Massachusetts-based Partners Healthcare showing signs of recovery

Partners HealthCare, the largest healthcare system in Massachusetts, has reported an $18 million deficit through the first nine months of the 2009 fiscal year, but narrowed its loss in the third quarter. Operating income of $129 million for the nine months ended June 30 was offset by losses of $147 million, mainly from investments. If Partners were to post a loss for its full fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30, it would be the first in the company's 15-year history.