Business Segment Information (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Charges reflecting for segment reporting purposes
Restructuring, settlement and impairment provisions	$ 5,670	$ 49,138	$ 46,003
Home Health [Member]
Charges reflecting for segment reporting purposes
Restructuring, settlement and impairment provisions	5,600	7,700	11,800
Hospice [Member]
Charges reflecting for segment reporting purposes
Restructuring, settlement and impairment provisions	400	3,700	300
Corporate expenses [Member]
Charges reflecting for segment reporting purposes
Restructuring, settlement and impairment provisions	$ (300)	$ 37,700	$ 33,900