Fitch Ratings assigned an "AA+" issuer default rating to St. Louis-based Ascension Health Alliance and affirmed its "F1+" short-term rating the system's variable rate demand bonds.
Concurrently, Fitch affirmed its "AA+" rating on Ascension's senior and subordinate bonds, affecting $7.6 billion of debt.
The rating reflects Ascension's strong financial profile and significant presence in several key markets.
The rating outlook is stable.