Moody's Investors Servicehas affirmed the "Aa2" and "Aa2/VMIG 1" bond ratings on Evanston, Ill.-based NorthShore University HealthSystem's outstanding bonds.
The rating affirmations were supported by a number of factors, including the system's good geographic coverage. NorthShore has a 22 percent market share, which is the leading share in its service area.
In addition, NorthShore's plan to merge with Downers Grove, Ill.-based Advocate Health Care to create a 16-hospital system — the largest health system in
NorthShore also faces some challenges, which were considered for the rating affirmations, such as facing competition from several hospitals in the broader service area.
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