Moody's Investors Service affirmed its "A1" rating on Shreveport, La.-based Willis Knighton Medical Center's outstanding rated revenue bonds, affecting $122.4 million of debt.
The affirmation is a result of several factors, including the medical center's solid market position, light debt burden and conservative investment strategy. Moody's also acknowledged the WKMC's modest balance sheet metrics and participation in an under-funded benefit pension plan.
The outlook was revised to negative from stable, reflecting the upcoming operating pressures the system will face as it navigates a cost reduction plan, rebuilds one of its facilities and absorbs the risks associated with the state's recent Medicaid expansion.