Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'A-' long-term rating on South Dakota Health and Educational Facilities Authority's $3.5 million series 1994 bonds and $3.4 million series 2005 bonds, issued for Huron Regional Medical Center Inc. (HRMC). Although it is unusual to have a critical-access hospital rated in the 'A' category, Huron's solid debt service coverage, very strong balance sheet, and good market share support the 'A-' rating. The outlook is stable. More specifically, credit strengths supporting the rating are Huron's: Extremely strong liquidity at Dec. 31, 2009 (unaudited), with 611 days' cash on hand and cash to debt of 682%; Sound excess income fueled by steady investment gains, with an excess margin of 10.5% through the first six months
