Stock in Focus: Humana Inc (NYSE:HUM)

[BusinessWire] Humana Inc (NYSE:HUM) distributed $76.8 million to physicians across the United States who participate in Humana’s Provider Quality Rewards Program. The 2014 reimbursement amount is a 28 percent increase from the $60 million that Humana distributed to physicians last year under the program.Humana’s Provider Quality Rewards Program is part of Humana’s Accountable Care Continuum, which is a pay-for-value system focused on promoting evidence-based, high quality care.Stock PerformanceTaking a look at the company’s recent performance, Humana Inc reported Second quarter earnings for fiscal 2014 on July 30^th. The company reported actual earnings per share of $2.19 as estimated. This represents year over year decline of 20%. Humana Inc posted estimates revenue $11.99 billion.Humana Inc (HUM) is currently valued at $20.53 billion and closed the last trading session at $133.11. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $128.68 and a 200-day moving average of $122.47.

Is this a Buying Opportunity?There are currently eighteen analysts that we track that cover the stock. Of those eighteen, five have a Buy rating, eleven have a hold rating and two have a Sell rating. On a consensus basis this yields a score of 2.17 and a Hold. The combined price objective of these covering analysts is $128.00, which represents a 1.39% upside difference to the last closing price.The most recent analyst activity consisted of Zacks reiterating rating their neutral stance on the company. Zacks has a price target of $142.00 which represents an upside of 7.29% from the last closing price. On the date of the report, the stock closed at $132.35.Another research firm weighing in recently was Citigroup Inc who also reiterated rating their sell stance on the stock. On September 23^rd Citigroup Inc upgraded their price target on the stock from $95.00 to $97.00, or a 28.03% downside to the current price. On the day of the report, HUM shares closed at $134.78.Company ProfileHumana Inc. (HUM) a health care company, offers a range of insurance products, and health and wellness services that incorporate an integrated approach to lifelong well-being. The company operates in Retail, Employer Group, Healthcare Services, and Other Businesses segments. The Retail segment provides Medicare and commercial fully-insured medical and specialty health insurance benefits, including dental, vision, and other supplemental health and financial protection products directly to individuals. This segment has contract with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to administer the Limited Income Newly Eligible Transition program and state-based Medicaid businesses.