The rating on North Carolina Medical Care Commission's bonds, issued for Southeastern Regional Medical Center, reflects the hospital's: Strong market position as the sole community provider in its service area, Steady growth in business volumes, Consistently profitable operations resulting in above average 3.4 times (x) pro forma coverage, and Sound balance sheet. A higher rating is precluded by: Limited economic base with above-average unemployment rate, A vulnerable payor mix complement, and Potential reimbursement threats. The bond proceeds will reimburse the hospital for previous capital expenditures and finance renovation of the emergency room, imaging center, and other inpatient areas. Southeastern is a 282-staffed bed acute provider located in Lumberton, about 150 miles from Raleigh, N.C. The hospital enjoys its dominant market
