Goodwill (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013 Residential Services	Sep. 30, 2013 ResCare HomeCare	Sep. 30, 2013 Education & Training Services	Dec. 31, 2012 Education & Training Services	Sep. 30, 2013 Workforce Services	Dec. 31, 2012 Workforce Services	Sep. 30, 2013 Pharmacy Services	Dec. 31, 2012 Pharmacy Services
Summary of changes to goodwill
Goodwill, net at the beginning of the period	$ 288,265	$ 169,547	$ 66,361	$ 15,311	$ 15,311	$ 32,720	$ 32,720	$ 4,326	$ 4,326
Goodwill added through acquisitions	13,282	8,618	4,664
Other	163	163
Goodwill, net at the end of the period	$ 301,710	$ 178,328	$ 71,025	$ 15,311	$ 15,311	$ 32,720	$ 32,720	$ 4,326	$ 4,326

Amount after accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized.

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