Best Affirms Ratings on Sierra Health

A.M. Best Co. has affirmed the financial strength ratings of B (Fair) for Health Plan of Nevada, Inc., Sierra Health and Life Insurance Company, Inc., and Sierra Insurance Group, the regulated subsidiaries of Sierra Health Services, Inc. (Sierra) [NYSE: SIE], Las Vegas. The outlook is positive. Sierra's cash earnings have improved substantially as a result of the termination of its Texas HMO business and a refocus on its core southern Nevada market. These are offset by the degree of financial leverage maintained by the holding company and the resulting strain placed upon its subsidiary operati...