CVS Health is currently exploring strategic options, including a potential breakup of its retail and insurance units, amid mounting pressure from investors and declining stock performance. According to sources familiar with the matter, the company has been consulting with advisors to review various strategic alternatives, although no concrete decisions have been made yet. The evaluation is ongoing, with discussions about potentially separating the company's pharmacy chain from its insurance business having taken place over recent weeks.

The potential separation would effectively reverse CVS's ambitious $70 billion acquisition of healthcare insurer Aetna in 2017. The discussions have also extended to the future positioning of CVS's pharmacy benefits manager unit, which manages drug benefits for health plans. If a breakup occurs, it could result in two publicly traded companies, realigning the company’s structure and potentially increasing shareholder value.

CVS has faced significant operational challenges recently, particularly within its Medicare business, which has been impacted by rising healthcare costs. The company lowered its 2024 profit forecast for the third consecutive quarter in August, leading to increasing pressure from key investors like Glenview Capital. This has further amplified calls for strategic changes to improve the company's performance and stock price, which has fallen nearly 25% this year.

CVS CEO Karen Lynch and the management team have been actively engaged in discussions with major shareholders about the company's future plans. Despite the pressure, Lynch remains focused on driving performance and leveraging CVS's integrated model to deliver high-quality healthcare products and services. The company has also experienced significant leadership turnover, with Lynch recently taking direct control of the insurance unit after displacing its then-president.

The potential breakup reflects broader industry challenges, with other major health insurers like UnitedHealth Group and Humana also reporting rising medical costs. CVS's market value stands at around $79 billion with substantial debt, prompting analysts to suggest that strategic changes are necessary to unlock value.

The ongoing review by CVS and its advisors signals the company's commitment to exploring all avenues to improve its financial health and operational performance. While future actions remain uncertain, the options being considered could reshape the company's trajectory and potentially restore investor confidence.

In conclusion, CVS Health's exploration of a potential breakup signifies a critical juncture for the company as it seeks to address investor concerns and adapt to a challenging healthcare landscape. The outcome of this strategic review could have significant implications for the company's future structure and market position.