DaVita Inc. today announced it has acquired the kidney dialysis programs owned by The Nebraska Medical Center that serves approximately 260 patients in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. In addition, DaVita has entered into an agreement to provide inpatient dialysis services at The Nebraska Medical Center.

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"The Nebraska Medical Center spent more than a year investigating dialysis companies looking primarily at patient outcomes and quality of care. What we found with DaVita is a company that closely mirrors our commitment to patient care and delivers patient outcomes well above industry standards," said Glenn Fosdick, FACHE, president and CEO of The Nebraska Medical Center. "Our patients and staff are our top priority and DaVita has worked closely with us to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved."

Kent Thiry, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "This acquisition establishes us as a leading provider of dialysis services in Omaha, Nebraska and several neighboring communities. We are excited by the opportunity to work with the existing physicians and caregivers in fulfilling this important responsibility."

DaVita is a leading provider of dialysis services for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure. The Company owns and operates kidney dialysis centers and home peritoneal dialysis programs domestically in 33 states, as well as Washington, D.C. As of September 30, 2003, DaVita operates 547 outpatient facilities serving 47,000 patients, including 3,300 patients in 30 centers under management.

SOURCE: DaVita Inc.