Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details 2) (Odyssey Health Care Inc [Member], USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2010
Odyssey Health Care Inc [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net revenues	$ 1,853,244
Net income attributable to Gentiva shareholders	$ 62,767
Earnings per common share, Basic	$ 2.11
Earnings per common share, Diluted	$ 2.06
Weighted average shares outstanding, Basic	29,724
Weighted average shares outstanding, Diluted	30,468

The pro forma basic net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

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