Fitch Ratings recently maintained its stable rating outlook for the U.S. health insurance and managed care sectors over the next 12 to 24 months, according to a news release.
The ratings agency said it expects health insurers and managed care plans to have strong earnings, while balance sheet and liquidity data are projected to stay at current levels.
The key issue currently impacting the sector is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, according to the release. Fitch said the healthcare law's full implementation remains uncertain ahead of the U.S. Supreme Court decision, and the most "credit-negative outcome" would be a decision that eliminates the requirement that individuals purchase insurance without also eliminating mandated coverage provisions.
The ratings agency said it expects health insurers and managed care plans to have strong earnings, while balance sheet and liquidity data are projected to stay at current levels.
The key issue currently impacting the sector is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, according to the release. Fitch said the healthcare law's full implementation remains uncertain ahead of the U.S. Supreme Court decision, and the most "credit-negative outcome" would be a decision that eliminates the requirement that individuals purchase insurance without also eliminating mandated coverage provisions.
Related Articles on Healthcare Ratings:
Fitch: Despite Regulatory, Fiscal Challenges, Healthcare to Remain Stable Overall in 2012
Moody's Downgrades West Penn Allegheny's Bond Rating to Caa1
Making the Grade: Choosing the Right Rating Agency