Gubernatorial races could impact hospital profits

Hospital operators could be watching a few states' gubernatorial races closely next week, as Democratic wins on Tuesday could increase the likelihood of Medicaid expansion.

Bloomberg Businessweek reports Florida's race between incumbent Rick Scott and former governor Charlie Crist could have the biggest impact, as four of the largest for-profit hospital chains have at least 10 percent of their acute beds there. Between HCA and Community Health Systems, more than 50 hospitals in Florida are locally owned.