Here are eight hospitals and health systems with strong operational metrics and solid financial positions, according to recent reports from Moody's Investors Service and Fitch Ratings.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Hospital and health system names were compiled from recent credit rating reports and are listed in alphabetical order.
1. Dallas-based Baylor Scott & White Health has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The health system has strong cash flow margins and its favorable demographics will contribute to volume and revenue growth, according to Moody's.
2. Orange, Calif.-based Children's Hospital of Orange County has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. The hospital has a strong financial profile, and Fitch expects its capital-related ratios to improve.
3. Newark, Del.-based Christiana Care has an "Aa2" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The health system has solid margins and a robust balance sheet, according to Moody's.
4. Fort Worth, Texas-based Cook Children's Medical Center has an "Aa2" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The hospital has a strong market position and solid operating performance, according to Moody's.
5. Durham, N.C.-based Duke University Health System has an "Aa2" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The health system is a leading provider of tertiary and quaternary services and has solid margins and cash levels, according to Moody's.
6. St. Louis-based SSM Health Care has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. SSM has a strong financial profile, and Fitch expects the system to continue growing unrestricted liquidity and to maintain improved operational performance.
7. Appleton, Wis.-based ThedaCare has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. The health system has a leading market share in a stable service area and strong operating performance, according to Fitch.
8. Cincinnati-based TriHealth has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. Fitch expects the health system to maintain good operating ratios leading to liquidity growth.
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