DaVita Inc. , a leading provider of kidney care services for those diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), today announced the appointment of John Schaeffler as the company's Senior Vice President of Federal Legislative Affairs. He will lead the organization's public policy efforts in Washington, D.C. and report to DaVita CEO Kent Thiry.

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"John has distinguished himself as a leader in shaping public policy for important health-related issues, and we look forward to having him as a part of our team. John's expertise will help DaVita continue to showcase how we provide the highest quality kidney care with clinical differentiations that consistently exceed national averages," said Kent Thiry, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DaVita.

Prior to joining DaVita, Schaeffler led GE Healthcare in the establishment of a global government relations program. In this role, he was responsible for developing and executing advocacy strategies to address critical policy priorities. He previously served in leadership positions with The American Health Care Association and in the offices of former U.S. Representatives David Minge and Gerry Sikorski. He received his bachelor's degree in political science from The American University's School of Public Affairs.

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About DaVita Inc.

DaVita Inc., a FORTUNE 500® company, is a leading provider of kidney care in the United States, providing dialysis services and education for patients with chronic kidney failure and end stage renal disease. DaVita manages more than 1,400 outpatient facilities and acute units in more than 700 hospitals located in 43 states and the District of Columbia, serving approximately 110,000 patients. As part of DaVita's commitment to building a healthy, caring community, DaVita develops, participates in and donates to numerous programs dedicated to transforming communities and creating positive, sustainable change for children, families and our environment. For more information about DaVita, its kidney education materials, and its community programs, please visit www.davita.com.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: LeAnne.Zumwalt@davita.com

SOURCE: DaVita Inc.