Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'AA-' underlying rating (SPUR), with a stable outlook, on North Carolina Medical Care Commission's hospital revenue debt, issued for CaroMont Health. Standard&Poor's also affirmed its 'AAA/A-1+' dual rating and 'AA-' SPUR, with a stable outlook, on the commission's series 2003A and 2003B variable-rate demand bonds, issued for CaroMont. The dual rating reflects the application of our joint criteria, using low correlation. The long-term rating component jointly reflects our assessment of the creditworthiness of Wells Fargo Bank N.A., the letter of credit (LOC) provider, and CaroMont, the obligor. The short-term rating component reflects our assessment of the bank's liquidity support. We have assessed the financial profile as very strong, highlighted by the
