LHC Group Raises 2009 Profit And Revenue Targets

LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) — Home nursing provider LHC Group Inc. raised its forecasts for this year, setting its profit and revenue estimates ahead of analyst expectations.

LHC said it expects a profit of $2 to $2.10 per share, excluding the effects of any acquisitions it makes. In December, the company forecast a profit of $1.90 to $2 per share. LHC called for $480 million to $500 million in revenue, up from $450 million to $470 million.

On average, analysts expect $1.98 per share in profit and revenue of $464.7 million.

In 2008, LHC earned $1.69 per share on $383.3 million in revenue. The company's fourth-quarter results exceeded analyst estimates, and in aftermarket trading, its shares advanced $1.98, or 10.9 percent, to $20.20 from a regular session closing price of $18.22.