Summary
Elevance Health (ELV), formerly WellPoint, Inc., reported strong financial performance in its 2007 annual report, with total operating revenue reaching $60.1 billion, a 7% increase over the prior year. This growth was primarily driven by premium rate increases, expansion in state-sponsored programs, and growth in Medicare Advantage products. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) rose by 15% to $5.56, demonstrating the company's successful execution of its EPS growth strategy through profitable enrollment, innovative offerings, and disciplined pricing. The company highlighted its significant stock repurchase program, having repurchased approximately 76.9 million shares for $6.2 billion during 2007, reflecting a commitment to returning capital to shareholders and prudent use of surplus capital. Strategic acquisitions, such as the purchase of Imaging Management Holdings, LLC, also contributed to the company's growth and alignment with its strategy to lead in affordable quality care. The company's robust membership base of 34.8 million medical members as of December 31, 2007, across various customer types, positions it well for continued market leadership.
Financial Highlights
29 data pointsKey Highlights
- 1Total operating revenue increased by 7% to $60.1 billion in 2007, driven by premium rate increases and expansion into new states for state-sponsored programs.
- 2Diluted EPS grew by 15% to $5.56, reflecting the company's strategy of profitable growth and disciplined pricing.
- 3The company repurchased approximately 76.9 million shares for $6.2 billion during 2007, indicating strong capital management and a return of capital to shareholders.
- 4Acquisition of Imaging Management Holdings, LLC (AIM) for $300 million was completed in August 2007, enhancing radiology benefit management capabilities.
- 5Medical membership grew by 2% to 34.8 million members by the end of 2007, with significant growth in National Accounts and State Sponsored programs.
- 6Benefit expense ratio was 82.4%, a slight increase from 81.2% in 2006, reflecting rising healthcare costs, though SG&A expense ratio improved to 14.5% from 15.7%.
- 7WellPoint maintained a strong financial position with $21.2 billion in consolidated cash, cash equivalents, and investments as of December 31, 2007.