"Off-credit" vs. "off-balance sheet": a notable distinction: the distinction between the terms "off-balance sheet" and "off-credit" is crucial in accurately describing a healthcare institution's credit strength to third-party analysts working for rating agencies, credit-enhancement companies , and institutional investors - letter of credit banks and bond insurers - Treasury Management

Healthcare Financial Management, August, 2003 by Kevin T. Ponton

(c.) Rodgers, Kenneth W.; Keller, Cynthia; and Arrick, Martin D., "Nonprofit Health Care and Off Balance Sheet Debt: Credit Concern or Free Lunch?" Standard & Poor's Ratings Direct, August 18, 1999.

Kevin T. Ponton is president oF SprainBrook Group, Hawthorne, N.Y., and a member ot HFMA's Metropolitan New York Chapter. His e-mail address is kponton@mac.com.