NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) June 18, 2007--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today it has assigned its 'A' senior unsecured debt rating to $1.5 billion 144a notes issued by UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH) maturing in three-, 10-, and 30-year tranches. UNH will use the proceeds to refinance maturing debt and for general corporate purposes. "The rating reflects UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s (UNH's) very strong earnings profile, very strong competitive position, strong diversification, effective management strategy, and strong financial flexibility," said Standard&Poor's credit analyst Shellie Stoddard. Slightly offsetting these strengths, UNH maintains high goodwill levels stemming from multiple acquisitions that will persist with the intended acquisition of Sierra Health Services Inc. for $2.6 billion. Statutory capitalization is good but
