Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, GAAP diluted earnings per share was $9.61, and adjusted diluted earnings per share was $11.97, reflecting year-over-year growth of more than 10% [25] - Operating revenue for the quarter was $48.8 billion, an increase of over 15%, driven by higher premium yields in the health benefits segment and growth in Medicare Advantage and individual ACA membership [26] - The consolidated benefit expense ratio was 86.4%, an increase of 80 basis points year over year, primarily due to higher cost trends in the Medicaid business [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Medicaid membership is progressing with rate alignment, and the long-term care model is delivering better outcomes at lower costs [16][17] - Medicare Advantage performance was consistent with expectations, with strong retention and disciplined growth [17] - The health benefits operating gain was $2.2 billion, slightly declining due to higher Medicaid costs, while Calon's operating gain grew 34% to $1.1 billion [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Individual ACA membership grew approximately 11% sequentially, but a moderation in membership is anticipated in Q2 due to lower effectuation rates [25][56] - The company is expanding into three new states to build lifetime value through coordinated ACA and Medicaid coverage [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transforming healthcare experiences to be simpler, more affordable, and more human, with sustained investments in patient advocacy solutions and digital platforms [9][10] - Elevance Health is expanding its value-based oncology care model to Medicare Advantage, following success in the commercial sector [12] - The company aims to deepen collaboration with providers and close gaps in care through risk-based arrangements, which have driven nearly $100 in per member per month savings [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term outlook for Medicare Advantage, emphasizing strong retention and targeted growth [17] - The operating environment remains elevated, but the company is managing costs effectively and expects to see stabilization in Medicaid margins later in the year [117] - Management reiterated guidance for adjusted diluted earnings per share to be in the range of $34.15 to $34.85 [33] Other Important Information - Elevance Health was recognized as one of Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For and included in the Just 100 by Just Capital, reflecting its commitment to values and impact [22] - The company repurchased 2.2 million shares of common stock for approximately $880 million, demonstrating confidence in its intrinsic value [33] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns regarding Medicare Advantage trends - Management indicated that Medicare costs remain elevated but manageable, with no material changes in expectations [39][41] Question: Growth in Carillon Services - Carillon Services experienced over 60% growth, with strong internal and external expansion [47] Question: Effectuation rates and membership attrition - Membership attrition is projected in the mid-single digit percent range in early Q2, with expectations for stabilization thereafter [57] Question: Medicaid MLR margin trends - Medicaid trends remain elevated but decelerated as expected, with improvements anticipated in the latter half of the year [117] Question: Part D and IRA impact - Changes from the Inflation Reduction Act are expected to shift the seasonality pattern for Part D, resulting in stronger financial performance in earlier quarters [68][70] Question: New member engagement strategy - The company is focused on early engagement with new members to ensure timely care and accurate health assessments [93] Question: Group MA trends - Utilization patterns for Group MA do not indicate any meaningful acceleration in cost trends compared to expectations [133]