Best Healthcare Stocks this February 2026

UnitedHealth Group is positioned for growth heading into 2026, supported by stabilizing medical costs and an anticipated earnings growth of 8%. Despite a challenging year with a 1-year return of -47.99%, the stock offers a dividend yield of approximately 2.70%, appealing to income-focused investors. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, with a median price target of $408.50, indicating potential upside.

UNH stock has increased by $1.79, reflecting a 0.50% rise since the market last closed.

Cardinal Health Inc. has shown impressive growth with a one-year return of 63.73% and a remarkable 287.12% over the past five years, positioning it well within the healthcare distribution trends. With a dividend yield of 0.99%, it stands out as an attractive option for investors seeking reliable income from financially healthy companies. Analysts are optimistic, setting a median 12-month price target of $221.00, reflecting strong support for its continued performance.

Cardinal Health (CAH) has experienced a 61.71% change over the past year, with a 52-week price range of $120.72 to $215.48.

Cardinal Health shares fell 2.9% after reporting fourth-quarter revenue that missed analyst expectations, despite raising its fiscal 2026 earnings guidance.

Cardinal Health is projected to grow earnings and revenue by 9.8% and 8.2% annually, with EPS expected to increase by 12.3% per year.

IDEXX Laboratories Inc has showcased impressive performance with a 62.51% return over the past year, solidifying its position in the animal health diagnostics sector. This company is recognized as a growth stock, carrying a favorable Growth Score and a strong Zacks Rank, making it a compelling choice for investors seeking opportunities in the healthcare market. Analysts maintain a median 12-month price target of $805.00, with a range spanning from $750.00 to $850.00, reflecting strong confidence in its future prospects.

Idexx Laboratories (IDXX) is considered a growth stock, supported by a favorable Growth Score and a top Zacks Rank, indicating it is likely to outperform the market.

Analysts have an average price target of $790.67 for Idexx Laboratories, with estimates ranging from $700.00 to $850.00, suggesting a potential increase of 14.42% from its last closing price.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects IDEXX's 2025 EPS at $12.93, reflecting a 21.2% growth over 2024, with revenues expected to rise to $4.28 billion, a 9.9% increase year-over-year.

Eli Lilly & Co stands out as a leader in weight management drugs with promising products like Mounjaro and Zepbound, despite a slight dip in momentum. With a robust Growth Style Score of A and an impressive forecast of 83.1% earnings growth for the current fiscal year, the company is well-positioned for future success. Investors can expect solid returns, as evidenced by a remarkable 5-year return of 400.80% and a current analyst rating of B+, with a median 12-month price target of $1,191.00.

LLY has a Growth Style Score of A, with a projected year-over-year earnings growth of 83.1% for the current fiscal year, and an increased Zacks Consensus Estimate of $23.78 per share for fiscal 2025.