Core Insights - Humana Inc. expects a smaller decline in full-year individual Medicare Advantage membership than previously projected, but has reduced its unadjusted profit forecast due to high medical costs [1][2] Membership Projections - The company projects a decline of approximately 425,000 members in its Medicare Advantage business for the fiscal year, an improvement from the prior estimate of up to 500,000, attributed to stronger retention and robust sales [2] Quality Ratings and Financial Impact - About 20% of Humana's members, or roughly 1.2 million, are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans rated four stars or higher for 2026, with 14% in 4.5-star plans, a significant increase from 3% the previous year [3] - A U.S. court ruling rejected Humana's challenge to 2025 plan ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which may negatively impact future government bonus payments [4] - The company anticipates a "significant decline" in higher-rated plans in 2025, warning that failure to overturn the ruling could reduce its 2026 CMS quality bonus payments, affecting revenue, operating results, and cash flow [5] Financial Performance - Humana reported a third-quarter medical cost ratio of 91.1%, an increase from 89.9% a year ago, but within expectations, facing ongoing cost pressures from higher utilization in government-backed programs [5] - Adjusted earnings were $3.24 per share, exceeding estimates, while revenue reached $32.65 billion. The company now expects unadjusted earnings of about $12.26 per share, down from $13.77 previously, while reaffirming adjusted EPS guidance of around $17.00 [6]