One way UnitedHealth puts its excess cash to work is by paying -- and steadily growing -- its dividend payment. This is a feature that Buffett undoubtedly appreciates. Known for his unwavering patience, Buffett often holds on to core positions for years, if not decades.

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has acquired 5 million shares in UnitedHealth Group , a regulatory filing showed on Thursday, sending the health insurer's stock up 7% in extended trading.

Berkshire Hathaway just disclosed that it dumped $1.6 billion into a sinking ship, and Wall Street instantly paid attention.

America’s largest health insurance company had fallen nearly 63% from a 52-week high of $630.73 before Friday’s surge

Berkshire Hathaway’s UnitedHealth Group Incorporated investment highlights confidence in healthcare. Click for why I am bullish on UNH stock prospects.