Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'A' long-term rating to Maryland Health and Higher Education Facilities Authority's $250 million series 2010 revenue and refunding bonds, issued for University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS). In addition, long-term ratings and underlying ratings are affirmed on various series of bonds issued for UMMS totaling $575.0 million. Total debt outstanding after issuance of the series 2010 bonds is expected to be approximately $1.02 billion. The 'A' rating reflects the following credit strengths: UMMS's role as one of Maryland's (general obligation debt rating; 'AAA') leading health systems that benefits from its strong relationship of its physician faculty who all hold appointments at the University System of Maryland ('AA+') medical school; Very strong patient utilization
