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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
FOR ANNUAL AND TRANSITION REPORTS
PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
(MARK ONE)
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
X SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [FEE REQUIRED]
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 26, 1997
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934[NO FEE REQUIRED]
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM TO
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-16453
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HEARX LTD.
EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER
DELAWARE 22-2748248
(STATE OF OTHER JURISDICTION OF (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) IDENTIFICATION NO.)
1250 NORTHPOINT PARKWAY, WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA 33407
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES) (ZIP CODE)
REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE (561) 478-8770
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TITLE OF EACH CLASS NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE ON WHICH REGISTERED
------------------- -----------------------------------------
<S> <C>
COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE .10 PER SHARE AMERICAN STOCK EXCHANGE
</TABLE>
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(G) OF THE ACT: NONE
INDICATE BY CHECK 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. YES X NO
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INDICATE BY CHECK IF DISCLOSURE OF DELINQUENT FILERS PURSUANT TO ITEM 405 OF
REGULATION S-K IS NOT CONTAINED HEREIN AND WILL NOT BE CONTAINED, TO THE BEST OF
THE REGISTRANT'S KNOWLEDGE, IN DEFINITIVE PROXY OR INFORMATION STATEMENTS
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN PART III OF THIS FORM 10-K OR ANY AMENDMENT TO THIS
FORM 10-K. [ ]
AS OF FEBRUARY 20, 1998, THE AGGREGATE MARKET VALUE OF THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON
STOCK HELD BY NON-AFFILIATES (BASED UPON THE CLOSING PRICE OF THE COMMON STOCK
ON THE AMERICAN STOCK EXCHANGE) WAS APPROXIMATELY $158,694,000.
ON FEBRUARY 20, 1998, 100,762,425 SHARES OF THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON
STOCK WERE OUTSTANDING.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
PORTIONS OF REGISTRANT'S DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE 1998
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE REGISTRANT'S STOCKHOLDERS ("1998 PROXY STATEMENT"), TO BE
FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ARE INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
BY PART III.
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
HEARx Ltd. ("HEARx" or the "Company") operates a network of hearing
care centers which provide a full range of audiological products and services
for the hearing impaired. The Company's strategy focuses on contracting with
managed care and health insurance companies to provide to their members and
beneficiaries high quality hearing care utilizing state-of-the-art facilities
with a full range of diagnostic and rehabilitative services, qualified
professional staff and hearing education listening programs. The Company also
provides the same quality hearing care to the general population. The Company
believes it is well positioned to successfully address the concerns of access,
quality and cost of the managed care and health insurance companies, diagnostic
needs of referring physicians and, ultimately, the hearing health needs of
consumers. HEARx believes that such success requires the Company to offer
convenient distribution points, uniform centers (meaning standardized personnel
qualification, testing, formats, products, prices and ancillary services) and a
documented quality control program.
During 1997, HEARx continued to expand its healthcare provider
business by signing new or expanded contracts covering patients in the
geographic areas where HEARx centers are located. More than 150 contracts are
now in place with over 50 health insurance providers. A number of managed care
organizations have experienced significant difficulties arising from the
widespread growth and reach of available plans and benefits, as well as the
diverse nature of some of the defined participant populations. As a result, many
of these organizations, including some of those with whom HEARx has contracts,
have focused substantial resources on correcting their own administrative and
information systems instead of expanding their membership. HEARx recognized this
condition in 1997 and decided to further develop its marketing programs oriented
toward the non-insured "self-pay" patient in an effort to supplement its
existing and growing base of sales to and through the healthcare provider
contracts which continue to account for the majority of the Company's sales.
HEARx intends, as its ultimate goal, to establish a nationwide
network of hearing care centers, located in the metropolitan areas or regions
with concentrations of elderly consumers who are more likely to need the
Company's products or services. At the end of 1997, HEARx operated 72 centers in
New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Florida and one center in
Virginia. The HEARx expansion strategy will be controlled and deliberate.
HEARx was incorporated in Delaware on April 11, 1986.
FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Each HEARx center is staffed or supervised by a minimum of one
professionally trained, licensed and certified audiologist and at least one
patient care coordinator. The majority of the Company centers are located in
conveniently accessible strip shopping centers and are typically 1,500 to 2,000
square feet in size. The Company's goal is to have all centers virtually
identical in interior space design, exterior marking and signage. This uniform
appearance helps reinforce the consistent service and quality the Company
strives to provide to patients at all locations. Each center provides
comprehensive hearing services that include:
- A facility equipped with soundproof testing booths and
state-of-the-art testing equipment that meets or exceeds all
state standards.
- A full range of diagnostic and auditory-vestibular tests that
assist the physician in the treatment of patients with hearing
and balance disorders is provided in most centers. Some of these
services include auditory brainstem evoked potentials,
electronystagmography and immittance audiometry.
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- A family hearing counseling program available to all patients to
help them better understand the use of their hearing products and
their disability.
- A wide variety of hearing aid brands to meet the patient's needs.
- A standardized medical reporting system for feedback to the
referring physicians.
PRODUCTS
Unlike other national organizations (Miracle Ear and Beltone) which
sell only their brand of hearing aid, HEARx has selected approximately five
major worldwide manufacturers' products (Siemens, Rexton, GN Danavox, Resound
and Oticon) to make available through the HEARx network in order to provide the
best possible hearing care for HEARx patients, including the latest digital
technology.
In addition, all HEARx centers offer a large selection of other
hearing enhancement devices including telephone and television amplifiers,
telecaptioners and decoders, pocket talkers, specially adapted telephones, alarm
clocks, doorbells and fire alarms.
CUSTOMERS AND MARKETING
The majority of HEARx hearing aid sales in the fiscal year ended
December 26, 1997 continues to result from physician referrals or through
contracts with institutional buyers (health maintenance organizations, insurance
companies, or unions). The Company believes that its future growth depends on
its ability to inform hearing impaired consumers of the importance of
professional hearing testing and the availability of quality hearing devices.
The Company expects to continue to establish relationships with health
organizations and physicians that promote HEARx to the hearing impaired.
Because HEARx believes that hearing loss is a medical problem and
not simply a "retail opportunity", the Company encourages all patients to see a
physician prior to purchasing a hearing aid. The Company believes it has
established strong relationships with area physicians, which represent a
significant source of continuing patient referrals. HEARx further maintains
these relationships using its computerized medical reporting system to provide
each referring physician a full report on each of their patient's visits to
HEARx.
HEARx's marketing plan focuses on educating both physicians and
patients on the need for regular hearing testing and the importance of hearing
aids and other assistive listening devices in improving the quality of life for
hearing impaired individuals. The Company works to further its image as a
provider of highly professional services, quality products, and comprehensive
post-sale consumer education. In connection with its marketing program, HEARx
has developed a direct consumer marketing campaign, which utilizes television,
radio, newspaper and magazine advertisements, direct mailings, and
company-operated free seminars on hearing and hearing loss.
During 1997 and 1996, the Company had sales totaling approximately
$2.7 million and $2.9 million or 11.1 % and 15.7%, respectively, of net sales to
a single customer.
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GROWTH STRATEGY
Company-owned Centers
At the end of 1997, the Company operated seventy-two centers located
in Connecticut, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey and one center
situated in an AARP Pharmacy located in Virginia. This represents a net increase
of eight centers compared to fiscal 1996. The new centers were opened in early
1997 to fulfill contract requirements. Of the 38 million Medicare members in the
United States, approximately 6 million members are now receiving health care
from managed care organizations. Sixty percent (60%) of these "Medicare Managed
Care Members" are located in Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, New
York and Pennsylvania. Over the next several years, HEARx`s primary emphasis
will be opening additional (or selectively acquiring) Company-owned centers in
these states and elsewhere to the extent necessary to fulfill future contract
commitments. The Company's ultimate goal, where the population warrants, is to
open "clusters" of four to six centers within a city or county in order to take
advantage of certain operational and marketing efficiencies created by having
multiple locations within a particular region. These efficiencies relate
principally to advertising and marketing of the centers as well as to personnel
recruiting for the centers.
Managed Care and Institutional Contracts
Since the beginning of 1991, the Company has entered into
arrangements with institutional buyers relating to the provision of hearing care
products and services. HEARx believes that to successfully implement its growth
strategy, contractual relationships with institutional buyers of hearing aids
are essential. These institutions include managed care companies, health
maintenance organizations, insurance companies, senior citizen buying groups and
unions. By developing contractual arrangements for the referral of patients,
marketing costs are kept to a minimum, and relationships with local area
physicians are enhanced. Critical to providing care to members of these groups
is the availability of distribution sites, quality control and the
standardization of products and services. The Company believes its system of
high quality, standardized centers will be successful in meeting the needs of
the patients and their providers.
HEARx utilizes the concept of entering into provider agreements with
health insurance or managed care organizations for the furnishing of hearing
aids on three different bases: (a) Fee for service with a predetermined discount
(all paid for by the patient); (b) a per capita basis, which is a fixed payment
per patient per month from the organization, determined by the number of
patients to be served and the amount to be paid by the insurance or managed care
organization (the balance is paid by the individual member); or (c) an encounter
basis where the Company is paid a fixed fee by the insurance or managed care
organization for each hearing aid (the balance is paid by the individual
member).
RENEWAL OF AGREEMENTS WITH HEALTH INSURANCE AND MANAGED CARE ORGANIZATIONS
Since 1991, the Company has entered into agreements with certain
health insurance and managed care organizations to provide hearing care products
and services and has established hearing care centers in the related market
areas. The terms of a number of these agreements are to be renegotiated
annually, and most of these agreements may be terminated by either party on
90-days notice at any time. The early termination of or failure to renew the
agreements could adversely affect the operation of the hearing care centers
located in the related market area. In addition, the early termination of or
failure to renew the agreements which provide for payment to the Company on a
per capita basis would cause the Company to lower its estimates of revenues to
be received over the life of the agreements and could have an adverse effect on
the Company's results of operations. The Company is not aware of any potential
contract terminations at this time.
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DISTINGUISHING FEATURES
Integral to the success of HEARx's strategy is the strengthening of consumer's
confidence in the hearing care industry and the differentiation of HEARx from
typical hearing aid dispensers. To that end, the Company has established several
unique programs, which are highlighted below:
Scientific Advisory Board
HEARx has formed a Scientific Advisory Board consisting of some of
the leading experts in otolaryngology and audiology in an effort to instill
consumer confidence. Each of the three members of the Scientific Advisory Board
is a highly trained professional with extensive experience in the hearing field
and is affiliated with prestigious universities and institutions. Company
officials consult with members of this Board to keep the Company abreast of
developments in otolaryngology and audiology and for advice as to the Company's
overall business strategy. Additionally, the Scientific Advisory Board meets
annually to review corporate planning and discuss improvements in any of the
services or products which the Company offers. The Scientific Advisory Board
also advises the Company with respect to the introduction of new or improved
services or products, assists the Company in developing and reviewing quality
assurance programs, and advises the Company as to the effect of any proposed or
existing regulatory activity upon customers of the Company.
The current members of the Scientific Advisory Board and the area of
Company operations with respect to which each consults are listed below:
Hearing Testing
James Jerger, Ph.D.
Professor of Audiology
Baylor College of Medicine and The Methodist Hospital
Director, Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology
The Methodist Hospital
Houston, Texas
Hearing Aids and Devices
Charles I. Berlin, Ph.D.
Professor of Otorhinolaryngology & Biocommunications
Louisiana State University
Director, Kresge Hearing Research Laboratory of the South
New Orleans, Louisiana
Professional and Government Relations
Derald Brackmann, M.D.
House Ear Clinic, Inc.
Clinical Professor of Otolaryngology
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
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Medical Reporting and HEARx Data Link
A computerized medical reporting system gives referring physicians
the results of, and recommended action for, every patient examined by HEARx. To
the Company's knowledge, no other dispenser or audiologist presently offers any
referring physician similar computerized documentation. The Company believes
that as hearing acuity and correction become an expected part of an individual's
health profile, accurate records of past audiological test results,
prescriptions and pathology should be available and accessible to those treating
the patient. To address this need, the Company has developed a centralized
computer data storage and retrieval system which provides information compiled
from each HEARx center visit.
COMPETITION
The hearing care industry is highly fragmented with approximately
11,000 practitioners providing testing and dispensing products and services.
Roughly 2,500 of these practitioners are qualified audiologists working for
hospitals or physicians, 2,500 of the practitioners are licensed audiologists in
private practice, and the remaining 6,000 are hearing aid specialists
(individuals who may not have any formal training or qualifications). Industry
surveys estimate that approximately 5% of all hearing aids are sold in
physicians' offices, 60% are dispensed by qualified audiologists in private
practice, and the remaining are sold by hearing aid specialists.
Because there are no federal, state or local regulatory or oversight
agencies in the hearing care industry, it is not possible to determine the
precise number of competitors of the Company in the various states where the
Company has operations, or the percentage of market share enjoyed by the
Company. Based on 1997 industry-reported sales in the State of Florida, the
Company's market share of hearing aid sales was approximately 12.5%.
Most competitors are small retailers generally focusing on the sale
of hearing aids without providing comprehensive audiometric testing and other
professional services. Some competitors are significantly larger distributors,
including: (1) Bausch & Lomb, a hearing aid manufacturer whose distribution
system is through a national network of over 1,000 franchised stores (Miracle
Ear) including 400 located in Sears Roebuck & Co. stores; and (2) Beltone
Electronics Corp., a privately-owned hearing aid manufacturer that distributes
its products primarily through its network of approximately 1000 "authorized"
distributors. A number of these franchises and distributors are located in the
areas the Company serves.
These networks primarily offer hearing aids only and do not provide
the comprehensive diagnostic services, use of audiologist services or other
ancillary products offered by the Company. More importantly, they do not use the
services of audiologists in the majority of their centers. However, these
networks are owned by companies having greater resources than the Company, and
there can be no assurance that one or more of these competitors will not expand
and/or change their operations to capture the market targeted by the Company.
Nor can there be any assurance that the largely fragmented hearing care market
cannot be successfully consolidated by the establishment of co-operatives,
alliances, confederations or the like which would then compete more directly
with HEARx in its marketing strategy aimed at institutional buyers.
RELIANCE ON MANUFACTURERS AND QUALIFIED HEARING PROFESSIONALS
Through its hearing care centers, HEARx makes hearing aids available
to patients which are supplied by approximately five major manufacturers, as
well as hearing enhancement devices manufactured by other companies. The Company
relies on these manufacturers to supply such products, and a significant
disruption in supply from any or all of these manufacturers could adversely
affect the Company's business. There are approximately 40 manufacturers of
hearing aids and related hearing enhancement devices worldwide. The major
hearing aid manufacturers include Bausch & Lomb, Beltone, Philips Electronics,
Siemens, Starkey, GN Danavox, Oticon and Resound. In the event of a disruption
of supply from one or more of the Company's current
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suppliers, the Company believes it could obtain comparable products from other
manufacturers. Few manufacturers offer dramatic product differentiation. The
Company has not experienced any significant disruptions in supply in the past.
In addition, the Company distinguishes itself in the industry by
employing 117 licensed hearing professionals, of which 95 are audiologists, to
be available in the centers to provide on-site patient diagnosis and related
services. The inability of the Company to attract and retain qualified licensed
hearing professionals would reduce the Company's ability to distinguish itself
from competing networks of hearing aid retailers and thus adversely affect its
business. Management believes that it will be able to attract and retain
qualified licensed hearing professionals sufficient to staff its centers for the
foreseeable future.
REGULATION
Federal
The practice of audiology and the dispensing of hearing aids are not
presently regulated on the Federal level. The United States Food and Drug
Administration ("FDA") is responsible for monitoring the hearing care industry.
Currently there are only two regulations affecting the sale of hearing aids: 1)
a physician's review and 2) a return policy. The FDA requires first time hearing
aid purchasers to receive medical clearance from a physician prior to purchase;
however, patients may sign a waiver in lieu of a physician's examination. In
1993, the State of Vermont petitioned the FDA to drop the waiver provision and
mandate a physician visit. A final decision has never been generated. FDA
hearings were held in Washington, D.C. in the fall of 1993 regarding changes for
regulations affecting the hearing industry. New regulations were expected to be
promulgated in 1995, but never took place. A majority of the patients in HEARx
centers are members of the managed care or institutional providers with whom
HEARx has contracts to provide hearing care. Some of these organizations require
a physician referral. Consequently, a new federal or state physician referral
mandate should not have an adverse impact on the Company's operations. Although
the FDA has mandated that states adopt a return policy for consumers offering
them the right to return their products, generally within 3-30 days, HEARx
offers its customers up to a 60-day return policy. The extension of HEARx's
normal 30-day term is given to patients provided that the purchaser participates
in the HEARx Educational Listening Program (H.E.L.P.) family hearing counseling
program.
In addition, because the Company's centers accept Medicare and
Medicaid patients, the centers must maintain their eligibility as
Medicare/Medicaid providers and must comply with related federal anti-fraud,
anti-kickback and other applicable regulations. Federal laws prohibit the
payment of remuneration ("kickbacks") in return for a physician referring a
Medicare or Medicaid patient, and those laws limit physicians from referring
patients to providers in which they have a financial interest. The Company
believes that none of its managed care or other provider contracts or its
relationships with referring physicians are violative of the anti-kickback
statute.
The Company cannot predict the effect of future changes in federal
or state laws, including changes which may result from proposals for federal
health care reform legislation now being considered by the U.S. Congress, or the
impact that changes in existing federal or state laws or in the interpretation
of those laws might have on the Company. The Company believes it is in material
compliance with all existing federal regulatory requirements.
State
Generally, state regulations, where they exist, are concerned
primarily with the formal licensure of audiologists and of those who dispense
hearing aids and with practices and procedures involving the fitting and
dispensing of hearing aids. There can be no assurance that regulations do not
exist in jurisdictions in which the Company plans to open centers or will not be
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promulgated in states in which the Company currently operates centers which may
have a material adverse effect upon the Company. Such regulations might include
stricter licensure requirements for dispensers of hearing aids, inspections of
centers for the dispensing of hearing aids and the regulation of advertising by
dispensers of hearing aids. The Company knows of no current or proposed state
regulations with which it, as currently operated, could not comply.
The Company believes it is in material compliance with all
applicable state regulatory requirements.
PRODUCT AND PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY
In the ordinary course of its business, HEARx may be subject to
product and professional liability claims alleging the failure of, or adverse
effects claimed to have been caused by, products sold or services provided by
the Company. The Company maintains insurance at a level which the Company
believes to be adequate. A successful claim in excess of the policy limits of
the Company's liability insurance could adversely affect the Company. As the
distributor of products manufactured by others, the Company believes it would
properly have recourse against the manufacturer in the event of a product
liability claim; however, there can be no assurance that recourse against a
manufacturer by the Company would be successful or that any manufacturer will
maintain adequate insurance or otherwise be able to pay such liability.
EMPLOYEES
At December 26, 1997, HEARx had approximately 300 full-time
employees.
The operations of the Company are dependent in large part upon the
efforts of Paul A. Brown, M.D., Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer, and Stephen J. Hansbrough, President, Chief Operating Officer and
Director. The loss of the services of Dr. Brown or Mr. Hansbrough could
adversely affect the conduct and operation of the Company's business. The
Company purchased a "key man" insurance policy on Dr. Brown's life in the amount
of $3,000,000 for the benefit of the Company.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
HEARx's corporate offices are located in 13,000 square feet of space
in West Palm Beach, Florida. The lease covering such space provides for an
annual base rent of $158,145. The lease is for five years and expires May 2001.
As of December 26, 1997, the Company operated 33 centers in Florida,
4 in Connecticut, 5 in Pennsylvania, 14 in New Jersey and 16 in New York as well
as one center in Virginia. All of the locations are leased for one to ten year
terms pursuant to generally non-cancelable leases (with renewal options in some
cases). Each center consists of between 700 and 3,000 square feet with annual
base rents ranging from approximately $8,700 to $84,000.
The Company believes its facilities are adequate and suitable for
its current operations.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDING
The Company from time to time is involved in routine litigation arising in the
ordinary course of business. While the outcome of litigation can never be
predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that any existing
litigation, individually or in aggregate, will have a material adverse effect
upon the Company.
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ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None
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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY
The following sets forth certain information as of the date hereof
with respect to the Company's executive officers. They have been appointed to
terms which will expire at the annual meeting of the Board of Directors held at
the time of the 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, or at the time their
successors are duly elected and qualified:
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NAME AND POSITION AGE FIRST SERVED AS OFFICER
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<S> <C> <C>
Paul A. Brown, M.D. 59 1986
Chairman of the Board
Chief Executive Officer
and Director
Stephen J. Hansbrough 50 1993
President, Chief Operating
Officer and Director
James W. Peklenk 52 1996
Vice President - Finance
and Chief Financial Officer
</TABLE>
There are no family relationships among any of the executive
officers and directors of the Company.
Paul A. Brown, M.D., holds an A.B. from Harvard College and a M.D.
from Tufts University School of Medicine. From 1970 to 1984, Dr. Brown was
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of MetPath Inc. ("MetPath"), a
New Jersey-based corporation offering a full range of clinical laboratory
services to physicians and hospitals, which he founded in 1967 while a resident
in pathology at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City. MetPath
developed into the largest clinical laboratory in the world with over 3,000
employees and was listed on the American Stock Exchange prior to being sold to
Corning Glass Works in 1982. In 1984, after leaving MetPath, Dr. Brown and a
small group of investors founded SCI/MED Advances Corporation, a venture
capital, business development and management services company, but the company
was ultimately unsuccessful in raising the $80 million in a public offering
sought to commence this venture. Dr. Brown founded HEARx in 1986. Dr. Brown is
formerly Chairman of the Board of Overseers of Tufts University School of
Medicine, an Emeritus member of the Board of Trustees of Tufts University, a
member of the Visiting Committee of Boston University School of Medicine and
part-time lecturer in pathology at Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons.
Stephen J. Hansbrough, President, Chief Operating Officer and
Director, joined HEARx in December 1993. Mr. Hansbrough has an extensive
background in the retail arena. He served as Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of Dart Drug Stores until 1988. Subsequently, he was an independent
consultant specializing in turn-around and start-up operations, primarily in the
retail field, until joining HEARx in 1993.
James W. Peklenk, Vice President - Finance and Chief Financial
Officer, joined the Company in November 1995 as Controller and became Vice
President - Finance/CFO in June 1996. He has a B.S. in Accounting from the
University of Louisville. From 1991 until joining HEARx, Mr. Peklenk was Vice
President, Finance/CFO, for Shooters International, Inc., an
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international restaurant operator and franchiser of Shooters Waterfront Cafes.
Prior to 1991, Mr. Peklenk was Director of Internal Audit for Chi-Chi's Mexican
Restaurants, a $500M restaurant operator (300 units) and franchiser. Prior to
1983, Mr. Peklenk was an Audit Partner with the international CPA firm of Grant
Thornton.
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS
Effective March 15, 1996, the Common Stock of the Company began
trading on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol of "EAR." Prior to this
date the Company's Common Stock was traded in the over-the-counter market under
the symbol of "HRXL."
The following table sets forth the high and low prices of the Common
Stock as reported by the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) from March 15, 1996
throughout 1997. The prices for the first quarter of 1996 through March 14,1996
are the high and low bid prices as reported by the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc., OTC Bulletin Board Services ("NASDBB"):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Fiscal Quarter Common Stock
-------------- ------------
High Low
---- ---
<S> <C> <C>
1996
----
First (AMEX & NASDBB) 7 3/8 2 3/16
Second (AMEX) 6 15/16 4
Third (AMEX) 6 15/16 2 5/8
Fourth (AMEX) 3 7/8 1 3/4
1997
----
First (AMEX) 3 1/4 2
Second (AMEX) 2 1/16 1 5/16
Third (AMEX) 2 1/4 1 1/16
Fourth (AMEX) 2 3/16 1 7/16
</TABLE>
As of December 26, 1997, there were 2,074 holders of record of
Common Stock. The Company estimates that included within the holders of record
are approximately 28,926 beneficial owners of Common Stock.
Dividend Policy
HEARx has never paid and does not intend to pay any dividends on the
Common Stock in the foreseeable future but intends to retain any earnings for
use in the Company's business operations.
Warrants Exercised
During 1997, warrants for the purchase of 14,921,734 shares of the Company's
Common Stock were exercised by the holders thereof resulting in the issuance of
11,460,233 shares of the Company's Common Stock and receipt by the Company of
cash proceeds of $1,898,152. The warrants were exercised primarily pursuant to
the terms of cashless exercise provisions contained in the warrants resulting in
a reduction in the number of shares of Common Stock issued upon exercise of the
warrants. The warrants were initially issued to certain "accredited investors"
pursuant to Rule 506 of Regulation D in connection with the sale of the
Company's 1996 Senior Preferred Stock, and the shares issued upon exercise of
the warrants were also issued pursuant
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to Rule 506 of Regulation D. The proceeds received by the Company from the
exercise of the warrants was used for working capital.
Conversion of Preferred Stock
During 1997, 4,950 shares of the Company's 1996 Senior Preferred Stock and 2,888
shares of the Company's 1997 Preferred Stock were converted into 5,817,586
shares of the Company's Common Stock. The Preferred Stock was initially issued
to certain "accredited investors" pursuant to Rule 506 Regulation D in
connection with the sale of the Company's 1996 Senior Preferred Stock and the
Company's 1997 Preferred Stock, and the shares issued upon the conversion were
also issued pursuant to Rule 506 of Regulation D.
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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected financial data of the Company should be read
in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto and the following
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations. The financial data set forth on the next two pages have been derived
from the audited financial statements of the Company:
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OPERATING STATEMENT DATA:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended
December 26 December 27 December 29 December 30
1997 1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales $ 24,213,879 $ 18,490,561 $ 11,170,068 $ 4,331,148
Total costs and expenses 33,417,880 26,349,540 13,383,521 6,436,783
Loss from continuing operations (9,204,001) (7,858,979) (2,213,453) (2,105,635)
Loss from discontinued operations - - - -
Net loss applicable to common
Stockholders $(11,196,124) $(17,895,486) $ (2,213,453) $ (2,105,635)
============ ============ ============ ============
Loss per common share:
Continuing operations, including dividends on
preferred stock $ (0.12) $ (0.25) $ (0.05) $ (0.06)
Discontinued operations - - - -
Net loss per common share
basic and diluted (1) $ (0.12) $ (0.25) $ (0.05) $ (0.06)
============ ============ ============ ============
Weighted average:
Number of common shares
Outstanding 89,605,031 71,197,115 45,164,091 36,278,205
============ ============ ============ ============
Cash dividend per common
Share None None None None
==== ==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three
Months
Ended Year Ended
December 31 September 30
1993 1993
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Net Sales $ 1,042,576 $ 7,335,067
Total costs and expenses 1,568,825 12,669,759
Loss from continuing operations (561,517) (5,579,446)
Loss from discontinued operations - (918,720)
Net loss applicable to common
Stockholders $ (561,517) $ (6,498,166)
============ ============
Loss per common share:
Continuing operations, including dividends on
preferred stock $ (0.02) $ (0.18)
Discontinued operations - (0.03)
Net loss per common share
basic and diluted (1) $ (0.02) $ (0.21)
============ ============
Weighted average:
Number of common shares
Outstanding 31,031,790 30,819,790
============ ============
Cash dividend per common
Share None None
==== ====
</TABLE>
(1) The earnings per share amounts prior to 1997 have been restated as required
to comply with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, Earnings Per
Share. For further discussion of earnings per share and the impact of Statement
No. 128, see notes to the consolidated financial statements.
16
<PAGE> 17
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months
Year Ended Ended Year Ended
December 26 December 27 December 29 December 30 December 31 September 30
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1993
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total assets $28,216,176 $26,627,484 $ 6,450,628 $ 3,504,967 $ 2,659,794 $ 2,800,222
Working capital (deficit) 13,136,147 12,456,391 (1,317,179) (623,200) (2,560,618) (2,936,745)
Long-term debt net of
current portion 177,897 230,258 2,316,300 2,376,199 1,175,372 607,097
Book value per share (1) 0.16 0 .20 (0.12) (0.16) (0.23) (0.24)
</TABLE>
(1) represents total stockholders' equity less aggregate liquidation preferences
on preferred stock, divided by common stock outstanding.
17
<PAGE> 18
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
GENERAL
Management believes the shift of patients from the Medicare population to
managed care, which has occurred in recent years, will continue and increase in
the future. To the extent the Company is successful in contracting with the
providers of Medicare managed care for the provision of hearing care goods and
services, the Company can enjoy the benefits of this shift.
HEARx intends, as its ultimate goal, to establish a nationwide network of
hearing care centers, located in the metropolitan areas or regions with
concentrations of elderly consumers who are more likely to need the Company's
products or services. At the end of 1997, HEARx operated 33 centers in Florida,
16 in New York, 14 in New Jersey, 4 in Connecticut, 5 in Pennsylvania and one
center in Virginia. The HEARx expansion strategy will be controlled and
deliberate.
During 1997, HEARx continued to expand its healthcare provider business by
signing new or expanded contracts covering patients in the geographic areas
where HEARx centers are located. More than 150 contracts are now in place with
over 50 health insurance providers. A number of managed care organizations have
experienced significant difficulties arising from the widespread growth and
reach of available plans and benefits, as well as the diverse nature of some of
the defined participant populations. As a result, many of these organizations,
including some of those with whom HEARx has contracts, have focused substantial
resources on correcting their own administrative and information systems instead
of expanding their membership. HEARx recognized this condition in 1997 and
decided to further develop its marketing programs oriented toward the
non-insured "self-pay" patient in an effort to supplement its existing and
growing base of sales to and through the healthcare provider contracts which
continue to account for the majority of the Company's sales.
HEARx marketing efforts to the "self-pay" patient were very successful in the
third and fourth quarters of 1997. Sales to non-insured "self-pay" patients
increased 28 percent in the third and fourth quarters of 1997 over such sales in
the first and second quarters of 1997. There can be no assurance that these
sales levels will continue into 1998.
There can be no assurance that all of the provider contracts will either start
up on a timely basis or produce the revenues anticipated. These contracts call
for the managed care or insurance companies to reimburse the Company for all, or
a portion, of the costs incurred by their members for hearing care services
provided by the Company. The balance of the cost is borne by the member. The
Company is reimbursed by the insurer on either a "fee for service" basis, or
through a "capitated" plan. Capitation contracts are those contracts which
provide for payments to the Company on a per member per month basis. Under those
contracts, a member is entitled to testing services and a product credit with
respect to a hearing aid purchase. These credits (discounted from published
retail prices) are then applied to the member's purchase of hearing aids. As
generally provided in those contracts, the member can receive this credit once
every three years. The price of the services and products provided on the first
visit, above the group discount, as well as any additional services or products
purchased, are the obligation of the member.
The Company believes that the loss of any single managed care contract would not
have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of
operations. Each of the existing insurance contracts are achieving expected
gross profit margins and contributing positively to the Company's results of
operations.
18
<PAGE> 19
The Company has conducted a comprehensive review of its computer systems to
identify any system that could be affected by the "Year 2000" issue. The Year
2000 problem is the result of computer programs being written using two digits
rather than four to define the applicable year. Any of the Company's programs
that have time sensitive software may recognize a date using "00" as the year
1900 rather than 2000. This could result in a system malfunction or mis-
calculation. HEARx presently believes the Year 2000 problem will not pose
significant operational problems for the Company. The Company's computer
operational programs have been written within the past three years and use four
digits to define the applicable year. The Company plans to send confirmations to
outside vendors and principal customers to ensure their programs are Year 2000
compatible.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
1997 COMPARED TO 1996
Net sales increased $5,723,318, or 31%, to $24,213,879 in 1997 from $18,490,561
in 1996. The increase in net sales primarily results from the increase in the
Company's non-insured "self-pay" business and the effect of new contracts signed
with major health insurers.
Cost of products sold increased $385,057, or 5.9%, to $6,963,782 in 1997 from
$6,578,725 in 1996. The increase is attributable to the 31% increase in net
sales from new and existing centers. The number of centers operating at December
26, 1997 (73) increased by 12.3% over those in operation at December 27,1996
(65). Cost of products sold, as a percentage of net sales, has decreased
significantly in 1997 due to improved pricing from the Company's hearing aid
suppliers and a change in the Company's product mix.
Center operating expenses increased $5,355,934, or 43.1%, to $17,773,939 in 1997
from $12,418,005 in 1996. This increase is partially due to an increase in
advertising expense of $1,619,128, a 93.4% increase over 1996. The 1998 level of
advertising expenditures is expected to be adjusted quarterly depending on
results. The remaining increase of $3,736,806, or 30.1%, is attributable to the
29.7% increase in the average number of centers operating in 1997 (72) compared
to 1996 (55.5). Seven centers were opened in the last two months of 1996 while
no centers opened during the comparable period of 1997.
General and administrative expenses increased $711,603, or 12%, to $6,628,963 in
1997 from $5,917,360 in 1996. Substantially all of the increase was attributable
to the increase in wages and fringe benefits associated with the expansion of
the corporate administrative functions. This increase occurred primarily in the
first quarter of 1997.
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $738,697, or 58.9%, to
$1,992,752 in 1997 from $1,254,055 in 1996. The increase was attributable to the
depreciation and amortization of the leasehold improvements, medical and
computer equipment, and furniture associated with the new centers opened in 1996
and 1997, the installation of computer systems in existing centers in South
Florida and the corporate office computer systems installed in 1996.
1996 COMPARED TO 1995
Net sales increased $7,320,493, or 65.5%, to $18,490,561 in 1996 from
$11,170,068 in 1995.
Cost of products sold increased $3,007,000, or 84.2%, to $6,578,725 in 1996 from
$3,571,725 in 1995. The increase in cost of products sold was primarily the
result of increased sales volume in 1996 over 1995. Cost of products sold, as a
percentage of net sales, was higher in 1996 than in 1995 because of a reduction
in the Company's retail hearing aid prices; the inclusion of one year's
19
<PAGE> 20
free batteries with each hearing aid purchased; and a shift toward lower margin
programmable hearing devices.
Center operating expenses increased $5,682,471, or 84.4%, to $12,418,005 in 1996
from $6,735,534 in 1995. This increase is primarily due to an increase of 132%
in the number of centers operating in 1996 (65) compared to 1995 (28).
General and administrative expenses increased $3,445,359, or 139%, to $5,917,360
in 1996 from $2,472,001 in 1995. $640,000, or 19% of the increase in 1996 over
1995, was the result of the write off of certain system development costs, and
an increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts. Substantially all of the
remaining increase was attributable to the increase in wages and fringe benefits
associated with the expansion of the corporate administrative functions.
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $903,918, or 258%, to $1,254,055
in 1996 from $350,137 in 1995. The increase was attributable to the depreciation
and amortization of the leasehold improvements, medical and computer equipment,
and furniture associated with the thirty-nine new centers opened in 1996, the
installation of computer systems in existing centers in the base regions and the
corporate office computer systems installed in 1996.
FOURTH QUARTER ADJUSTMENTS
There were no significant fourth quarter adjustments in 1997 or 1996.
Fourth quarter adjustments for 1995 consisted of an increase in the allowance
for doubtful accounts of $178,101 and the recording of additional public
relations expenses of $284,201.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
1997
Working capital increased $679,756 to $13,136,147 as of December 26,1997 from
$12,456,391 as of December 27,1996. In the first quarter of 1997, the Company
completed a private placement of preferred stock and received net proceeds of
$9,006,000. The Company also received net proceeds of $1,898,152 from the
exercise of warrants during the year. During 1997, the Company purchased
$2,858,741 in property and equipment and retired long term debt of $ 141,944.
The sale of the Company's securities in 1997 did not individually, or in the
aggregate, cause a "change in control" which would result in an annual
limitation of the Company's net operating loss carry-forward under Section 382
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
The Company believes that its current working capital and revenues from
operations is sufficient to support the Company's foreseeable capital
requirements and operating needs through 1998 in accordance with its strategic
plan, although there can be no assurance that other cash needs will not arise.
The Company believes that if significant other cash was needed it could satisfy
the need with additional equity sales or debt.
Net cash used by operating activities increased from $6,431,112, in 1996, to
$8,054,472 in 1997. The increase in cash used by operating activities was
primarily the result of operating losses resulting from the Company's decision
to expand its operations on the west coast of Florida, central Florida and the
northeastern United States to accommodate new contracts signed in 1996 and 1997.
Net cash used in investing activities decreased from $18,727,969 in 1996, to
$1,216,594 in 1997. This decrease resulted from a decrease in the amount of cash
provided from the private placement of preferred stock in 1997 compared to 1996.
Cash of $2,858,741 was used in 1997 to
20
<PAGE> 21
fund the construction of leasehold improvements and the related purchase of
property and equipment to equip new and existing centers. A portion of this
cash, in the amount of $1,654,112, was provided from the sale of marketable
securities.
Cash from financing activities decreased from $26,036,979, in 1996, to
$11,104,467 in 1997. This decrease reflects the difference in equity offerings
and warrant exercises from 1996 to 1997 as discussed above.
1996
Working capital increased $13,773,570 to $12,456,391 as of December 27,1996 from
a working capital deficit of $1,317,179 as of December 29, 1995. During 1996,
the Company completed two private placements providing the Company net proceeds
of $27,842,590. The Company also received net proceeds of $2,277,450 from the
exercise of warrants during the year. During 1996, the Company purchased
$6,824,065 in property and equipment and retired long term debt of $4,439,686.
Net cash used by operating activities increased from $1,486,465, in 1995, to
$6,431,112 in 1996. The increase in cash used by operating activities was
primarily the result of operating losses resulting from the Company's decision
to expand its operations to accommodate the new contract signings and the
accompanying expansion into the northeast market.
Net cash used in investing activities increased from $1,689,455, in 1995, to
$18,727,969 in 1996. This increase resulted from the use of cash of $6,824,065
to fund the construction of leasehold improvements and the related purchase of
property and equipment to equip the new and existing centers to accommodate the
expected increase in revenue. Excess cash of $11,903,904, remaining from the
1996 equity placements, was invested in marketable securities.
Cash from financing activities increased from $3,780,452, in 1995, to
$26,063,979 in 1996. This increase was primarily the result of equity offerings
and warrant exercises during 1996 in the amount of $29,558,328, net of expenses.
Long-term debt in the amount of $4,439,686 was retired during the year.
Certain of the statements made in this discussion and analysis contain
forward-looking information. Such statements involve certain risks and
uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in
the forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties are described
within this document and the Form S-3 resale registration statement dated June
25, 1997 and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
21
<PAGE> 22
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
<S> <C>
Index to Financial Statements
Financial Statements:
Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants 23
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 26, 1997
and December 27, 1996 24
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 26, 1997,
December 27, 1996, and December 29, 1995 25
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (Capital Deficit)
for the years ended December 26, 1997, December 27, 1996 and
December 29, 1995 26
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 26, 1997,
December 27, 1996, and December 29, 1995 27-28
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 29-40
Financial Statement Schedule:
For the years ended December 26, 1997, December 27, 1996 and
December 29, 1995
II Valuation Accounts 41
</TABLE>
22
<PAGE> 23
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
Board of Directors
HEARx Ltd.
West Palm Beach, Florida
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of HEARx Ltd. and
Subsidiaries as of December 26, 1997 and December 27, 1996, and the related
consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders' equity and cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 26, 1997. We have
also audited the schedule listed in the accompanying index. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and schedule are
free of material misstatements. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements and
schedule. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries at
December 26, 1997 and December 27, 1996, and the results of their operations and
their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 26,
1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
Also in our opinion, the schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the
information set forth therein.
West Palm Beach, Florida BDO Seidman, LLP
March 13, 1998
23
<PAGE> 24
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ASSETS
December 26, December 27,
1997 1996
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,644,838 $ 1,811,437
Investment securities (Note 2) 10,281,913 11,936,025
Accounts and notes receivable, less allowance for
doubtful accounts of $ 246,371 and $789,322 3,256,716 3,021,992
Inventories 523,356 363,978
Prepaid expenses 312,866 245,000
----------- -----------
Total current assets 18,019,689 17,378,432
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT - NET (Note 4) 9,014,190 8,068,700
OTHER 1,182,297 1,180,352
----------- -----------
$28,216,176 $26,627,484
=========== ===========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 2,918,691 $ 3,357,422
Accrued salaries and other compensation 914,156 812,946
Current maturities of long term debt (Note 3) 1,050,695 751,673
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities 4,883,542 4,922,041
----------- -----------
LONG TERM DEBT, LESS CURRENT MATURITIES (Note 3) 177,897 230,258
----------- -----------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 3,4 & 6)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Non-redeemable preferred stock:
(Aggregate liquidation preference
$ 7,447,163 and $5,114,252) $1 par,
2,000,000 shares authorized; issued
and outstanding: (Note 5)
1996 Convertible B-1 3,500 shares outstanding - 3,500
1996 Convertible B-2 1,450 shares outstanding - 1,450
1997 Convertible 7,115 shares outstanding 7,115 -
----------- -----------
Total preferred stock 7,115 4,950
Common stock; $.10 par; 130,000,000 shares
authorized; 99,211,436 & 81,969,233 shares
issued (Notes 3 & 5) 9,921,144 8,196,923
Additional paid-in capital 70,646,172 59,996,480
Accumulated deficit (57,326,412) (46,130,289)
Unrealized gain on marketable securities 20,156 32,121
Unamortized deferred compensation (113,438) -
Treasury stock, at cost - 250,000 common shares - (625,000)
----------- -----------
Total stockholders' equity 23,154,737 21,475,185
----------- -----------
$28,216,176 $26,627,484
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
24
<PAGE> 25
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended
December 26, December 27, December 29,
1997 1996 1995
<S> <C> <C> <C>
NET SALES $ 24,213,879 $ 18,490,561 $ 11,170,068
------------ ------------ ------------
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Cost of products sold 6,963,782 6,578,725 3,571,725
Center operating expenses 17,773,939 12,418,005 6,735,534
General and administrative expenses 6,628,963 5,917,360 2,472,001
Depreciation and amortization 1,992,752 1,254,055 350,137
Interest expense 58,444 181,395 254,124
------------ ------------ ------------
Total costs and expenses 33,417,880 26,349,540 13,383,521
------------ ------------ ------------
LOSS BEFORE DIVIDENDS ON PREFERRED STOCK (9,204,001) (7,858,979) (2,213,453)
DIVIDENDS ON PREFERRED STOCK:
Deemed dividends (Notes 5A and 5B) (1,500,000) (9,000,000) -
Dividends (492,123) (1,036,507) -
------------ ------------ ------------
Total dividends on preferred stock (1,992,123) (10,036,507) -
------------ ------------ ------------
NET LOSS APPLICABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS $(11,196,124) $(17,895,486) $ (2,213,453)
============ ============ ============
NET LOSS PER COMMON SHARE - BASIC AND
DILUTED (NOTE 1) $ (.12) $ (.25) $ (.05)
============ ============ ============
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES OF
COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING 89,605,031 71,197,115 45,164,091
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
25
<PAGE> 26
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended Year Ended
December 26, 1997 December 27, 1996
----------------------------- -------------------------------
Shares Amount Shares Amount
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
PREFERRED STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year 4,950 $ 4,950 103,824 $ 103,824
Issuance of preferred stock 10,000 10,000 36,000 36,000
Conversion of preferred stock (7,835) (7,835) (128,874) (128,874)
Redemption of preferred stock - - (6,000) (6,000)
----------- -------------- ------------ --------------
Balance, end of year 7,115 $ 7,115 4,950 $ 4,950
=========== ============== ============ ==============
COMMON STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year 81,969,233 $ 8,196,923 47,956,783 $ 4,795,678
Exercise of warrants 11,460,233 1,146,023 4,059,650 405,965
Conversion of preferred stock 5,817,586 581,759 28,899,000 2,889,900
Issuance of common stock - - - -
Exercise of employee stock options 205,250 20,525 419,900 41,990
Exercise of stock options by consult 25,000 2,500 325,000 32,500
Issuance of restricted stock to office 50,000 5,000 - -
Cashless exercise of warrants - - 250,000 25,000
Retirement of treasury stock (250,000) (25,000) - -
Settlement of litigation (65,866) (6,586) - -
Issuance of common stock to:
Advisory Board - - 28,900 2,890
Consultants - - - -
Seller of customer list - - 150,000 15,000
Purchase stock from former officer - - (120,000) (12,000)
Executive stock bonuses - - - -
----------- -------------- ------------ --------------
Balance, end of year 99,211,436 $ 9,921,144 81,969,233 $ 8,196,923
=========== ============== ============ ==============
TREASURY STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year (250,000) $ (625,000) - $ -
Cashless exercise of warrants - - (250,000) (625,000)
Retirement of treasury stock 250,000 625,000 - -
----------- -------------- ------------ --------------
Balance, end of year - $ - (250,000) $ (625,000)
=========== ============== ============ ==============
ADDITIONAL PAID-IN CAPITAL:
Balance, beginning of year $ 59,996,480 $ 23,079,016
Issuance of preferred stock 9,695,519 33,468,245
Deemed dividend on preferred stock
issuance 1,500,000 9,000,000
Conversion of preferred stock (950,732) (1,888,772)
Exercise of warrants 752,129 1,871,485
Redemption of preferred stock - (5,994,000)
Issuance of common stock - -
Exercise of employee stock options 76,639 167,861
Exercise of stock options by consultants 22,500 252,428
Retirement of treasury stock (600,000) -
Vesting of restricted stock 147,050 2,800
Settlement of litigation 6,587 -
Non-employee stock option compensation - 38,903
Issuance of common stock to:
Advisory board - 22,110
Consultants - -
Seller of customer list - 224,070
Preferred dividends paid to principal
stockholder - (214,666)
Purchase stock from former officer - (33,000)
Executive stock bonuses - -
-------------- --------------
Balance, end of year $ 70,646,172 $ 59,996,480
============== ==============
ACCUMULATED DEFICIT:
Balance, beginning of year $(46,130,289) $(28,234,803)
Net loss for the year (9,204,001) (7,858,979)
Deemed dividends on preferred stock
issuance (1,500,000) (9,000,000)
Preferred stock conversions (492,123) (1,036,507)
-------------- --------------
Balance, end of year $(57,326,413) $(46,130,289)
============== ==============
UNAMORTIZED DEFERRED COMPENSATION
Balance, beginning of year $ - $ (13,499)
Issuance of restricted stock to officer (147,050) -
Amortization 33,612 13,499
-------------- --------------
Balance, end of year $ (113,438) $ -
============== ==============
UNREALIZED GAIN ON INVESTMENT SECURITIES:
Balance, beginning of year $ 32,121 $ -
Change in net unrealized gain for the
year (11,965) 32,121
-------------- --------------
Balance, end of year $ 20,156 $ 32,121
-------------- --------------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended
December 29, 1995
------------------------------
Shares Amount
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
PREFERRED STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year 97,352 $ 97,352
Issuance of preferred stock 6,472 6,472
Conversion of preferred stock - -
Redemption of preferred stock - -
------------ ---------------
Balance, end of year 103,824 $ 103,824
============ ===============
COMMON STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year 41,672,354 $ 4,167,235
Exercise of warrants - -
Conversion of preferred stock - -
Issuance of common stock 5,029,756 502,975
Exercise of employee stock options 115,138 11,514
Exercise of stock options by consult 400,000 40,000
Issuance of restricted stock to office - -
Cashless exercise of warrants - -
Retirement of treasury stock - -
Settlement of litigation - -
Issuance of common stock to:
Advisory Board 87,419 8,742
Consultants 373,466 37,347
Seller of customer list - -
Purchase stock from former officer - -
Executive stock bonuses 278,650 27,865
------------ ---------------
Balance, end of year 47,956,783 $ 4,795,678
============ ===============
TREASURY STOCK:
Balance, beginning of year - $ -
Cashless exercise of warrants - -
Retirement of treasury stock
------------ ---------------
Balance, end of year - $ -
============ ===============
ADDITIONAL PAID-IN CAPITAL:
Balance, beginning of year - $ 20,216,109
Issuance of preferred stock (6,472)
Deemed dividend on preferred stock
issuance -
Conversion of preferred stock -
Exercise of warrants -
Redemption of preferred stock -
Issuance of common stock 2,366,426
Exercise of employee stock options 60,233
Exercise of stock options by consultants 60,000
Retirement of treasury stock -
Vesting of restricted stock -
Settlement of litigation -
Non-employee stock option compensation -
Issuance of common stock to:
Advisory board 26,258
Consultants 240,900
Seller of customer list -
Preferred dividends paid to principal
stockholder -
Purchase stock from former officer -
Executive stock bonuses 115,562
---------------
Balance, end of year $ 23,079,016
===============
ACCUMULATED DEFICIT:
Balance, beginning of year $ (26,021,350)
Net loss for the year (2,213,453)
Deemed dividends on preferred stock
issuance -
Preferred stock conversions -
---------------
Balance, end of year $ (28,234,803)
===============
UNAMORTIZED DEFERRED COMPENSATION
Balance, beginning of year $ (26,997)
Issuance of restricted stock to officer -
Amortization 13,498
---------------
Balance, end of year $ (13,499)
===============
UNREALIZED GAIN ON INVESTMENT SECURITIES:
Balance, beginning of year $ -
Change in net unrealized gain for the
year -
---------------
Balance, end of year $ -
---------------
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
26
<PAGE> 27
HEARx LTD. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cashflows
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended
December 26 December 27 December 29
1997 1996 1995
----------------- --------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Loss before dividends $ (9,204,001) $ (7,858,979) $ (2,213,453)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 1,992,752 1,254,055 350,137
Provision for loss on accounts receivable 243,178 448,088 198,298
Loss on disposition of property 30,378 280,187 -
Non-cash expense for consulting services 222,530
Non-cash expense to executive stock bonuses 127,076
(Increase) decrease in:
Accounts and notes receivable (477,896) (2,242,087) (63,423)
Inventories (159,377) 32,005 (58,419)
Prepaid expenses (67,866) 284,418 (485,638)
Other assets (74,115) (582,035) (414,465)
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts Payable (821,015) (427,008) 733,806
Accrued Expenses 483,490 2,380,244 117,086
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Net cash used in operating activities (8,054,472) (6,431,112) (1,486,465)
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment (2,858,741) (6,824,065) (1,711,203)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment 21,748
Purchase of investments (29,327,413) (11,903,904)
Proceeds from sale maturities of investments 30,969,560 -
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities $ (1,216,594) (18,727,969) (1,689,455)
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Short-term borrowings - - 1,370,000
Proceeds from issuance of:
Long-term debt-other 406,907 1,261,977 -
Principal payments:
Short-term borrowings (18,302) - -
Long-term debt (52,361) (4,439,686) (279,255)
Forgiveness of long-term debt (89,583) (343,640) (293,843)
Proceeds from issuance of capital stock,
net of offering costs 10,857,806 29,558,328 2,983,550
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 11,104,467 26,036,979 3,780,452
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 1,833,401 877,898 604,532
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 1,811,437 933,539 329,007
----------------- --------------- -----------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 3,644,838 $ 1,811,437 $ 933,539
================= =============== =================
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
27
<PAGE> 28
HEARx LTD. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cashflows
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended
December 26, December 27, December 29,
1997 1996 1995
--------------- --------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest $ 11,956 $ 249,097 $253,479
============ ============ =========
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing
and financing activities:
Deemed dividends $ 1,500,000 $ 9,000,000 $ -
Preferred stock dividend paid upon conversion in kind
by issuance of additional common stock 492,123 1,036,507 -
Forgiveness of note payable by minimum required purchases 89,583 343,640 293,843
Issuance of Common Stock for services 17,000 309,928 222,530
Issuance of Common Stock to employees 97,164 209,851 127,076
Issuance of Common Stock for customer list - 239,070 -
In connection with a business acquisition:
Costs in excess of fair value of net assets acquired - - 55,117
Conversion of accounts payable into notes payable - - 808,000
Issuance of Common Stock for offering costs and software - - 299,186
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
28
<PAGE> 29
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Company
HEARx Ltd. ("HEARx" or "the Company"), a Delaware corporation, was organized for
the purpose of creating a nationwide chain of retail centers ("HEARx Centers")
to serve the needs of the hearing impaired. At the end of 1997, the Company
operated 72 centers in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and
Florida and one center in Virginia.
Principles of consolidation
The financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly
owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have
been eliminated.
Investment securities
Marketable securities are classified available for sale and are carried at
estimated market value. Unrealized holding gains and losses, are reported as a
net amount in a separate component of stockholders' equity until realized. Gains
and losses realized from the sales are computed by the specific identification
method.
Inventories
Inventories, which consist of hearing aids, batteries, special hearing devices
and related items, are priced at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or
market.
Property and equipment
Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is provided on the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the depreciable asset.
Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the term of the lease
or the useful life of the asset.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets, included in other assets, primarily represent customer lists
acquired from acquisitions of hearing businesses. These customer lists are being
amortized on a straight-line basis over periods not exceeding fifteen years.
Intangible assets also include the excess purchase price of acquisitions over
the fair value of assets acquired. Such excess costs are being amortized over
fifteen years. Accumulated amortization at December 26, 1997 and December 27,
1996 was $175,817 and $67,305, respectively.
Pre-opening costs
The costs associated with the opening of new centers are expensed as incurred.
Advertising Costs
Costs for newspaper, television, and other media advertising are expensed as
incurred and were $3,353,000, $1,734,000 and $1,114,000 in 1997, 1996, and 1995,
respectively.
29
<PAGE> 30
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Sales return policy
Patients purchasing hearing aids are given a specific return period, usually 30
days, if dissatisfied with the product. The Company provides an allowance in
accrued expenses for returns. The return period can be extended to 60 days if
the customer attends the Company's H.E.L.P. program.
Deferred compensation
The value in excess of the selling price of shares of common stock issued to
officers is amortized over the vesting period of such shares.
Warranties
Hearing aids sold by the Company are covered by manufacturers' warranties.
Capitation revenue
The Company has capitation contracts with certain health care organizations
under which the Company is paid an amount, per enrollee of the health
maintenance organization, to provide a once every three years discount on
certain hearing products and services. The amount paid to the Company by the
healthcare organization is calculated on a per-capita basis and is referred to
as capitation revenue. Revenue under capitation contracts is recorded based on
actual utilization by the member populations of the healthcare organizations
with whom the Company has contracted to provide hearing care services.
Income taxes
Deferred taxes are provided for temporary differences arising from the
differences between financial statement and income tax bases of assets and
liabilities.
Net loss per share of common stock
In 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement No.
128, Earnings Per Share. Statement 128 replaced the calculation of primary and
fully diluted earnings per share with basic and diluted earnings per share.
Unlike primary earnings per share, basic earnings per share excludes any
dilutive effects of options, warrants and convertible securities. Diluted
earnings per share is very similar to the previously reported fully diluted
earnings per share. All loss per share amounts for all periods have been
presented, and where appropriate, restated to conform to the Statement 128
requirements. Convertible preferred stock, stock options and stock warrants are
excluded from the computations of net loss per share because the effect of their
inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
Excluded from the computation of net loss per common share - diluted at December
26, 1997 were convertible preferred stock, outstanding options and warrants to
purchase 9,986,583 shares of common stock at exercise prices less than average
market price because to do so would be anti-dilutive. In addition, outstanding
options and warrants to purchase 6,999,000 shares of common stock were excluded
because the options' and warrants' exercise prices were greater than the average
market price of the common shares.
30
<PAGE> 31
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated statements of cashflows
For the purposes of the Statements of Cashflows, temporary cash investments
which have a maturity of ninety days or less are considered cash equivalents.
Reclassifications
Certain amounts in the 1995 and 1996 consolidated financial statements have been
reclassified in order to conform to the 1997 presentation.
Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at
the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of
revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
Stock-based compensation
The Company has elected to follow Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,
Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees (APB 25) and related interpretations in
accounting for its employee stock options. Under APB 25, because the exercise
price of employee stock options equals the market price of the underlying stock
on the date of grant, no compensation expense is recorded. The Company has
adopted the disclosure only provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 123, ("SFAS 123") Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.
2. INVESTMENT SECURITIES
Investment securities available for sale consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Gross Estimated
Amortized Unrealized Market
Cost Gains Value
<S> <C> <C> <C>
December 26, 1997
- -----------------
U.S. Treasury Notes $ 6,961,757 $ 20,156 $ 6,981,913
Corporate Debt Securities 3,300,000 - 3,300,000
Total $10,261,757 $ 20,156 $10,281,913
=========== =========== ===========
December 27, 1996
- -----------------
U.S. Treasury Notes $11,903,904 $ 32,121 $11,936,025
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
At December 26, 1997 all securities have contractual maturities within one year.
31
<PAGE> 32
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
3. DEBT
Long term debt consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 26, December 27,
1997 1996
<S> <C> <C>
Note payable to supplier, collateralized by equipment,
due May 31, 1999, see (a) below $998,334 $683,114
Note payable collateralized by customer list, see (b) below 175,258 213,515
Other notes payable 55,000 85,302
--------- --------
1,228,592 981,931
Less current maturities 1,050,695 751,673
--------- --------
$177,897 $230,258
========= ========
</TABLE>
The approximate aggregate maturities on long term debt obligations in years
subsequent to 1997 are as follows: 1998 - $1,051,000; 1999 - $55,000; 2000 -
$57,000; 2001 - $59,000; and 2002 - $7,000.
(a) On March 5, 1996, the Company completed a $2.5 million trade agreement
with a vendor pursuant to which the vendor will provide financing for the
purchase of diagnostic equipment to be utilized by the Company's
distribution network. The financing is collaterized by the equipment
financed. A percentage of all hearing aid purchases by the Company from
this vendor will be applied to repayment of financed amounts under the
financing agreement.
(b) In January 1996, the Company acquired the customer list and selected
assets of Suffolk County Hearing Aid Center, Inc. in New York for $150,000
in cash, 150,000 shares of Common Stock, and a five year note in the
amount of $250,000 including interest. The note payable includes interest
at 5.5% and is payable in five annual installments of $50,000 including
interest beginning January 22, 1997.
4. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT AND LEASES
Property and equipment consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December 26, December 27,
1997 1996
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Equipment, furniture and fixtures $ 6,086,033 $ 4,840,652
Leasehold Improvements 4,661,880 3,823,205
Computer systems 2,692,063 2,127,770
Leasehold improvements in progress 199,031 60,692
----------- -----------
13,639,007 10,852,319
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 4,624,817 2,783,619
----------- -----------
$ 9,014,190 $ 8,068,700
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
Approximate future minimum rental commitments under operating leases are as
follows: $2,433,000 in 1998; $2,355,000 in 1999 ; $2,188,000 in 2000; $1,745,000
in 2001; $1,505,000 in 2002 and $4,819,000 thereafter. These leases are
primarily for hearing centers and are located in retail shopping areas. The
Company believes that it would be able to sublease the space should it have to
close a center due to losing a large contract with a managed care company.
32
<PAGE> 33
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Equipment and building rent expense for the years ended December 26, 1997,
December 27, 1996 and December 29, 1995 was $2,599,000, $1,916,000 and
$1,267,000, respectively.
5. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
A. 1997 CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK
On March 17, 1997, the Company completed a private placement of 10,000 shares,
$1 par, of 1997 Convertible Preferred Stock. Net proceeds to the Company after
the payment of placement fees, legal and accounting expenses was $9,006,000. The
additional capital was raised to enable HEARx to expand its network of hearing
centers as may be required by current or potential managed-care contracts.
The 1997 Convertible Preferred Stock ranks prior to all of the Company's Common
Stock, prior to any class or series of capital stock of the Company thereafter
created specifically ranking by its terms junior to 1997 Convertible Preferred,
pari passu with the Company's 1996 Series B-1 Convertible Preferred Stock, 1996
Series B-2 Convertible Preferred Stock and after any class or series of capital
stock of the Company thereafter created and specifically ranking by its terms
senior to the 1997 Convertible Preferred. The 1997 Convertible Preferred Stock
bears dividends of 6%, payment in kind or cash upon conversion at the option of
the Company. Upon conversion of the Preferred Stock, holders will be entitled to
receive a number of shares of Common Stock determined by dividing the stated
value of the Preferred Stock ($1,000 per share), plus a premium in the amount of
6% per annum of the stated value from the date of issuance (unless the Company
chooses to redeem the shares otherwise issuable in respect of that premium) by a
conversion price equal to the lesser of (i) $5.00, or (ii) 85% of the average of
the closing bid prices for shares of Common Stock for the ten day trading period
immediately prior to conversion. The 1997 Convertible Preferred Stock may be
converted by holders beginning August 15, 1997 and at any time prior to March
17, 2000 and must be converted on that date. For the year ended December 26,
1997, 2,885 shares of the total 10,000 shares of the 1997 Convertible Preferred
Stock plus accrued dividends of $78,426 were converted into 2,342,375 shares of
the Company's Common Stock.
The Company recorded a deemed preferred stock dividend of $1,500,000 for the
discounted conversion price representing a 15% discount upon conversion of the
$10,000,000 gross proceeds. In connection with this transaction, the Company
issued 850,000 warrants with an exercise price of $5.00 and 750,000 warrants
with an exercise price of $2.00 to purchase shares of the Company's Common
Stock. These warrants were issued to certain individuals as finder's fees for
the placement of the preferred shares with investors.
B. 1996 SERIES A, B-1 AND B-2 CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK
During May and August 1996, the Company completed a side-by-side offering
pursuant to Regulation D and Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933. In the
Regulation D offering, the Company sold 15,000 shares of a convertible preferred
stock (the "Series B-1 Preferred Stock") and 9,900 shares of another convertible
preferred stock (the "Series B-2 Preferred Stock"), for net proceeds of
$23,048,590. In the Regulation S offering, the Company sold 5,100 shares of a
convertible preferred stock (the "Series A Preferred Stock") for net proceeds of
$4,794,000.
In connection with the Regulation D and Regulation S offerings, the Company was
required to report a one-time, non-cash charge against loss available to common
stockholders of $9,000,000. This charge related to the discounted conversion
price for the shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of the Preferred
Stock. The amount of the charge was computed as the difference
33
<PAGE> 34
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
between the $5.00 conversion price (as defined) and the per share market price
of the Common Stock on the date of the first closing ($6.50) times the number of
shares issuable.
As of December 26, 1997, all of the shares of the 1996 Series A, B-1, and B-2
Preferred Stock had been converted into shares of Common Stock. Upon conversion
of the Series B-1 Preferred Stock, holders were entitled to and were issued
3,750,000 warrants to acquire shares of Common Stock at $6.47 per share.
C. 1996 SENIOR PREFERRED STOCK
During 1996 the Company completed a private placement of 6,000 shares, $1 par,
of 1996 Senior Preferred Stock in consideration for $4,900,000 and the
conversion of a $1,100,000 note payable. Investors also received warrants to
purchase 11,070,480 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $.55 per
share. Additionally 2,283,278 warrants, to acquire shares of Common Stock at $
.63 per share, were issued to an investment banker as a placement fee. The
Company redeemed the 1996 Senior Preferred Stock during May 1996. All but
327,499 of the related warrants had been exercised as of December 26, 1997.
D. 1995 PLACEMENTS
During 1995, the Company completed a private placement of Common Stock for
$1,500,000 with individual investors for a total of 2,427,184 shares of Common
Stock net of associated costs of $63,192.
The Company completed three Regulation S offerings in 1995 totaling $1,600,600.
Costs related to the offerings were $297,315. A total of 2,602,572 shares of
Common Stock were issued in the transactions.
E. 1994 CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK
In connection with the acquisition of certain assets from Hearing Health
Services, Inc. (HHS), the Company issued to HHS 2,500 shares of the Company's
1994 Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $1.00 per share. The 1994
Convertible Preferred Stock had 1,000 votes per share (2,500,000 votes total)
and voting rights and powers equal to the voting rights and powers of the Common
Stock. Each share was convertible at any time at the option of the holder. All
of these shares were converted to Common Stock on March 9, 1996. HHS also
received warrants to purchase 2,500,000 shares of Common Stock at a price of
$.25 per share. These warrants were exercised on January 29, 1996, in a cashless
exercise resulting in the issuance to HHS of 2,250,000 shares of Common Stock.
The Company received 250,000 shares for the cashless exercise, which was
recorded as treasury stock. On December 30, 1994, the Company and three limited
partnerships affiliated with HHS entered into a stock purchase agreement
pursuant to which the Investors purchased 2,500 shares of 1994 Convertible
Preferred Stock, par value $1.00 per share at a total cash purchase price of
$500,000 ($200 per share), paid on January 4, 1995. These shares had the same
rights, privileges, and conversion features as the shares of 1994 Convertible
Preferred Stock issued to HHS. On March 8, 1996, the Investors converted all
their 1994 Convertible Preferred stock into 2,500,000 shares of Common Stock.
F. SERIES C PREFERRED STOCK
The Series C Preferred Stock provided for cumulative dividends at the rate of
$5.60 per share per annum, payable quarterly, commencing June 30 1992, and was
junior to the Senior Series Preferred Stock discussed below and the 1994
Convertible Preferred stock discussed above; it was senior to the Common Stock
in the event of the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company. The
Series C Preferred Stock had 104 votes per share (1,040,000 votes total) and,
except as otherwise required by Delaware law, voted with the holders of shares
of Common Stock as one class. The Series C Preferred Stock was redeemable at the
sole option of the Company at a redemption price of $70 per share. During
January, 1996, all of the outstanding shares of the Series C Preferred Stock
34
<PAGE> 35
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
were converted into 1,040,000 shares of Common Stock, and the cumulative
dividends of $214,666 were converted into a promissory note, which the Company
paid in August, 1996.
G. SENIOR PREFERRED STOCK, SERIES A, B, C, D, G AND E
These shares of Senior Preferred Stock had 100 votes per share and, unless
otherwise required by Delaware law, voted with the holders of other shares of
Common Stock as one class. The shares were senior to the Common Stock and the
Series C Preferred Stock and were pari passu with the 1994 Convertible Preferred
Stock and the 1996 Senior Preferred Stock (discussed above). Upon the listing of
the Company's Common Stock on the American Stock Exchange on March 15, 1996, all
of the Senior Preferred Stock Series A, B, D, G, and E were automatically
converted to common stock.
H. WARRANTS
In total, 14,921,734 warrants were exercised and 270,000 warrants were redeemed
in 1997, resulting in the issuance of 11,460,233 shares of the Company's Common
Stock and receipt by the Company of cash proceeds of $1,898,152.
The aggregate number of common shares reserved for issuance upon the exercise of
warrants is 7,853,624 as of December 26, 1997. The expiration date and exercise
prices of the outstanding warrants are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OUTSTANDING EXPIRATION EXERCISE
WARRANTS DATE PRICE
<S> <C> <C>
3,750,000 2001 $6.47
1,089,000 1998 .01
850,000 2002 5.00
750,000 2001 2.00
622,125 2003 1.25
300,000 2001 .63
276,760 2001 .55
215,739 Various .63 - 4.00
</TABLE>
6. STOCK PLANS
The Company has the following stock plans:
A. EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION PLANS
In 1987, the Company established the 1987 Stock Options Plan. It is administered
by the Company's Board of Directors. A maximum of 2,500,000 shares of Common
Stock were authorized for issuance under this plan. All employees of the
Company, other than the principal stockholder, are eligible to receive options
under this plan at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors. Both incentive
and non-incentive stock options may be granted. This plan expired June 2, 1997.
The expiration of the plan did not effect the outstanding options which shall
remain in full force as if the plan had not expired.
In 1995, the Company established the 1995 Flexible Stock Plan. It is also
administered by the Company's Board of Directors. An original maximum of
2,500,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock may be issued under this plan.
The plan authorizes an annual increase in
35
<PAGE> 36
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
authorized shares equal to 10% of the number of shares authorized as of the
prior year. All employees of the Company are eligible to receive stock options
under this plan at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors. Incentive
stock options, non-qualified stock options, stock appreciation rights,
restricted shares, performance shares, and other stock-based awards may be
awarded under this plan.
As of December 26, 1997, 257 employees of the Company held options under the
Stock Option Plans permitting them to purchase 4,661,879 shares of Common Stock
at prices ranging from $.20 to 2.875 per share. Options are exercisable for a
period of nine years commencing one year following the date of grant and are
exercisable in cumulative annual installments of 25 percent per year.
36
<PAGE> 37
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table summarizes the transactions of the Company's employee stock
option plans:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 26, 1997 December 27, 1996 December 29, 1995
------------------------- ----------------------------- ----------------------------
Weighted Weighted Weighted
Average Average Average
Exercise Exercise Exercise
Shares Price Shares Price Shares Price
----------- --------- ---------- ---------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding at beginning of year 4,281,150 $1.50 3,252,950 $0.72 2,390,500 $0.41
Granted 981,629 $2.05 1,746,800 $2.81 1,391,600 $1.12
Exercised 205,250 $0.47 423,400 $0.50 278,650 $0.32
Forfeited 395,650 $2.33 295,200 $0.52 250,500 $0.40
---------- ------ ---------- ------- ---------- --------
Outstanding at end of year 4,661,879 $1.58 4,281,150 $1.50 3,252,950 $0.72
========== ====== ========== ======= ========== ========
Exercisable at end of year 1,953,213 1,200,900 572,211
========== ========== ==========
Weighted average fair market value
of options granted during year $ 0.76 $ 1.49 $ 0.00
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
The following table summarizes information about fixed employee stock options
outstanding at December 26, 1997:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Weighted
Average Weighted Options Weighted
Remaining Average Exercisable Average
Options Contractual Exercise at December Exercise
Range of Exercise Price Outstanding Life Price 26, 1997 Price
------------------------- ------------ -------------- ----------- ------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$.20 551,900 6.5 $0.20 413,925 $0.20
$.34 - $.54 545,450 6.2 $0.51 493,313 $0.52
$.625 - $.875 361,800 7.3 $0.84 206,375 $0.83
$1.21 - $ 1.49 1,211,500 8.1 $1.25 519,300 $1.22
$ 1.875 502,229 9.5 $1.88 - -
$2.6875 - $2.875 1,489,000 8.6 $2.85 320,300 $2.88
---------- ----------
4,661,879 1,953,213
========== ==========
</TABLE>
The stock options are exercisable in the following years:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1998 3,022,033
1999 878,082
2000 548,282
2001 213,482
---------
4,661,879
=========
</TABLE>
SFAS 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, requires the Company to
provide pro forma information regarding net loss and loss per share as if
compensation cost for the Company's employee stock option plans had been
determined in accordance with the fair value based method prescribed in SFAS
123. During the initial phase-in period of SFAS 123, the effects on pro-forma
results are not likely to be representative of the effects on pro forma results
in the future years since the options vest over several years and additional
awards could be made each year. The Company estimates the fair value of each
option at the grant date by using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with
the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants in 1997, 1996, and
1995, respectively, expected volatility of 35%; risk-free interest rates from
5.89% to 6.76% and expected lives of 10 years.
37
<PAGE> 38
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Under accounting provisions of SFAS 123, the Company's net loss and loss per
share would have been increased to pro forma amounts indicated below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net Loss applicable to Common Stockholders
As reported $(11,196,124) $(17,895,486) $(2,213,453)
Pro forma $(12,181,611) $(18,047,159) $(2,213,453)
Loss per share - basic and diluted
As reported $ (0.12) $ (0.25) $ (0.05)
Pro forma $ (0.14) $ (0.25) $ (0.05)
</TABLE>
B. NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTOR PLAN
In April 1993, the stockholders of the Company approved the adoption of the
HEARx Ltd. Non-qualified Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors
("Directors Plan"). The purpose of the Directors Plan is to increase the
proprietary interest of non-employee directors and promote long-term stockholder
value by granting stock options. Grants cannot exceed 500,000 shares of Common
Stock in the aggregate and may be granted until the Annual Meeting of
Stockholders in 2003. Under the plan, non-employee directors are granted 15,000
options each year. The option price is the fair market value of the Company's
shares at the date of grant.
As of December 26, 1997, three directors hold options as follows: 45,000 shares
at $ .34, 90,000 shares at $ .6875, 45,000 at $. 78125, 45,000 shares at $1.25,
45,000 shares at $1.875, and 45,000 shares at $5.875.
C. STOCK BONUS PLAN
The Board of Directors adopted a Stock Bonus Plan ("Bonus Plan"). The number of
shares of Common Stock which can be issued under the Bonus Plan cannot exceed
500,000. It is administered by the Board of Directors. The purpose of the Bonus
Plan is to provide an incentive to senior management to achieve the Company's
strategic objectives. At present there are nine senior management personnel
eligible to participate. No shares were issued in 1997 or 1996. There were
115,138 shares of Common Stock issued during 1995.
D. OTHER
In 1995, the Company granted options, which expire ten years from the date of
grant, to consultants to purchase 700,000 shares of Common Stock at $1.00 per
share. The options vested during the year subsequent to the grant. Options to
purchase 25,000 shares and 200,000 shares were exercised in 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
On July 1, 1994, the Company granted an option to the same consultant to
purchase 600,000 share of Common Stock at $.25 a share. These options were fully
vested as of October 1, 1995. The consultant exercised all of the options as of
December 27, 1996, including 50,000 shares and 400,000 shares in 1996 and 1995
respectively.
38
<PAGE> 39
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Also in 1995, the Company granted options to another consultant, in exchange for
consulting services, to purchase 144,000 shares of Common Stock at $1.00 per
share. Options were granted to this same consultant in 1997, also for consulting
services, to purchase additional 25,000 shares at $1.00 per share and 48,000
shares at $2.00 per share. These options have a three-year vesting period.
7. MAJOR CUSTOMER AND CHANGES IN CONTRACTS
During 1997 and 1996, the Company had sales totaling approximately $2.7 million
and $2.9 million or 11.1 % and 15.7%, respectively, of net sales to a single
customer.
Effective May 31, 1996 Humana Health Care Plans of Florida ("Humana") declined
to renew its contract with the Company to provide coverage to Humana Medicare
members on the east coast of Florida (the contract to service Humana Medicare
members living on the west cost of Florida was unaffected). Total revenues from
Humana east coast of Florida members were approximately $2 million in 1995, or
18% of the Company's total revenues. Although there can be no assurance that
other contracts will not be the subject of non-renewal or early termination, the
Company is aware of no other potential non-renewals or terminations at this
time.
8. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In January, 1996, a payment of $100,000 was made to the principal
stockholder/officer on the $270,000 advanced by him to the Company during 1995.
The remaining $170,000 of the advance plus $63,000 of accrued interest were
converted into a three-year note payable bearing interest at prime plus 3%. In
January, 1996, cumulative dividends of $214,666 associated with the conversion
of Series C Preferred Stock were converted into a promissory note payable to the
principal stockholder/officer. In addition, the principal stockholder/officer
held a note payable of the Company in the amount of $1,675,000 which was
subordinated to all other indebtedness of the Company. The interest rate was
prime plus 3%. During August, 1996, each of the three notes payable to the
principal stockholder/officer was paid in full. At December 26, 1997 and
December 27, 1996 the Company had no other amounts due to the principal
stockholder/officer. Interest expense on notes and advances payable to the
principal stockholder/officer was $144,773 and $198,181 for 1996 and 1995
respectively.
9. INCOME TAXES
The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated income tax return. It has
accounted for certain items (principally depreciation and the allowance for
doubtful accounts) for financial reporting purposes in periods different from
those for tax reporting purposes.
Deferred tax assets are comprised of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
December
1997 1996
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Depreciation $ 102,000 $ 15,000
Allowance for doubtful accounts 93,000 297,000
Net operating loss carryforward 16,260,000 12,521,000
------------ ------------
16,455,000 12,833,000
Less valuation allowance (16,455,000) (12,833,000)
============ ============
Net deferred tax asset $ - $ -
============ ============
</TABLE>
39
<PAGE> 40
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
At December 26, 1997 the Company had net operating loss carryforwards of
approximately $43,213,000 for both tax and financial reporting purposes. The
losses are available for carryforward for a fifteen year period and will expire
beginning in 2002. Any future significant changes in ownership of the Company or
its subsidiaries may limit the annual utilization of the tax net operating loss
carryforwards.
10. SIGNIFICANT FOURTH QUARTER ADJUSTMENTS
There were no significant fourth quarter adjustments for fiscal 1997 and 1996.
Significant fourth quarter adjustments for 1995 included an increase in the
allowance for doubtful accounts of $178,101 and the recording of additional
public relations expense of $284,201.
11. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The FASB has issued SFAS 107 which requires the disclosure of fair value of
financial instruments. The estimated fair value amounts have been determined by
the Company's management using available market information and other valuation
methods. However, considerable judgment is required to interpret market data in
developing the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the estimates presented
herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Company could realize
in a current market exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or
estimation methods may have a material effect on the estimated fair value
amounts. Furthermore, the Company does not intend to dispose of a significant
portion of its financial instruments and thus, any aggregate unrealized gains or
losses should not be interpreted as a forecast of future earnings and cash
flows. SFAS 107 excludes certain financial instruments from its disclosure
requirements, such as leases. In addition, disclosure of fair value estimates
are not required for nonfinancial assets and liabilities, such as fixed assets,
intangibles and anticipated future business. As a result, the following fair
values are not comprehensive and therefore do not reflect the underlying value
of the Company.
The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating fair value
disclosure for financial instruments:
Cash and Cash Equivalents - the carrying amounts reported in the consolidated
balance sheets approximate those assets' fair value.
Marketable Securities - the carrying amounts reported in the consolidated
balance sheets approximate those assets' fair value.
Accounts Receivable - the carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance
sheets approximate those assets' fair value.
Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses and Long Term Debt - the carrying amounts
reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximate those liabilities' fair
value.
12. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
The FASB recently issued SFAS 128, Earnings Per Share. As required, the Company
has adopted this standard during the current fiscal year. The adoption of this
standard did not have a material impact on the Company's reported loss per
share.
In June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income, which
establishes standards for reporting and presentation of comprehensive income and
its components. SFAS 130 is effective for periods beginning after December 15,
1997 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial
statements.
40
<PAGE> 41
HEARx Ltd. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Additionally in June 1997, the FASB issued SFAS 131, Disclosure about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information. SFAS 131 establishes standards for the
way public enterprises are to report operating segments in annual financial
statements and requires reporting of selected information about operating
segments in interim reports. SFAS 131 is effective for periods beginning after
December 15, 1997 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's
financial statements.
41
<PAGE> 42
HEARX LTD.
VALUATION ACCOUNTS
SCHEDULE II
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Balance at Balance at
Beginning End
Of Period Additions Deductions Of Period
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
December 26, 1997
Allowance for doubtful accounts $789,322 $243,178 $ (786,129) (2) $ 246,371
December 27, 1996
Allowance for doubtful accounts $341,234 $492,774 $ (44,686) (2) $ 789,322
December 29, 1995
Allowance for doubtful accounts $154,330 $ 436,971(1) $ (250,067) (2) $ 341,234
</TABLE>
(1) Charged to costs and expense $198,298, transfer from long term notes
receivable allowance $238,673.
(2) Write-offs to reserve
42
<PAGE> 43
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreement with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
43
<PAGE> 44
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers
The information required by this Item for directors is set forth in
the Company's 1998 Proxy Statement under the heading "Election of Directors" and
is incorporated herein by this reference as if set forth in full.
The information required by this Item for executive officers is set
forth in Part I of this report under the heading "Executive Officers of the
Company."
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company's
1998 Proxy Statement under the heading "Election of Directors" and is
incorporated herein by this reference as if set forth in full.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company's
1998 Proxy Statement under the heading "Election of Directors" and is
incorporated herein by this reference as if set forth in full.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
The information required by this item is set forth in the Company's
1998 Proxy Statement under the heading "Election of Directors" and is
incorporated herein by this reference as if set forth in full.
44
<PAGE> 45
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Report on Form 8-K
(a) (1) The following financial statements are filed as part of this report:
(i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 26, 1997 and December
27, 1996.
(ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December
26, 1997, December 27, 1996 and December 29, 1995.
(iii) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the
years ended December 26, 1997, December 27, 1996 and December 29,
1995.
(iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December
26, 1997, December 27, 1996 and December 29, 1995.
(v) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) The following financial statement schedules are filed as part of
this report and are contained on page 41.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Schedule II Valuation Accounts
----------- ------------------
(3) Exhibits:
<S> <C>
3.1(1) Restated Certificate of Incorporation of HEARx
Ltd., including certain certificates of
designations, preference and rights of certain
preferred stock of the Company. [3]
3.2(2) Amendment to Restated Certificate of
Incorporation. [3.1A]
3.3(3) Certificate of Designations, Preference and Rights
of the Company's 1997 Convertible Preferred Stock.
[3]
3.4(4) By-Laws of HEARx, Ltd. [3.2]
4.1(1) Securities Purchase Agreement, dated May 3, 1996,
among the Company and each of the purchasers set
forth on the signatures pages thereto, including
Exhibit thereto (form of warrant). [4.1]
4.2(1) Registration Rights Agreement, dated May 3, 1996,
among the Company and each of the purchasers set
forth on the signature pages thereto. [4.2]
</TABLE>
45
<PAGE> 46
4.3(1) Securities Subscription Agreement, dated as of the
closing thereunder of May 10, 1996, among the
Company and the purchasers set forth on the
signature pages thereto. [4.3]
4.4(1) Registration Rights Agreement, dated May 10, 1996,
among the Company and the purchasers set forth on
the signature pages thereto. [4.4]
4.5(3) Securities Purchase Agreement, dated March 17,
1997, between HEARx Ltd. and each of the
purchasers set forth on the signature pages
thereto. [4.1]
4.6(3) Registration Rights Agreement, dated March 17,
1997, between HEARx Ltd. and each of the
purchasers set forth on the signature pages
thereto. [4.2]
4.7(3) Form of Placement Agent Warrant (to purchase up to
850,000 shares of Common Stock at an exercise
price equal to $5.00 per share). [4.3]
4.8(4) Specimen of Certificate representing Common Stock.
[4.1]
10.1(4) Form of Consulting Agreement, dated January 1,
1987, as of June 1, 1986, by and between HEARx
Ltd. and each of the members of the Company's
Scientific Advisory Board. [10.1]
10.2(4) HEARx Ltd. 1987 Stock Option Plan. [10.11]#
10.3(5) (a) HEARx Ltd. Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee
Directors and (b) Form of Option Agreement.
[10.35] [10.48]#
10.4(6) Consolidated and Amended Loan Agreement by and
among the Company, Siemens Hearing Instruments,
Inc., and Rexton, Inc., dated effective January 1,
1995. [10.17]
10.5(6) Agreement between the Company and Oxford Health
Plans dated effective January 1, 1996, as amended
by letter agreements dated February 21, 1996,
and February 29, 1996. [10.24]
10.6(6) Stock Purchase Agreement and Registration Rights
Agreement, each dated January 26, 1996, by and
among the Company, Invemed Associates, Inc.,
and certain Investors therein named. [10.25]
46
<PAGE> 47
10.7(6) Amended and Restated Promissory Note in favor of
Paul A. Brown, M.D., in the amount of $1,675,000
dated January 26, 1996. [10.26]
10.8(6) Promissory Note in favor of Paul A. Brown, M.D.,
in the amount of $214,666 dated January 29, 1996.
[10.27]
10.9(7) 1995 Flexible Employee Stock Plan. [4]#
23 Consent of Independent Certified Public
Accountants.
27 Financial Data Schedule (provided for the
information of the Securities and Exchange
Commission only).
(1) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed
May 17, 1996,as the exhibit number indicated in brackets, and
incorporated herein by reference.
(2) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the period ended June 28, 1996, as the exhibit number indicated in
brackets, and incorporated herein by reference.
(3) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed
on March 26, 1997, as the exhibit number indicated in brackets, and
incorporated herein by reference.
(4) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Registration Statement on Form
S-18 (Registration No. 33-17041-NY) as the exhibit number indicated in
brackets, and incorporated by reference herein.
(5) Filed as an exhibit to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form S-18, as the exhibit number indicated
in brackets, and incorporated by reference herein.
(6) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended
December 27, 1995, as the exhibit number indicated in brackets, and
incorporated by reference herein.
(7) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's 1995 Proxy Statement, as the
exhibit number indicated in brackets, and incorporated by reference
herein.
# Denotes plan or arrangement for Company Officer or Director.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K: None
47
<PAGE> 48
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be
signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
HEARx Ltd.
(Registrant)
Date: March 16, 1998 By: s/Paul A. Brown, M.D.
---------------------
Paul A. Brown, M.D.
Chairman of the Board
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature Title Date
- --------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
s/Paul A. Brown, M.D. Chairman of the Board March 16, 1998
- --------------------- Chief Executive Officer
Paul A. Brown, M.D. And Director
s/Stephen J. Hansbrough President, Chief March 16, 1998
- ------------------------- Operating Officer and
Stephen J. Hansbrough Director
s/James W. Peklenk Vice President - Finance March 16, 1998
- ------------------------- and Chief Financial Officer
James W. Peklenk
s/David J. McLachlan Director March 16, 1998
- -------------------------
David J. McLachlan
s/Thomas W. Archibald Director March 16, 1998
- -------------------------
Thomas W. Archibald
s/Joseph L. Gitterman III Director March 16, 1998
- -------------------------
Joseph L. Gitterman III
</TABLE>
48
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 23
CONSENT OF THE INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the
Registration Statements of HEARx Ltd. on Form S-8 (filed September 13, 1994),
Form S-8 (filed July 19, 1996), Form S-3 (File No. 333-4303), Form S-3 (File No.
333-4639), Form S-3 (File No. 333-11429) , Form S-3 (File No. 333-18753), Form
S-3 (File No. 333-24357) and Form S-3 (File No. 333-25169) of our report dated
March 13, 1998, relating to the consolidated financial statements and financial
statement schedule of the Registrant and its subsidiaries for the year ended
December 26, 1997, included in the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for
fiscal year ended December 26, 1997.
West Palm Beach, Florida BDO Seidman, LLP
March 13, 1998
49
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains financial information extracted from the financial
statements of HEARx Ltd. and is qualified in its entirety by references to such
financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-26-1997
<PERIOD-START> DEC-28-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-26-1997
<CASH> 3,644,838
<SECURITIES> 10,281,913
<RECEIVABLES> 3,256,716
<ALLOWANCES> (246,371)
<INVENTORY> 523,356
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 18,019,689
<PP&E> 13,639,007
<DEPRECIATION> (4,661,880)
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 28,216,176
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 4,883,542
<BONDS> 177,897
7,115
0
<COMMON> 9,921,144
<OTHER-SE> 13,226,478
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 28,216,176
<SALES> 24,213,879
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 24,213,879
<CGS> 6,963,782
<TOTAL-COSTS> 33,417,880
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<INCOME-PRETAX> (9,204,001)
<INCOME-TAX> (9,204,001)
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (9,204,001)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (9,204,001)
<EPS-PRIMARY> (0.12)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.12)
</TABLE>
