Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'BBB+' rating for South Dakota Health and Educational Facilities Authority's $3.5 million series 1994 bonds and $4.8 million series 2005 bonds, issued for Huron Regional Medical Center Inc. The 'BBB+' rating reflects Huron's sound business position as a critical access provider and solid operating performance. Additional rating factors include: Market share of 60% within the primary service area; Continued operating income strength, generating excellent debt service coverage of 6.2x through the first quarter of fiscal 2007 ended Sept. 30, 2006; and Maintenance of overall balance sheet strength. Credit concerns remain regarding: Continued volume declines, which had been expected to improve during fiscal 2006 and are now showing signs of improvement during the first
