via Wall Street Journal
Aetna Inc. raised its full-year forecast for the fourth time this year and reported better-than-expected earnings in its third quarter as a key measure of the company’s medical costs fell.
Aetna now projects 2015 operating earnings per share between $7.45 and $7.55, up sharply from its previous guidance of at least $7.40 a share.
”As we finish out the year and look toward 2016 and beyond, we are well-positioned across a number of major growth opportunities, including Medicare and Medicaid,” said Chief Executive Mark T. Bertolini.
As for 2016, Aetna said it was aiming for at least low double-digit earnings growth, saying it sees potential for expansion in Medicare and Medicaid membership.But it flagged challenges including losing some business from large national employers that decided to offer workers plans from multiple insurers.
