NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) Nov. 26, 2002--Standard&Poor's Ratings Services said today it affirmed its 'A-1+' rating on Ascension Health, Mo.'s outstanding taxable commercial paper program. This program is being enlarged to $500 million from the current $250 million. The rating reflects a joint and several obligation, pursuant to supplemental master trust indenture obligation 46, of each member of the operating group. Ascension Health is rated 'AA' and its outlook is stable. Liquidity support is provided by Ascension Health's self-liquidity program and a dedicated, $425 million line of credit provided by Bank of America, NA ($100 million; 'AA-'/'A-1+'), Landesbank Hessen-Thuringen Girozentrale ($100 million; 'AAA'/'A-1+'), Bank One, NA ($75 million; 'A+'/'A-1'), State Street Bank and Trust Co. ($50 million;
