Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'BBB' rating, with a stable outlook, on Surry County Northern Hospital District, N.C.'s revenue debt. The rating reflects our opinion of the district's: Solid balance sheet, characterized by 204 days' cash on hand as of June 30, 2012; Several years of solid operating performance, generating sound coverage, though performance has been softer recently; and Solid market position with a 46% market share in the primary service area. We believe somewhat offsetting factors include the district's: Economically challenged service area, leading to some volume pressure; Poor payor mix with a reliance on disproportionate share payments to generate operating profitability -- The district received $1.4 million through the first nine months of fiscal 2012; and
