HCA

HCA Healthcare, Inc.

Fundamental data last updated:May 12, 2026

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company profile

SECTOR

Healthcare

industry

Medical - Care Facilities

Exchange

NYSE

County of HQ

United States

Next Earnings Date

07/24/2026

Business Summary

HCA Healthcare operates a robust network of hospitals and care facilities, generating cash through patient services and specialized medical care. Its competitive moat is fortified by scale, allowing for cost efficiencies and bargaining power with suppliers. The company locks in customers through comprehensive care offerings and strategic locations, ensuring a steady flow of patients. By continuously investing in technology and infrastructure, HCA maintains its leadership position in the healthcare sector, securing long-term profitability.

 


VALUATION

P/E

14.24

Market Cap ($M USD)

$94.71B

Forward P/E

8.60

PEG

0.13

PRICE TO SALES

1.24

PRICE TO BOOK

-15.35

EV / EBITDA

9.17

5-Year Average P/E

Free Cash Flow Yield

8.37%

DCF Value

$339.58

Graham Number

N/A

Price to FCF

11.95

EV to FCF

18.12

Earnings Yield

7.02%

FCF Yield

8.37%

DIVIDEND

Yield

0.69%

Annual Payout

$2.94

Payout Ratio

10.04%

Consecutive Years of Dividend Growth

5-Year Dividend Growth Rate

Financial Health & Profitability

Earnings Per Share

$29.98

Next Year EPS Growth Estimate

$49.64

Next Year Revenue Growth Estimate

$9.97T

Return on Equity (ROE)

-123.20%

FREE CASH FLOW

Operating Margin

15.67%

Debt-to-Equity

-8.33

Piotroski F-Score

7

Altman Z-Score

2.73

Return on Invested Capital (ROIC)

28.38%

Current Ratio

0.83

Quick Ratio

0.75

Net Debt to EBITDA

3.12

Interest Coverage

5.24

Gross Profit margin

34.92%

FCF PER SHARE

$34.97

REVENUE PER SHARE

$337.03

Gainseekers Quantitative Analysis

Summary

The market seems to be mispricing HCA Healthcare, Inc., as the stock traded above its DCF value, suggesting overvaluation. However, the Forward P/E of 8.60 and an impressive Earnings Yield of 7.02% indicate potential undervaluation relative to future earnings. The Altman Z-score of 2.73 suggests moderate financial health, not quite a fortress but stable enough to avoid immediate distress. Despite a negative Price/Book ratio, the company’s valuation metrics hint at a complex narrative where growth potential might be underestimated by the market. Investors should weigh these factors carefully, as the stock’s current pricing might not fully reflect its intrinsic value.

AI Exposure / Tech Reliance

In the healthcare sector, HCA is well-positioned to leverage AI and tech advancements to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. The industry's shift towards digital health solutions provides HCA with opportunities to integrate AI for predictive analytics and personalized medicine. This adaptability could bolster its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving landscape.

The Bull Case

For the value-driven investor, HCA presents a compelling case with its robust ROIC of 28.38%, indicating exceptional capital efficiency. A Piotroski F-Score of 7 underscores strong financial health, while a Free Cash Flow Yield of 8.37% highlights its ability to generate cash. The operating margin of 15.67% reflects solid pricing power, suggesting that HCA can maintain profitability even in challenging market conditions. These metrics paint a picture of a company that efficiently converts revenue into profit, making it an attractive prospect for those seeking growth at a reasonable price.

The Bear Case

Despite its strengths, HCA faces significant structural risks. The negative Return on Equity of -123.20% is alarming, indicating potential inefficiencies in shareholder capital utilization. Its Price/Book ratio is deeply negative, suggesting potential balance sheet concerns or intangible asset overvaluation. Furthermore, the stock's distance from its 52-week high by 30.35% could imply technical overextension, raising caution for momentum investors. These factors highlight vulnerabilities that could deter risk-averse investors.

Market Sentiment & Smart Money

Short Interest %

Analyst Consensus

Buy

Average Analyst Price Target

$527.45

Institutional Ownership %

1-Year Beta

1.19

Insider Buying % (6 Mo)

Distance to 52-Week High

30.35%

Distance to 52-Week Low

22.71%

EARNINGS SURPRISE %

0.42%

50-DAY SMA

$486.60

200-DAY SMA

$459.13

⚠️ Financial Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Information may be delayed or inaccurate. We may earn a commission from partner links.