“We intend to balance our earnings growth ambitions in 2026 with investments and actions that will drive higher and sustainable double-digit growth beginning in 2027 and advancing from there.”

In context

“k ahead to the next few years, we will consistently emphasize the fundamental execution discipline that has long been a key trade of this company, and I'm gratified to see the quick and enthusiastic response to this enterprise -- to this emphasis from our leadership team. External challenges will remain, including continued headwinds in 2026 from the third year of nearly $50 billion in industry-wide Medicare cuts by the previous administration as well as Medicaid funding and program pressures. Even so, I'm confident we will return to solid earnings growth next year given the operational rigor and more prudent pricing. While we are still finalizing 2026 plans and intend to share full guidance with you in January, current analyst consensus captures a likely stepping off point for next year. We intend to balance our earnings growth ambitions in 2026 with investments and actions that will drive higher and sustainable double-digit growth beginning in 2027 and advancing from there. That is the perspective we're keeping front of mind. Our longer-term outlook will be refreshed as we continue to execute over the next year. As we've been doing these last few months, we will continue to engage actively with both investors and the broader stakeholder community and plan to convene our investor conference in the back half of 2026. This morning, Tim Noel and Patrick Conway will provide details on the progress of UnitedHealthcare and Optum, respectively. Our Chief Financial Officer, Wayne DeVeydt; will review third quarter results. I'm pleased to welcome Wayne to our leadership team. He has the right experience, values and expertise to help guide UnitedHealth Group at this moment in our development, and he's off to a fast start. So with that, Tim, you want to take it? Timothy”