Fitch Ratings affirmed its "AA-" issuer default rating on Arlington-based Virginia Hospital Center.
Concurrently, Fitch affirmed its "AA-" rating on VHC's $98.9 million series 2010 revenue bonds.
The affirmations are a result of several factors, including VHC's strong liquidity metrics, low leverage, solid market position and favorable payer mix. Fitch views VHC's upcoming expansion project as credit-favorable because it addresses capacity constraints and helps solidify market share. Fitch also acknowledged the hospital center's EHR implementation, which will temporarily weaken operating profitability through fiscal year 2018.
The outlook is stable and has been removed from credit watch positive.