Is National HealthCare Corporation a Buy?

National HealthCare Corporation (NHC) is a prominent provider in the healthcare sector, involved in the operation, management, and service provision for a wide array of elder care and health facilities. Its diverse portfolio includes skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, independent living residences, homecare and hospice agencies, and a specialized behavioral health hospital. Within its skilled nursing environments, NHC offers extensive therapeutic and medical care. Patients recovering from conditions such as strokes, heart attacks, orthopedic injuries, neurological ailments, or other illnesses and disabilities benefit from licensed physical, speech, respiratory, and occupational therapies. These facilities also provide essential services like nutritional guidance, social support, recreational activities, and daily necessities such as housekeeping and laundry, all complemented by physician-prescribed medical treatments. Distinctive medical specialty units further enhance care, featuring memory care for individuals with Alzheimer's and similar disorders, alongside sub-acute nursing units. NHC's assisted living centers are designed to offer personal support, helping residents with everyday tasks including dressing, bathing, meal preparation, and medication management. The company also addresses mental well-being through behavioral health services for both adults and geriatric patients, treating psychiatric, emotional, and addictive conditions. Beyond direct facility care, NHC delivers additional healthcare programs, incorporating skilled services like infusion, wound care, and advanced physical, occupational, and speech therapies. Its offerings extend to hospice care, the operation of pharmacies, and a suite of corporate services encompassing management, accounting, financial, and insurance solutions. Furthermore, NHC engages in leasing its properties to third-party operators. As of February 18, 2022, NHC's operational footprint was substantial, comprising 75 skilled nursing facilities with a capacity of 9,473 beds, 24 assisted living facilities, 5 independent living facilities, one behavioral health hospital, 34 homecare agencies, and 28 hospice agencies. Founded in 1971, National HealthCare Corporation is headquartered in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.