UnitedHealth reports Q3 earnings up

UnitedHealth Group today reported growth in revenues and net earnings in the third quarter of this year (end-September 30) compared to the same quarter last year.

The company took in $21.70 billion in revenues in the third quarter, compared to $20.16 billion for the same three months in 2008. Net earnings were $1.035 billion. Strong overall third quarter performance in services businesses and continued operating cost management offset employment-related membership losses at UnitedHealthcare and mix changes driven by growth in lower margin government business at AmeriChoice, Ovations and OptumHealth, the company said.

"We combined successful overall cost containment and strong execution in our services businesses to continue to perform during a difficult economic period," said Stephen J. Hemsley, president and CEO, in a press release. "This reinforces the value of our diversified business model. We continue to focus on delivering value for customers and stakeholders through responsive, high quality service and practical, innovative programs that improve health care system performance and help people live healthier lives."

UnitedHealth Group offers a spectrum of products and services through six operating businesses: UnitedHealthcare, Ovations, AmeriChoice, OptumHealth, Ingenix, and Prescription Solutions. Together, these businesses serve more than 70 million individuals in the U.S.