Why did HCA's Q3 2024 EPS fall short?

HCA's Q3 2024 EPS is expected to fall short due to several factors:

1. **Reduced EPS Estimate**: Zacks Research has reduced its Q3 2024 EPS estimate for HCA Healthcare from $4.43 to $4.34. This indicates a consensus among analysts that the EPS for the quarter may not meet initial expectations.
2. **Higher Operating Costs**: Despite strong revenue growth, higher operating costs, particularly in salaries and benefits, supplies, and other expenses, have partially offset the positives. This suggests that while revenue may be increasing, the increase is not necessarily translating to a direct increase in net income due to higher costs.
3. **Comparison with Previous Year**: HCA Healthcare posted $4.29 EPS in the same quarter last year. The reduction in EPS estimate compared to the previous year could be due to higher expenses or lower profitability in the current quarter.

In conclusion, HCA's Q3 2024 EPS is expected to fall short primarily due to reduced EPS estimates and higher operating costs, despite strong revenue growth.