Standard & Poor's has revised the outlook to positive from stable on various series of healthcare revenue debt issued on behalf of Memphis, Tenn.-based Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare & Affiliates and affirmed the system's "A+" long-term and underlying ratings.
The outlook revision and rating affirmation were supported by a number of factors, including Methodist's solid business position and leading market share in Memphis.
"The outlook revision to positive reflects Methodist's consistent operating performance in fiscal 2014 and improved results through the first three months ended March 2015, contributing to strong coverage of maximum annual debt service and increasing balance sheet strength," said S&P credit analyst Margaret McNamara.