Healthcare company, Humana Inc.(HUM) reported declined profits for the fourth quarter, but beat analysts estimates on Monday.

The Louisville, KY based company reported fourth quarter earnings of $192 million, or $1.19 per share, down -3.5% from $199 million, or $1.20 per share last year. On average, analysts expected to see EPS of $1.06.

Humana saw a 6% increase in revenue for Q4, which came in at $9.56 billion, from $9.06 billion last year. Analysts expected to see revenue of $9.73 billion.

The company has been struggling due to increased costs and lower payments from the U.S government for their medical services. Humana, as well as several other healthcare companies including WellPoint Inc(WLP), Aetna Inc(AET), and UnitedHealth Group Inc reported that rising costs created many pressures during the quarter.

The company reported added pressures during the fourth quarter as expenses continued to rise. The cost of providing benefits in retail businesses and the military both increased during the quarter.

Looking ahead, the company said it expects to see first quarter earnings in the range of $1.75 to $1.85 per share, which would beat analysts estimate of $1.53 per share.

For FY2013, Humana estimates EPS to be between $7.60 and $7.80, with revenue between $41 billion and $41.5 billion.

Humana shares were mostly flat during premarket trading Monday. The stock has dropped -16% in the past year.

The Bottom Line
Shares of Humana Inc.(HUM) have a 1.38% yield, based on Friday’s closing price of $75.35.

Humana Inc.(HUM) is not recommended at this time, holding a Dividend.com DARS™ Rating of 3.2 out of 5 stars.

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