HMC Capital managing director of real estate, Sid Sharma, says there is “very limited risk” of private hospitals in the fund manager’s portfolio closing their doors, with the strong demand for critical care facilities supporting the long-term outlook for the sector.

Mr Sharma’s comments came as ASX-listed HealthCo Healthcare & Wellness REIT, which derives more than half of its income from private hospital operators such as Healthscope, reported a 16 per cent rise in full-year earnings for FY24 – in line with guidance.