Key Takeaways HCA trades at 14.67X forward P/E, above its median and industry average.Free cash flow rose 29.3% to $7.3B, fueling buybacks and dividends.Earnings are projected to grow 18.9% in 2025 and 7.1% in 2026.U.S. hospital operator HCA Healthcare, Inc. (HCA) is currently trading at a noticeable premium compared with its historical and industry benchmarks. The stock’s forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 14.67X, ahead of its five-year median of 13.91X and well above the broader indu ...