CAP

While the year wasn't without challenges, rising valuations, a recovery in routine test volumes, and expansion into new, lucrative areas bode well for the lab business.

Observers expect that any reform will involve moving to a sampling-based approach to price data collection, which could ensure broader representation of lab pricing.

The rule calls for using payors' median in-network rates as benchmarks in arbitration, a move labs fear could undermine their negotiating leverage with insurers.