WellPoint's 3Q profit falls 5 pct, forecast climbs

WellPoint says its third-quarter earnings fell 5 percent, but the nation's second-largest health insurer raised its forecast for 2013, citing in part gains it expects from the health care overhaul.

The Indianapolis company says it earned $656.2 million, or $2.16 per share, in the quarter. That compares to $691.2 million, or $2.15 per share, last year, when the company had more shares outstanding. Earnings excluding one-time items totaled $2.10 per share.

Operating revenue soared 17 percent to $17.73 billion. That excludes investment gains or losses.

Analysts forecast earnings of $1.81 per share on $17.66 billion in revenue.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield insurer now expects full-year adjusted earnings of at least $8.40 per share, up from a previous forecast for at least $8.

WellPoint shares are rising in premarket trading.

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