Centene Corporation Guides 2012 Revs $7.2-$7.6B vs $7.19B Est

Centene Corporation

announced today its 2012 financial guidance. The Health Benefits Ratio and the General and Administrative expense ratio below reflect the reclassification of certain General and Administrative expenses and Medical Costs to reflect the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) definitions released earlier this year. For its 2012 fiscal year, the Company expects: Premium and Service Revenues in the range of $7.2 billion to $7.6 billion. Earnings per diluted share of approximately $2.60 to $2.80. Consolidated Health Benefits Ratio of approximately 87.0% to 88.0%. Consolidated G&A expense ratio in the range of 9.5% to 10.0%. Effective tax rate, excluding non-controlling interest, of approximately 38.5% to 39.0% and diluted shares outstanding of approximately 53.4 million. Days in claims payable between 39 and 44.