SOUTH, SUITE 300,
77042
HOUSTON, TEXAS
(ZIP CODE)
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
 
 
REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (713) 297-7000

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.
 
x
Yes  
o
No 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One):

Large accelerated filer
o 
Accelerated filer
x
Non-accelerated filer
o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
 
o
Yes  
x
No 
 
As of May 5, 2006, the number of shares outstanding (issued less treasury stock) of the registrant's common stock, par value $.01 per share, was: 11,788,362.
 


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
   
 
   
     
 
     
 

2


ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)

  
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
 
 
2006
 
2005
 
ASSETS
 
(unaudited)
     
Current assets:
         
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
15,861
 
$
15,002
 
Patient accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful
             
accounts of $1,656 and $1,621, respectively
   
20,372
   
19,661
 
Accounts receivable -- other
   
839
   
761
 
Other current assets
   
1,692
   
1,428
 
Total current assets
   
38,764
   
36,852
 
Fixed assets:
             
Furniture and equipment
   
23,884
   
23,010
 
Leasehold improvements
   
14,835
   
14,556
 
     
38,719
   
37,566
 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
   
24,591
   
23,825
 
     
14,128
   
13,741
 
Goodwill
   
15,193
   
14,339
 
Other assets
   
950
   
1,587
 
   
$
69,035
 
$
66,519
 
               
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
             
Current liabilities:
             
Accounts payable -- trade
 
$
1,410
 
$
1,721
 
Accrued expenses
   
6,774
   
5,150
 
Notes payable
   
244
   
244
 
Total current liabilities
   
8,428
   
7,115
 
Notes payable - long-term portion
   
415
   
483
 
Deferred rent
   
1,248
   
1,263
 
Other long-term liabilities
   
1,258
   
1,159
 
Total liabilities
   
11,349
   
10,020
 
Minority interests in subsidiary limited partnerships
   
3,344
   
3,024
 
Commitments and contingencies
             
Shareholders' equity:
             
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 500,000 shares authorized, no
             
shares issued and outstanding
   
--
   
--
 
Common stock, $.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized,
             
13,647,047 and 13,645,167 shares issued at March 31, 2006
             
and December 31, 2005, respectively
   
136
   
136
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
35,058
   
35,037
 
Additional paid-in capital, equity-based compensation
   
222
   
--
 
Retained earnings
   
45,892
   
44,408
 
Treasury stock at cost, 1,858,685 and 1,809,785 shares held at
             
March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively
   
(26,966
)
 
(26,106
)
Total shareholders' equity
   
54,342
   
53,475
 
   
$
69,035
 
$
66,519
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
3

 
U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET INCOME
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
(unaudited)

       
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Net patient revenues
 
$
34,061
 
$
30,352
 
Management contract revenues
   
569
   
503
 
Other revenues
   
26
   
23
 
Net revenues
   
34,656
   
30,878
 
               
Clinic operating costs:
             
Salaries and related costs
   
18,467
   
15,800
 
Rent, clinic supplies, contract labor and other
   
7,524
   
6,336
 
Provision for doubtful accounts
   
566
   
312
 
     
26,557
   
22,448
 
               
Closure costs
   
22
   
--
 
Loss on sale or disposal of fixed assets
   
12
   
42
 
               
Corporate office costs
   
4,515
   
4,041
 
               
Operating income
   
3,550
   
4,347
 
               
Interest income (expense), net
   
82
   
93
 
Loss in unconsolidated joint venture
   
(21
)
 
--
 
Minority interests in subsidiary limited partnerships
   
(1,201
)
 
(1,187
)
               
Income before income taxes
   
2,410
   
3,253
 
Provision for income taxes
   
926
   
1,224
 
               
Net income
 
$
1,484
 
$
2,029
 
               
Basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.13
 
$
0.17
 
Diluted earnings per common share
 
$
0.12
 
$
0.17
 
               
Shares used in computation:
             
Basic earnings per common share
   
11,824
   
11,963
 
Diluted earnings per common share
   
12,036
   
12,108
 
 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
4

 
U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)
(unaudited)

 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
         
Net income
 
$
1,484
 
$
2,029
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
             
operating activities:
             
Depreciation and amortization
   
1,090
   
1,063
 
Minority interests in earnings of subsidiary limited partnerships
   
1,201
   
1,187
 
Provision for doubtful accounts
   
566
   
312
 
Deferred income taxes
   
471
   
(27
)
Equity-based awards compensation expense
   
222
   
--
 
Loss on sale or abandonment of fixed assets
   
12
   
42
 
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options
   
--
   
16
 
Recognition of deferred rent subsidies
   
(103
)
 
(97
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
             
Increase in patient accounts receivable
   
(1,218
)
 
(607
)
Increase in accounts receivable -- other
   
(137
)
 
(161
)
(Increase) decrease in other assets
   
(107
)
 
203
 
Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
1,313
   
2,130
 
Increase in other liabilities
   
187
   
42
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
4,981
   
6,132
 
               
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
             
Purchase of fixed assets
   
(1,480
)
 
(629
)
Acquisition of minority interests, included in goodwill
   
(800
)
 
(513
)
Other
   
(54
)
 
13
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(2,334
)
 
(1,129
)
               
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
             
Distributions to minority investors in subsidiary limited partnerships
   
(881
)
 
(1,216
)
Repurchase of common stock
   
(860
)
 
(3,573
)
Payment of notes payable
   
(68
)
 
--
 
Excess tax benefit from stock options exercised
   
10
   
--
 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
   
11
   
96
 
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(1,788
)
 
(4,693
)
               
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
859
   
310
 
Cash and cash equivalents -- beginning of period
   
15,002
   
20,553
 
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period
 
$
15,861
 
$
20,863
 
               
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
             
Cash paid during the period for:
             
Income taxes
 
$
256
 
$
481
 
Interest
 
$
11
 
$
--
 
 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
5

 
U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

MARCH 31, 2006
(unaudited)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of U.S. Physical Therapy, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The Company primarily operates through subsidiary clinic partnerships, in which the Company generally owns a 1% general partnership interest and a 64% limited partnership interest. The managing therapist of each clinic owns the remaining limited partnership interest in the majority of the clinics (hereinafter referred to as “Traditional Partnership Model” or “Clinic Partnership”). To a lesser extent, the Company operates some clinics, through wholly-owned subsidiaries, under profit sharing arrangements with therapists (hereinafter referred to as “Wholly-Owned Facilities”).
 
We continue to seek to attract physical and occupational therapists who have established relationships with physicians by offering therapists a competitive salary; a bonus based on his or her clinic's net revenue; and a share of the profits of the clinic operated by that therapist. In addition, we have developed satellite clinic facilities of existing clinics, with the result that many clinic groups operate more than one clinic location. In 2006, we intend to continue to focus on developing new clinics and opening satellite clinics where deemed appropriate. We will also evaluate acquisition opportunities in select markets.

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q. However, the statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. For further information regarding the Company’s accounting policies, please read the audited financial statements included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.
 
The Company believes, and the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Controller have certified, that the financial statements included in this report contain all necessary adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) to present fairly the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented.
 
Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of the results the Company expects for the entire year. Please also review the Risk Factors section included in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.
 
Significant Accounting Policies

Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Based upon its investment policy, the Company invests its cash primarily in deposits with major financial institutions, in highly rated commercial paper, short-term United States treasury obligations, United States and municipal government agency securities and United States government sponsored enterprises. The Company held approximately $11.7 million and $8.1 million in highly liquid investments at March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively.

The Company maintains its cash and cash equivalents at financial institutions. The combined account balances at several institutions typically exceed Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance coverage and, as a result, there is a concentration of credit risk related to amounts on deposit in excess of FDIC insurance coverage. Management believes that this risk is not significant.

Long-Lived Assets

Fixed assets are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Estimated useful lives for furniture and equipment range from three to eight years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the related lease term or estimated useful lives of the assets, which is generally five years.
 
6

 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of

The Company reviews property and equipment and intangible assets with finite lives for impairment upon the occurrence of certain events or circumstances that indicate the related amounts may be impaired. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of costs over the fair value of the acquired business assets. Historically, goodwill has been derived from the acquisition of businesses and the purchase of some or all of a particular local management’s equity interest in an existing clinic in certain partnerships formed prior to January 18, 2001.

The fair value of goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment annually and upon the occurrence of certain events, and are written down to fair value if considered impaired. The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment on an annual basis by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to the carrying value of the reporting unit including related goodwill. A reporting unit refers to the acquired interest of a single clinic or group of clinics managed by the same local management. Local management typically continues to manage the acquired clinic or group of clinics on behalf of the Company. For each clinic or group of clinics, the Company maintains discrete financial information and both corporate and local management regularly review the operating results. For each purchase of the equity interest, goodwill, if deemed appropriate, is assigned to the respective clinic or group of clinics.

Minority Interests

In the majority of the Company's partnership agreements, the therapist partner begins with a 20% profit interest in his or her clinic partnership, which increases by 3% at the end of each year thereafter up to a maximum of 35%. Within the balance sheet and statement of net income, the Company has historically recorded therapist partner’s profit interest in the clinic partnerships as minority interests in subsidiary limited partnerships. The Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") issued EITF 00-23, "Issues Related to the Accounting for Stock Compensation under APB No. 25 and FASB Interpretation No. 44" (“EITF 00-23”), which provides specific accounting guidance relating to various incentive compensation issues. For partnerships formed after January 18, 2001, in situations where the therapist limited partner has minimal risk, EITF 00-23 requires the Company to expense as compensation rather than as a minority interest in earnings, the therapist partners’ interest in profits. Moreover, EITF 00-23 requires that the Company expense as compensation rather than capitalizing as goodwill, the purchase of minority interests in the partnerships for clinic partnerships formed after January 18, 2001. For partnerships formed after January 18, 2001 in situations where the therapist limited partner has made a substantial investment and has more than inconsequential risk, the minority interest is reported in the minority interests in subsidiary limited partnerships line item.

The following table summarizes the minority interests in earnings of subsidiary limited partnerships recorded (in thousands):

   
Quarter End
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Partnerships formed after January 18, 2001 (1)
 
$
243
 
$
259
 
Partnerships formed prior to January 18, 2001 (2)
   
1,201
   
1,187
 
All partnerships
 
$
1,444
 
$
1,446
 
               

 
(1)
Expensed as salaries and related costs pursuant to EITF 00-23.
 
(2)
Reported as minority interests in subsidiary limited partnerships in the statements of net income.

As of March 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005, undistributed minority interests related to certain partnerships formed after January 18, 2001 in the amount of $687,000 and $566,000, respectively, were classified as other long-term liabilities. The undistributed minority interests related to certain partnerships formed prior to January 18, 2001 are included in the line item in our balance sheets entitled minority interest in subsidiary limited partnerships.

7


Revenue Recognition

Revenues are recognized in the period in which services are rendered. Net patient revenues (patient revenues less estimated contractual adjustments) are reported at the estimated net realizable amounts from insurance companies, third-party payors, patients and others for services rendered. The Company has agreements with third-party payors that provide for payments to the Company at amounts different from its established rates. The allowance for estimated contractual adjustments is based on terms of payor contracts and historical collection and write-off experience.

The Company determines allowances for doubtful accounts based on the specific agings and payor classifications at each clinic. The provision for doubtful accounts is included in clinic operating costs in the statement of net income. Net accounts receivable includes only those amounts the Company estimates to be collectible.

Since 1999, reimbursement for outpatient therapy services has been made according to a fee schedule published by the HHS. Under the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the total amount paid by Medicare in any one year for outpatient physical and/or occupational therapy (including speech-language pathology) to any one patient is limited to $1,500 (the “Medicare Limit”), except for services provided in hospitals. After a three-year moratorium, this Medicare Limit on therapy services was implemented for services rendered on or after September 1, 2003 subject to an adjusted total of $1,590 (the “Adjusted Medicare Limit”). Effective December 8, 2003, a moratorium was again placed on the Adjusted Medicare Limit for the remainder of 2003 and for years 2004 and 2005.

Under the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, the Adjusted Medicare Limit was reinstated effective as of January 1, 2006.   Outpatient therapy services rendered to Medicare beneficiaries by the Company's therapists are subject to the cap, except to the extent these services are rendered pursuant to certain management and professional services agreements with inpatient facilities, in which case the caps do not apply.    The Medicare Limit for 2006 is $1,740 subject to an exception policy created by CMS, as more fully defined in the February 15, 2006 Medicare Fact Sheet. In summary, the exception process allows for automatic and manual exceptions to the Medicare Cap for medically necessary services. The exception process specified diagnosis that qualifies for an automatic exception to the therapy caps, if the condition or complexity has a direct and significant impact on the course of therapy being provided and the additional treatment is medically necessary. The exception process further provides that manual exceptions may be granted if the condition or complexity does not allow for an automatic exception, but is believed to require medically necessary services. In the absence of an exception, patients who are impacted by the cap may choose to pay out of their own pockets for services in excess of the cap; however, it is assumed that the cap will result in lost revenues to the Company. Any such negative impact on the Company’s revenue could potentially be reduced by replacing lost revenues by more marketing efforts to non-Medicare sources or through staffing reductions. If such negative impact is not mitigated, the 2006 Medicare Limit could have an adverse impact on 2006 net income.

Laws and regulations governing the Medicare program are complex and subject to interpretation. The Company believes that it is in compliance in all material respects with all applicable laws and regulations and is not aware of any pending or threatened investigations involving allegations of potential wrongdoing that would have a material effect on the Company's financial statements as of March 31, 2006. Compliance with such laws and regulations can be subject to future government review and interpretation, as well as significant regulatory action including fines, penalties, and exclusion from the Medicare program. 

Contractual Allowances

Contractual allowances result from the differences between the rates charged for services performed and expected reimbursements by both insurance companies and government sponsored healthcare programs for such services. Medicare regulations and the various third party payors and managed care contracts are often complex and may include multiple reimbursement mechanisms payable for the services provided in our clinics. We estimate contractual allowances based on our interpretation of the applicable regulations, payor contracts and historical calculations. Each month the Company estimates its contractual allowance for each clinic based on payor contracts and the historical collection experience of the clinic and applies an appropriate contractual allowance reserve percentage to the gross accounts receivable balances for each payor of the clinic. Based on our historical experience, calculating the contractual allowance reserve percentage at the payor level is sufficient to allow us to provide the necessary detail and accuracy with our collectibility estimates. However, the services authorized and provided and related reimbursement are subject to interpretation that could result in payments that differ from our estimates. Payor terms are periodically revised necessitating continual review and assessment of the estimates made by management. Our billing system does not capture the exact change in our contractual allowance reserve estimate from period to period in order to assess the accuracy of our revenues and hence our contractual allowance reserves. Management regularly compares its cash collections to corresponding net revenues measured both in the aggregate and on a clinic-by-clinic basis. In the aggregate, historically the difference between net revenues and corresponding cash collections has generally been less than 1% of net revenues. Additionally, analysis of subsequent period’s contractual write-offs on a payor basis shows a less than 1% difference between the actual aggregate contractual reserve percentage as compared to the estimated contractual allowance reserve percentage associated with the same period end balance. As a result, we believe that a reasonable likely change in the contractual allowance reserve estimate would not likely be more than 1% at March 31, 2006.
 
8

 
Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

Fair Values of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and notes payable approximate their fair values due to the short-term maturity of these financial instruments.

Segment Reporting

Operating segments are components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by chief operating decision makers in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company identifies operating segments based on management responsibility and believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating segments into a single reporting segment.

Use of Estimates

In preparing the Company's consolidated financial statements, management makes certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Self-Insurance Program

The Company utilizes a self-insurance plan for its employee group health insurance coverage administered by a third party. Predetermined loss limits have been arranged with the insurance company to limit the Company’s maximum liability and cash outlay. Accrued expenses include the estimated incurred but unreported costs to settle unpaid claims and estimated future claims.

Stock Options

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement No. 123R, Share-Based Payment (SFAS 123R), which requires companies to measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based payments at fair value. SFAS 123R is being applied on the modified prospective basis. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 123R, the Company applied the intrinsic-value-based method of accounting prescribed by Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and related interpretations including FASB Interpretation No. 44, Accounting for Certain Transactions involving Stock Compensation, an interpretation of APB Opinion No. 25, to account for its fixed-plan stock options. Under the intrinsic-value-based method, compensation expense was recognized only to the extent that the current market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant exceeded the exercise price. Historically, the Company has granted stock options with an exercise price equal to the current market price of the underlying stock, therefore, the Company had not recognized any compensation expense related to stock-based payments.

Under the modified prospective approach, SFAS 123R applies to new awards and to awards that were outstanding on January 1, 2006 that are subsequently modified, repurchased or cancelled. Under the modified prospective approach, compensation cost recognized for the first quarter of 2006 includes compensation for all stock-based payments granted prior to, but not yet vested on January 1, 2006, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123, and compensation cost for the stock-based payment granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the grant-date fair value estimated with the provisions of SFAS 123R. Prior periods were not restated to reflect the impact of adopting the new standard.

As a result of adopting SFAS 123R on January 1, 2006, the net income and net income per share for the three months ended March 31, 2006, were $137,000, or $0.01 per share, lower than if the Company had continued to account for stock-based compensation under APB Opinion No. 25.
 
9

 
The following table illustrates the effect on net income and net income per share had the Company accounted for stock-based compensation in accordance with SFAS 123 for the three months ended March 31, 2005 (in thousands, except per share data):
 
       
Net income, as reported
 
$
2,029
 
Deduct: Total stock-based compensation expense
       
Determined under the fair value method, net of taxes
   
(163
)
Pro forma net income
 
$
1,866
 
         
Earnings per share:
       
Actual basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.17
 
Actual diluted earnings per common share
 
$
0.17
 
         
Pro forma basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.16
 
Pro forma diluted earnings per common share
 
$
0.15
 

Prior to October 1, 2005, the Company utilized Black-Scholes, a standard option pricing model, to measure the fair value of stock options granted to employees. The Black-Scholes model does not contain the interaction among economic and behavioral assumptions. While SFAS 123R permits entities to continue to use such a model, the standard also permits the use of a “lattice” model. For the fourth quarter of 2005, the Company determined that the Trinomial Lattice Model was the best available measure of the fair value of employee stock options. The Trinomial Lattice Model accounts for changing employee behavior as the stock price changes. The use of a lattice model captures the observed pattern of increasing rates of exercise as the stock price increases. Also, SFAS 123R requires that the benefits associated with the tax deductions attributable to the grant of stock options that are in excess of recognized compensation cost be reported as a financing cash flow, rather than as an operating cash flow as required under previous literature.

The following weighted-average assumptions were used in estimating the fair value per share of the options granted under the stock option plans and assuming no dividends for the three months ended March 31, 2006 and 2005:

   
2006
 
2005
 
Risk-free interest rates
   
4.28
%
 
4.13
%
Expected volatility
   
30.0
%
 
55.7
%
Expected life (in years)
   
n/a
   
5.2
 
Suboptimal exercise factor
   
3
   
n/a
 
Exit rate post-vesting
   
12.5
%
 
n/a
 
 
The Company calculates the expected volatility for stock-based awards using historical volatility adjusted for periods of excess volatility. The Company estimates the forfeiture rate for stock-based awards based on historical data. Currently, the Company estimates the forfeiture rate to be 25%.

Stock option activity is summarized as follows:

   
 
 
 
Number of
Shares
 
 
 
 
 
Exercise Price
 
 
Weighted Average
Exercise Price
 
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
000’s
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2005
   
1,142,084
 
 
$2.81 - $18.98
 
$
13.39
             
Granted
   
2,000
 
 
$19.29
   
19.29
             
Exercised
   
(1,880
)
 
$3.04 - $16.34
   
5.90
             
Cancelled
   
(332
)
 
$12.60 - $18.42
   
17.45
             
Forfeited
   
(1,585
)
 
$12.60 - $18.42
   
17.00
             
                                 
Outstanding at March 31, 2006
   
1,140,287
 
 
$2.08 - $19.29
   
13.40
   
7.82 Years
 
$
4,228
 
Exercisable at March 31, 2006
   
664,618
 
 
$2.81 - $18.98
   
12.82
   
7.34 Years
 
$
2,848
 
 
10

 
The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during the quarter ended March 31, 2006 and 2005 was $6.55 and $7.38, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the quarter ended March 31, 2006 and 2005 was $24,828 and $38,724.

A summary of the status of the nonvested shares as of March 31, 2006 and the changes during the quarter ended March 31, 2006, is presented below:

   
 
Number of
Shares
 
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Nonvested at January 1, 2006
   
519,710
 
$
8.43
 
Granted
   
2,000
   
6.55
 
Vested
   
(44,456
)
 
7.86
 
Forfeited
   
(1,585
)
 
9.97
 
Nonvested at March 31, 2006
   
475,669
   
8.47
 
               

As of March 31, 2006, the future pre-tax expense of nonvested stock options is $2.7 million to be recognized in the remainder of 2006 through 2010.

As of March 31, 2006, a total of 178,634 shares remained available for grant under the Company’s stock option plans.

Recently Promulgated Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2005, the FASB issued SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections” (“SFAS 154”), which replaces Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes” and SFAS No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements - An Amendment of APB Opinion No. 28.” SFAS 154 provides guidance on the accounting for and reporting of accounting changes and error corrections. It establishes retrospective application, or the latest practicable date, as the required method for reporting a change in accounting principle and the reporting of a correction of an error. SFAS 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. The adoption of this statement did not have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

In June 2005, the EITF issued EITF Issue No. 05-6, “Determining the Amortization Period for Leasehold Improvements Purchased after Lease Inception or Acquired in a Business Combination.” This accounting guidance states that leasehold improvements that are placed in service significantly after, and not contemplated at or near, the beginning of the lease term should be amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvements are purchased. Leasehold improvements acquired in a business combination should be amortized over the shorter of the useful life of the assets or a term that includes required lease periods and renewals that are deemed to be reasonably assured at the date of acquisition. The Company is required to apply EITF Issue No. 05-6 to leasehold improvements that are purchased or acquired in reporting periods beginning after June 29, 2005. The adoption of this issue did not have a material impact on our Company’s consolidated statement of net income or consolidated balance sheet in the reporting period in which adopted or for those periods following adoption.

In October 2005, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 13-1 (“FAS 13-1”) “Accounting for Rental Costs Incurred during a Construction Period”. FAS 13-1 requires rental costs associated with ground or building operating leases that are incurred during a construction period to be recognized as rental expense. The rental costs shall be included in income from operations. FAS 13-1 is effective for the first reporting period beginning after December 15, 2005. The adoption of FAS 13-1 did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
11


2. EARNINGS PER SHARE

The computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2006 and 2005 are as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

   
For The Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Numerator:
         
Net income
 
$
1,484
 
$
2,029
 
               
Denominator:
             
Denominator for basic earnings per share--weighted-average shares
   
11,824
   
11,963
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
             
Stock options
   
212
   
145
 
Denominator for diluted earnings per share--adjusted weighted-
             
average shares
   
12,036
   
12,108
 
               
Basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.13
 
$
0.17
 
Diluted earnings per common share
 
$
0.12
 
$
0.17
 

Options to purchase 124,795 and 177,000 shares for the three months ended March 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively, were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculations for the respective periods because the options' exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the common shares during the periods.

3. PURCHASE OF COMMON STOCK

In September 2001, the Board of Directors ("Board") authorized the Company to purchase, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock. On February 26, 2003, on December 8, 2004 and on August 23, 2005, the Board authorized share repurchase programs of up to 250,000, 500,000 and 500,000 additional shares, respectively, of the Company's outstanding common stock. As of March 31, 2006, there are 406,000 shares remaining that can be purchased under these programs. Since there is no expiration date for these share repurchase programs, additional shares may be purchased from time to time in the open market or private transactions depending on price, availability and the Company's cash position. Shares purchased are held as treasury shares and may be used for such valid corporate purposes or retired as the Board considers advisable. During the quarter ended March 31, 2006, the Company purchased 48,900 shares of its common stock on the open market for $860,000.

4. ACQUISITIONS

Acquisition of Businesses

On May 18, 2005, the Company acquired a majority interest in Hamilton Physical Therapy, an operator of three physical and occupational therapy clinics located in central New Jersey (“Hamilton Acquisition”). The Company acquired a 75% interest with existing partners retaining a 25% interest. The Company paid $5,425,000, consisting of a three-year note payable in the amount of $500,000 and cash of $4,925,000. In addition, the Company incurred $75,000 of capitalized acquisition costs. The purchase agreement also provides for possible contingent consideration of up to $650,000 based on the achievement of a certain designated level of operating results within a three-year period following the acquisition. Any contingent payment made will increase goodwill.

On December 19, 2005, the Company acquired a majority interest in Excel Physical Therapy, an operator of two physical therapy clinics located near Anchorage, Alaska (“Excel Acquisition”). The Company acquired a 65% interest with existing partners retaining a 35% interest. The Company paid $1,600,000, consisting of a three-year note payable in the amount of $309,710 and cash of $1,290,000. In addition, the Company incurred $30,700 of capitalized acquisition costs. The purchase agreement also provides for possible contingent consideration of up to $325,000 based on the achievement of a certain designated level of operating results within a three-year period following the acquisition. Any contingent payment made will increase goodwill.
 
12


The acquisitions resulted in approximately $6.9 million of goodwill which is deductible for tax purposes. Other assets related to the acquisitions included accounts receivable valued at $214,000, furniture and equipment valued at $235,000 and non-competition agreements valued at $171,000 which is being amortized over five years (of which approximately $24,000 had been amortized at March 31, 2006). The Company also assumed certain employee benefits of approximately $287,000 and recorded minority interests in subsidiary limited partnerships of approximately $73,000.

The Company is permitted to make, and has occasionally made, changes to preliminary purchase price allocations during the first year after completing the acquisitions.

Unaudited proforma consolidated financial information for these acquisitions has not been included as the results were not material to current operations.

Acquisitions of Minority Interests

During the first quarter of 2006, the Company purchased the 35% minority interest in a limited partnership for $800,000.

During 2005, the Company purchased a 15% minority interest from a limited partner who owned a 20.5% minority interest in a limited partnership for $774,000. The limited partner retained a 5.5% minority interest. Also, during 2005, the Company purchased the 35% minority interest in a limited partnership for $193,000, the 20% minority interest in another limited partnership for $54,000 and the 35% minority interest in another limited partnership for $463,000.

On June 1, 2002, the Company purchased the 35% minority interest in a limited partnership for $220,000. Additional consideration may be paid in the future based upon clinic performance. Based on the clinic’s performance, the Company paid additional consideration of $31,000, $41,000 and $32,360 in August 2003, 2004 and 2005, respectively. In July 2002, the Company sold half of the purchased interest to another therapist for $220,000, payable from future profits of the partnership. The Company discounted the note receivable by 50% and is recognizing gain on the sale as payments are made.

For all minority interest purchases noted above, the Company paid or has agreed to pay to the minority limited partner any undistributed earnings earned through an agreed date prior to the purchase date.

The Company's minority interest purchases were accounted for as purchases and accordingly, the results of operations of the acquired minority interest percentage are included in the accompanying financial statements from the dates of purchase. In addition, the Company is permitted to make, and has occasionally made, changes to preliminary purchase price allocations during the first year after completing the purchase.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
   
Quarter Ended
March 31, 2006
 
Beginning balance
 
$
14,339
 
Goodwill acquired during the period
   
800
 
Adjustment to purchase price
   
54
 
Ending balance
 
$
15,193
 

5. NOTES PAYABLE

Notes payable consist of the following (in thousands):
   
March 31,
2006
 
December 31,
2005
 
Promissory note payable in quarterly principal installments of $41,667
plus accrued interest through May 18, 2008, interest accrues
at 6% per annum
 
$
375
 
$
417
 
Promissory note payable in quarterly principal installments of $25,809
plus accrued interest through December 19, 2008, interest accrues
at 5.75% per annum
   
284
   
310
 
     
659
   
727
 
Less current portion
   
(244
)
 
(244
)
   
$
415
 
$
483
 
 
13


In connection with the Hamilton Acquisition, we incurred a note payable in the amount of $500,000, payable in equal quarterly principal installments of $41,667 beginning September 1, 2005 plus any accrued and unpaid interest. Interest accrues at a fixed rate of 6% per annum. All outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest then outstanding is due and payable on May 18, 2008.

In connection with the Excel Acquisition, we incurred a note payable in the amount of $309,710, payable in equal quarterly principal installments of $25,809 beginning April 1, 2006 plus any accrued and unpaid interest. Interest accrues at a fixed rate of 5.75% per annum. All outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest then outstanding is due and payable on December 19, 2008.

Effective September 30, 2005, the Company entered into an unsecured Credit Agreement (“Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement, which matures on September 30, 2007, allows the Company to borrow funds not to exceed at any one time an outstanding balance of $5,000,000 (“Commitment”). The outstanding balance bears interest, at the Company’s option, at a rate per annum equal to either the prime rate, as defined in the agreement, or the adjusted LIBOR rate, as defined in the agreement, plus three-quarters of one percent. The Company is required to pay a commitment fee, which is paid quarterly in arrears, of 0.20% per annum on the daily average difference between the Commitment and the outstanding balance. As of the date of this report, there are no funds outstanding under this credit agreement.

6. CLOSURE COSTS

During 2005, management closed 9 clinics, of which 8 were closed in the fourth quarter of 2005.

The accrual balance, which consisted of lease obligations for the closed clinics, at December 31, 2005 and the accrual balance and activity for the quarter ended March 31, 2006 are as follows (in thousands):

 
 
Type of Cost
 
Dec 31, 2005
Balance
 
 
 
Additions
 
 
 
Activity
 
Mar 31, 2006 Balance
 
Lease obligations
 
$
278
 
$
22
 
$
(163
)
$
137
 
 
Lease obligations represent the future payments remaining under lease agreements adjusted for estimated early settlements.


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Our Business 

We operate outpatient physical and occupational therapy clinics that provide preventive and post-operative care for a variety of orthopedic-related disorders and sports-related injuries, treatment for neurologically-related injuries and rehabilitation of injured workers. At March 31, 2006, we operated 298 outpatient physical and occupational therapy clinics in 39 states. The average age of our clinics at March 31, 2006, was 5.0 years. We have developed 287 of the clinics and acquired 11. To date, we have sold 6 clinics, closed 43 facilities and consolidated four clinics with other existing clinics. During the first quarter of 2006, we added 12 new clinics and did not close or consolidate any clinics.

In addition to our owned clinics, we also manage physical therapy facilities for third parties, primarily physicians, with 6 third-party facilities under management as of March 31, 2006.

14

 
Selected Operating and Financial Data

The following table presents selected operating and financial data that we believe are key indicators of our operating performance:

   
For The Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
  2006
 
 2005
 
Number of clinics at the end of the period
   
298
   
269
 
Working days
   
64
   
64
 
Average visits per day per clinic
   
18.9
   
18.4
 
Total patient visits
   
350,905
   
313,675
 
Net patient revenue per visit
 
$
97.07
 
$
96.76
 
Statements of operations per visit:
             
Net revenues
 
$
98.76
 
$
98.44
 
Salaries and related costs
   
(52.63
)
 
(50.37
)
Rent, clinic supplies, contract labor and other
   
(21.44
)
 
(20.20
)
Provision for doubtful accounts
   
(1.61
)
 
(1.00
)
Closure costs
   
(0.06
)
 
--
 
Loss on sale or disposal of fixed assets
   
(0.03
)
 
(0.13
)
Contribution from clinics
   
22.99
   
26.74
 
Corporate office costs
   
(12.87
)
 
(12.88
)
Operating income
 
$
10.12
 
$
13.86
 
               
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2006 Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2005
 
·
Net revenues rose 12.2% to $34.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2006 (“2006 First Quarter”), from $30.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005 (“2005 First Quarter”), due to an 11.9% increase in patient visits from 314,000 to 351,000 combined with a $0.31 increase from $96.76 to $97.07 in net patient revenue per visit.
   
·
Earnings were $0.12 per diluted share for the 2006 First Quarter as compared to $0.17 for the 2005 First Quarter. Net income for the 2006 First Quarter was $1.5 million versus $2.0 million for the same period last year. Total diluted shares were 12.0 million for the 2006 First Quarter and 12.1 million for the 2005 First Quarter.
 
Net Patient Revenues
 
·
 
Net patient revenues increased to $34.1 million for the 2006 First Quarter from $30.4 million for the 2005 First Quarter, an increase of $3.7 million, or 12.2%, due to an 11.9% increase in patient visits to 351,000 and a $0.31 increase in net patient revenues per visit to $97.07.
 
·
 
Total patient visits increased 37,000, or 11.9%, to 351,000 for the 2006 First Quarter from 314,000 for the 2005 First Quarter. The growth in visits for the year was attributable to an increase of approximately 35,000 visits or 11.1% in clinics opened or acquired between April 1, 2005 and March 31, 2006 (the "New Clinics") together with a 2,000 or 0.1% increase in visits for clinics opened before April 1, 2005 (the "Mature Clinics").
 
·
Net patient revenues from New Clinics accounted for approximately 96.6% of the total increase, or approximately $3.6 million of which $1.9 million related to the 5 clinics acquired after the first quarter of 2005. The remaining increase of $100,000 in net patient revenues was from Mature Clinics. Of the $100,000 increase, $1.1 million related to clinics opened between January 1, 2004 and March 31, 2005, offset by a $1.0 million decrease in clinics opened prior to January 1, 2004.
   
·
The percentage of visits and revenues from Medicare patients was a lower percentage of the Company’s total in the 2006 First Quarter as compared to the 2005 First Quarter. Management attributes this lower percentage to the reinstatement on January 1, 2006 of the annual medicare limit of $1,740 for outpatient therapy services. Management estimates that the impact was over 7,000 visits and more than $600,000 in revenue.
   
 
15


Net patient revenues are based on established billing rates less allowances and discounts for patients covered by contractual programs and workers’ compensation. Net patient revenues reflect contractual and other adjustments relating to patient discounts from certain payors. Payments received under these programs are based on predetermined rates and are generally less than the established billing rates of the clinics.
 
Clinic Operating Costs
 
Clinic operating costs as a percent of net revenues were 76.7% for the 2006 First Quarter and 72.8% for the 2005 First Quarter.
 
 Clinic Operating Costs - Salaries and Related Costs
 
Salaries and related costs increased to $18.5 million for the 2006 First Quarter from $15.8 million for the 2005 First Quarter, an increase of $2.7 million, or 16.9%. The $2.7 million increase was primarily incurred at the New Clinics of which $1.0 million related to the 5 clinics acquired after the 2005 First Quarter. Salaries and related costs as a percent of net revenues increased to 53.3% for the 2006 First Quarter compared to 51.2% for the 2005 First Quarter. Rising salary costs at facilities open a year or more accounted for most of the increase while acquisitions and clinics open less than one year made up the balance.
 
Clinic Operating Costs - Rent, Clinic Supplies, Contract Labor and Other
 
Rent, clinic supplies, contract labor and other increased to $7.5 million for the 2006 First Quarter from $6.3 million for the 2005 First Quarter, an increase of $1.2 million, or 18.8%. Approximately $949,000 of the increase was incurred at the New Clinics and $239,000 at Mature Clinics. Rent, clinic supplies, contract labor and other as a percent of net revenues was 21.7% for the 2006 First Quarter and 20.5% for the 2005 First Quarter.
 
Clinic Operating Costs - Provision for Doubtful Accounts
 
The provision for doubtful accounts increased to $566,000 for the 2006 First Quarter from $312,000 for the 2005 First Quarter, an increase of $254,000 or 81.4%. For the 2006 First Quarter, the bad debt expense included a charge-off of $58,000 related to an aged management contract receivable. The provision for doubtful accounts as a percent of net patient revenues, adjusted for the $58,000 charge, was 1.5% for the 2006 First Quarter and 1.0% for the 2005 First Quarter. Our allowance for bad debts as a percent of total patient accounts receivable was 7.5% at March 31, 2006, as compared to 7.6% at December 31, 2005.
 

Corporate Office Costs
 
Corporate office costs, consisting primarily of salaries and benefits of corporate office personnel, rent, insurance costs, depreciation and amortization, travel, legal, professional, and recruiting fees, increased to $4.5 million for the 2006 First Quarter from $4.0 million for the 2005 First Quarter, an increase of $500,000, or 11.7%. Corporate office costs increased primarily as a result of increased salary costs and a charge of $222,000 related to stock-based compensation expense. Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement No. 123R, Share-Based Payment (SFAS 123R), which requires companies to measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based payments at fair value. Prior periods were not restated to reflect the impact of adopting the new standard. Corporate office costs as a percent of revenues were 13.0% for the 2006 First Quarter and 13.1% for the 2005 First Quarter. After adjusting for stock-based compensation expense, corporate office costs would have been 12.4% of revenues for the 2006 First Quarter.
 
Minority Interests in Earnings of Subsidiary Limited Partnerships
 
Minority interests in earnings of subsidiary limited partnerships remained relatively the same in absolute dollars. Minority interest as a percentage of operating income before corporate office costs increased to 14.9% for the 2006 First Quarter compared to 14.2% for the 2005 First Quarter.
 
16

 
Provision for Income Taxes
 
The provision for income taxes decreased to $926,000 for the 2006 First Quarter from $1.2 million for the 2005 First Quarter, a decrease of approximately $300,000, or 24.3% as a result of lower pre-tax income. During the 2006 First Quarter, we accrued state and federal income taxes at an effective tax rate of 38.4% versus 37.6% for the 2005 First Quarter. The increase in the effective tax rate is due to higher state income taxes.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

We believe that our business is generating enough cash flow from operating activities to allow us to meet our normal short-term and long-term cash requirements. At March 31, 2006, we had $15.9 million in cash and cash equivalents compared to $15.0 million at December 31, 2005. Although the start-up costs associated with opening new clinics, and our planned capital expenditures are significant, we believe that our cash and cash equivalents are sufficient to fund the working capital needs of our operating subsidiaries, future clinic development and investments. Included in cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2006 were $3.8 million in a money market fund and $8.0 million in investments which include short-term high-grade commercial paper (credit rating of A1/P1 or better), municipal obligations and government sponsored enterprise investments.
 
The increase in cash of $859,000 from December 31, 2005 to March 31, 2006 was due primarily to cash provided by operating activities of $5.0 million, offset by $1.5 million used for the purchase of fixed assets, $0.9 million used for the repurchase of the Company’s common stock, $0.9 million used for distributions to minority investors in subsidiary limited partnerships and $0.8 million used for the purchase of minority interests.
 
Our current ratio decreased to 4.6 to 1.0 at March 31, 2006 from 5.2 to 1.0 at December 31, 2005. The decrease in the current ratio is due primarily to an increase in accrued expenses primarily related to the timing of making estimated tax payments and paying payroll. All employees are paid every two weeks with a one-week lag which resulted in a 10-day payroll accrual at quarter end versus a 5-day payroll accrual at year end. Estimated tax payments for the 2006 First Quarter were paid in April 2006.

Effective September 30, 2005, the Company entered into an unsecured Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement, which matures on September 30, 2007, allows the Company to borrow funds not to exceed at any one time an outstanding principal balance of $5,000,000 (“Commitment”). The outstanding balance bears interest, at the Company’s option, at a rate per annum equal to either the prime rate, as defined in the agreement, or the adjusted LIBOR rate, as defined in the agreement, plus three-quarters of one percent. The Company is required to pay a commitment fee, which is paid quarterly in arrears, of 0.20% per annum on the daily average difference between the Commitment and the outstanding balance. During the first quarter, there were no funds outstanding under this credit agreement.

Historically, we have generated sufficient cash from operations to fund our development activities and cover operational needs. We generally develop new clinics rather than acquire them, which requires less capital. We plan to continue developing new clinics and make additional acquisitions in select markets. We have from time to time purchased the minority interests of limited partners in our clinic partnerships. We may purchase additional minority interests in the future. Generally, any acquisition or purchase of minority interests is expected to be accomplished using a combination of cash, notes or common stock. We believe that existing funds and the availability of funds under the Credit Agreement, supplemented by cash flows from existing operations, will be sufficient to meet our current operating needs, development plans and any purchases of minority interests through at least March 2007.

In conjunction with the Hamilton Acquisition, we entered into a note payable with the sellers in the amount of $500,000 payable in equal quarterly principal installments of $41,667, beginning September 1, 2005, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. Interest accrues at a fixed rate of 6% per annum. All outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest then outstanding is due and payable on the third anniversary of the note, May 18, 2008. The purchase agreement also provides for possible contingent consideration of up to $650,000 based on the achievement of a certain designated level of operating results within a three-year period following the acquisition. In addition, we entered into a 5-year lease for each of the three facilities.

In conjunction with the Excel Acquisition, we entered into a note payable with the sellers in the amount of $309,710 payable in equal quarterly principal installments of $25,809, beginning April 1, 2006, plus any accrued and unpaid interest. Interest accrues at a fixed rate of 5.75% per annum. All outstanding principal and any accrued and unpaid interest then outstanding is due and payable on the third anniversary of the note, December 19, 2008. The purchase agreement also provides for possible contingent consideration of up to $325,000 based on the achievement of a certain designated level of operating results within a three-year period following the acquisition. In addition, we entered into a 5-year lease for one of the facilities and assumed a lease expiring September 30, 2009 on the other facility.
 
17


In September 2001, the Board of Directors ("Board") authorized the Company to purchase, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock. On February 26, 2003, on December 8, 2004 and on August 23, 2005, the Board authorized share repurchase programs of up to 250,000, 500,000 and 500,000 additional shares, respectively, of the Company's outstanding common stock. As of March 31, 2006, there are 406,000 shares remaining that can be purchased under these programs. Since there is no expiration date for these share repurchase programs, additional shares may be purchased from time to time in the open market or private transactions depending on price, availability and the Company's cash position. Shares purchased are held as treasury shares and may be used for such valid corporate purposes or retired as the Board considers advisable. During the quarter ended March 31, 2006, the Company purchased 48,900 shares of its common stock on the open market for $860,000.

FACTORS AFFECTING FUTURE RESULTS

Clinic Development

As of March 31, 2006, we had 298 clinics in operation, 12 of which were opened in the first quarter of 2006. We expect to incur initial operating losses from new clinics opened in late 2005 and 2006. Generally we experience losses during the initial period of a new clinic's operation. Operating margins for newly opened clinics tend to be lower than more seasoned clinics because of start-up costs and lower patient visits and revenues. Patient visits and revenues gradually increase in the first year of operation, as patients and referral sources become aware of the new clinic. Revenues typically continue to increase during the two years following the first anniversary of a clinic opening. Based on the historical performance of our newer clinics, generally the clinics opened in 2005 would favorably impact our results of operations beginning in 2006.
 
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

We make statements in this report that are considered to be forward-looking statements within the meaning under Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements contain forward-looking information relating to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of our Company. These statements (often using words such as “believes”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “appear”, “should” and similar words) involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those we project. Included among such statements are those relating to opening new clinics, availability of personnel and the reimbursement environment. The forward-looking statements are based on our current views and assumptions and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of certain risks, uncertainties, and factors, which include, but are not limited to:

·
revenue and earnings expectations;
·
general economic, business, and regulatory conditions;
·
availability and cost of qualified physical and occupational therapists;
·
the failure of our clinics to maintain their Medicare certification status or changes in Medicare guidelines;
·
competitive and/or economic conditions in our markets which may require us to close certain clinics and thereby incur closure costs and losses including the possible write-off or write-down of goodwill;
·
changes in reimbursement rates or payment methods from third party payors including governmental agencies and deductibles and co-pays owed by patients;
·
maintaining adequate internal controls;
·
availability, terms, and use of capital;
·
future acquisitions; and
·
weather.

Many factors are beyond our control.

Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Please see the other sections of this report and our other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") for more information on these factors. Our forward-looking statements represent our estimates and assumptions only as of the date of this report. Except as required by law, we are under no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, regardless of the reason the statement is no longer accurate.

18

 
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

We do not maintain any derivative instruments, interest rate swap arrangements, hedging contracts, futures contracts or the like. Our only indebtedness as of March 31, 2006 was other notes of $659,000. See Note 5 in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of the last day of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
(b) Changes in Internal Control

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

The following table provides information regarding shares of the Company’s common stock repurchased by the Company during the quarter ended March 31, 2006.

Period
 
Total Number of
 
Average Price
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
 
Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
 
   
Shares Purchased
 
 Paid per Share
 
 Programs(1)
 
Programs(1)
 
January 1, 2006 through
January 31, 2006
   
3,900
 
$
18.08
   
3,900
   
451,015
 
February 1, 2006 through
February 28, 2006
   
--
   
--
   
--
   
451,015
 
March 1, 2006 through
March 31, 2006
   
45,000
 
$
17.48
   
45,000
   
406,015
 
Total
   
48,900
 
$
17.53
   
48,900
   
406,015
 

(1) In September 2001, the Board authorized the Company to purchase, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, up to 1,000,000 shares of its common stock. On February 26, 2003, on December 8, 2004 and on August 23, 2005, the Board authorized share repurchase programs of up to 250,000, 500,000 and 500,000 additional shares, respectively, of the Company's outstanding common stock. As of March 31, 2006, there are 406,000 shares remaining that can be purchased under these programs. Since there is no expiration date for these share repurchase programs, additional shares may be purchased from time to time in the open market or private transactions depending on price, availability and the Company's cash position. Shares purchased are held as treasury shares and may be used for such valid corporate purposes or retired as the Board considers advisable. All shares of common stock repurchased by the Company during the quarter ended March 31, 2006 were purchased under these programs.

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS.
 
(a)  Exhibits 

 
EXHIBIT NO.
   
31.1*
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2*
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
31.3*
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Controller
32*
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
 
* Filed herewith

 
 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on our behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
U.S. PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC.
   
   
Date: May 5, 2006 By: /s/  LAWRANCE W. MCAFEE
 
Lawrance W. McAfee
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
(duly authorized officer and principal financial and accounting officer)
   
 
By: /s/  DAVID RICHARDSON
 
David Richardson
 
Controller
   
 
20

 

INDEX OF EXHIBITS
 
EXHIBIT NO.
   
31.1*
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2*
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
31.3*
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Controller
32*
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
 
* Filed herewith
 
21