By Sriparna Roy

(Reuters) -Centene shares gained more than 11% in early trading on Thursday after the health insurer reaffirmed its annual profit forecast and said quality ratings for its Medicare plans were in line with expectations.

Preliminary data for Star or quality ratings for Medicare Advantage showed a slightly higher percentage of members in four-star plans, CEO Sarah London shared at the Deutsche Bank Healthcare conference.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services scores health plans between one to five stars, which can influence enrollees’ plan choices while increasing government reimbursement levels for higher-rated plans.

The ratings, typically expected in October, will also impact insurers’ revenues in 2027.

London also pointed to stronger-than-expected Medicaid re

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