Here are five hospitals and health systems with strong operational metrics and solid financial positions based on recent reports from Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, Moody's Investors Service and Fitch Ratings.
1. San Antonio-based University Health System has an "AAA" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. The health system has a sound financial profile and operates in an area with a stable economy.
2. Chesterfield, Mo.-based Mercy Health has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. Mercy's operating margin improved in fiscal year 2015, and Moody's expects the health system to generate margins adequate for an "Aa3" rating in 2016.
3. Saint Francis Health in Tulsa, Okla., has an "Aa2" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The health system has a strong balance sheet and has continually generated strong operating performance.
4. North Mississippi Health Services in Tupelo has an "Aa3" rating and a stable outlook with Moody's. The health system has a strong balance sheet, and its operating performance improved in fiscal year 2015. North Mississippi Health Services also has a strong market presence.
5. Sacramento, Calif.-based Sutter Health has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's and an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with S&P. The health system has a strong presence in northern California and a history of strong cash flow production.
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