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WellPoint, like other health insurers, could see significant enrollment gains after the health care overhaul expands in a couple years to cover millions of uninsured people. But it also will face fees and costs tied to the 2010 law, which is currently being reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court. Goulet said WellPoint wants to diversify its revenue sources "to make the company healthier and more balanced," and part of that involves adding businesses that fit into its portfolio but are separate from its core insurance products. Plus, he said 1-800 Contacts receives high customer satisfaction and refill rates, and that can help WellPoint's push to become more consumer friendly. Many health care companies are increasing their focus on consumers because their customers or patients are being exposed more to the rising costs of care and coverage, and they're becoming more knowledgeable about other options available to them. WellPoint expects the deal to close in the third quarter and will finance it with cash on hand. The insurer expects its 2012 earnings to take a hit of 4 cents per share due to transaction and integration costs. WellPoint shares fell 91 cents, or nearly 1.4 percent, to close at $65.45 Monday. They are up 16 percent from their 52-week low of $56.61 in August. They peaked for the past year at $80.90 last July.
[Associated
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