S&P Global Ratings has assigned an "A+" long-term rating to Allentown, Pa.-based Lehigh Valley Health Network's $150 million of series 2016A bonds.
S&P also affirmed the existing ratings on LVHN's debt.
"The ratings reflect our assessment of LVHN's sound business position in the LehighValley and historically stable operating margins and debt service coverage that are in line with medians," said S&P analyst Jessica Goldman. "However, in the most recent fiscal year the organization has experienced operating challenges posting results weaker than budget and prior year balance sheet metrics that are slightly below our expectations."
The outlook is stable.