Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its long-term rating to 'A-' from 'BBB+' on South Dakota Health and Educational Facilities Authority's $3.5 million series 1994 bonds and $4.4 million series 2005 bonds, issued for Huron Regional Medical Center Inc. Although it is unusual to have a critical-care-access hospital included in the 'A' category, Huron's consistent operating performance, sizable investment income, and overwhelmingly strong balance sheet support the 'A-' rating. The outlook is stable. Additional rating factors include Huron's: Market share of 65.6% within its primary service area; Continued operating income strength, generating excellent debt service coverage of 7.1x for fiscal 2007, ended June 30, and 6.4x for the seven-month interim period ended Jan. 31, 2008; Days' cash on hand of
