Medical Device recall: Philips Resolves dispute with USFDA

The medical device recall operation had a profound impact on Philips' market value, causing a sharp decline of about 70 per cent.

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Medical Device recall
Medical Device recall

Last Updated on February 7, 2024 by The Health Master

Medical Device recall

In a recent development, Dutch health technology behemoth Philips has announced reaching an agreement with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) concerning a significant medical device recall i.e. ventilators.

This pivotal resolution follows a tumultuous period for the company, marked by financial provisions and market turbulence.

Background: The Ventilator Recall

Philips initiated the recall in 2021, targeting millions of breathing devices and ventilators employed in treating sleep apnea.

The reason behind this unprecedented move was the degradation of foam used to dampen noise from the devices, posing potential cancer risks.

This event drastically impacted Philips’ market value, causing concern among investors about potential litigation expenses.

Financial Ramifications

The aftermath of the ventilator recall has left Philips with a financial burden.

The company disclosed a provision of 363 million euros ($393.5 million) in the fourth quarter of the previous year.

This provision is anticipated to constitute approximately 1 per cent of the total revenues for the year 2024.

Terms of the Consent Decree

Improvements at Respironics Plants

The agreement outlines specific improvements that Philips must undertake at its Respironics plants.

These enhancements are deemed necessary for the company to resume the sale of new respiratory devices in the U.S.

Sales Restrictions Until Compliance

Until the outlined conditions are met, Philips has confirmed that no new Respironics devices will be available for sale in the United States.

This marks a significant phase in the company’s journey towards compliance.

Philips’ Commitment to Compliance

Philips CEO, Roy Jakobs, expressed the company’s unwavering commitment to adhering to the consent decree.

In a statement, Jakobs emphasized the decree as a crucial step, providing a clear path forward for the company.

Finalization of the Consent Decree

The consent decree is currently in the finalization stage and is expected to be submitted to the relevant U.S. court for approval.

This legal milestone signifies a step towards resolving the regulatory concerns that arose due to the ventilator recall.

Recall Fallout

The medical device recall operation had a profound impact on Philips’ market value, causing a sharp decline of about 70 per cent.

Investors were understandably concerned about potential litigation costs, reflecting the significance of regulatory compliance in the health technology sector.

Foam Troubles: The Cause of the Recall

The core issue leading to the ventilator recall was the degradation of foam utilized to mitigate noise from the devices.

This degradation posed health risks, making the recall imperative for user safety and regulatory compliance.

Philips’ Market Expectations Post-Agreement

Mid-Single-Digit Comparable Sales Growth

Despite the challenges posed by the ventilator recall, Philips maintains its expectations of achieving mid-single-digit comparable sales growth in the coming years.

Low-Teens Profit Margin

The company also holds its ground on projecting a low-teens profit margin in adjusted EBITA by the year 2025.

Adjusted EBITA in 2025

Philips envisions reaching an adjusted EBITA margin, ensuring financial stability and growth in the face of recent setbacks.

Q4 Financials

Core Profit in Q4

Despite the financial provision, Philips’ core profit in the fourth quarter remained relatively stable at 653 million euros.

Comparable Sales Decline

However, the impact of the ventilator recall is evident in the decline of comparable sales by 1 per cent during the same period.

Analyst Predictions vs. Reality

Analysts, as per a company-compiled poll, had predicted a rise in adjusted EBITA to 672 million euros, with a 2.6 per cent growth in comparable sales. However, the actual figures fell short of these projections.

Philips’ Outlook for 2024

Comparable Sales Growth Projection

Philips anticipates achieving 3-5 per cent comparable sales growth in 2024, showcasing resilience and recovery from the challenges posed by the ventilator recall.

Adjusted EBITA Margin Expectation

The company sets its sights on an adjusted EBITA margin ranging from 11-11.5 per cent in 2024, outlining a strategic plan for financial sustainability.

Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from the source mentioned below. Our team utilized an AI language model to rewrite and present the news or article in a unique format.

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