S&P Global Ratings affirmed its "A+" long-term rating on Jackson-based West Tennessee Healthcare's series 2015 and 2008 revenue bonds.
In addition, S&P revised the outlook on WTH to negative from stable.
"The negative outlook reflects our view of WTH's planned May 31, 2018, acquisition of the assets of [Franklin, Tenn.-based] Community Health System, currently doing business as Tennova West, for an estimated $67 million, and the potentially negative impact to WTH's financial profile, including but not limited to possible weaker operating performance and reduction in liquidity and financial flexibility," said S&P credit analyst Stephen Infranco.