Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 9,506	$ 24,152	$ 11,316
Other comprehensive income:
Increase in fair value of cash flow hedge	964	1,247
Total other comprehensive income	964	1,247
Comprehensive income	10,470	25,399	11,316
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(3,843)	(3,730)	(266)
Comprehensive income attributable to MedEquities Realty Trust, Inc.	$ 6,627	$ 21,669	$ 11,050