Moody's Investors Service affirmed its "A1" rating on Greenville (S.C.) Health System's bond ratings, affecting $490 million of debt.
The affirmation is a result of several factors, including the health system's wide array of services, stable market position and overall significant growth with establishing a new school of medicine and school of nursing.
The outlook was revised to negative from stable, reflecting several challenges, including the system's below average cash flow margins and the risks associated with integrating Columbia, S.C.-based Palmetto Health into the organization. The two systems recently finalized their partnership, establishing a 13-hospital entity. It remains important to note both Palmetto Health and Greenville have separate obligated groups.