Elevance Health (NYSE: ELV) raises 2026 EPS outlook despite CMS charge
Filing Impact
Filing Sentiment
Form Type
8-K
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Elevance Health reported first quarter 2026 results ahead of expectations and raised its full-year outlook. Operating revenue was $49.5 billion, up 1.5% year over year, driven by higher premium yields in Health Benefits and growth in CarelonRx product revenue.
GAAP diluted EPS was $8.00, down 16.8% as net income fell 19.4%, largely reflecting a $935 million accrual tied to a CMS notice and $129 million in business optimization charges. Adjusted diluted EPS rose to $12.58, up 5.1%, helped by strong operations and about $1 per share of non-recurring investment income.
Operating cash flow surged to $4.3 billion, versus $1.0 billion a year ago. The company reaffirmed 2026 operating cash flow of at least $5.5 billion, raised 2026 adjusted diluted EPS guidance to at least $26.75, and now expects GAAP diluted EPS of at least $19.85. Elevance returned $1.5 billion to shareholders in the quarter via 3.7 million share repurchases and a $1.72 per-share dividend.
Positive
- Raised 2026 adjusted EPS outlook: Full-year adjusted diluted EPS guidance increased to at least $26.75, up from prior expectations, reflecting management’s confidence in cost actions and underlying business strength.
- Strong cash generation: Operating cash flow reached $4.3 billion in Q1 2026, up $3.3 billion year over year, while the company reaffirmed guidance for at least $5.5 billion of operating cash flow for full-year 2026.
Negative
- Large CMS-related charge and GAAP earnings decline: A $935 million accrual tied to a CMS notice and other special items contributed to a 19.4% drop in shareholders’ net income and a lower operating margin.
- Medical membership and margin pressure in key lines: Total medical membership declined 0.9% year over year, with notable decreases in Medicare Advantage and Medicaid, while the benefit expense ratio increased 40 basis points to 86.8%.
Insights
Q1 shows resilient core performance, but a large CMS-related charge weighs on GAAP results while guidance moves higher.
Elevance Health grew operating revenue 1.5% to $49.5 billion, with Health Benefits up 2.6% and Carelon up 7.9%. Adjusted operating margin held fairly steady at 6.5% versus 6.7% a year ago, indicating underlying profitability remains solid despite segment mix shifts.
GAAP earnings were hit by a $935 million accrual for potential exposure tied to a February 27, 2026 CMS notice on historical Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data, plus $129 million in optimization charges. These items drove a 19.4% decline in shareholders’ net income and compressed reported operating margin to 4.2%.
Even with these headwinds, adjusted diluted EPS increased 5.1% to $12.58, supported by strong operations and non-recurring investment income. Management raised full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to at least $26.75 and reaffirmed operating cash flow of at least $5.5 billion, suggesting confidence in cost controls and medical trend management through the rest of 2026.
Cash generation remains strong and leverage stable despite higher claims and a sizable CMS accrual.
Operating cash flow climbed to $4.3 billion, up $3.3 billion year over year, aided by working capital and underlying earnings. The balance sheet shows total assets of $125.8 billion and total shareholders’ equity of $43.9 billion as of March 31, 2026, little changed from year-end.
Medical claims payable increased to $18.1 billion, consistent with higher utilization and growth in certain businesses. Total debt (short-term plus long-term) was roughly flat at just over $31.8 billion, while cash and cash equivalents were $9.7 billion, supporting liquidity.
The company returned $1.5 billion to shareholders through $1.1 billion of buybacks and $376 million in dividends in Q1, and still has $5.6 billion of board-authorized repurchase capacity. Continued strong cash flow relative to these capital returns will be important across subsequent quarters of 2026.
8-K Event Classification
4 items: 2.02, 2.36, 4.58, 9.01
4 items
Item 2.02
Results of Operations and Financial Condition
Financial
Disclosure of earnings results, typically an earnings press release or preliminary financials.
Item 2.36
Item 2.36
Item 4.58
Item 4.58
Item 9.01
Financial Statements and Exhibits
Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Key Figures
Operating Revenue Q1 2026: $49.5 billion
GAAP Diluted EPS Q1 2026: $8.00 per share
Adjusted Diluted EPS Q1 2026: $12.58 per share
+5 more
8 metrics
Operating Revenue Q1 2026
$49.5 billion
Three months ended March 31, 2026; up 1.5% year over year
GAAP Diluted EPS Q1 2026
$8.00 per share
Down 16.8% versus $9.61 in Q1 2025
Adjusted Diluted EPS Q1 2026
$12.58 per share
Up 5.1% from $11.97 in Q1 2025
CMS-related accrual
$935 million
Current best estimate of potential exposure on Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data
Operating Cash Flow Q1 2026
$4.3 billion
Net cash provided by operating activities; up from $1.0 billion in Q1 2025
Share Repurchases Q1 2026
3.7 million shares / $1.1 billion
Common stock repurchased at $304.68 average price
2026 Adjusted EPS Guidance
At least $26.75
Full-year 2026 adjusted diluted EPS outlook raised
Benefit Expense Ratio
86.8%
Q1 2026 benefit expense as a percentage of premiums; up 40 basis points
Key Terms
Adjusted shareholders' net income, Operating margin, Benefit expense ratio, Medical claims payable, +2 more
6 terms
Operating margin financial
"Operating Margin 1,3 | 6.5 | % | | 6.7 | %"
Operating margin shows how much profit a company makes from its core business activities after paying for costs like wages and materials. It’s useful because it tells you how efficiently a company is running—higher margins mean it keeps more money from each dollar of sales, which can indicate better management or stronger products.
Benefit expense ratio financial
"The benefit expense ratio was 86.8 percent, an increase of 40 basis points"
Benefit expense ratio measures the share of an insurer’s income (typically premiums or program revenue) that is paid out as benefits, claims or direct customer payouts. It matters to investors because a high ratio means more of the company’s revenue is going to cover obligations rather than profit or growth—like watching how much of your paycheck goes to rent versus savings, it signals cost pressure and sustainability.
Medical claims payable financial
"Gross medical claims payable, end of period 2 | $ | 18,119"
Risk adjustment data regulatory
"potential exposure for certain historical Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data related to the CMS notice"
Operating expense ratio financial
"The adjusted operating expense ratio was 10.5 percent, a decrease of 20 basis points"
The operating expense ratio measures how much of a company’s revenue is eaten by the costs of running the business, calculated as operating expenses divided by revenue. For investors it shows how efficiently a company turns sales into profit—like comparing the share of your paycheck spent on rent and bills—so a lower ratio generally means more cash available for growth, dividends or debt reduction.
Earnings Snapshot
Operating Revenue: $49.5 billion · Guidance included
Q1 2026
Operating Revenue
$49.5 billion
+1.5% year over year
Shareholders’ Net Income
$1.76 billion
-19.4% year over year
GAAP Diluted EPS
$8.00
-16.8% year over year
Adjusted Diluted EPS
$12.58
+5.1% year over year
Operating Cash Flow
$4.3 billion
+$3.3 billion year over year
Guidance
For full-year 2026, Elevance Health guides to at least $19.85 in diluted EPS, at least $26.75 in adjusted diluted EPS, and at least $5.5 billion in operating cash flow.
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
___________________________________
FORM 8-K
___________________________________
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)
___________________________________
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
___________________________________
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (Commission File Number) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) | ||||||
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
(833 ) 401-1577
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
________________
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425) | |||||
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12) | |||||
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b)) | |||||
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c)) | |||||
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | ||||||||
Title of each class | Trading Symbol | Name of each exchange on which registered | ||||||
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined Rule 405 of the Securities Act (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Item 2.02 - Results of Operations and Financial Condition.
On April 22, 2026, Elevance Health, Inc. issued a press release reporting its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2026. A copy of the press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this report and incorporated herein by reference.
None of the information furnished in this Item 2.02 or Exhibit 99.1 hereto shall be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Unless expressly set forth by specific reference in such filings, none of the information furnished in this report shall be incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, whether made before or after the date hereof and regardless of any general incorporation language in such filings.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d) Exhibits.
Exhibit No. | Exhibit | |||||||
99.1 | Press Release, dated April 22, 2026, reporting Elevance Health, Inc. financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2026. | |||||||
104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document) | |||||||
This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect our views about future events and financial performance and are generally not historical facts. Words such as “expect,” “feel,” “believe,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “project,” “forecast,” “plan,” "potential," "predict” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include, but are not limited to: financial projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions; statements regarding plans, objectives and expectations with respect to future operations, products and services; and statements regarding future performance. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date hereof. You are also urged to carefully review and consider the various risks and other disclosures discussed in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, which attempt to advise interested parties of the factors that affect our business. Except to the extent required by law, we do not update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date hereof. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: trends in healthcare costs and utilization rates; reduced enrollment; our ability to secure and implement sufficient premium rates; the impact of large scale medical emergencies, such as public health epidemics and pandemics, and other catastrophes; the impact of new or changes in existing federal, state and international laws or regulations, including laws and regulations impacting healthcare, insurance, pharmacy services and other diversified products and services, or their enforcement or application; the impact of cyber-attacks or other privacy or data security incidents or our failure to comply with any privacy, data or security laws or regulations, including any investigations, claims or litigation related thereto; failure to effectively maintain and modernize our information systems, or failure of our information systems or technology, including artificial intelligence, to operate as intended; failure to effectively maintain the availability and integrity of our data; changes in economic and market conditions, as well as regulations that may negatively affect our liquidity and investment portfolios; competitive pressures and our ability to adapt to changes in the industry and develop and implement strategic growth opportunities; risks and uncertainties regarding Medicare and Medicaid programs, including those related to non-compliance with the complex regulations imposed thereon; our ability to maintain and achieve improvement
in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Star Ratings and other quality scores and funding risks with respect to revenue received from participation therein; a negative change in our healthcare product mix; costs and other liabilities associated with litigation, government investigations, audits or reviews; our ability to contract with providers on cost-effective and competitive terms; risks associated with providing healthcare, pharmacy and other diversified products and services, including medical malpractice or professional liability claims and non-compliance by any party with the pharmacy services agreement between us and CaremarkPCS Health, L.L.C.; the effects of any negative publicity or sentiment related to the health benefits industry in general or us in particular; risks associated with mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic alliances; possible impairment of the value of our intangible assets if future results do not adequately support goodwill and other intangible assets; possible restrictions in the payment of dividends from our subsidiaries and increases in required minimum levels of capital; our ability to repurchase shares of our common stock and pay dividends on our common stock due to the adequacy of our cash flow and earnings and other considerations; the potential negative effect from our substantial amount of outstanding indebtedness and the risk that increased interest rates or market volatility could impact our access to or further increase the cost of financing; a downgrade in our financial strength ratings; events that may negatively affect our licenses with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association; intense competition to attract and retain employees; risks associated with our international operations; and various laws and provisions in our governing documents that may prevent or discourage takeovers and business combinations.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized on this 22nd day of April, 2026.
ELEVANCE HEALTH, INC. | ||||||||
By: | /s/ Kathleen S. Kiefer | |||||||
Name: | Kathleen S. Kiefer | |||||||
Title: | Chief Governance Officer and Corporate Secretary | |||||||
| E A R N I N G S R E L E A S E | ||||||||||||||
ELEVANCE HEALTH REPORTS FIRST QUARTER 2026 RESULTS;
RAISES FULL-YEAR GUIDANCE
RAISES FULL-YEAR GUIDANCE
•1Q 2026 operating revenue of $49.5 billion, up 1.5% from 1Q 2025
•1Q 2026 diluted EPS1 of $8.00; adjusted diluted EPS2 of $12.58 driven by strong operating results and ~$1 per share of non-recurring investment income
•FY 2026 diluted EPS1 guidance to be at least $19.85, including the Company's estimate of the financial impact for the CMS matter
•FY 2026 adjusted diluted EPS2 guidance raised to at least $26.75, supported by underlying business strength, actions to reduce medical costs, and increased visibility
•Reaffirm FY 2026 operating cash flow of at least $5.5 billion, inclusive of potential cash payments for the CMS matter
•Returned $1.5 billion of capital to shareholders in 1Q 2026
Indianapolis, IN - April 22, 2026 - Elevance Health, Inc. (NYSE: ELV) reported first quarter 2026 results ahead of expectations.
"Our first quarter results exceeded expectations, reflecting underlying business strength and improving claims experience. We are raising our full-year adjusted EPS guidance, supported by greater visibility into the balance of the year. Our actions are driving more consistent performance and position Elevance Health for continued improvement over time.”
Gail K. Boudreaux
President and Chief Executive Officer
1.Earnings per diluted share ("EPS").
2.Refer to GAAP reconciliation tables on pages 13 and 14 herein for reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted measures.
1
| Elevance Health | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Consolidated Enterprise Highlights | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (In billions) | Three Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||
| March 31, 2026 | March 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||
Operating Revenue1 | $49.5 | $48.8 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Gain1,2 | $2.1 | $3.2 | ||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted Operating Gain1,3 | $3.2 | $3.3 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Margin1 | 4.2 | % | 6.5 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Adjusted Operating Margin1,3 | 6.5 | % | 6.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||
1.See “Basis of Presentation” on page 5 herein.
2.Operating Gain for the three months ended March 31, 2026, and March 31, 2025, include items that are excluded from adjusted shareholders' net income. See "GAAP Reconciliation" on pages 13 and 14 herein.
3.Adjusted Operating Gain for the three months ended March 31, 2026, and March 31, 2025, exclude items that are excluded from adjusted shareholders' net income. See "GAAP Reconciliation" on pages 13 and 14 herein.
Operating revenue was $49.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026, an increase of $0.7 billion, or 1.5 percent compared to the prior year quarter. This was driven by higher premium yields in our Health Benefits segment and growth in CarelonRx product revenue, partially offset by anticipated declines in our Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and Employer Group risk membership.
The benefit expense ratio was 86.8 percent, an increase of 40 basis points, reflecting expected elevated medical cost trend in our Medicaid business, partially offset by improved performance in Medicare. Days in Claims Payable stood at 46.6 days as of March 31, 2026, an increase of 5.3 days from December 31, 2025 and an increase of 3.8 days year over year.
The operating expense ratio of 12.8 percent included a $935 million accrual representing our current best estimate of the identified potential exposure related to the CMS notice. The Company also recorded a charge of $129 million related to business optimization as we simplify and enhance our organizational structure.
The adjusted operating expense ratio was 10.5 percent, a decrease of 20 basis points, driven by disciplined expense management. We are prioritizing targeted investments across clinical, operational, and administrative workflows to position the enterprise for long-term growth.
Cash Flow & Balance Sheet
Operating cash flow of $4.3 billion in the quarter increased $3.3 billion year over year, reflecting underlying business strength and favorable working capital dynamics. As of March 31, 2026, cash and investments at the parent company totaled approximately $2.2 billion.
During the first quarter of 2026, the Company repurchased 3.7 million shares of its common stock for $1.1 billion, at a weighted average price of $304.68, and paid a quarterly dividend of $1.72 per share, representing a distribution of cash totaling $376 million. As of March 31, 2026, the Company had approximately $5.6 billion of Board approved share repurchase authorization remaining.
2
Health Benefits is comprised of Individual, Employer Group risk-based, Employer Group fee-based, BlueCard®, Medicare, Medicaid, and Federal Employee Program businesses.
| Health Benefits | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Reportable Segment Highlights | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
(In billions) | Three Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||
| March 31, 2026 | March 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||
Operating Revenue1 | $42.5 | $41.4 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Gain1 | $2.2 | $2.2 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Margin1 | 5.1 | % | 5.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||
1.See “Basis of Presentation” on page 5 herein.
Health Benefits segment operating revenue was $42.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026, an increase of $1.1 billion, or 2.6 percent compared to the prior year quarter, driven primarily by higher premium yields, partially offset by anticipated declines in our Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and Employer Group risk membership.
Operating gain totaled $2.2 billion, down 2.7 percent from the prior year. Growth in operating revenue was offset by anticipated higher medical costs, primarily in Medicaid.
Medical membership of approximately 45.4 million as of March 31, 2026 increased by 186 thousand from year-end 2025, driven by expansion of our commercial fee-based membership, partially offset by anticipated reductions in our Medicare Advantage and Employer Group risk membership as we took disciplined action to reposition these businesses for sustainable performance.
3
Carelon is comprised of CarelonRx and Carelon Services.
| Carelon | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Reportable Segment Highlights | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
(In billions) | Three Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||
| March 31, 2026 | March 31, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||
Operating Revenue1 | $18.0 | $16.7 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Gain1 | $1.1 | $1.1 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Margin1 | 5.9 | % | 6.6 | % | ||||||||||||||||
1.See “Basis of Presentation” on page 5 herein.
Operating revenue for Carelon was $18.0 billion in the first quarter of 2026, an increase of $1.3 billion, or 7.9 percent compared to the prior year quarter. Growth was driven by the scaling of Carelon Services risk-based solutions and CarelonRx product revenue.
Operating gain for Carelon totaled $1.1 billion, a decline of 3.8 percent year over year, reflecting the impact of lower health plan membership and continued investment in the expansion of risk-based capabilities in our Carelon Services business. These factors were partly offset by improved profitability in our specialty pharmacy and behavioral health businesses.
4
Quarterly Dividend
On April 21, 2026, the Audit Committee of the Company's Board of Directors declared a second quarter 2026 dividend to shareholders of $1.72 per share. The second quarter dividend is payable on June 25, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 10, 2026.
About Elevance Health
Elevance Health is a lifetime, trusted health partner whose purpose is to improve the health of humanity. The company supports consumers, families, and communities across the entire healthcare journey – connecting them to the care, support, and resources they need to lead better lives. Elevance Health’s companies serve approximately 105 million consumers through a diverse portfolio of industry-leading medical, pharmacy, behavioral, clinical, home health, and complex care solutions. For more information, please visit www.elevancehealth.com or follow us @ElevanceHealth on X and Elevance Health on LinkedIn.
Conference Call and Webcast
Management will host a conference call and webcast today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (“EDT”) to discuss the company’s first quarter results and outlook. The conference call should be accessed at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call with the following numbers:
| 888-947-9963 (Domestic) | 800-391-9853 (Domestic Replay) | ||||
| 312-470-0178 (International) | 203-369-3269 (International Replay) | ||||
The access code for today's conference call is 3972058. There is no access code for the replay. The replay will be available from 11:30 a.m. EDT today, until the end of the day on May 22, 2026. The call will also be available through a live webcast at www.elevancehealth.com under the “Investors” link. A webcast replay will be available following the call.
Basis of Presentation
1.Operating revenue and operating gain/loss are the key measures used by management to evaluate performance in each of its reporting segments, allocate resources, set incentive compensation targets and to forecast future operating performance. Operating gain/loss is calculated as total operating revenue less benefit expense, cost of products sold and operating expense. It does not include net investment income, net gains/losses on financial instruments, interest expense, amortization of other intangible assets, gains/losses on extinguishment of debt or income taxes, as these items are managed in a corporate shared service environment and are not the responsibility of operating segment management. Refer to pages 13 and 14 for the GAAP reconciliation tables.
2.Operating margin is defined as operating gain divided by operating revenue.
| Elevance Health Contacts: | |||||
Investor Relations | Media | ||||
Nathan Rich | Leslie Porras | ||||
Investor.Relations@elevancehealth.com | Leslie.Porras@elevancehealth.com | ||||
5
Elevance Health
Earnings Release Financial Schedules and Supplementary Information
Quarter Ended March 31, 2026
•Membership and Other Metrics
•Quarterly Consolidated Statements of Income
•Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
•Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
•Supplemental Financial Information - Reportable Segments & Health Benefits Revenue Details
•Supplemental Financial Information - Reconciliation of Medical Claims Payable
•Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
6
Elevance Health | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Membership and Other Metrics | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Change from | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Medical Membership (in thousands) | March 31, 2026 | March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | March 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Individual | 1,424 | 1,423 | 1,307 | 0.1 | % | 9.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Employer Group Risk-Based | 3,439 | 3,638 | 3,617 | (5.5) | % | (4.9) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commercial Risk-Based | 4,863 | 5,061 | 4,924 | (3.9) | % | (1.2) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
BlueCard® | 6,579 | 6,608 | 6,509 | (0.4) | % | 1.1 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Employer Group Fee-Based | 21,170 | 20,522 | 20,583 | 3.2 | % | 2.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commercial Fee-Based | 27,749 | 27,130 | 27,092 | 2.3 | % | 2.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Medicare Advantage | 1,899 | 2,255 | 2,230 | (15.8) | % | (14.8) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Medicare Supplement | 888 | 876 | 882 | 1.4 | % | 0.7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Medicare | 2,787 | 3,131 | 3,112 | (11.0) | % | (10.4) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Medicaid | 8,456 | 8,862 | 8,500 | (4.6) | % | (0.5) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Federal Employee Program | 1,563 | 1,649 | 1,604 | (5.2) | % | (2.6) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Medical Membership | 45,418 | 45,833 | 45,232 | (0.9) | % | 0.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Metrics (in millions) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CarelonRx Quarterly Adjusted Scripts | 80.3 | 83.9 | 88.5 | (4.3) | % | (9.3) | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Carelon Services Consumers Served | 92.9 | 99.5 | 91.8 | (6.6) | % | 1.2 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
7
Elevance Health | ||||||||||||||||||||
Consolidated Statements of Income | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions, except per share data) | Three Months Ended March 31 | |||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | Change | ||||||||||||||||||
| Revenues | ||||||||||||||||||||
Premiums | $ | 41,024 | $ | 40,887 | 0.3% | |||||||||||||||
| Product revenue | 6,225 | 5,809 | 7.2% | |||||||||||||||||
| Service fees | 2,245 | 2,069 | 8.5% | |||||||||||||||||
| Total operating revenue | 49,494 | 48,765 | 1.5% | |||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income | 765 | 590 | 29.7% | |||||||||||||||||
| Net losses on financial instruments | (78) | (464) | NM | |||||||||||||||||
| Total revenues | 50,181 | 48,891 | 2.6% | |||||||||||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Benefit expense | 35,615 | 35,312 | 0.9% | |||||||||||||||||
| Cost of products sold | 5,463 | 4,983 | 9.6% | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating expense | 6,330 | 5,300 | 19.4% | |||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | 357 | 344 | 3.8% | |||||||||||||||||
| Amortization of other intangible assets | 112 | 155 | (27.7)% | |||||||||||||||||
| Total expenses | 47,877 | 46,094 | 3.9% | |||||||||||||||||
| Income before income tax expense | 2,304 | 2,797 | (17.6)% | |||||||||||||||||
| Income tax expense | 544 | 613 | (11.3)% | |||||||||||||||||
| Net income | 1,760 | 2,184 | (19.4)% | |||||||||||||||||
| Net loss (gain) attributable to noncontrolling interests | 4 | (1) | NM | |||||||||||||||||
| Shareholders' net income | $ | 1,764 | $ | 2,183 | (19.2)% | |||||||||||||||
Shareholders' earnings per diluted share | $ | 8.00 | $ | 9.61 | (16.8)% | |||||||||||||||
| Diluted shares | 220.4 | 227.2 | (3.0)% | |||||||||||||||||
| Benefit expense as a percentage of premiums | 86.8 | % | 86.4 | % | 40 | bp | ||||||||||||||
| Operating expense as a percentage of total operating revenue | 12.8 | % | 10.9 | % | 190 | bp | ||||||||||||||
| Income before income tax expense as a percentage of total revenue | 4.6 | % | 5.7 | % | (110) | bp | ||||||||||||||
"NM" = calculation not meaningful
8
Elevance Health | |||||||||||
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet | |||||||||||
| (In millions) | March 31, 2026 | December 31, 2025 | |||||||||
| Assets | (Unaudited) | ||||||||||
| Current assets: | |||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $9,657 | $9,491 | |||||||||
| Fixed maturity and equity securities | 27,416 | 26,624 | |||||||||
| Premium and other receivables | 22,790 | 21,542 | |||||||||
| Other current assets | 7,169 | 5,344 | |||||||||
| Total current assets | 67,032 | 63,001 | |||||||||
| Long-term investments | 12,123 | 11,960 | |||||||||
| Property and equipment, net | 4,657 | 4,679 | |||||||||
| Goodwill and other intangible assets | 39,433 | 39,544 | |||||||||
| Other noncurrent assets | 2,582 | 2,310 | |||||||||
| Total assets | $125,827 | $121,494 | |||||||||
| Liabilities and equity | |||||||||||
| Liabilities | |||||||||||
| Current liabilities: | |||||||||||
| Medical claims payable | $18,425 | $17,084 | |||||||||
| Short-term borrowings | 724 | 150 | |||||||||
| Current portion of long-term debt | 350 | 1,099 | |||||||||
| Other current liabilities | 25,810 | 22,702 | |||||||||
| Total current liabilities | 45,309 | 41,035 | |||||||||
| Long-term debt, less current portion | 30,768 | 30,797 | |||||||||
| Other noncurrent liabilities | 5,708 | 5,636 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities | 81,785 | 77,468 | |||||||||
| Total shareholders’ equity | 43,902 | 43,882 | |||||||||
| Noncontrolling interests | 140 | 144 | |||||||||
| Total equity | 44,042 | 44,026 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities and equity | $125,827 | $121,494 | |||||||||
9
Elevance Health | |||||||||||
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows | |||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | |||||||||||
| (In millions) | Three Months Ended March 31 | ||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||
| Operating activities | |||||||||||
| Net income | $1,760 | $2,184 | |||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 354 | 373 | |||||||||
| Share-based compensation | 55 | 81 | |||||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities | 2,660 | (1,785) | |||||||||
| Other non-cash items | (497) | 164 | |||||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | 4,332 | 1,017 | |||||||||
| Investing activities | |||||||||||
| Sales and maturities of investments, net of purchases (purchases of investments, net of sales and maturities) | (1,089) | 610 | |||||||||
| Purchases of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired | 5 | 4 | |||||||||
| Purchases of property and equipment | (235) | (196) | |||||||||
| Other, net | (323) | (315) | |||||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (1,642) | 103 | |||||||||
| Financing activities | |||||||||||
| Net change in short-term and long-term borrowings | (176) | (1,365) | |||||||||
| Repurchase and retirement of common stock | (1,124) | (880) | |||||||||
| Cash dividends | (376) | (386) | |||||||||
| Other, net | (839) | 722 | |||||||||
| Net cash used in financing activities | (2,515) | (1,909) | |||||||||
| Effect of foreign exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents | (9) | 1 | |||||||||
| Change in cash and cash equivalents | 166 | (788) | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 9,491 | 8,288 | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $9,657 | $7,500 | |||||||||
10
REPORTABLE SEGMENTS
Elevance Health has four reportable segments: Health Benefits (comprised of Individual, Employer Group risk-based, Employer Group fee-based, BlueCard®, Medicare, Medicaid, and Federal Employee Program businesses); CarelonRx; Carelon Services; and Corporate & Other (comprised of businesses that do not individually meet the quantitative thresholds for an operating division as well as corporate expenses not allocated to our other reportable segments).
| Elevance Health | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Reportable Segment Details | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Three Months Ended March 31 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating Revenue | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Health Benefits | $42,490 | $41,431 | 2.6 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| CarelonRx | 10,600 | 10,116 | 4.8 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Carelon Services | 7,365 | 6,536 | 12.7 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Corporate & Other | 4 | 165 | (97.6) | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Eliminations | (10,965) | (9,483) | NM6 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Operating Revenue1 | $49,494 | $48,765 | 1.5 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Operating Gain (Loss) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Health Benefits | $2,157 | $2,217 | (2.7) | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| CarelonRx | 582 | 602 | (3.3) | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Carelon Services | 470 | 491 | (4.3) | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Corporate & Other2,3 | (1,123) | (140) | NM6 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total Operating Gain1,4 | $2,086 | $3,170 | (34.2) | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Operating Margin | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Health Benefits | 5.1 | % | 5.4 | % | (30) bp | ||||||||||||||||||
| CarelonRx | 5.5 | % | 6.0 | % | (50) bp | ||||||||||||||||||
| Carelon Services | 6.4 | % | 7.5 | % | (110) bp | ||||||||||||||||||
Total Operating Margin1 | 4.2 | % | 6.5 | % | (230) bp | ||||||||||||||||||
Health Benefits Revenue Details | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Three Months Ended March 31 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | Change | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Health Benefits Operating Revenue | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Commercial | $13,238 | $12,352 | 7.2 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Individual5 | 2,540 | 2,361 | 7.6 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Medicare | 10,991 | 11,406 | (3.6) | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Medicaid | 14,280 | 14,043 | 1.7 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Federal Employee Program | 3,981 | 3,630 | 9.7 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
Total Health Benefits Operating Revenue1 | $42,490 | $41,431 | 2.6 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
1.See “Basis of Presentation” on page 5 herein.
2.Operating Gain for the three months ended March 31, 2026 included $935 million for the Company's current best estimate of the identified potential exposure for certain historical Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data related to the CMS notice to the Company dated February 27, 2026, $129 million of business optimization program charges, $47 million of transaction and integration related costs, and $7 million of litigation and settlement expenses, which reside in the Corporate & Other reportable segment.
3.Operating Gain for the three months ended March 31, 2025 included $80 million of transaction and integration related costs and $5 million of litigation and settlement expenses, which reside in the Corporate & Other reportable segment.
4.Operating Gain for three months ended March 31, 2026, and March 31, 2025, included items excluded from adjusted shareholders' net income. See "GAAP Reconciliation" on pages 13 and 14 herein.
5.The Individual business, including ACA products, is reported as part of Commercial Operating Revenue.
6."NM" = calculation not meaningful.
11
Elevance Health | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reconciliation of Medical Claims Payable | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended March 31 | Years Ended December 31 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gross medical claims payable, beginning of period | $ | 16,829 | $ | 15,580 | $ | 15,580 | $ | 15,865 | $ | 15,348 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Ceded medical claims payable, beginning of period | (48) | (13) | (13) | (7) | (6) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net medical claims payable, beginning of period | 16,781 | 15,567 | 15,567 | 15,858 | 15,342 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Business combinations and purchase adjustments | — | (85) | 344 | 143 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net incurred medical claims: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Current year | 35,677 | 35,313 | 145,566 | 125,370 | 121,798 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prior years redundancies1 | (1,124) | (1,025) | (1,290) | (1,731) | (1,571) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total net incurred medical claims | 34,553 | 34,288 | 144,276 | 123,639 | 120,227 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net payments attributable to: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Current year medical claims | 23,010 | 23,392 | 130,265 | 110,930 | 107,146 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prior years medical claims | 10,250 | 9,863 | 13,141 | 13,143 | 12,565 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total net payments | 33,260 | 33,255 | 143,406 | 124,073 | 119,711 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net medical claims payable, end of period | 18,074 | 16,515 | 16,781 | 15,567 | 15,858 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ceded medical claims payable, end of period | 45 | 14 | 48 | 13 | 7 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross medical claims payable, end of period2 | $ | 18,119 | $ | 16,529 | $ | 16,829 | $ | 15,580 | $ | 15,865 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Current year medical claims paid as a percentage of current year net incurred medical claims | 64.5 | % | 66.2 | % | 89.5 | % | 88.5 | % | 88.0 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Prior year redundancies in the current year as a percentage of prior year net medical claims payable less prior year redundancies in the current year | 7.2 | % | 7.1 | % | 9.0 | % | 12.3 | % | 11.4 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Prior year redundancies in the current year as a percentage of prior year net incurred medical claims | 0.8 | % | 0.8 | % | 1.0 | % | 1.4 | % | 0.9 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
1.Negative amounts reported for net incurred medical claims related to prior years result from claims being settled for amounts less than originally estimated.
2.Excludes insurance lines other than short duration.
12
Elevance Health
GAAP Reconciliation
(Unaudited)
This document references non-GAAP measures, including “Adjusted Diluted EPS,” “Adjusted Operating Expense Ratio,” “Adjusted Operating Gain,” “Adjusted Operating Margin,” “Adjusted Shareholders’ Net Income,” and “Adjusted Operating Expense”. These non-GAAP measures are intended to aid investors when comparing Elevance Health’s financial results among periods and are not intended to be alternatives to any measure calculated in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable measures calculated in accordance with GAAP are available below. In addition to these non-GAAP measures, references are made to the measures “Operating Revenue,” “Operating Gain/Loss,” and “Operating Margin”. Operating revenue and operating gain/loss are the key measures used by management to evaluate performance in each of its reportable segments, allocate resources, set incentive compensation targets and to forecast future operating performance. Operating gain/loss is calculated as total operating revenue less benefit expense, cost of products sold and operating expense. It does not include net investment income, net gains/losses on financial instruments, interest expense, amortization of other intangible assets and gains/losses on extinguishment of debt or income taxes, as these items are managed in a corporate shared service environment and are not the responsibility of operating segment management. Each of these measures is provided to further aid investors in understanding and analyzing Elevance Health’s operating and financial results. A reconciliation of Operating Revenue to Total Revenue is set forth in the Consolidated Statements of Income herein. A reconciliation of reportable segments operating gain to income before income tax expense is provided below. Prior amounts may be grouped differently to conform to the current presentation. Net adjustment items per share may not sum due to rounding.
| Three Months Ended March 31 | |||||||||||||||||
| (In millions, except per share data) | 2026 | 2025 | Change | ||||||||||||||
| Shareholders' net income | $ | 1,764 | $ | 2,183 | (19.2) | % | |||||||||||
| Add / (Subtract): | |||||||||||||||||
Accrual related to CMS notice1,2 | 935 | — | |||||||||||||||
Business optimization program charges1 | 129 | — | |||||||||||||||
| Amortization of other intangible assets | 112 | 155 | |||||||||||||||
Net losses on financial instruments | 78 | 464 | |||||||||||||||
Transaction and integration related costs1 | 47 | 80 | |||||||||||||||
Litigation and settlement expenses1 | 7 | 5 | |||||||||||||||
| Tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments | (300) | (168) | |||||||||||||||
| Net adjustment items | 1,008 | 536 | |||||||||||||||
| Adjusted shareholders' net income | $ | 2,772 | $ | 2,719 | 1.9 | % | |||||||||||
| Shareholders' earnings per diluted share | $ | 8.00 | $ | 9.61 | (16.8) | % | |||||||||||
| Add / (Subtract): | |||||||||||||||||
Accrual related to CMS notice1,2 | 4.24 | — | |||||||||||||||
Business optimization program charges1 | 0.59 | — | |||||||||||||||
| Amortization of other intangible assets | 0.51 | 0.68 | |||||||||||||||
Net losses on financial instruments | 0.35 | 2.04 | |||||||||||||||
Transaction and integration related costs1 | 0.21 | 0.35 | |||||||||||||||
Litigation and settlement expenses1 | 0.03 | 0.02 | |||||||||||||||
| Tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments | (1.36) | (0.74) | |||||||||||||||
| Net adjustment items | 4.58 | 2.36 | |||||||||||||||
Adjusted shareholders' earnings per diluted share | $ | 12.58 | $ | 11.97 | 5.1 | % | |||||||||||
| Three Months Ended March 31 | |||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | Change | ||||||||||||||
| Income before income tax expense | $ | 2,304 | $ | 2,797 | (17.6) | % | |||||||||||
| Net investment income | (765) | (590) | |||||||||||||||
| Net losses on financial instruments | 78 | 464 | |||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | 357 | 344 | |||||||||||||||
| Amortization of other intangible assets | 112 | 155 | |||||||||||||||
| Reportable segments operating gain | $ | 2,086 | $ | 3,170 | (34.2) | % | |||||||||||
1.Adjustment item resides in the Corporate & Other reportable segment.
2.Adjustment item represents the Company's current best estimate of the identified potential exposure for certain historical Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data related to the CMS notice to the Company dated February 27, 2026.
13
Elevance Health
GAAP Reconciliation
(Unaudited)
| Three Months Ended March 31 | |||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | Change | ||||||||||||||
| Reportable segments operating gain | $ | 2,086 | $ | 3,170 | (34.2) | % | |||||||||||
| Add / (Subtract): | |||||||||||||||||
Accrual related to CMS notice1,2 | 935 | — | |||||||||||||||
Business optimization program charges1 | 129 | — | |||||||||||||||
Transaction and integration related costs1 | 47 | 80 | |||||||||||||||
Litigation and settlement expenses1 | 7 | 5 | |||||||||||||||
Net adjustment items | 1,118 | 85 | |||||||||||||||
| Reportable segments adjusted operating gain | $ | 3,204 | $ | 3,255 | (1.6) | % | |||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 49,494 | $ | 48,765 | 1.5 | % | |||||||||||
| Operating margin | 4.2 | % | 6.5 | % | (230) bp | ||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating margin | 6.5 | % | 6.7 | % | (20) bp | ||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended March 31 | |||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | Change | ||||||||||||||
| Operating expense | $ | 6,330 | $ | 5,300 | 19.4 | % | |||||||||||
| Add / (Subtract): | |||||||||||||||||
Accrual related to CMS notice1,2 | (935) | — | |||||||||||||||
Business optimization program charges1 | (129) | — | |||||||||||||||
Transaction and integration related costs1 | (47) | (80) | |||||||||||||||
Litigation and settlement expenses1 | (7) | (5) | |||||||||||||||
| Net adjustment items | (1,118) | (85) | |||||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating expense | $ | 5,212 | $ | 5,215 | (0.1) | % | |||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 49,494 | $ | 48,765 | 1.5 | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expense ratio | 12.8 | % | 10.9 | % | 190 bp | ||||||||||||
| Adjusted operating expense ratio | 10.5 | % | 10.7 | % | (20) bp | ||||||||||||
| Full Year 2026 Outlook | |||||||||||||||||
| Shareholders' earnings per diluted share | At least $19.85 | ||||||||||||||||
| Add / (Subtract): | |||||||||||||||||
Accrual related to CMS notice1,2 | $4.24 | ||||||||||||||||
Amortization of other intangible assets3 | $2.00 | ||||||||||||||||
Net losses on financial instruments3 | $1.15 | ||||||||||||||||
Transaction and integration related costs1,3 | $0.90 | ||||||||||||||||
Business optimization program charges1 | $0.59 | ||||||||||||||||
Litigation and settlement expenses1,3 | $0.10 | ||||||||||||||||
Tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments3 | Approximately ($2.08) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net adjustment items | $6.90 | ||||||||||||||||
| Adjusted shareholders' earnings per diluted share | At least $26.75 | ||||||||||||||||
1.Adjustment item resides in the Corporate & Other reportable segment.
2.Adjustment item represents the Company's current best estimate of the identified potential exposure for certain historical Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data related to the CMS notice to the Company dated February 27, 2026.
3.Adjustment item represents the midpoint of a projected range and serves as the estimated full year adjustment amount.
14
Forward-Looking Statements
This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect our views about future events and financial performance and are generally not historical facts. Words such as “expect,” “feel,” “believe,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “project,” “forecast,” “plan,” "potential," "predict" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include, but are not limited to: financial projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions; statements regarding plans, objectives and expectations with respect to future operations, products and services; and statements regarding future performance. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date hereof. You are also urged to carefully review and consider the various risks and other disclosures discussed in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, which attempt to advise interested parties of the factors that affect our business. Except to the extent required by law, we do not update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date hereof. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: trends in healthcare costs and utilization rates; reduced enrollment; our ability to secure and implement sufficient premium rates; the impact of large scale medical emergencies, such as public health epidemics and pandemics, and other catastrophes; the impact of new or changes in existing federal, state and international laws or regulations, including laws and regulations impacting healthcare, insurance, pharmacy services and other diversified products and services, or their enforcement or application; the impact of cyber-attacks or other privacy or data security incidents or our failure to comply with any privacy, data or security laws or regulations, including any investigations, claims or litigation related thereto; failure to effectively maintain and modernize our information systems, or failure of our information systems or technology, including artificial intelligence, to operate as intended; failure to effectively maintain the availability and integrity of our data; changes in economic and market conditions, as well as regulations that may negatively affect our liquidity and investment portfolios; competitive pressures and our ability to adapt to changes in the industry and develop and implement strategic growth opportunities; risks and uncertainties regarding Medicare and Medicaid programs, including those related to non-compliance with the complex regulations imposed thereon; our ability to maintain and achieve improvement in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Star Ratings and other quality scores and funding risks with respect to revenue received from participation therein; a negative change in our healthcare product mix; costs and other liabilities associated with litigation, government investigations, audits or reviews; our ability to contract with providers on cost-effective and competitive terms; risks associated with providing healthcare, pharmacy and other diversified products and services, including medical malpractice or professional liability claims and non-compliance by any party with the pharmacy services agreement between us and CaremarkPCS Health, L.L.C.; the effects of any negative publicity or sentiment related to the health benefits industry in general or us in particular; risks associated with mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic alliances; possible impairment of the value of our intangible assets if future results do not adequately support goodwill and other intangible assets; possible restrictions in the payment of dividends from our subsidiaries and increases in required minimum levels of capital; our ability to repurchase shares of our common stock and pay dividends on our common stock due to the adequacy of our cash flow and earnings and other considerations; the potential negative effect from our substantial amount of outstanding indebtedness and the risk that increased interest rates or market volatility could impact our access to or further increase the cost of financing; a downgrade in our financial strength ratings; events that may negatively affect our licenses with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association; intense competition to attract and retain employees; risks associated with our international operations; and various laws and provisions in our governing documents that may prevent or discourage takeovers and business combinations.
15
FAQ
How did Elevance Health (ELV) perform financially in Q1 2026?
Elevance Health delivered operating revenue of $49.5 billion, up 1.5% year over year. Shareholders’ net income fell 19.4% to $1.76 billion, while adjusted shareholders’ net income rose 1.9% to $2.77 billion, reflecting strong core performance offset by notable special charges.
What were Elevance Health’s Q1 2026 EPS and adjusted EPS results?
In Q1 2026, Elevance Health reported diluted EPS of $8.00, down from $9.61 a year earlier. Adjusted diluted EPS increased to $12.58 from $11.97, helped by operational strength and approximately $1 per share of non-recurring investment income.
Why did Elevance Health’s GAAP earnings decline in Q1 2026?
GAAP earnings declined mainly due to a $935 million accrual for potential exposure related to a CMS notice on historical Medicare Advantage risk adjustment data and $129 million in business optimization charges, which together significantly reduced reported operating margin.
What guidance did Elevance Health provide for full-year 2026?
For 2026, Elevance Health expects diluted EPS of at least $19.85, including its estimate of the CMS matter’s impact. The company raised adjusted diluted EPS guidance to at least $26.75 and reaffirmed operating cash flow guidance of at least $5.5 billion.
How did Elevance Health’s main business segments perform in Q1 2026?
Health Benefits operating revenue grew 2.6% to $42.5 billion, with operating gain of $2.2 billion. Carelon revenue rose 7.9% to $18.0 billion, while segment operating gain was $1.1 billion, reflecting growth but modest margin compression versus the prior year.