Fitch Ratings has affirmed the "BBB" rating assigned to $134.7 million of series 2014A and $190.4 million of series 2012 outstanding revenue bonds issued on behalf of Crystal Lake, Ill.-based Centegra Health System and Affiliates.
The rating affirmation was supported by a number of factors, including Centegra's strategic investment progress, and its leading market share position in a growing service area with a favorable demographic profile, according to Fitch.
Still, Centegra faces a high debt burden due to 2014 debt issuance. In May 2014, Centegra issued approximately $193 million of series 2014 bonds (approximately $134.7 million rated by Fitch) to build a new 128-bed hospital in Huntley, Ill.
Fitch said Centegra management will have to at least meet, if not exceed, projected financial performance through the opening of the new hospital.
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