S&P Global Ratings downgraded Augusta (Ga.) University Medical Center's issuer credit rating to "BBB" from "A-."
"The lowered rating reflects our view of AUMC's unexpectedly weak balance sheet and accelerating operating losses in fiscal [year] 2016 and through the first 11 months of fiscal 2017 ended May 31," said Wendy Towber, an S&P Global Ratings credit analyst.
S&P also acknowledged the potential upcoming changes in the governance, management and organizational structure at Augusta University Health System, which is affiliated with AUMC.
The outlook is stable.