In this episode of The Quarterly Briefing, we explore the financial intricacies and strategic shifts of healthcare giant Humana. We dissect their heavy investment in Medicare Advantage, the impact of their declining star ratings, and the challenges posed by regulatory changes like the two midnight rule. Delving into Humana's expansion into direct healthcare services with CenterWell, we examine how these moves might influence their financial stability and patient care quality. Through analysis of their recent quarterly report and earnings call, we uncover the balancing act Humana faces between growth, cost control, and providing high-quality care. Join us for a thorough examination of Humana's strategies and the implications for their future and their customers.

00:00 Introduction to The Quarterly Briefing

01:21 Deep Dive into Humana's Financials

01:48 Medicare Advantage and Star Ratings

04:00 Challenges and Regulatory Issues

06:10 CenterWell and Direct Care Delivery

08:32 Balancing Growth and Profitability

10:55 Impact on Workforce and Patients

15:11 Key Takeaways and Future Outlook

18:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts