HCA Healthcare's first quarter 2026 revenue met expectations while EPS of $7.15 slightly missed estimates.

HCA Healthcare reported first quarter 2026 revenue of $19.109 billion, a 4.3% increase year-over-year, and diluted EPS of $7.15, up 10.9%. The results were impacted by softer patient volumes, with same-facility equivalent admissions growing 1.3%, below analyst expectations.

Key Highlights

• Same-facility equivalent admissions grew 1.3%, missing the 2.2% consensus estimate, which management attributed to a 42% decline in respiratory-related admissions and winter storm impacts.
• The company reaffirmed its full-year 2026 guidance, signaling stability despite the quarter's volume softness.
• HCA's results were bolstered by the recognition of certain Medicaid supplemental programs that were not included in its initial guidance.
• The company repurchased 3.157 million shares for $1.571 billion during the quarter.