Health Stocks in Motion

Updated from 2:14 p.m. EDT

Shares of Regeneration Technologies(RTIX Quote) were among the worst-performing health-related stocks Tuesday, falling 30.9% after the company posted first-quarter results that missed expectations by a wide margin.

The company, which processes allograft tissue into shaped implants for use in orthopedic, cardiovascular and other surgeries, posted a loss of $1.3 million, or 5 cents a share, on sales of $15 million. Analysts polled by Thomson First Call were expecting a profit of 7 cents a share on sales of $25.3 million. A year ago the company earned $1.4 million, or 5 cents a share, on sales of $23.6 million. First-quarter results were plagued by order delays, which the company attributed to its review of strategic alternatives. The review, the company said, created uncertainty. Regarding the company's review of strategic alternatives, Regeneration has decided that it is best served by remaining an independent company. "We have worked with great diligence to reach this conclusion," the company said. Shares traded down $2.78 to $6.22.

WellCare Health Plans(WCG Quote) rose 5.3% after the health care provider posted first-quarter results that were better than expected. The company earned $10.6 million, or 27 cents a share, on sales of $418.9 million. Analysts were expecting earnings of 25 cents a share on sales of $406.9 million. Looking ahead, WellCare forecast second-quarter earnings of 32 cents to 34 cents a share, in line with estimates, on sales of $430 million to $435 million. Analysts are expecting earnings of 33 cents a share on sales of $419.1 million. WellCare now expects 2005 earnings of $60 million to $62 million, or $1.50 to $1.55 a share, on sales of $1.72 billion to $1.75 billion. Previously, the company forecast earnings of $57 million to $60 million. Analysts are expecting earnings of $1.51 a share on sales of $1.72 billion. Shares traded up $1.68 to $33.40.