Capital financing demands new, innovative practices.

: Hospitals are facing challenges in the financing of capital expenditures. Credit ratings have shifted to a lower rating category. Interest rates for long-term debt have risen, and the use of short-term variable rate debt has increased. Also, the elimination of tax-exempt financing is being considered. Clearly, capital financing is in a state of flux. With a need for low cost capital, hospital financing is in a state of flux. With a need for low cost capital, hospital financial managers should study the changing credit market and consider innovative practices in healthcare financing.