CON

In a comparison of two Medical Services stocks, Concentra Group (CON) emerges as the superior value option compared to Medpace (MEDP). CON holds a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) with improving earnings outlook and more attractive valuation metrics, including a forward P/E of 22.74 versus MEDP's 34.77, and a PEG ratio of 1.37 versus 2.72. CON also received a Value grade of B compared to MEDP's D grade.

Elevance Health (ELV) has reached a new 52-week high of $440.67, up 9.4% over the past month and 25.6% year-to-date, outperforming its sector. The company has a strong earnings track record with a recent beat of $6.99 EPS versus $4.66 consensus estimate. With a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), Value Score of A, and reasonable valuation metrics, analysts suggest the stock still has room to run despite recent gains.

Elevance Health reported Q3 2026 adjusted EPS of $6.99, significantly beating estimates by 50%, with revenue reaching $50.4B. The Carelon segment drove growth with 5.4% revenue increase and 17.2% operating gain growth. The company raised its 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to at least $29.00 and increased its earnings baseline to at least $26.75.

Encompass Health Corporation (EHC) opened its first wholly owned hospital in Maine with 50 inpatient rehabilitation beds. Q2 2026 discharges rose 5.6% year-over-year, driven by new capacity and 2.8% same-store growth. EHC opened three hospitals in the first half of 2026 and plans to open eight new hospitals throughout the year, reflecting its strategy to expand capacity in favorable markets.