Here are five hospitals and health systems with strong operational metrics and solid financial positions based on recent reports from Moody's Investors Service, Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Health system names were compiled from recent credit rating reports. Systems are listed in alphabetical order.
1. University of Chicago Medical Center has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The hospital's cash flow is growing and its market share is increasing. Moody's expects UCMC to continue to produce improved cash flow margins and maintain its solid liquidity position.
2. Carolinas HealthCare System has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The Charlotte, N.C.-based system has solid operating performance and cash flow diversity, according to Moody's.
3. Parkview Health System has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The Fort Wayne, Ind.-based system has solid financial performance and strong debt service coverage. Moody's expects Parkview's solid operating performance to continue.
4. Memorial Healthcare System has an "AA" rating and stable outlook with S&P. The Hollywood, Fla.-based system has strong cash flow, high unrestricted reserves and light pro forma debt. S&P expects MHS to maintain its solid enterprise profile and continue to generate strong earnings and cash flow.
5. Banner Health has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch and an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with S&P. The Phoenix-based system has strong enterprise profile and good revenue diversity across its hospitals, according to S&P.
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