Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has affirmed its 'BBB+' rating on Ward County, N.D.'s revenue bonds issued for the Trinity Obligated Group (Trinity Health System), but has revised the outlook to stable from negative. The rating reflects: Enhanced competitive position, offset by substantial additional debt; Improved profitability that has generated adequate coverage for the rating category; Volume stability, despite Trinity's rural location, provided through employment of virtually the entire medical staff; and Anticipated buildup in liquidity over the next several years. In 2001, Trinity Health System acquired its only competitor from Triad Health for $38 million. The purchase included UniMed Medical Center, the only other hospital in Minot, and a satellite facility, Kenmare Community Hospital, which is located approximately 45
