Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'AA+' long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) and its 'AA+/A-1+' dual rating (various issuers and various modes) on all senior revenue bonds issued for Ascension Health Alliance (AHA; d.b.a. Ascension), Mo. In addition, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'AA' long-term rating on Ascension's series 2005A subordinated revenue bonds. The 'AA+' long-term component of our dual ratings is based on our view of Ascension's credit quality, while the 'A-1+' short-term component is based on our view of Ascension's self-liquidity. The 'AA+' ratings are based on our view of Ascension's group credit profile (GCP) and the obligated group's "core" status. Accordingly, we rate the bonds at the same level as the GCP. The outlook on
