Cigna Group

Previous wording

We face price competition and other pressures that could compress our margins or result in premiums that are insufficient to cover the cost of services delivered to our customers.

Current wording

We must predict, price for and manage health care costs appropriately. We face price competition and other pressures that could compress our margins or result in premiums that are insufficient to cover the cost of services delivered to our customers.

Previous wording

Premiums in the Cigna Healthcare segment are generally set for one-year periods and are priced well in advance of the date on which the contract commences or renews. Our revenue on Medicare Advantage plans, IFPs and Medicare Part D plans has been based on rates and bids submitted midyear in the year before the contract year, and in January 2024, the Company entered into the HCSC transaction to sell the Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Although we have based the premiums we charge and our Medicare Advantage, IFP and Medicare Part D rates and bids on our estimate of future health care costs over the contract period, actual costs may exceed what we estimate in setting premiums. Our participation in health insurance exchanges through our IFP offerings involves uncertainties associated with mix and volume of business and could adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows. Our health care costs are also affected by external events that we cannot forecast or project and over which we have little or no control, including changes in laws and regulations, as well as pandemics, costly new treatments, new treatment guidelines, provider billing practices, inflation and changes in customers' health care utilization patterns, which may, among other things, impact our ability to appropriately document their health conditions. Our profitability depends, in part, on our ability to accurately predict, price for and effectively manage future health care costs. Relatively small differences between predicted and actual medical costs or utilization rates as a percentage of revenue can result in significant changes in our financial results.

Current wording

Our profitability depends in part on our ability to accurately predict, price for and effectively manage future health care costs. Relatively small differences between predicted and actual medical costs or utilization rates as a percentage of revenue can result in significant changes in our financial results. In addition to appropriately pricing health care costs, we must accurately manage costs through medical management, product design, negotiation of favorable provider contracts and underwriting criteria. Our health care costs are also affected by external events that we cannot forecast or project and over which we have little or no control, including changes in laws and regulations, costly new treatments, new treatment guidelines, provider billing practices, inflation and changes in customers' health care utilization patterns, pandemics, natural disasters, and other large-scale medical emergencies. If we do not accurately price our health care costs, our business, cash flows, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely impacted.

Previous wording

While we compete on the basis of many service- and quality-related factors, we expect that price will continue to be a significant basis of competition and we may face pressure to contain premium rates or administrative fees. Our client contracts are subject to negotiation as clients seek to contain their costs, including by reducing benefits offered. Increasingly, our clients seek to negotiate performance guarantees that require us to pay penalties if the guaranteed performance standard is not met. Clients can easily move between our competitors and us. Our clients are well-informed and typically have knowledgeable consultants who seek competing bids from our competitors before contract renewal. In addition, as brokers and benefit consultants seek to enhance their revenue streams, they look to take on services that we typically provide. Each of these events could negatively impact our financial results.

Current wording

While we compete on the basis of many service- and quality-related factors, we expect that price will continue to be a significant basis of competition. Our client contracts are subject to negotiation as clients seek to contain their costs, including by reducing benefits offered. Increasingly, our clients seek to negotiate performance guarantees that require us to pay penalties if the guaranteed performance standard is not met. Clients can easily move between our competitors and us. Our clients are well-informed and typically have knowledgeable consultants who seek competing bids from our competitors before contract renewal. For example, our Express Scripts client contracts generally have three-year terms and may be subject to periodic renegotiation of pricing terms based on market factors. If one or more of our large clients terminates or does not renew a contract for any reason, or if the provisions of a contract with a large client are modified with terms less favorable to us, our results of operations could be adversely affected, and we could experience a negative reaction in the investment community.

Previous wording

Strong competition within the pharmacy benefit business has also generated greater demand for lower product and service pricing, increased revenue sharing, and enhanced product and service offerings. These competitive factors have historically applied pressure on our operating margins and caused many companies, including us, to reduce the prices charged for products and services while sharing with clients a greater portion of the formulary fees and related rebates received from pharmaceutical manufacturers. Our inability to maintain positive trends, or failure to identify and implement new ways to mitigate pricing pressures, could negatively impact our ability to attract or retain clients or sell additional services, which could negatively impact our margins and have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. In addition, legislative reforms and regulatory or executive actions related to rebates, reporting, owned pharmacies and other activities may adversely affect our competitive position, cash flows, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Strong competition within the pharmacy benefit business has generated greater demand for lower product and service pricing, increased revenue sharing, and enhanced product and service offerings. These competitive factors have historically applied pressure on our operating margins and caused many companies, including us, to reduce the prices charged for products and services while sharing with clients a greater portion of the formulary rebates and related fees received from pharmaceutical manufacturers. If we are unable to respond effectively, including through the implementation of a rebate-free model for our pharmacy benefit services clients, these trends could negatively impact our ability to attract or retain clients or sell additional services, which could negatively impact our margins and have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. In addition, legislative reforms and regulatory or executive actions related to rebates, reporting, owned pharmacies and other activities may adversely affect our ability to price our pharmacy products and services appropriately, as well as our competitive position, cash flows, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Federal and state regulatory agencies may restrict or prevent entirely our ability to implement changes in premium rates or collect certain administrative fees. Fiscal or other concerns related to the government-sponsored programs in which we participate may cause decreasing reimbursement rates, delays in premium payments, restrictions on implementing changes in premium rates or insufficient increases in reimbursement rates. Any limitation on our ability to maintain or increase our premium or reimbursement levels, or a significant loss of customers or clients resulting from our need to increase or maintain premium, administrative fees or reimbursement levels, could adversely affect our business, cash flows, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Premiums in the Cigna Healthcare segment are generally set for a one-year period and are priced well in advance of the date on which the contract commences or renews. Federal and state regulatory agencies may restrict or prevent entirely our ability to implement changes in premium rates or collect certain administrative fees. Fiscal or other concerns related to the government-sponsored programs in which we participate may cause decreasing reimbursement rates, delays in premium payments, restrictions on implementing changes in premium rates or insufficient increases in reimbursement rates. Our participation in health insurance exchanges through our IFP offerings in certain states involves uncertainties associated with mix and volume of business and could adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Previous wording

Our failure to compete effectively, to differentiate our products and services from those of our competitors, and to maintain or increase market share, including maintaining or increasing enrollments in businesses providing health benefits, could materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Current wording

We operate in a highly competitive and evolving business environment, and our failure to compete effectively or differentiate our products and services from those of our competitors could materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Previous wording

We operate in a highly competitive, evolving and rapidly changing industry, and our failure to adapt could negatively impact our business.

Current wording

We operate in a highly competitive, evolving and rapidly changing industry. Industry shifts have resulted and could result from, among other things:

Previous wording

•new market entrants, including those not traditionally in the health service industry;

Current wording

•new market entrants, including those not traditionally in the health services industry;

Previous wording

•the impact or consequences of legislation, executive actions or regulatory changes;

Current wording

•the impact or consequences of legislation, executive actions or regulatory changes including premium rate increases, public debates over drug pricing, government involvement in drug pricing and purchasing, and public debate over current or proposed legislation;

Previous wording

•changes in the generic/biosimilar drug market or the failure of new generic/biosimilar drugs to come to market; or

Current wording

•changes in the generic/biosimilar drug market or the failure of new generic/biosimilar drugs to come to market; and

Previous wording

Our failure to anticipate or appropriately adapt to changes in the industry could negatively impact our competitive position and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Current wording

Any significant shifts in the structure of the industry could alter industry dynamics and adversely affect our ability to attract or retain clients and customers. Our failure to anticipate or appropriately adapt to changes in the industry could negatively impact our competitive position and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

We operate in a highly competitive environment and an industry subject to significant market pressures brought about by customer and client needs, legislative and regulatory developments, and other market factors. In particular markets, our competitors may have greater, better or more established capabilities, resources, market share, reputation or business relationships, or lower profit margin or financial return expectations. Our clients are well-informed and organized and can easily move between our competitors and us. Our Express Scripts client contracts generally have three-year terms and may be subject to periodic renegotiation of pricing terms based on market factors. As described in greater detail in the description of our business in Item 1 of this Form 10-K, our key clients in the Evernorth Health Services segment include the DoD, Prime and Centene. If one or more of our large clients terminates or does not renew a contract for any reason, or if the provisions of a contract with a large client are modified with terms less favorable to us, our results of operations could be adversely affected and we could experience a negative reaction in the investment community.

Current wording

We must remain competitive to attract new customers, retain existing customers and further integrate additional product and service offerings. We are subject to significant market pressures brought about by customer and client needs, legislative and regulatory developments, and other market factors. Our competitors may have greater, better or more established capabilities, resources, market share, reputation or business relationships, or lower profit margin or financial return expectations. Unless we can demonstrate greater value to our clients through innovative and cost-effective product and service offerings in the rapidly changing health care industry, we may be unable to remain competitive, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Previous wording

We must remain competitive to attract new customers, retain existing customers and further integrate additional product and service offerings. To succeed in this highly competitive marketplace, it is imperative that we maintain a strong reputation. Increasingly, our customers, clients and investors consider our efforts on a variety of matters that could impact our stakeholders, including our employees and the communities in which we operate. Our reputation may be negatively impacted by a failure to meet customer expectations for consistent, transparent, high-quality and accessible care or by other significant events, including a failure to execute on customer or client contracts or strategic or operational initiatives, failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations, or failure to innovate and deliver cost-effective products and services that demonstrate greater value to our customers. Any of these outcomes could affect our ability to grow and retain our customer base and other profitable arrangements, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Current wording

Additionally, to succeed in this highly competitive marketplace, we must maintain a strong reputation. Increasingly, our customers, clients and investors consider our efforts on a variety of matters that could impact our stakeholders, including our employees and the communities in which we operate. Our reputation may be negatively impacted by a failure to meet customer expectations for consistent, transparent, high-quality and accessible care or by other significant events, including a failure to execute on customer or client contracts or strategic or operational initiatives, failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations, or failure to innovate and deliver cost-effective products and services that demonstrate greater value to our customers. Negative publicity may come as a result of adverse media coverage, litigation against us and other industry participants, the ongoing public debates over the affordability, accessibility and transparency of health care, and social media and other media relations activities.

Previous wording

Contracts in the prescription drug industry, including our contracts with retail pharmacy networks and our pharmacy and specialty pharmacy clients, generally use pricing metrics published by third parties as benchmarks to establish pricing for prescription drugs. If these benchmarks are no longer published by third parties, we, or our contractual partners, adopt other pricing benchmarks for establishing prices within the industry, legislation or regulation requires the use of other pricing benchmarks, or future changes in drug prices substantially deviate from our expectations, the short- or long-term impacts may have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Additionally, laws such as the Inflation Reduction Act have granted CMS the ability to negotiate drug prices for high-cost Part D and Part B drugs, and other federal and state legislative proposals and executive actions can lead to residual effects as drug companies adjust pricing strategies for broader marketplaces, impacting which medications are prioritized.

Current wording

Contracts in the prescription drug industry, including our contracts with retail pharmacy networks and our pharmacy and specialty pharmacy clients, generally use pricing metrics published by third parties as benchmarks to establish pricing for prescription drugs. If these benchmarks are no longer published by third parties; if we, or our contractual partners, adopt other pricing benchmarks for establishing prices within the industry; if legislation or regulation requires the use of other pricing benchmarks; or if future changes in drug prices substantially deviate from our expectations, the short- or long-term impacts may have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Additionally, laws such as the Inflation Reduction Act have granted CMS the ability to negotiate drug prices for high-cost Medicare Part D and Part B drugs, and other federal and state legislative proposals and executive actions can lead to residual effects as drug companies adjust pricing strategies for broader marketplaces, impacting which medications are prioritized.

Previous wording

We maintain relationships with numerous pharmaceutical manufacturers, which provide us with, among other things:

Current wording

We maintain relationships with numerous pharmaceutical manufacturers, which provide us with, among other things, discounts for drugs we purchase to be dispensed from our home delivery and specialty pharmacies; discounts, in the form of rebates, for drug utilization; fees for administering rebate programs, including invoicing, allocating and collecting rebates; fees for services provided to pharmaceutical manufacturers by our specialty pharmacies; and access to limited distribution specialty pharmaceuticals by our specialty pharmacies.

Previous wording

Our contracts with pharmaceutical manufacturers are typically nonexclusive and terminable on relatively short notice by either party. The consolidation of pharmaceutical manufacturers, the termination or material alteration of our relationships, or our failure to renew contracts on market competitive terms could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. In addition, arrangements between payors and pharmaceutical manufacturers have been the subject of debate in various public and governmental forums. Adoption of new laws, rules or regulations or changes in, or new interpretations of, existing laws, rules or regulations relating to any of these programs could materially adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Current wording

Our contracts with pharmaceutical manufacturers are typically nonexclusive and terminable on relatively short notice by either party. The consolidation of pharmaceutical manufacturers, the termination or material alteration of our relationships, or our failure to renew contracts on market competitive terms could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. In addition, arrangements between payors and pharmaceutical manufacturers have been the subject of debate in various public and governmental forums. Our announced commitment to developing a rebate-free model may alter manufacturer contracting dynamics. Adoption of new laws, rules or regulations, or changes in - or new interpretations of - existing laws, rules or regulations relating to any of these programs could materially adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

If significant changes occur within the pharmacy provider marketplace, or if other issues arise with respect to our pharmacy networks, including the loss of or adverse change in our relationship with one or more key pharmacy providers, our business and financial results could be adversely affected.

Current wording

If significant changes occur within the pharmacy provider marketplace, or if other issues arise with respect to our pharmacy networks, including the loss of or adverse change in our relationship with one or more key pharmacy providers, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

More than 67,000 pharmacies participated in one or more of our networks as of December 31, 2024. The ten largest retail pharmacy chains represent approximately 60% of the total number of stores in our largest network. In certain geographic areas of the United States, our networks may be comprised of higher concentrations of one or more large pharmacy chains. Contracts with retail pharmacies are generally nonexclusive and are terminable on relatively short notice by either party. If one or more of the larger pharmacy chains terminates its relationship with us, or is able to renegotiate terms substantially less favorable to us, our customers' access to retail pharmacies or our business could be materially adversely affected. The entry of one or more additional large pharmacy chains into the pharmacy benefit management business, the consolidation of existing pharmacy chains, or increased leverage or market share by the largest pharmacy providers could increase the likelihood of negative changes in our relationship with such pharmacies. Changes in the overall composition of our pharmacy networks, including changes due to legislative, regulatory or executive action, or reduced pharmacy access under our networks, could have a negative impact on our claims volume or our competitiveness in the marketplace, which could cause us to fall short of certain guarantees in our contracts with clients or otherwise impair our business or results of operations.

Current wording

More than 65,000 pharmacies participated in one or more of our networks as of December 31, 2025. The 10 largest retail pharmacy chains represent approximately 47% of the total number of stores in our largest network. In certain geographic areas of the United States, our networks may be comprised of higher concentrations of one or more large pharmacy chains. Contracts with retail pharmacies are generally nonexclusive and are terminable on relatively short notice by either party. If one or more of the larger pharmacy chains terminates its relationship with us, or is able to renegotiate terms substantially less favorable to us, our customers' access to retail pharmacies or our business could be materially adversely affected. We could also face harm to our relationships with large pharmacy chains depending upon changing competitive conditions. Changes in the overall composition of our pharmacy networks, including changes due to legislative, regulatory or executive action, or reduced pharmacy access under our networks, could have a negative impact on our claims volume or our competitiveness in the marketplace, which could cause us to fall short of certain guarantees in our contracts with clients or otherwise materially adversely impact our business or results of operations.

Previous wording

We maintain and record medical claims reserves in our Consolidated Balance Sheets for estimated future payments. Our estimates of health care costs payable are based on a number of factors, including historical claim experience, but this estimation process requires extensive judgment. Considerable variability is inherent in such estimates, and the accuracy of the estimates is highly sensitive to changes in medical claims submission and processing patterns or procedures; changes in customer base and product mix; changes in the utilization of prescription drugs, medical or other covered items or services; changes in medical cost trends; changes in our health management practices; changes in regulations; and the introduction of new benefits and products. If we are not able to accurately and promptly anticipate and detect medical cost trends, our ability to take timely corrective actions to limit future costs and reflect our current benefit cost experience in our pricing process may be limited. Additionally, we must estimate the amount of rebates payable by us under the ACA's and CMS' minimum loss ratio rules and the amounts payable by us to, and receivable by us from, the federal government under the ACA's remaining premium stabilization program. Because establishing reserves is an inherently uncertain process involving estimates of future losses, there can be no certainty that ultimate losses will not exceed existing reserves, which may adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Current wording

We maintain and record medical claims reserves in our Consolidated Balance Sheets for estimated future payments. Our estimates of health care costs payable are based on a number of factors, including historical claim experience. This estimation process requires extensive judgment. Considerable variability is inherent in such estimates, and the accuracy of the estimates is highly sensitive to a number of factors including, among others, changes in medical claims submission and processing patterns or procedures; changes in customer base and product mix; changes in the utilization of prescription drugs, medical or other covered items or services; changes in medical cost trends; changes in our health management practices; changes in regulations; and the introduction of new benefits and products. If we are not able to accurately and promptly anticipate and detect medical cost trends, our ability to take timely corrective actions to limit future costs and reflect our current benefit cost experience in our pricing process may be limited. Additionally, we must estimate the amount of rebates payable by us under the ACA's and CMS' minimum loss ratio rules and the amounts payable by us to, and receivable by us from, the federal government under the ACA's remaining premium stabilization program. Because establishing reserves is an inherently uncertain process involving estimates of future losses, there can be no certainty that ultimate losses will not exceed existing reserves, which may adversely affect our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Previous wording

We contract with or employ physicians, hospitals and other health service providers and facilities to provide health services to our customers, as well as health care payors (as a service provider to those payors). Our results of operations are substantially dependent on our ability to contract for these services at competitive prices. In any particular market, physicians, hospitals and health service providers may enter into exclusive arrangements with competitors or simply refuse to contract with us, demand higher payments or take other actions that could result in higher medical costs or less desirable products or services for our customers. In some markets, certain providers, particularly hospitals, physician/hospital organizations and multispecialty physician groups, may have significant or controlling market positions that could result in a diminished bargaining position for us. If providers refuse to contract with us, use their market position to negotiate more favorable contracts or place us at a competitive disadvantage, our ability to market products or to be profitable in those areas could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, certain regulations may impact our ability to obtain competitive prices. Establishing collaborative arrangements with physician groups, specialist groups, independent practice associations, hospitals and health care delivery systems is key to our strategic focus to transition from volume-based fee-for-service arrangements to a value-based health care system. If such collaborative arrangements do not result in the lower medical costs that we project, if we fail to attract health care providers to such arrangements or if we are less successful at implementing such arrangements than our competitors, our attractiveness to customers may be reduced and our ability to profitably grow our business may be adversely affected.

Current wording

We contract with or employ physicians, hospitals and other health service providers and facilities to provide health services to our customers and patients. We also contract with health care payors (as a service provider to those payors). Our results of operations depend on our ability to contract for these services at competitive prices. In any particular market, physicians, hospitals and health service providers may enter into exclusive arrangements with competitors or simply refuse to contract with us, demand higher payments, or take other actions that could result in higher medical costs or less desirable products or services for our customers. In some markets, certain providers, particularly hospitals, physician/hospital organizations and multi-specialty physician groups, may have significant or controlling market positions that could result in a diminished bargaining position for us. If providers refuse to contract with us, use their market position to negotiate more favorable contracts or place us at a competitive disadvantage, our ability to market products or to be profitable in those areas could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, certain regulations may impact our ability to obtain competitive prices. We establish collaborative care arrangements with physician groups, specialist groups, independent practice associations, hospitals and health care delivery systems to improve quality outcomes and medical cost performance. If such collaborative arrangements do not result in the lower medical costs that we project or do not improve value to our customers and clients, if we fail to attract health care providers to such arrangements or if we are less successful at implementing such arrangements than our competitors, our attractiveness to customers may be reduced and our ability to profitably grow our businessor improve value for our customers, patients and clients may be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our ability to develop and maintain satisfactory relationships with providers may also be negatively impacted by other factors not associated with us, such as changes in Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement levels or programmatic changes, increasing pressure on revenue and other pressures on health care providers, and increasing consolidation activity among hospitals, physician groups and providers. Continuing consolidation among physicians, hospitals and other providers; the growth of accountable care organizations; vertical integration of providers and other entities; changes in the organizational structures chosen by physicians, hospitals and providers; new market entrants, including those not traditionally in the health care industry; and the use of new modes of health delivery, including virtual care services, may affect the way providers interact with us and may change the competitive landscape in which we operate. In some instances, these organizations may compete directly with us, potentially affecting the way we price our products and services or causing us to incur increased costs if we change our operations to be more competitive.

Current wording

Our ability to develop and maintain satisfactory relationships with providers may also be negatively impacted by other factors not associated with us, such as increasing pressure on revenue and other pressures on health care providers; increasing consolidation activity among hospitals, physician groups and providers; and changes in Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement levels or programming. Many factors, including continuing consolidation among physicians, hospitals and other providers; the growth of accountable care organizations; vertical integration of providers and other entities; changes in the organizational structures chosen by physicians, hospitals and providers; new market entrants, including those not traditionally in the health services industry; and the use of new modes of health care delivery, including virtual care services, may affect the way providers interact with us and may change the competitive landscape in which we operate. In some instances, these organizations may compete directly with us, potentially affecting the way we price our products and services or causing us to incur increased costs if we change our operations to be more competitive.

Previous wording

Out-of-network providers for non-Medicare services are not limited by any agreement with us in the amounts they bill. For Medicare Advantage, out-of-network providers can only receive the same rate that CMS pays for Medicare services. While benefit plans place limits on the amount of charges that will be considered for reimbursement and regulations seek to prescribe payment levels, establish methodologies and dispute resolution processes, providers are increasingly sophisticated and aggressive. As a result, the outcome of disputes where we do not have a provider contract may cause us to pay higher medical or other benefit costs than we projected.

Current wording

Out-of-network providers for non-Medicare services are not limited by any agreement with us in the amounts they bill. While benefit plans place limits on the amount of charges that will be considered for reimbursement and regulations seek to prescribe payment levels, establish methodologies and dispute resolution processes, the outcome of disputes where we do not have a provider contract may cause us to pay higher medical or other benefit costs than we project.

Previous wording

Additionally, certain of our products and services are sold in part through nonexclusive producers and consultants for whose services and allegiance we compete. Our sales could be materially adversely affected if we are unable to attract, retain and support such independent producers and consultants or if our sales strategy is not appropriately aligned across distribution channels.

Current wording

Additionally, our products and services, including a broad range of medical, pharmacy, specialty health, and ancillary benefit offerings, are sold in part through non-exclusive producers and consultants for whose services and allegiance we compete. Our sales could be materially adversely affected if we are unable to attract, retain and support such independent producers and consultants or if our enterprise sales strategy is not appropriately aligned across product lines and producer relationships.

Previous wording

In addition to contracting with physicians and other health care providers for services, we employ physicians, pharmacists, nurses and other health care providers at our home delivery and specialty pharmacies, onsite low-acuity and primary care practices and infusion clinics that we manage and operate for our customers, as well as certain clinics for our employees. We also provide in-home care through health care providers that we employ, as well as through third-party contractors. As such, we may be subject to liability for certain acts, omissions or injuries caused by our employees or agents, or that occur at one of these practices, pharmacies or clinics. The defense of any actions may require diverting personnel and other resources and incurring significant costs that could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and reputation.

Current wording

In addition to contracting with physicians and other health care providers for services, we employ physicians, pharmacists, nurses and other health care providers at our home delivery and specialty pharmacies, onsite low-acuity and primary care practices that we manage and operate for our customers, and certain clinics for our employees. We also provide virtual primary care, urgent care, dermatology services and behavioral health services through clinicians that we employ, as well as through third-party contractors. As such, we may be subject to liability for certain acts, omissions or injuries caused by our employees or agents, or that occur at one of these practices, pharmacies or clinics. The defense of any actions may require diverting personnel and other resources and incurring significant costs that could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and reputation.

Previous wording

Through our U.S. Healthcare business, we contract with CMS and various state governmental agencies. Additionally, our Evernorth Health Services business provides services to government entities and payors participating in government health care programs, and our relationships with these government entities are subject to laws and regulations regarding government contracts.

Current wording

Our Evernorth Health Services business provides services to government entities and payors participating in government health care programs, and our relationships with these government entities are subject to laws and regulations regarding government contracts. Additionally, through our U.S. Healthcare business, we contract with CMS and various state government agencies.

Previous wording

Our revenues from government-funded programs, including our Medicare programs and our government clients, are dependent, in whole or in part, upon annual funding from the federal government or applicable state or local governments. Funding for these programs is dependent on many factors outside our control, including general economic conditions, continuing government efforts to contain health care costs, budgetary constraints at the federal or applicable state or local level, and general political issues and priorities. These entities generally have the right to not renew or to cancel their contracts with us on short notice without cause or if funds are not available. Unanticipated changes in funding, such as the application of sequestration by the federal or state governments, retroactive rate adjustments, a delay by Congress in raising the federal debt ceiling, or the failure to provide for continued appropriations or regular ongoing scheduled payments to us, could substantially reduce our revenues or profitability or impact our liquidity.

Current wording

Our revenues from government-funded programs, including our government clients, are dependent, in whole or in part, upon annual funding from the federal government or applicable state or local governments. Funding for these programs is dependent on many factors outside our control, including general economic conditions, continuing government efforts to contain health care costs, budgetary constraints at the federal or applicable state or local level, and general political issues and priorities. These entities generally have the right to not renew or to cancel their contracts with us on short notice without cause or if funds are not available. Unanticipated changes in funding, such as the application of sequestration by the federal or state governments, retroactive rate adjustments, a delay by Congress in raising the federal debt ceiling, or the failure to provide for continued appropriations or regular ongoing scheduled payments to us, could substantially reduce our revenues or profitability or impact our liquidity.

Previous wording

Additionally, if we fail to comply with CMS' regulatory or contractual requirements, including data submission, enrollment and marketing, provider network adequacy, provider directory accuracy, quality measures, claims payment, continuity of care, timely and accurate processing of appeals and grievances, adverse findings under RADV audits, oversight of first-tier downstream and related entities, and call center performance, we may be subject to administrative actions, including enrollment sanctions or contract termination, fines or other penalties or enforcement actions that could materially impact our profitability.

Current wording

Additionally, if we fail to comply with applicable state or federal regulatory or contractual requirements, including data submission, enrollment and marketing, provider network adequacy, provider directory accuracy, quality measures, claims payment, continuity of care, timely and accurate processing of appeals and grievances, oversight of first-tier downstream and related entities, and call center performance, we may be subject to administrative actions, including enrollment sanctions or contract termination, fines or other penalties or enforcement actions that could materially impact our profitability.

Previous wording

Our business is subject to substantial government regulation, as well as new laws or regulations or changes in existing laws or regulations that could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

Current wording

Our business is subject to substantial government regulation, and new laws or regulations or changes in existing laws or regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

Previous wording

Our business is regulated at the federal, state, local and international levels. The laws and rules governing our business and related interpretations are increasing in number and complexity, are subject to frequent change, and can be inconsistent or in conflict with each other. Noncompliance with applicable regulations by us or our third-party vendors could have material adverse effects on our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and reputation.

Current wording

Our business is regulated at the federal, state and international level. The laws and rules governing our business and related interpretations are increasing in number and complexity, are subject to frequent change, and can be inconsistent or in conflict with each other. Noncompliance with applicable regulations by us or third-party vendors could have material adverse effects on our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and reputation.

Previous wording

We must identify, assess and respond to new trends in the legislative and regulatory environment, as well as comply with the various existing regulations applicable to our business and respond to policymakers and enforcement agencies accordingly. There are currently pending, and in the future there will likely be, legislative or regulatory proposals or executive actions which seek to manage or significantly change the health services industry, including managing prescription drug costs and health records as well as regulating drug distribution. These and other legislative ideas and executive actions could adversely affect our business. Federal and state governments have enacted, and we expect federal and state governments to continue to enact and seriously consider, many broad-based legislative and regulatory proposals that will or could materially impact various aspects of the health care and related benefits system. In addition, changes to government policies not specifically targeted to the health services industry, such as a change in tax laws and the corporate tax rate, government spending or program cuts or changes, imposition of tariffs across an industry sector such as pharmaceuticals could have significant impacts on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. There can be no assurance that our effective tax rate or tax payments will not be adversely affected by legislation resulting from these initiatives both within the United States and other foreign jurisdictions in which we operate. In addition, tax laws and regulations are extremely complex and subject to varying interpretations. While we believe that our historical tax positions are consistent with applicable laws, regulations and existing precedent, there can be no assurance that our tax positions will not be challenged by relevant tax authorities or that we would be successful in any such challenge. The trading price of our securities may react to the announcement of such proposals. As disclosed in Part II, Item 5 of this Form 10-K, we have an active share repurchase program authorized by our Board of Directors (the "Board").

Current wording

We must identify, assess and respond to new trends in the legislative and regulatory environment, as well as comply with the various existing laws and regulations applicable to our business and respond to policymakers and enforcement agencies accordingly. We expect federal and state governments to continue to enact legislative and regulatory reforms that will or could materially impact various aspects of the health services system, including pharmacy benefits manager, drug pricing or insurance market reforms. These reforms could result in material changes to the way we conduct our business and could impact the market for our products.

Previous wording

Existing or future laws, rules, actions by governmental or regulatory authorities, or judgments could force us to change how we conduct our business, affect the products and services we offer and where we offer them, restrict revenue and enrollment growth, increase our costs, including medical, operating, health care technology and administrative costs, and require enhancements to our compliance infrastructure and internal controls environment. Some proposals or criticisms may be bipartisan or gain momentum, and we expect that governmental and regulatory authorities will continue to seek changes to business practices and the health care industry as a whole. For example, health care reforms or the invalidation, modification, repeal or replacement of the ACA or portions thereof could result in material changes to the way we conduct our business, as well as the loss of subsidies related to our IFP offerings, and could impact the market for our products. We are required to obtain and maintain insurance and other regulatory approvals to, among other things, market many of our products, expand into additional geographic or product markets, increase prices for certain regulated products, and consummate some of our acquisitions and dispositions. Delays in obtaining or failure to obtain or maintain these approvals could reduce our revenue or increase our costs. Additionally, we must maintain licenses and registrations in the jurisdictions in which we conduct business, and the suspension, material adverse modification or termination of such licenses and registrations could adversely affect our operations. Such licensure subjects many of our businesses to state regulation of our operations and products, as well as risks associated with doing business in those jurisdictions. Existing or future laws and rules could also require or lead us to take other actions, such as changing our business practices, and could increase our liability. Further, failure to effectively implement or adjust our strategic and operational initiatives, such as by reducing operating costs, adjusting premium pricing or benefit design, or transforming our business model in response to laws, regulatory changes or executive actions may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Current wording

Existing or future laws, regulations, actions by governmental or regulatory authorities, or judgments could force us to change how we conduct our business; affect the products and services we offer and where we offer them; restrict revenue and enrollment growth; increase our costs, including medical, operating, health care technology and administrative costs; increase our liability; and require enhancements to our compliance infrastructure and internal controls environment. For example, we are required to obtain and maintain approvals from state boards of pharmacy, departments of insurance, and other federal and state regulatory agencies to, among other things, market many of our products, expand into additional geographic or product markets, increase prices for certain regulated products, and consummate some of our acquisitions and dispositions. Delays in obtaining or failure to obtain or maintain these approvals could reduce our revenue or increase our costs. Additionally, we must maintain licenses and registrations in the jurisdictions in which we conduct business, and the suspension, material adverse modification or termination of such licenses and registrations could adversely affect operations. Such licensure subjects many of our business operations and products to state regulation, as well as risks associated with doing business in those jurisdictions. Failure to effectively implement or adjust our strategic and operational initiatives, such as reducing operating costs, adjusting premium pricing or benefit design, or transforming our business model in response to new laws, regulatory changes or executive actions may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Previous wording

Most of our activities involve the receipt, use, storage or transmission of a substantial amount of individuals' PII, including PHI. We also use aggregated and/or anonymized data for research and analysis purposes and, in some cases, provide access to such anonymized data, or analytics created from such data, to pharmaceutical manufacturers and third-party data aggregators and analysts. We may also use such information to create analytic models designed to predict, and potentially improve, outcomes and patient care. The collection, dissemination, receipt, maintenance, protection, use, transmission, disclosure, privacy, confidentiality, security, availability, integrity, creation, processing and disposal of PII are regulated at the federal, state, international and industry levels, and requirements are imposed on us by contracts with clients. In some cases, such laws, rules, regulations and contractual requirements also apply to our vendors and require us to obtain written assurances of their compliance with such requirements. We are also subject to various other consumer protection laws that regulate our communications with customers, such as the FTC Act and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Certain of our businesses are also subject to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard ("PCI DSS"), which is designed to protect credit card account data as mandated by payment card industry entities. International laws, rules and regulations governing the use and disclosure of such information, such as the GDPR, can be more stringent than similar laws in the United States, and they vary across jurisdictions. In addition, more jurisdictions are regulating the transfer of data across borders, and domestic privacy and data protection laws are generally becoming more onerous.

Current wording

Most of our activities involve the receipt, use, storage, transmission or other processing of a substantial amount of PII, including PHI, as well as financial information (including payment card information) and other confidential and sensitive information about our clients and employees. The processing of such information is regulated at the federal, state, international and industry levels, and requirements are imposed on us by industry standards and contracts with clients. In some cases, such laws, rules, regulations, industry standards and contractual requirements also apply to our vendors and require us to obtain written assurances of their compliance with such requirements.

Previous wording

HIPAA requires covered entities and business associates to comply with the HIPAA privacy, security and breach rules. While we endeavor to provide appropriate protections through our contracts with our third-party service providers and in certain cases assess their security controls, we have limited oversight or control over their actions and practices. Several of our businesses act as business associates to their covered entity clients and, as a result, collect, receive, use, disclose, transmit and maintain PHI in order to provide services to these customers. HHS administers an audit program to assess HIPAA compliance efforts by covered entities and business associates. In addition, HHS continues to exercise its enforcement authority to bring enforcement actions resulting from complaints, compliance reviews, audits and investigations brought on by notification to HHS of a breach or other HIPAA violation. An audit resulting in findings or allegations of noncompliance or the implementation of an enforcement action could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, cash flows and reputation. For example, in December 2024, we received a request for a voluntary audit from HHS's Office for Civil Rights ("OCR") to review our compliance with HIPAA security rules. We are in the process of preparing our initial response to OCR's request. As participation in this audit is voluntary, the information provided will not result in any HIPAA enforcement action or civil monetary penalty; however, any serious compliance issues could open up subsequent compliance reviews that could include a range of remedies from OCR.

Current wording

At the federal level, we are subject to, among other laws and regulations, HIPAA, which requires business associates as well as covered entities to comply with specified privacy and security requirements. While we endeavor to provide appropriate protections through our contracts with our third-party service providers and in certain cases assess their security controls, we have limited oversight or control over their actions and practices. Several of our businesses act as business associates to their covered entity clients and, as a result, collect, receive, use, disclose, transmit and maintain PHI in order to provide services to these customers. If HHS alleges or finds noncompliance with HIPAA requirements or implements an enforcement action against us, it could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, cash flows and reputation. For example, in 2025, we responded to a voluntary HIPAA security rule audit from HHS's Office for Civil Rights ("OCR"). As participation in this audit was voluntary, the information provided did not result in any HIPAA enforcement action or civil monetary penalty; however, any serious compliance issues could open up subsequent compliance reviews that could include a range of remedies from OCR.

Previous wording

These laws, rules and contractual requirements are subject to change and the regulatory environment surrounding data security and privacy is increasingly demanding. Compliance with existing or new privacy, security and data laws, regulations and requirements may result in increased operating costs and may constrain or require us to alter our business model or operations. For more information on privacy regulations to which we are subject, see "Business – Regulation" in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-K.

Current wording

Additionally, we are, or may become, subject to U.S. state and international laws and regulations, as well as industry standards such as PCI DSS. These laws, regulations, rules, industry standards and contractual requirements are subject to change and the regulatory environment surrounding data security and privacy is increasingly demanding. Compliance with existing or new privacy, security and data laws, regulations and requirements may result in increased operating costs and may constrain or require us to alter our business model or operations. For more information on privacy regulations to which we are subject, see "Business – Regulation" in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

We are routinely involved in numerous claims, lawsuits, regulatory audits, investigations and other legal matters arising, for the most part, in the ordinary course of business. These legal matters could include civil claims (including tort and breach of contract claims) as well as claims arising from alleged violations of certain laws (such as consumer protection or false claims act laws). In addition, we have incurred and likely will continue to incur liability for practices and claims related to our health care business, such as marketing misconduct, failure to timely or appropriately pay for or provide health care, provider network structure, poor outcomes for care delivered or arranged, provider disputes including disputes over compensation or contractual provisions, ERISA claims, allegations related to calculations of cost-sharing, and claims related to our administration of self-funded business. We are also routinely involved in legal matters arising from our health services business, including without limitation claims related to the dispensing of pharmaceutical products by our home delivery and specialty pharmacies, pharmacy benefit management services, such as formulary management services, health benefit management services and provider services. Our pharmacy services operations are subject to the clinical quality, patient safety and other risks inherent in the dispensing, packaging and distribution of drugs, including claims related to purported dispensing and other operational errors. There are currently, and may be in the future, attempts to bring class action lawsuits against the Company and other companies in our industry; individual plaintiffs also may bring multiple claims regarding the same subject matter against us and other companies in our industry.

Current wording

We are routinely involved in legal matters arising from our health services business, including but not limited to claims related to the dispensing of pharmaceutical products by our home delivery and specialty pharmacies; pharmacy benefit management services, such as formulary management services; health benefit management services; and provider services. Our pharmacy services operations are subject to liability arising from clinical quality, patient safety and other risks inherent in the dispensing, packaging and distribution of drugs, including claims related to purported dispensing and other operational errors.

Previous wording

In addition, various government agencies have conducted investigations, inquiries and audits into certain pharmacy benefit management practices, which in certain instances has resulted in litigation or other adverse outcomes. For example, the FTC recently released staff reports on PBMs and the accessibility and affordability of prescription drugs. In September 2024, the FTC filed a complaint against Express Scripts and two other PBMs for allegedly engaging in anticompetitive and unfair rebate practices related to insulin drug pricing. Although we strongly disagree with the claims made by the FTC and intend to respond to them vigorously, there can be no assurance that the outcome of these matters will be resolved to our satisfactions.

Current wording

In addition, various government agencies have conducted investigations, inquiries and audits into certain pharmacy benefit management practices, which in certain instances have resulted in litigation or other adverse outcomes for our Company. For example, the FTC has released two staff reports on PBMs and the accessibility and affordability of prescription drugs. In September 2024, the FTC filed an administrative complaint against Express Scripts and two other PBMs, among others, for allegedly engaging in anticompetitive and unfair rebate practices related to insulin drug pricing. In February 2026, we reached a final settlement with the FTC, which resolved all FTC matters and litigation without a monetary penalty, finding of fault or admission of liability. The settlement requires, among other things, updates to our business practices related to affordability of medications of Express Scripts customers.

Previous wording

We are frequently the subject of regulatory market conduct and other reviews, audits and investigations by state insurance and health and welfare and pharmacy departments, attorneys general, DOJ, FTC, CMS, DOL and the HHS-OIG and comparable authorities in foreign jurisdictions. Additionally, we have, in the past, been, and may in the future be, subject toqui tam actions in which the government may or may not intervene. With respect to our Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D businesses, which are subject to the HCSC transaction, CMS and HHS-OIG perform audits to determine a health plan's compliance with federal regulations and contractual obligations, including compliance with proper coding practices and fraud and abuse enforcement practices through audits designed to detect and correct improper payments. Certain of our contracts currently have RADV audits by CMS and the HHS-OIG that are awaiting CMS finalization. These audits could result in repayments to the government. There also continues to be heightened review by federal and state regulators of business and reporting practices within the health services industry, including with respect to claims payment and related escheat practices, and increased scrutiny by other federal and state governmental agencies (such as state attorneys general) empowered to bring criminal actions in circumstances that could have previously given rise only to civil or administrative proceedings.

Current wording

We are frequently the subject of regulatory market conduct and other reviews, audits and investigations by state insurance, health and welfare and pharmacy departments; attorneys general; the DOJ; the FTC; CMS; the DOL; the HHS-OIG; and comparable authorities in foreign jurisdictions. Additionally, we have previously been, and may in the future be, subject toqui tam actions in which the government may or may not intervene. Although our Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D businesses were included in the HCSC transaction, we may have indemnification obligations in certain circumstances related to regulatory audits that were ongoing at the time that transaction was completed. There also continues to be heightened review by federal and state regulators of business and reporting practices within the health services industry, including with respect to claims payment and related escheat practices, and increased scrutiny by other federal and state governmental agencies (such as state attorneys general) empowered to bring criminal actions in circumstances that could have previously given rise only to civil or administrative proceedings.

Previous wording

Court decisions and legislative and regulatory activity may increase our exposure to any of these types of claims. In some cases, substantial noneconomic or punitive damages may be sought. We procure insurance coverage to cover some of these potential liabilities, and we also self-insure a significant portion of our litigation risks. While we maintain some third-party insurance coverage, including excess liability insurance with third-party insurance carriers, certain liabilities or types of damages, such as punitive damages, may not be covered by insurance, insurers may dispute coverage, or the amount of insurance may be insufficient to cover the entire damages awarded. Resolving disputes is often expensive and disruptive, regardless of the outcome. Additionally, it is possible that the resolution of current or future legal matters and claims could result in changes to our industry and business practices, losses material to our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity or damage to our reputation.

Current wording

Court decisions and legislative and regulatory activities may increase our exposure to any type of claim. In some cases, substantial noneconomic or punitive damages may be sought. We procure insurance coverage to cover some of these potential liabilities, and we also self-insure a significant portion of our litigation risks. While we maintain some third-party insurance coverage, including excess liability insurance with third-party insurance carriers, certain liabilities or types of damages, such as punitive damages, may not be covered by insurance, insurers may dispute coverage, or the amount of insurance may be insufficient to cover the entire damages awarded. Resolving disputes is often expensive and disruptive, regardless of the outcome. Additionally, it is possible that the resolution of current or future legal matters and claims could result in changes to our industry and business practices, losses material to our results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity or damage to our reputation.

Previous wording

Many investigations and audits have resulted in companies being subject to civil penalties, including the payment of money and entry into corporate integrity agreements. For example, in September 2023, we resolved certain matters related to our Medicare Advantage Business and risk adjustment practices by entering into the CIA with the HHS-OIG. The CIA imposes various compliance, reporting and governance obligations on us for five years and requires record reviews by an independent review organization. Our failure to meet these obligations could result in monetary penalties and our exclusion from participation in federal health care programs (such as Medicare and Medicaid), which could adversely impact our business, cash flows, financial condition, results of operations and reputation. Any failure, or alleged failure, to comply with various state and federal health care laws and regulations, including those related to the CIA or otherwise directed at preventing fraud and abuse in government-funded programs, has resulted in and could in the future result in investigations or litigation, such as actions under the federal False Claims Act and similar whistleblower statutes under state laws. A successful action or claim against us could subject us to damage awards, including treble damages, fines, penalties or other enforcement actions, restrictions on our ability to market or enroll new customers, limits on expansion, restrictions or exclusions from programs or other agreements with federal or state governmental agencies, which could adversely impact our business, cash flows, financial condition, results of operations and reputation. We cannot predict what effect, if any, such government investigations and audits may ultimately have on us or on the industry in general. However, we will likely continue to experience government scrutiny and audit activity, which has and may in the future result in civil penalties.

Current wording

Moreover, regulatory investigations and audits have resulted in, and could result in, sanctions or changes to our business practices, including retroactive adjustments to certain premiums, corporate integrity agreements, restrictions on our ability to participate in government programs or exclusion from such programs, and our ability to market certain products or engage in business-related activities. We cannot predict what effect, if any, such government investigations and audits may ultimately have on us or on the industry in general. However, we will likely continue to experience government scrutiny and audit activity, which has resulted in, and may result in, civil penalties. Any failure, or alleged failure, to comply with various state and federal health care laws and regulations, including those directed at preventing fraud, waste and abuse in government-funded programs, has resulted in, and could in the future result in, investigations or litigation, such as actions under the federal False Claims Act and similar whistleblower statutes under state laws.

Previous wording

Regulatory audits, investigations, litigation, or reviews or actions by other government agencies have resulted in and could result in changes to our business practices, retroactive adjustments to certain premiums, significant fines, penalties, civil liabilities, criminal liabilities or other sanctions, including corporate integrity agreements, restrictions on our ability to participate in government programs or exclusion from such programs, and our ability to market certain products or engage in business-related activities, that could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operation, financial condition and liquidity. In addition, disclosure of an adverse investigation or audit or the imposition of fines or other sanctions could negatively affect our reputation in certain markets and make it more difficult for us to sell our products and services.

Current wording

In addition, disclosure of an adverse investigation or audit or the imposition of fines or other sanctions could negatively affect our reputation in certain markets and make it more difficult for us to sell our products and services.