Best dividend healthcare stocks to invest in Q3 2024

The healthcare sector remains a cornerstone of global well-being, with large-cap companies offering both innovative solutions and reliable dividends. These companies are not only at the forefront of medical advancements but also provide consistent income opportunities for investors.

Novo Nordisk leads the way in diabetes care, specializing in insulin and other treatments that address global health challenges. AbbVie, known for its strong portfolio of immunology and oncology products, continues to be a dominant force in the pharmaceutical industry. Cardinal Health plays a vital role in healthcare distribution, ensuring that essential medical products reach providers efficiently.

Interested in how these healthcare giants can enhance your dividend portfolio? Dive into our detailed analysis of the best dividend healthcare stocks to invest in Q3 2024, and discover the potential these companies hold for both income and long-term growth.

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Before we dive into each company, let`s take a look at how your investment would have performed if you had invested in top 10 stocks mentioned in this article 5 years ago.

Now, let`s take a closer look at each of the companies:

  • Novo Nordisk (NVO)

    In the hushed hum of research labs and the clatter of insulin injection pens, Novo Nordisk whispers a promise of hope. This Danish pharmaceutical giant isn't just conquering diabetes; it's building a healthcare empire dedicated to battling chronic diseases and rewriting the future of well-being. But can this medical titan's noble mission translate to rewarding investments? Let's dissect the DNA of Novo Nordisk's potential, alongside the potential side effects to consider before joining this battle against illness.

    Novo Nordisk financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 1.94

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 27.68%
    • Return on equity (ROE): 88.62%
    • Return on investment (ROI): 55.28%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: 84.53%
    • Operating margin: 43.25%
    • Net profit margin: 34.86%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): 16.48%
    • EPS (current): 2.91
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 0.89
    • EPS growth (this year): 24.73%
    • EPS growth (next year): 25.42%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 2.8%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): 2.79%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 14.25%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 23.82%

    💡 Why invest in Novo Nordisk?

    Diabetes dominance, innovation pipeline, global expansion powerhouse, and sustainability crusader make Novo Nordisk a potentially sweet portfolio addition.

    • Diabetes Dominance: Novo Nordisk reigns supreme in the global insulin market, boasting unrivaled expertise and brand loyalty, ensuring a robust foundation for consistent revenue streams.
    • Innovation Pipeline: Beyond traditional insulin, Novo Nordisk pumps resources into next-generation drugs and technologies, targeting diverse aspects of diabetes and expanding its reach into other chronic diseases.
    • Global Expansion Powerhouse: With operations spanning continents, Novo Nordisk taps into diverse healthcare needs and unlocks international growth potential, particularly in emerging markets.
    • Sustainability Crusader: Embracing environmental and social responsibility initiatives, Novo Nordisk aligns with investors seeking socially conscious investments and attracts talent in a competitive market.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in Novo Nordisk

    Valuation concerns, patent cliff hangs, healthcare policy shifts, and competition intensifies cast a shadow of potential side effects for Novo Nordisk investors.

    • Valuation Concerns: Like many established healthcare players, Novo Nordisk's stock currently sits near all-time highs, demanding a cautious approach due to potentially limited immediate gains.
    • Patent Cliff Hangs: Expiring patents on key drugs could impact future revenue streams, making careful analysis of Novo Nordisk's pipeline crucial for long-term investors.
    • Healthcare Policy Shifts: Evolving healthcare policies and pricing pressures can affect Novo Nordisk's profitability and demand agility in navigating regulatory landscapes.
    • Competition Intensifies: Smaller biotech firms and nimble rivals are challenging Novo Nordisk's dominance, requiring constant innovation and strategic adaptability to maintain market share.

    Final thoughts on Novo Nordisk

    Novo Nordisk's diabetes leadership, robust innovation pipeline, global reach, and commitment to sustainability offer a potentially rewarding picture for long-term investors seeking healthcare exposure. However, near-peak valuation, patent cliff uncertainties, policy shifts, and rising competition warrant a measured approach. Thorough research, analysis of Novo Nordisk's future plans and market dynamics, and a clear understanding of your risk tolerance are crucial before joining this medical titan's battle against disease. Remember, navigating the complexities of healthcare stocks requires both a discerning eye for medical breakthroughs and a balanced perspective on market risks. Choose wisely, and your portfolio might just contribute to a healthier future for both your wealth and well-being.

  • AbbVie (ABBV)

    AbbVie isn't a company you might hear about every day, but within the world of pharmaceuticals, it's a titan. This American biopharmaceutical company focuses on researching, developing, and commercializing advanced therapies that address complex health challenges. Imagine AbbVie as a beacon of hope for millions. Their expertise lies in discovering and delivering innovative treatments for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and various cancers. One of their most successful products, Humira, combats autoimmune conditions, significantly improving the lives of patients. Beyond its blockbuster drugs, AbbVie prioritizes building a pipeline of future treatments. They actively invest in research and development, constantly seeking groundbreaking therapies across diverse therapeutic areas. This commitment to innovation positions AbbVie as a potential leader in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. However, navigating the world of pharmaceuticals requires a keen eye. While AbbVie boasts established products and a robust pipeline, investors should consider the challenges in this sector, such as patent expirations and the ever-present focus on drug pricing.

    AbbVie financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 1.79

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 3.82%
    • Return on equity (ROE): 53.93%
    • Return on investment (ROI): 8.17%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: 69.31%
    • Operating margin: 31.96%
    • Net profit margin: 9.63%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): -5.77%
    • EPS (current): 2.99
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 2.95
    • EPS growth (this year): -2.12%
    • EPS growth (next year): 11.3%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 6.26%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): -32.44%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 11.76%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 4.31%

    💡 Why invest in AbbVie?

    Several key factors make AbbVie an attractive prospect for investors seeking exposure to the healthcare sector:

    • Leader in Advanced Therapies: AbbVie holds a prominent position in developing and commercializing innovative treatments for various conditions, improving patients' lives.
    • Established Products: Blockbuster drugs like Humira generate significant revenue streams for AbbVie, fostering stability and funding for future endeavors.
    • Focus on R&D: AbbVie prioritizes research and development, constantly innovating and building a pipeline of promising new treatments for diverse therapeutic areas.
    • Strong Commercial Capabilities: AbbVie leverages its expertise to effectively market and distribute its medications, ensuring patients have access to their treatments.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in AbbVie

    While AbbVie boasts established products and a robust pipeline, investors should consider the challenges in this sector, such as patent expirations and the ever-present focus on drug pricing:

    • Patent Expirations: The expiration of patents on established drugs like Humira can lead to a decline in revenue if AbbVie fails to successfully replace them with new therapies.
    • Drug Pricing Scrutiny: The rising cost of medications is a major concern, and AbbVie faces ongoing pressure to justify the pricing of its drugs.
    • Regulatory Environment: The pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated, and AbbVie must comply with a complex set of rules governing clinical trials, drug approvals, and marketing practices.

    Final thoughts on AbbVie

    AbbVie's established product portfolio, focus on R&D, and strong commercial capabilities paint a potentially promising picture for long-term investors seeking exposure to the healthcare sector. However, patent expirations, drug pricing scrutiny, and the complex regulatory environment necessitate a cautious approach. Thorough research, analysis of AbbVie's plans to address these challenges, and a clear understanding of your risk tolerance are crucial before joining this healthcare investment expedition. Remember, navigating the intricate terrain of pharmaceutical stocks requires both an awareness of scientific advancements and a discerning eye for AbbVie's ability to navigate the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Choose wisely, and your portfolio might find itself well-positioned alongside the success story of AbbVie.

  • UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH)

    UnitedHealth Group Incorporated isn't your typical healthcare company. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, they've ascended to become the world's largest health insurance company by revenue. But they're more than just insurance providers; UnitedHealth is a healthcare guardian, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to keep you healthy and your finances secure. Imagine them as a shield protecting you from the rising costs of medical care, while simultaneously guiding you towards a healthier lifestyle.

    UnitedHealth Group Incorporated financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 1.33

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 4.98%
    • Return on equity (ROE): 16.43%
    • Return on investment (ROI): 9.21%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: N/A
    • Operating margin: 7.79%
    • Net profit margin: 3.68%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): 14.37%
    • EPS (current): 15.12
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 7.06
    • EPS growth (this year): 10.27%
    • EPS growth (next year): 12.48%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 12.38%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): -21.39%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 10.25%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 6.41%

    💡 Why invest in UnitedHealth Group Incorporated?

    Several factors make UnitedHealth Group an attractive prospect for investors seeking exposure to the essential healthcare sector:

    • Market Leader: UnitedHealth boasts a dominant market presence in the health insurance industry, offering a diversified portfolio of insurance plans.
    • Focus on Innovation: Their commitment to developing new technologies and healthcare solutions positions them well for future growth in a rapidly evolving sector.
    • Integrated Approach: UnitedHealthcare's insurance coverage coupled with Optum's healthcare services creates a unique value proposition for both patients and investors.
    • Strong Financials: UnitedHealth consistently demonstrates a track record of financial stability and profitability.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in UnitedHealth Group Incorporated

    The healthcare sector presents its own set of challenges:

    • Regulatory Environment: The healthcare industry is heavily regulated, and changes in government policies can impact reimbursement rates and business practices.
    • Rising Healthcare Costs: Medical care continues to become more expensive, putting pressure on insurers and impacting profitability.
    • Competition: UnitedHealth faces competition from other established insurance providers vying for market share.

    Final thoughts on UnitedHealth Group Incorporated

    UnitedHealth Group's strong market position, focus on innovation, integrated approach, and financial stability paint a potentially promising picture for long-term investors seeking exposure to the healthcare sector. However, the ever-changing regulatory environment, rising healthcare costs, and competition necessitate a cautious approach. Thorough research, analysis of UnitedHealth's strategies for navigating these challenges, and a clear understanding of your risk tolerance are crucial before adding UnitedHealth Group to your portfolio. Remember, a healthy portfolio starts with a healthy you. UnitedHealth Group's ability to deliver on both fronts will be key to its continued success. Choose wisely, and your portfolio might find itself in good health alongside the UnitedHealth Group story.

  • Cardinal Health (CAH)

    Cardinal Health is a leading healthcare services company that provides pharmaceuticals and medical products to healthcare providers. They operate in three primary segments: Pharmaceutical Distribution, Medical Products, and Specialty Care.

    Cardinal Health financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 2.39

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 1.92%
    • Return on equity (ROE): N/A
    • Return on investment (ROI): 46.12%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: 3.16%
    • Operating margin: 0.94%
    • Net profit margin: 0.37%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): -5.3%
    • EPS (current): 3.47
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 1.63
    • EPS growth (this year): 1.36%
    • EPS growth (next year): 10.86%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 11.03%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): 480.95%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 9.33%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 12%

    💡 Why invest in Cardinal Health?

    Cardinal Health offers several potential advantages for investors seeking exposure to the healthcare industry:

    • Essential Role: As a distributor of pharmaceuticals and medical products, Cardinal Health plays a critical role in the healthcare supply chain.
    • Diversified Revenue Streams: The company's three segments provide a diversified revenue base, reducing reliance on any single market.
    • Scale and Efficiency: Cardinal Health's size and scale enable it to leverage its distribution network and negotiate favorable terms with suppliers.
    • Growth Potential: The healthcare industry continues to grow, driven by factors such as an aging population and increasing demand for medical services.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in Cardinal Health

    However, before investing in Cardinal Health, it's crucial to consider these potential challenges:

    • Regulatory Environment: The healthcare industry is heavily regulated, with changes in government policies impacting reimbursement rates and market dynamics.
    • Competition: The pharmaceutical distribution and medical products markets are competitive, with both established players and new entrants vying for market share.
    • Supply Chain Disruptions: Issues with product availability, transportation, or manufacturing can impact operations and profitability.
    • Economic Conditions: Economic downturns can affect healthcare spending and demand for medical products.

    Final thoughts on Cardinal Health

    Cardinal Health's role as a healthcare distribution leader, diversified revenue streams, and scale offer potential advantages for investors. However, the regulatory environment, competition, supply chain risks, and economic factors necessitate careful consideration. Thorough research on Cardinal Health's market share, financial performance, and the overall healthcare industry trends is crucial before investing.

  • The Cigna Group (CI)

    The Cigna Group, incorporated in Delaware but headquartered in Bloomfield, Connecticut, is a multinational giant in the healthcare and insurance space. With a rich history dating back to 1982, they've established themselves as a leading provider of health insurance, dental plans, and other related products and services. The Cigna Group looks beyond simply offering insurance; they strive to be a partner in navigating the complexities of healthcare and achieving total well-being.

    The Cigna Group financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 1.58

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 2.51%
    • Return on equity (ROE): 8.55%
    • Return on investment (ROI): 5.19%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: N/A
    • Operating margin: 3.53%
    • Net profit margin: 1.72%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): 10.54%
    • EPS (current): 12.71
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 7.31
    • EPS growth (this year): 13.57%
    • EPS growth (next year): 11.72%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 11.91%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): 10.82%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 48.25%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 24.4%

    💡 Why invest in The Cigna Group?

    The Cigna Group's strong position in the healthcare industry offers several potential advantages for investors seeking exposure to this critical sector:

    • Essential service: Health insurance is a must-have, making Cigna's offerings crucial for individuals and businesses.
    • Diversified products: Cigna offers a wide range of health and dental plans, reducing reliance on any single market segment.
    • Innovation focus: Cigna invests in new technologies to improve healthcare access, affordability, and customer experience.
    • Global presence: Operating in over 65 countries allows Cigna to benefit from growth in emerging healthcare markets.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in The Cigna Group

    However, before investing in The Cigna Group, it's crucial to consider the potential challenges they face:

    • Competitive landscape: The healthcare insurance industry is crowded, with Cigna needing a competitive edge in cost, coverage, and digital experience.
    • Regulatory environment: Changes in government policies or healthcare laws can significantly impact Cigna's products, pricing, and profitability.
    • Rising healthcare costs: Cigna must manage costs effectively while offering comprehensive coverage to customers.
    • Economic downturns: During economic downturns, businesses and individuals might cut back on healthcare spending, impacting Cigna's revenue growth.

    Final thoughts on The Cigna Group

    The Cigna Group's strong brand, experience, diversified products, and focus on innovation paint a promising picture for long-term investors seeking exposure to the essential healthcare sector. However, the competitive landscape, regulatory environment, rising healthcare costs, and economic sensitivity necessitate careful consideration. Thorough research on Cigna's innovation pipeline, their strategies for navigating these challenges, and a clear understanding of your risk tolerance are crucial before adding The Cigna Group to your portfolio. Remember, in today's world, navigating healthcare can be complex, and The Cigna Group strives to be a guiding force. Their story could be a healthy addition to your investment journey.

  • AstraZeneca (AZN)

    AstraZeneca is a British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company with a rich history and a bright future. Founded in 1999 through the merger of Astra (UK) and Zeneca (Sweden), AstraZeneca has grown into a global leader, headquartered at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus in England. They boast a robust portfolio of medicines across various therapeutic areas, with a strong focus on innovation and life-changing treatments. AstraZeneca is more than just a pill manufacturer. They actively invest in research and development, consistently bringing new and innovative drugs to market across various therapeutic areas, including oncology (cancer), cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and infectious diseases. Their dedication to medical advancements positions them at the forefront of breakthroughs that improve patient lives worldwide.

    AstraZeneca financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 1.62

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 6.41%
    • Return on equity (ROE): 16.75%
    • Return on investment (ROI): 9.51%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: 74.22%
    • Operating margin: 19.09%
    • Net profit margin: 13.11%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): 17.72%
    • EPS (current): 2.06
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 1.05
    • EPS growth (this year): 13.25%
    • EPS growth (next year): 15.52%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 13.1%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): 5.99%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 16.24%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 13.33%

    💡 Why invest in AstraZeneca?

    Several key factors make AstraZeneca an attractive prospect for investors seeking exposure to the growing healthcare sector:

    • Leader in Pharmaceuticals: AstraZeneca ranks among the top ten pharmaceutical companies globally based on sales, boasting a strong market presence and brand recognition.
    • Focus on Innovation and R&D: Their commitment to research and development fuels a steady pipeline of new drugs, ensuring future growth and addressing unmet medical needs.
    • Diverse Product Portfolio: AstraZeneca offers a wide range of medicines across various therapeutic areas, mitigating risk by not relying on a single product or treatment category.
    • Global Reach and Accessibility: Their global presence and focus on affordability programs ensure broader access to their medications, improving healthcare outcomes worldwide.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in AstraZeneca

    While AstraZeneca's strong market position, focus on R&D, and diverse product portfolio are strengths, there are challenges to consider in the pharmaceutical industry:

    • Drug Development Risks: The research and development process for new drugs is expensive, time-consuming, and fraught with risk. Not all drugs in development make it to market.
    • Patent Expirations: Exclusive marketing rights for certain drugs eventually expire, opening the door to generic competition and potentially impacting revenue.
    • Regulatory Scrutiny: The pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated, with strict guidelines for drug development, testing, and marketing, potentially impacting development timelines and costs.
    • Drug Pricing and Affordability Debates: The high cost of some medications can spark debate and government intervention, potentially affecting pricing strategies.

    Final thoughts on AstraZeneca

    AstraZeneca's strong market position, focus on innovation, and diverse product portfolio paint a potentially promising picture for long-term investors seeking exposure to the vital healthcare sector. However, the inherent risks of drug development, patent expiries, regulatory hurdles, and pricing debates necessitate a cautious approach. Thorough research, analysis of AstraZeneca's development pipeline, strategies for navigating challenges, and a clear understanding of your risk tolerance are crucial before adding AstraZeneca to your portfolio. Remember, medical advancements are crucial for global well-being. AstraZeneca's ability to deliver innovative and accessible treatments will be key to its continued success. Choose wisely, and your portfolio might find itself aligned with a healthier future alongside the AstraZeneca story.

  • Abbott Laboratories (ABT)

    In the vibrant realm where test tubes dance with diagnostics and medicine hums a symphony of healing, Abbott Laboratories reigns supreme. This medical device and healthcare titan isn't just crafting pills and pacemakers; it's orchestrating a global symphony of innovation, tackling diverse health challenges and transforming lives one breakthrough at a time. But can this healthcare maestro translate its medical mastery into rewarding returns for your portfolio? Let's explore the hidden currents propelling Abbott's rise, alongside the potential side effects to consider before joining this medical odyssey.

    Abbott Laboratories financial statements

    Analysts recommendation: 1.78

    Financial Health

    • Return on assets (ROA): 7.56%
    • Return on equity (ROE): 14.47%
    • Return on investment (ROI): 10.55%

    Profitability

    • Gross margin: 50.63%
    • Operating margin: 16.24%
    • Net profit margin: 13.59%

    Growth

    • EPS (past 5 years): 19.65%
    • EPS (current): 3.17
    • EPS estimate (next quarter): 1.2
    • EPS growth (this year): 4.96%
    • EPS growth (next year): 10.36%
    • EPS growth (next 5 years): 8.2%
    • EPS growth (quarter-over-quarter): -5.38%
    • Sales growth (past 5 years): 6.1%
    • Sales growth (quarter-over-quarter): 4%

    💡 Why invest in Abbott Laboratories?

    Abbott's robust profile makes it a tempting pick for investors seeking exposure to the ever-evolving healthcare sector. Here's what fuels its formidable medical toolbox:

    • Healthcare Heavyweight: Abbott boasts a diversified portfolio spanning diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. This leadership in multiple healthcare facets translates to consistent revenue streams and mitigates risk by not relying solely on one drug's success.
    • Innovation Alchemist: From futuristic continuous glucose monitors to next-generation heart valves, Abbott invests heavily in R&D, striving to stay ahead of the curve with solutions that redefine diagnoses, treatments, and patient monitoring. This commitment to innovation ensures its offerings remain relevant and future-proofs its operations.
    • Global Guardian: With operations spanning continents, Abbott caters to diverse healthcare needs worldwide and unlocks international growth potential. This global reach provides access to emerging markets with burgeoning healthcare demands, further bolstering its future prospects.
    • Dividend Dynamo: Abbott boasts a strong track record of consistent dividend payments, returning a portion of its profits to shareholders. This income stream coupled with potential capital appreciation provides a compelling reason for long-term investors.

    🐌 Key considerations before investing in Abbott Laboratories

    While Abbott navigates the healthcare labyrinth with its diversified portfolio and innovative solutions, there are some potential side effects to consider before joining this high-stakes journey:

    • Valuation Concerns: Like many established healthcare companies, ABT's stock can be volatile, and the current price might reflect expectations of future drug approvals, clinical trial outcomes, and overall market trends. A cautious approach with a patient, long-term perspective is wise.
    • Regulatory Headwinds: Evolving regulations surrounding drug approvals, healthcare reforms, and pricing policies can impact Abbott's profitability and market access. Close monitoring of regulatory developments and their impact on the sector is crucial.
    • Patent Precipices: Loss of exclusivity for key drugs due to patent expiry can impact revenue streams. Regularly assessing Abbott's pipeline and patent expirations is important for understanding future growth potential.
    • Healthcare Jitters: Macroeconomic factors like healthcare reforms and insurance coverage changes can impact patient access to treatment and indirectly affect Abbott's sales. Diversification in your portfolio mitigates this risk.

    Final thoughts on Abbott Laboratories

    Abbott's diversified portfolio, commitment to innovation, global reach, and consistent dividends paint a potentially promising picture for long-term investors seeking exposure to the dynamic healthcare sector. However, the volatile nature of the stock, regulatory headwinds, patent considerations, and healthcare uncertainties warrant a measured approach. Thorough research, analysis of Abbott's future plans and the healthcare landscape, and a clear understanding of your risk tolerance are crucial before joining this medical expedition. Remember, navigating the intricate terrain of healthcare stocks requires both a discerning eye for cutting-edge solutions and a balanced perspective on potential challenges. Choose wisely, and your portfolio might just find itself feeling healthy alongside the success story of Abbott Laboratories.

If you are interested in other stock categories, check out my other lists of the best dividend retail, financial, utility, healthcare, basic materials, energy, industrial, tech stocks.