Unitedhealth Lifts FY16 Earnings View As Q3 Results Top Estimates - Quick Facts

(RTTNews) - Unitedhealth Group, Inc. (UNH) Tuesday increased its outlook for 2016 net earnings to approximately $7.45 per share from its previous range of $7.25 to $7.40 per share. The company also raised adjusted net earnings outlook to approximately $8.00 per share from its previous range of $7.80 to $7.95 per share.

On average, 25 analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expect earnings of $7.90 per share for the year. Analysts' estimates typically exclude special items.

Stephen Hemsley, chief executive officer, said, "Our growth indicators are positive as we conclude 2016, and we expect to be well positioned in 2017 to better serve consumers and deliver more value to the health system overall."

For the third quarter, net earnings attributable to shareholders increased to $1.97 billion or $2.03 per share from last year's $1.60 billion or $1.65 per share.

Adjusted net earnings were $2.17 per share, compared to last year's $1.77 per share. Analysts expected earnings of $2.08 per share.

Third-quarter revenues climbed 12 percent to $46.29 billion from last year's $41.49 billion. Analysts expected revenues of $46.09 billion.

The consolidated medical care ratio decreased 60 basis points year-over-year to 80.3 percent in the third quarter.