DaVita Inc. today announced it has acquired Kidney Care, Inc.'s five dialysis facilities that serve approximately 230 patients in greater Des Moines, Iowa. In addition, DaVita has partnered with two leading nephrology practices, Dialysis, P.C., and Des Moines Kidney Specialists to provide ongoing care at the facilities and to pursue additional growth opportunities in the area. Concurrently DaVita has entered into agreements to provide inpatient dialysis services at several local hospitals. This transaction is effective March 1, 2004.

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Kent Thiry, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DaVita, commented, "we are excited by the opportunity to partner with these high quality physicians and caregivers to fulfill the important responsibility of caring for dialysis patients in the Des Moines community."

DaVita is a leading provider of dialysis services for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure. The Company operates and provides administrative services to kidney dialysis centers and home peritoneal dialysis programs domestically in 34 states, as well as Washington, D.C. As of December 31, 2003, DaVita operates or provides administrative services to 566 outpatient facilities serving 48,500 patients.

SOURCE: DaVita Inc.