National HealthCare (NHC) 10-Q 3 Aug 17 2017 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Aug. 01, 2017
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORP
Entity Central Index Key	1,047,335
Trading Symbol	nhc
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		15,195,030
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Amendment Flag	false

Interim Condensed Consolidated

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Revenues:
Net patient revenues	$ 227,847,000	$ 216,487,000	$ 455,806,000	$ 434,593,000
Other revenues	11,610,000	11,281,000	22,894,000	22,763,000
Net operating revenues	239,457,000	227,768,000	478,700,000	457,356,000
Cost and Expenses:
Salaries, wages and benefits	142,684,000	135,068,000	280,739,000	265,088,000
Other operating	62,856,000	57,306,000	126,739,000	118,615,000
Facility rent	10,079,000	10,319,000	20,167,000	20,646,000
Depreciation and amortization	10,481,000	9,495,000	20,776,000	18,849,000
Interest	1,219,000	939,000	2,277,000	1,893,000
Total costs and expenses	227,319,000	213,127,000	450,698,000	425,091,000
Income Before Non–Operating Income	12,138,000	14,641,000	28,002,000	32,265,000
Non–Operating Income	5,189,000	4,925,000	9,957,000	9,698,000
Income Before Income Taxes	17,327,000	19,566,000	37,959,000	41,963,000
Income Tax Provision	(6,758,000)	(7,700,000)	(14,757,000)	(16,398,000)
Net Income	10,569,000	11,866,000	23,202,000	25,565,000
Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest	86,000		181,000
Net Income Attributable to National HealthCare Corporation	$ 10,655,000	$ 11,866,000	$ 23,383,000	$ 25,565,000
Earnings Per Share Attributable to National HealthCare Corporation Stockholders:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.70	$ 0.78	$ 1.54	$ 1.69
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.70	$ 0.78	$ 1.54	$ 1.68
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	15,189,818	15,266,559	15,181,700	15,091,732
Diluted (in shares)	15,220,448	15,289,104	15,216,336	15,212,275
Dividends declared to common stockholders per (in dollars per share)	$ 0.48	$ 0.45	$ 0.93	$ 0.85

Interim Condensed Consolidated3

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Net income	$ 10,569	$ 11,866	$ 23,202	$ 25,565
Other Comprehensive Income:
Unrealized gains on investments in marketable securities	13,297	18,123	12,356	30,627
Reclassification adjustment for realized gains on sale of securities	(204)	(261)	(238)	(540)
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income	(5,054)	(6,887)	(4,646)	(11,554)
Other Comprehensive Income, net of tax	8,039	10,975	7,472	18,533
Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest	86		181
Comprehensive Income Attributable to National HealthCare Corporation	$ 18,694	$ 22,841	$ 30,855	$ 44,098

Interim Condensed Consolidated4

Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Current Period Unaudited) - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 60,848,000	$ 26,335,000
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	3,582,000	3,125,000
Marketable securities	148,137,000	138,013,000
Restricted marketable securities	21,963,000	22,773,000
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $7,408 and $5,743, respectively	79,640,000	82,531,000
Inventories	7,198,000	7,508,000
Prepaid expenses and other assets	3,617,000	2,648,000
Notes receivable, current portion	1,299,000	3,259,000
Federal income tax receivable	2,447,000	4,665,000
Total current assets	328,731,000	290,857,000
Property and Equipment:
Property and equipment, at cost	949,753,000	933,140,000
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(394,224,000)	(373,516,000)
Net property and equipment	555,529,000	559,624,000
Other Assets:
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	2,166,000	2,129,000
Restricted marketable securities	141,991,000	160,931,000
Deposits and other assets	5,639,000	5,244,000
Goodwill	17,600,000	17,600,000
Notes receivable, less current portion	12,245,000	13,820,000
Investments in limited liability companies	36,345,000	37,242,000
Total other assets	215,986,000	236,966,000
Total assets	1,100,246,000	1,087,447,000
Current Liabilities:
Trade accounts payable	14,738,000	18,593,000
Capital lease obligations, current portion	3,587,000	3,481,000
Accrued payroll	53,311,000	65,912,000
Amounts due to third party payors	17,950,000	17,019,000
Accrued risk reserves, current portion	25,545,000	25,898,000
Other current liabilities	14,623,000	13,207,000
Dividends payable	7,294,000	6,818,000
Total current liabilities	137,048,000	150,928,000
Long–term debt	120,000,000	120,000,000
Capital lease obligations, less current portion	24,927,000	26,748,000
Accrued risk reserves, less current portion	68,996,000	65,264,000
Refundable entrance fees	9,167,000	9,924,000
Obligation to provide future services	3,236,000	3,236,000
Deferred income taxes	25,178,000	22,072,000
Other noncurrent liabilities	17,350,000	16,302,000
Deferred revenue	4,886,000	3,362,000
Total liabilities	410,788,000	417,836,000
Stockholders’ Equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value; 45,000,000 and 30,000,000 shares authorized, respectively; 15,195,030 and 15,162,938 shares, respectively, issued and outstanding	152,000	152,000
Capital in excess of par value	213,785,000	211,457,000
Retained earnings	401,192,000	391,934,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	73,540,000	66,068,000
Total National HealthCare Corporation stockholders’ equity	688,669,000	669,611,000
Noncontrolling interest	789,000
Total stockholders' equity	689,458,000	669,611,000
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 1,100,246,000	$ 1,087,447,000

Interim Condensed Consolidated5

Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Current Period Unaudited) (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 7,408	$ 5,743
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	45,000,000	30,000,000
Common stock,shares, issued (in shares)	15,195,030	15,162,938
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	15,195,030	15,162,938

Interim Condensed Consolidated6

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income	$ 23,202	$ 25,565
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	20,776	18,849
Provision for doubtful accounts receivable	3,795	3,795
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investments	(3,380)	(3,120)
Distributions from unconsolidated investments	4,337	5,635
Gains on sale of restricted marketable securities	(238)	(540)
Deferred income taxes	(1,540)	(244)
Stock–based compensation	832	494
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effect of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	(904)	3,072
Income tax receivable	2,218	2,288
Inventories	310	431
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(969)	(967)
Trade accounts payable	(3,855)	1,675
Accrued payroll	(12,601)	(15,333)
Amounts due to third party payors	931	1,756
Other current liabilities and accrued risk reserves	4,819	609
Other noncurrent liabilities	1,048	1,073
Deferred revenue	(1,524)	(1,390)
Net cash provided by operating activities	40,305	46,428
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Additions to property and equipment	(16,681)	(36,127)
Investments in unconsolidated companies	(176)	(904)
Investments in notes receivable		(2,144)
Collections of notes receivable	3,651	428
Purchase of restricted marketable securities	(22,775)	(23,852)
Sale of restricted marketable securities	44,756	25,697
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	8,775	(36,902)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Tax expense from stock–based compensation		(1,134)
Principal payments under capital lease obligations	(1,715)	(1,614)
Dividends paid to common stockholders	(13,649)	(12,101)
Issuance of common shares	1,496	10,070
Equity attributable to noncontrolling interest	970
Entrance fee refunds	(757)	(34)
Change in deposits	(418)	216
Net cash used in financing activities	(14,073)	(4,597)
Net Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents	35,007	4,929
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period	31,589	49,314
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, End of Period	66,596	54,243
Balance Sheet Classifications:
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents	$ 31,589	$ 49,314

Interim Condensed Consolidated7

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]	Total
Balance at Jun. 30, 2016	$ 153	$ 218,896	$ 380,597	$ 71,897		$ 671,543
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015	15,000,616
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 150	209,469	368,013	53,364		630,996
Net income attributable to National HealthCare Corporation			25,565			25,565
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
Other comprehensive income				18,533		18,533
Stock–based compensation		494				494
Tax benefit (expense) from exercise of stock options		(1,134)				(1,134)
Shares sold – options exercised (in shares)	278,623
Shares sold – options exercised	$ 3	10,067				10,070
Dividends declared to common stockholders			(12,981)			(12,981)
Balance (in shares) at Jun. 30, 2016	15,279,239
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 152	211,457	391,934	66,068		669,611
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015	15,000,616
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 150	209,469	368,013	53,364		$ 630,996
Shares sold – options exercised (in shares)						499,066
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016	15,162,938
Balance at Jun. 30, 2017	$ 152	213,785	401,192	73,540	789	$ 689,458
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	152	211,457	391,934	66,068		669,611
Net income attributable to National HealthCare Corporation			23,383			23,383
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest					(181)	(181)
Equity contributed by noncontrolling interest					970	970
Other comprehensive income				$ 7,472		7,472
Stock–based compensation		832				$ 832
Shares sold – options exercised (in shares)	32,092					31,992
Shares sold – options exercised		$ 1,496				$ 1,496
Dividends declared to common stockholders			$ (14,125)			$ (14,125)
Balance (in shares) at Jun. 30, 2017	15,195,030

Interim Condensed Consolidated8

Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) (Parentheticals) - $ / shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Common Stock [Member]
Dividends declared to common stockholders per (in dollars per share)	$ 0.93	$ 0.85
Dividends declared to common stockholders per (in dollars per share)	$ 0.93	$ 0.85

Note 1 - Description of Busines

Note 1 - Description of Business	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 1 – Description of Business National HealthCare Corporation June 30, 2017, 76 9,597 25 five 36 10

Note 2 - Summary of Significant

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The listing below is not not December 31, 2016 December 31, 2016 www.nhccare.com Basis of Presentation The unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements to which these notes are attached include all normal, recurring adjustments which are necessary to fairly present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of NHC. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of all entities controlled by NHC. The Company presents noncontrolling interest within the equity section of its consolidated balance sheets. The Company presents the amount of consolidated net income (loss) that is attributable to NHC and the noncontrolling interest in its consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. We assume that users of these interim financial statements have read or have access to the audited December 31, 2016 may not may Estimates and Assumptions The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and could cause our reported net income to vary significantly from period to period. Change in Accounting Principle Effective December 31, 2016, No. 2016–18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230 As described in the guidance for accounting changes under ASC Topic 250, six June 30, 2016 December 31, 2016: Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows ( in thousands Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 As Previously Reported Effect of Accounting Change As Adjusted Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ (10,342 ) $ 10,342 $ – Net cash provided by operating activities 36,086 10,342 46,428 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents 4,748 (4,748 ) – Net cash used in investing activities (32,154 ) (4,748 ) (36,902 ) Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents (665 ) 5,594 4,929 Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash, Equivalents, Beginning of Period 38,208 11,106 49,314 Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash, Equivalents, End of Period $ 37,543 $ 16,700 $ 54,243 Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance In November 2016, No. 2016–18, 230 December 15, 2017, December 31, 2016, Change in Accounting Principle No. 2016–18. In March 2016, 2016 09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718 2016 09 2016 09 December 15, 2016, January 1, 2017, 2016 09. $123,000 $244,000 three six June 30, 2017, Recent Accounting Guidance Not In February 2016, 2016 02, 842 December 15, 2018, In January 2016, No. 2016 01, (Topic 825 No. 2016 01 No. 2016 01 No. 2016 01 December 15, 2017, No. 2016 01 may No. 2016 01. In May 2014, No. 2014–09 five 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. For a public entity, this update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, As we progress with our implementation efforts to adopt the New Revenue Standard, management continues to evaluate and refine its estimates of the anticipated impacts it will have on our revenue recognition policies, procedures, financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financial disclosures and control framework. Specifically, the Company is continuing to evaluate its population of revenue sources to determine the potential effects the New Revenue Standard will have on the amount or timing of certain industry-specific healthcare revenue sources, which, at this time, includes revenue recorded from our CCRC, settlements with third Revenue Recognition – Third Party Payors Approximately 65% may no $17,950,000 $17,019,000 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016, Revenue Recognition – Private P ay For private pay patients in skilled nursing or assisted living facilities, we bill room and board in advance with payment being due in the month the services are performed. Charges for ancillary, pharmacy, therapy and other services to private patients are billed in the month following the performance of services; however, all billings are recognized as revenue when the services are performed. Revenue Recognition – Subordination of Fees and Uncert ain Collections We provide management services to certain senior care facilities and to others we provide accounting and financial services. We generally charge 6% 7% third not may no We agree to subordinate our fees to the other expenses of a managed center because we believe we know how to improve the quality of patient services and finances of a senior healthcare center. We believe subordinating our fees demonstrates to the owner and employees of the managed center how confident we are of the impact we can have in making the center operations successful. We may not may may may Segment Reporting In accordance with the provisions of ASC 280, first 2017 he Company now has two 1 2 5 Other Operating Expenses Other operating expenses include the costs of care and services that we provide to the residents of our facilities and the costs of maintaining our facilities. Our primary patient care costs include drugs, medical supplies, purchased professional services, food, and professional liability insurance and licensing fees. The primary facility costs include utilities and property insurance. General and Administrative Costs With the Company being a healthcare provider, the majority of our expenses are "cost of revenue" items. Costs that could be classified as "general and administrative" by the Company would include its corporate office costs, excluding stock-based compensation, which were $15,262,000 $14,364,000 six June 30, 2017 2016, Property and Equipment Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is provided by the straight-line method over the expected useful lives of the assets estimated as follows: buildings and improvements, 20 40 3 15 not Capital leases are recorded at the lower of fair market value or the present value of future minimum lease payments. Capital leases are amortized in accordance with the provision codified within Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Subtopic 840 30, Leases – Capital Leases Accrued Risk Reserves We are self– insured for risks related to health insurance and have wholly–owned limited purpose insurance companies that insure risks related to workers’ compensation and general and professional liability insurance claims. The accrued risk reserves include a liability for reported claims and estimates for incurred but unreported claims. Our policy is to engage an external, independent actuary to assist in estimating our exposure for claims obligations (for both asserted and unasserted claims). We reassess our accrued risk reserves on a quarterly basis. Professional liability remains an area of particular concern to us. The long-term care industry has seen an increase in personal injury/wrongful death claims based on alleged negligence by skilled nursing facilities and their employees in providing care to residents. As of June 30, 2017, 61 2005 June 30, 2017. We are principally self-insured for incidents occurring in all centers owned or leased by us. The coverages include both primary policies and excess policies. In all years, settlements, if any, in excess of available insurance policy limits and our own reserves would be expensed by us. Continuing Care Contracts and Refundable Entrance Fee We have one Residents at this retirement center may 10% 90% 40% June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 $9,167,000 $9,924,000, Obligation to Provide Future Services W e annually estimate the present value of the cost of future services and the use of facilities to be provided to the current CCRC residents and compare that amount with the balance of non-refundable deferred revenue from entrance fees received. If the present value of the cost of future services exceeds the related anticipated revenues, a liability is recorded (obligation to provide future services) with a corresponding charge to income. As of June 30, 2017, December 31, 2016, $3,236,000 Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other noncurrent liabilities include reserves primarily related to various uncertain income tax positions. D eferred Revenue Deferred revenue includes the deferred gain on the sale of assets to National Health Corporation (“National”), the non-refundable portion ( 10% not Noncontrolling Interest The noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is presented within total equity in the Company's interim condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company presents the noncontrolling interest and the amount of consolidated net income attributable to NHC in its interim condensed consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income and net income per share is calculated based on net income attributable to NHC’s stockholders. The carrying amount of the noncontrolling interest is adjusted based on an allocation of subsidiary earnings based on ownership interest. Variable Interest Entities We have equity interests in unconsolidated limited liability companies that operate various post-acute and senior healthcare businesses. We analyze our investments in these limited liability companies to determine if the company is considered a VIE and would require consolidation. To the extent that we own interests in a VIE and we (i) are the sole entity that has the power to direct the activities of the VIE and (ii) have the obligation or rights to absorb the VIE's losses or receive its benefits, then we would be determined to be the primary beneficiary and would consolidate the VIE. To the extent we own interests in a VIE, then at each reporting period, we re-assess our conclusions as to which, if any, party within the VIE is considered the primary beneficiary. The Company's maximum exposure to losses in its investments in unconsolidated VIEs cannot be quantified and may may not

Note 3 - Other Revenues

Note 3 - Other Revenues	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Other Revenues [Text Block]	N ote 3 – Other Revenues Other revenues are outlined in the table below. Revenues from management and accounting services include management and accounting fees provided to managed healthcare facilities. Revenues from rental income include health care real estate properties owned by us and leased to third Other revenues include the following: Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 (in thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016 Rental Income $ 5,515 $ 5,435 $ 11,001 $ 11,005 Management and accounting services fees 3,752 3,506 7,611 7,255 Insurance services 2,087 1,815 3,644 3,739 Other 256 525 638 764 $ 11,610 $ 11,281 22,894 22,763 Management Fees from National We manage five three six June 30, 2017, $989,000 $1,925,000 three six June 30, 2016, $926,000 $1,895,000 Because the amount collectable cannot be reasonably determined when the management services are provided, and because we cannot estimate the timing or amount of expected future collections, the unpaid fees from the five may five may may may five no Insurance Services For workers’ compensation insurance services, the premium revenues reflected in the interim condensed consolidated statements of income for the three six June 30, 2017 $1,409,000 $2,688,000. three six June 30, 2016, $1,150,000 $2,383,000, For professional liability insurance services, the premium revenues reflected in the interim condensed consolidated statements of income for the three six June 30, 2017 $678,000 $956,000, three six June 30, 2016, $665,000 $1,356,000,

Note 4 - Non-operating Income

Note 4 - Non-operating Income	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Other Nonoperating Income and Expense [Text Block]	N ote 4 – Non – Operating Income Non–operating income is outlined in the table below. Non–operating income includes equity in earnings of unconsolidated investments, dividends and other realized gains and losses on marketable securities, and interest income. Our most significant equity method investment is a 75.1% Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 (in thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investments $ 1,854 $ 1,615 $ 3,380 $ 3,120 Dividends and other net realized gains and losses on sales of securities 1,899 1,901 3,623 3,762 Interest income 1,436 1,409 2,954 2,816 $ 5,189 $ 4,925 $ 9,957 $ 9,698

Note 5 - Business Segments

Note 5 - Business Segments	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 5 – Business Segments The Company has two 1 2 ’s Chief Executive Officer, as CODM, to assess performance and allocate resources. The Company also reports an “all other” category that includes revenues from rental income, management and accounting services fees, insurance services, and costs of the corporate office. The Company has presented the financial information for the three six June 30, 2016 three six June 30, 2017, egments to the All Other category to accurately reflect the allocation of certain corporate office expenses. For additional information on these reportable segments see Note 1 Description of Business”. The Company ’s CODM evaluates performance and allocates capital resources to each segment based on an operating model that is designed to improve the quality of patient care and profitability of the Company while enhancing long-term shareholder value. The CODM does not not The following table sets forth the Company’s interim condensed consolidated statements of income by business segment (in thousands Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 211,888 $ 15,959 $ - $ 227,847 Other revenues 225 - 11,385 11,610 Net operating revenues 212,113 15,959 11,385 239,457 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 124,287 8,615 9,782 142,684 Other operating 55,989 5,058 1,809 62,856 Rent 8,257 499 1,323 10,079 Depreciation and amortization 9,396 39 1,046 10,481 Interest 436 - 783 1,219 Total costs and expenses 198,365 14,211 14,743 227,319 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 13,748 1,748 (3,358 ) 12,138 Non-Operating Income - - 5,189 5,189 Income Before Income Taxes $ 13,748 $ 1,748 $ 1,831 $ 17,327 Three Months Ended June 30, 2016 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 200,617 $ 15,870 $ - $ 216,487 Other revenues 198 - 11,083 11,281 Net operating revenues 200,815 15,870 11,083 227,768 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 117,106 8,216 9,746 135,068 Other operating 50,472 5,092 1,742 57,306 Rent 8,449 481 1,389 10,319 Depreciation and amortization 8,359 46 1,090 9,495 Interest 487 - 452 939 Total costs and expenses 184,873 13,835 14,419 213,127 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 15,942 2,035 (3,336 ) 14,641 Non-Operating Income - - 4,925 4,925 Income Before Income Taxes $ 15,942 $ 2,035 $ 1,589 $ 19,566 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 424,190 $ 31,616 $ - $ 455,806 Other revenues 451 - 22,443 22,894 Net operating revenues 424,641 31,616 22,443 478,700 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 242,535 16,442 21,762 280,739 Other operating 112,859 10,193 3,687 126,739 Rent 16,424 987 2,756 20,167 Depreciation and amortization 18,605 80 2,091 20,776 Interest 886 - 1,391 2,277 Total costs and expenses 391,309 27,702 31,687 450,698 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 33,332 3,914 (9,244 ) 28,002 Non-Operating Income - - 9,957 9,957 Income Before Income Taxes $ 33,332 $ 3,914 $ 713 $ 37,959 Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 402,700 $ 31,893 $ - $ 434,593 Other revenues 367 - 22,396 22,763 Net operating revenues 403,067 31,893 22,396 457,356 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 227,670 16,197 21,221 265,088 Other operating 104,351 10,386 3,878 118,615 Rent 16,809 968 2,869 20,646 Depreciation and amortization 16,573 92 2,184 18,849 Interest 985 - 908 1,893 Total costs and expenses 366,388 27,643 31,060 425,091 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 36,679 4,250 (8,664 ) 32,265 Non-Operating Income - - 9,698 9,698 Income Before Income Taxes $ 36,679 $ 4,250 1,034 $ 41,963

Note 6 - Long-term Leases

Note 6 - Long-term Leases	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 6 – Long-Term Leases Capital Leases Fixed assets recorded under the capital leases, which are included in property and equipment in the interim condensed consolidated balance sheets, are as follows: June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Buildings and personal property $ 39,032 $ 39,032 Accumulated amortization (13,083 ) (11,120 ) $ 25,949 $ 27,912 Operating Leases At June 30, 2017, 35 seven three two $34,200,000 4% $9,314,000 $9,480,000 three June 30, 2017 2016, $18,628,000 $18,960,000 six June 30, 2017 2016, Minimum Lease Payments The approximate future minimum lease payments required under all leases that have remaining non-cancelable lease terms at June 30, 2017 Operating Leases Capital Leases (in thousands) 201 8 $ 34,200 $ 5,200 201 9 34,200 5,200 20 20 34,200 5,200 20 21 34,200 5,200 20 22 34,200 5,200 Thereafter 159,650 8,667 Total minimum lease payments $ 330,650 $ 34,667 Less: Amounts representing interest (6,153 ) Present value of minimum lease payments 28,514 Less: Current portion (3,587 ) Long-term capital lease obligations $ 24,927

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	Note 7 – Earnings per Share Basic net income per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for each period presented. Diluted net income per share reflects the potential dilution that would have occurred if securities to issue common stock were exercised, converted, or resulted in the issuance of common stock that would have then shared in our earnings. The following table summarizes the earnings and the weighted average number of common shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share (in thousands, except for share and per share amounts): Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2017 2016 2017 2016 Basic: Weighted average common shares outstanding 15,189,818 15,266,559 15,181,700 15,091,732 Net income attributable to National Health Care Corporation $ 10,655 $ 11,866 $ 23,383 $ 25,565 Earnings per common share, basic $ 0.70 $ 0.78 $ 1.54 $ 1.69 Diluted: Weighted average common shares outstanding 15,189,818 15,266,559 15,181,700 15,091,732 Dilutive effect of stock options 30,630 22,545 34,636 23,406 Dilutive effect of contingent issuable stock - - - 97,137 Weighted a verage common shares outstanding 15,220,448 15,289,104 15,216,336 15,212,275 Net income attributable to National Health Care Corporation $ 10,655 $ 11,866 $ 23,383 $ 25,565 Earnings per common share, diluted $ 0.70 $ 0.78 $ 1.54 $ 1.68 In the above table, options to purchase 1,124,689 12,120 three six June 30, 2017 2016,

Note 8 - Investments in Marketa

Note 8 - Investments in Marketable Securities	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 8 – Inve stments in Marketable Securities Our investments in marketable securities are classified as available for sale securities. Realized gains and losses from securities sales are recognized in results of operations upon disposition of the securities using the specific identification method on a trade date basis. Refer to Note 9 Marketable securities and restricted marketable securities consist of the following: June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Amortized Cost Fair Value Amortized Cost Fair Value Investments a vailable for sale: Marketable equity securities $ 30,176 $ 148,137 $ 30,176 $ 138,013 Restricted investments available for sale: Corporate debt securities 67,997 68,496 71,311 71,100 Commercial mortgage –backed securities 51,188 50,905 56,889 56,168 U.S. Treasury securities 20,899 20,533 25,748 25,181 State and municipal securities 24,141 24,020 32,020 31,255 $ 194,401 $ 312,091 $ 216,144 $ 321,717 Included in the available for sale marketable equity securities are the following (in thousands, except share amounts) : June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Shares Cost Fair Value Shares Cost Fair Value NHI Common Stock 1,630,642 $ 24,734 $ 129,147 1,630,642 $ 24,734 $ 120,945 The amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities classified as available for sale, by contractual maturity, are as follows: June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Cost Fair Value Cost Fair Value Maturities: Within 1 year $ 14,628 $ 14,628 $ 14,181 $ 14,216 1 to 5 years 66,519 66,747 79,827 79,502 6 to 10 years 81,923 81,424 91,211 89,269 Over 10 years 1,155 1,155 749 717 $ 164,225 $ 163,954 $ 185,968 $ 183,704 Gross unrealized gains related to available for sale securities are $119,086,000 $108,730,000 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016, $1,396,000 $3,157,000 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016, not not no six June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016. Proceeds from the sale of securities during the six June 30, 2017 2016 $44,756,000 $25,697,000, $238,000 $540,000 six June 30, 2017 2016,

Note 9 - Fair Value Measurement

Note 9 - Fair Value Measurements	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	Note 9 – Fair Value Measurements The accounting standard for fair value measurements provides a framework for measuring fair value and requires expanded disclosures regarding fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received for an asset or the exit price that would be paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. This accounting standard establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs, where available. The following summarizes the three may Level 1 – The valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments. Level 2 – The valuation is based on observable inputs such as quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not Level 3 – The valuation is based on unobservable inputs that are supported by minimal or no 3 A financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Valuation of Marketable Securities The Company determines fair value for marketable securities with Level 1 2 2 third We validated the prices provided by our broker by reviewing their pricing methods, obtaining market values from other pricing sources, analyzing pricing data in certain instances and confirming that the relevant markets are active. After completing our validation procedures, we did not June 30, 2017. not 1 2 six June 30, 2017. Other The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short–term nature. The estimated fair value of notes receivable approximates the carrying value based principally on their underlying interest rates and terms, maturities, collateral and credit status of the receivables. Our long–term debt approximates fair value due to variable interest rates, but fair value is also determined using Level 2 June 30, 2017, no The following table summarizes fair value measurements by level at June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Fair Value Measurements Using June 30, 2017 Fair Value Quoted Prices in Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Cash and cash equivalents $ 60,848 $ 60,848 $ – $ – Restricted cash and cash equivalents 5,748 5,748 – – Marketable equity securities 148,137 148,137 – – Corporate debt securities 68,496 47,900 20,596 – M ortgage–backed securities 50,905 – 50,905 – U.S. Treasury securities 20,533 20,533 – – State and municipal securities 24,020 – 24,020 – Total financial assets $ 378,687 $ 283,166 $ 95,521 $ – Fair Value Measurements Using December 31, 2016 Fair Value Quoted Prices in Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Cash and cash equivalents $ 26,335 $ 26,335 $ – $ – Restricted cash and cash equivalents 5,254 5,254 – – Marketable equity securities 138,013 138,013 – – Corporate debt securities 71,100 42,323 28,777 – M ortgage-backed securities 56,168 – 56,168 – U.S. Treasury securities 25,181 25,181 – – State and municipal securities 31,255 – 31,255 – Total financial assets $ 353,306 $ 237,106 $ 116,200 $ –

Note 10 - Long-term Debt

Note 10 - Long-term Debt	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 10 – Long – Term Debt Long–term debt consists of the following: Weighted Average Interest Rate Maturities June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Variable (dollars in thousands) Revolving Credit Facility, interest payable monthly 2.6% 2020 $ 110,000 $ 110,000 Unsecured term note payable to National, interest payable quarterly, principal payable at maturity 3.6% 2018 10,000 10,000 120,000 120,000 Less current portion – – $ 120,000 $ 120,000 The $10 January 1, 2018. not $175 available to provide financing. $175,000,000 In October 2015, $175 five October 2020). 1.40% 0.40%. 1%, 1.00%. The Credit Agreement contains customary representations and financial covenants, including covenants that restrict, among other things, asset dispositions, mergers and acquisitions, dividends, restricted payments, debt, liens, investments and affiliate transactions. The Credit Agreement contains customary events of default.

Note 11 - Stock Repurchase Prog

Note 11 - Stock Repurchase Program	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Treasury Stock [Text Block]	Note 1 1 - Stock Repurchase Program In August 2016, $25 September 1, 2016 August 31, 2017. No

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensat

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	Note 1 2 – S tock – Based Compensation NHC recognizes stock–based compensation expense for all stock options and restricted stock granted over the requisite service period using the fair value for these grants as estimated at the date of grant either using the Black–Scholes pricing model for stock options or the quoted market price for restricted stock. The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (“the Committee”) has the authority to select the participants to be granted options; to designate whether the option granted is an incentive stock option (“ISO”), a non–qualified option, or a stock appreciation right; to establish the number of shares of common stock that may may not may not ten not In May 2015, 2010 2010 1,200,000 2,575,000 six June 30, 2017 1,062,500 52,500 9,689 June 30, 2017, 568,744 2010 Compensation expense is recognized only for the awards that ultimately vest. Stock–based compensation totaled $740,000 $208,000 three June 30, 2017 2016, $832,000 $494,000 six June 30, 2017 2016, At June 30, 2017, $7,951,000 five Stock Options The following table summarizes the significant assumptions used to value the options granted for the six June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016. 201 7 201 6 Risk –free interest rate 2.08 % 0.89 % Expected volatility 16.6 % 15.8 % Expected life, in years 4.8 2.2 Expected dividend yield 3.10 % 3.09 % The following table summarizes our outstanding stock options for the six June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016. Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Options outstanding at January 1, 201 6 621,390 $ 48.15 $ – Options granted 56,291 62.54 – Options exercised (499,066 ) 47.16 – Options cancelled (656 ) 46.69 – Options outstanding at December 31, 2016 177,959 55.48 – Options granted 1,124,689 72.96 – Options exercised (31,992 ) 46.54 – Options cancelled – – – Options outstanding at June 30, 2017 1,270,656 $ 71.18 $ 1,854,000 Options exercisable at June 30, 2017 198,467 $ 61.54 $ 1,854,000 Options Outstanding June 30, 2017 Exercise Prices Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 60,000 $47.45 - $52.93 $ 50.88 1.5 1,210,656 $61.25 - $75.45 72.18 4.5 1,270,656 $ 71.18 4.4

Note 13 - Income Taxes

Note 13 - Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 13 – Income Taxes The income tax provision for the three June 30, 2017 $6,758,000 39.0% three June 30, 2017 $146,200 $84,000, $123,000 three June 30, 2016 $7,700,000 39.4% three June 30, 2016 $190,000 $143,000 The income tax provision for the six June 30, 2017 $14,757,000 38.9% six June 30, 2017 $321,000 $133,400 $244,000 six June 30, 2016 $16,398,000 39.1% six June 30, 2016 $365,000 $229,000 Interest and penalties expense related to U.S. federal and state income tax returns are included within income tax expense. The Company is no 2013

Note 14 - Contingencies and Com

Note 14 - Contingencies and Commitments	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 1 4 – Contingencies and Commitments Accrued Risk Reserves We are self– insured for risks related to health insurance and have wholly–owned limited purpose insurance companies that insure risks related to workers’ compensation and general and professional liability insurance claims both for our owned or leased entities and certain of the entities to which we provide management or accounting services. The liability we have recognized for reported claims and estimates for incurred but unreported claims totals $94,541,000 $91,162,000 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016, As a result of the terms of our insurance policies and our use of wholly–owned limited purpose insurance companies, we have retained significant insurance risk with respect to workers’ compensation and general and professional liability. We consider the professional services of independent actuaries to assist us in estimating our exposures for claims obligations (for both asserted and unasserted claims) related to deductibles and exposures in excess of coverage limits, and we maintain reserves for these obligations. Such estimates are based on many variables including historical and statistical information and other factors. Workers ’ Compensation For workers’ compensation, we utilize a wholly–owned Tennessee domiciled property/casualty insurance company to write coverage for NHC affiliates and for third–party customers. Policies are written for a duration of twelve $1,000,000 General and Professional Liability Lawsuits and Insurance The senior care industry has experienced increases in both the number of personal injury/wrongful death claims and in the severity of awards based upon alleged negligence by nursing facilities and their employees in providing care to residents. As of June 30, 2017, 61 Insurance coverage for both periods includes both primary policies and excess policies. The primary coverage is in the amount of $1.0 $3.0 2016 2017, $9.0 third Civil Investigative Demand On December 19, 2013, On October 7, 2014, The Company is cooperating fully with these requests. We are unable to evaluate the outcome of this investigation at this time. It is possible that this investigation could lead to a claim that could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Caris HealthCare, L.P. Investigation On December 9, 2014, qui tam 75.1% A qui tam May 22, 2014, United States of America, State of Tennessee, and State of Virginia ex rel. Barbara Hinkle v. Caris Healthcare, L.P. No. 3:14–cv–212 On June 16, 2016, qui tam June 20, 2016, October 11, 2016, June 2013 December 2013 April 2010 June 2013. qui tam May 30, 2017, March 2019. Caris denies the allegations in the United States' complaint and intends to defend itself vigorously. Given the early stage of this action, we are unable to assess the probable outcome or potential liability, if any, arising from this action. It is possible that this claim could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Financing Commitments In conjunction with our management contract with National, we have entered into a line of credit arrangement whereby we may $2,000,000. June 30, 2017, not Governmental Regulations Laws and regulations governing the Medicare, Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs are complex and subject to interpretation. Management believes that it is in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in all material respects. However, compliance with such laws and regulations can be subject to future government review and interpretation as well as significant regulatory action including fines, penalties, and exclusions from the Medicare, Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs.

Note 15 - Common Stock Authoriz

Note 15 - Common Stock Authorized	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes to Financial Statements
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	Note 15 – Common Stock Authorized On May 9, 2017, 15,000,000 30,000,000 45,000,000 $0.01.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Basis of Presentation The unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements to which these notes are attached include all normal, recurring adjustments which are necessary to fairly present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of NHC. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of all entities controlled by NHC. The Company presents noncontrolling interest within the equity section of its consolidated balance sheets. The Company presents the amount of consolidated net income (loss) that is attributable to NHC and the noncontrolling interest in its consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. We assume that users of these interim financial statements have read or have access to the audited December 31, 2016 may not may
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Estimates and Assumptions The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and could cause our reported net income to vary significantly from period to period.
Change in Accounting Principle, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Change in Accounting Principle Effective December 31, 2016, No. 2016–18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230 As described in the guidance for accounting changes under ASC Topic 250, six June 30, 2016 December 31, 2016: Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows ( in thousands Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 As Previously Reported Effect of Accounting Change As Adjusted Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ (10,342 ) $ 10,342 $ – Net cash provided by operating activities 36,086 10,342 46,428 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents 4,748 (4,748 ) – Net cash used in investing activities (32,154 ) (4,748 ) (36,902 ) Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents (665 ) 5,594 4,929 Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash, Equivalents, Beginning of Period 38,208 11,106 49,314 Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash, Equivalents, End of Period $ 37,543 $ 16,700 $ 54,243
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance In November 2016, No. 2016–18, 230 December 15, 2017, December 31, 2016, Change in Accounting Principle No. 2016–18. In March 2016, 2016 09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718 2016 09 2016 09 December 15, 2016, January 1, 2017, 2016 09. $123,000 $244,000 three six June 30, 2017, Recent Accounting Guidance Not In February 2016, 2016 02, 842 December 15, 2018, In January 2016, No. 2016 01, (Topic 825 No. 2016 01 No. 2016 01 No. 2016 01 December 15, 2017, No. 2016 01 may No. 2016 01. In May 2014, No. 2014–09 five 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. For a public entity, this update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, As we progress with our implementation efforts to adopt the New Revenue Standard, management continues to evaluate and refine its estimates of the anticipated impacts it will have on our revenue recognition policies, procedures, financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financial disclosures and control framework. Specifically, the Company is continuing to evaluate its population of revenue sources to determine the potential effects the New Revenue Standard will have on the amount or timing of certain industry-specific healthcare revenue sources, which, at this time, includes revenue recorded from our CCRC, settlements with third
Contractual Adjustments and Third Party Settlements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenue Recognition – Third Party Payors Approximately 65% may no $17,950,000 $17,019,000 June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016,
Revenue Recognition for Alternative Revenue Programs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenue Recognition – Private P ay For private pay patients in skilled nursing or assisted living facilities, we bill room and board in advance with payment being due in the month the services are performed. Charges for ancillary, pharmacy, therapy and other services to private patients are billed in the month following the performance of services; however, all billings are recognized as revenue when the services are performed.
Premiums Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Estimation Methodology, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Revenue Recognition – Subordination of Fees and Uncert ain Collections We provide management services to certain senior care facilities and to others we provide accounting and financial services. We generally charge 6% 7% third not may no We agree to subordinate our fees to the other expenses of a managed center because we believe we know how to improve the quality of patient services and finances of a senior healthcare center. We believe subordinating our fees demonstrates to the owner and employees of the managed center how confident we are of the impact we can have in making the center operations successful. We may not may may may
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Segment Reporting In accordance with the provisions of ASC 280, first 2017 he Company now has two 1 2 5
Other Operating Expenses Policy [Policy Text Block]	Other Operating Expenses Other operating expenses include the costs of care and services that we provide to the residents of our facilities and the costs of maintaining our facilities. Our primary patient care costs include drugs, medical supplies, purchased professional services, food, and professional liability insurance and licensing fees. The primary facility costs include utilities and property insurance.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block]	General and Administrative Costs With the Company being a healthcare provider, the majority of our expenses are "cost of revenue" items. Costs that could be classified as "general and administrative" by the Company would include its corporate office costs, excluding stock-based compensation, which were $15,262,000 $14,364,000 six June 30, 2017 2016,
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Property and Equipment Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is provided by the straight-line method over the expected useful lives of the assets estimated as follows: buildings and improvements, 20 40 3 15 not Capital leases are recorded at the lower of fair market value or the present value of future minimum lease payments. Capital leases are amortized in accordance with the provision codified within Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Subtopic 840 30, Leases – Capital Leases
Liability Reserve Estimate, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Accrued Risk Reserves We are self– insured for risks related to health insurance and have wholly–owned limited purpose insurance companies that insure risks related to workers’ compensation and general and professional liability insurance claims. The accrued risk reserves include a liability for reported claims and estimates for incurred but unreported claims. Our policy is to engage an external, independent actuary to assist in estimating our exposure for claims obligations (for both asserted and unasserted claims). We reassess our accrued risk reserves on a quarterly basis. Professional liability remains an area of particular concern to us. The long-term care industry has seen an increase in personal injury/wrongful death claims based on alleged negligence by skilled nursing facilities and their employees in providing care to residents. As of June 30, 2017, 61 2005 June 30, 2017. We are principally self-insured for incidents occurring in all centers owned or leased by us. The coverages include both primary policies and excess policies. In all years, settlements, if any, in excess of available insurance policy limits and our own reserves would be expensed by us.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities, Advance Fees, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Continuing Care Contracts and Refundable Entrance Fee We have one Residents at this retirement center may 10% 90% 40% June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 $9,167,000 $9,924,000, Obligation to Provide Future Services W e annually estimate the present value of the cost of future services and the use of facilities to be provided to the current CCRC residents and compare that amount with the balance of non-refundable deferred revenue from entrance fees received. If the present value of the cost of future services exceeds the related anticipated revenues, a liability is recorded (obligation to provide future services) with a corresponding charge to income. As of June 30, 2017, December 31, 2016, $3,236,000
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Policy Text Block]	Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other noncurrent liabilities include reserves primarily related to various uncertain income tax positions.
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]	D eferred Revenue Deferred revenue includes the deferred gain on the sale of assets to National Health Corporation (“National”), the non-refundable portion ( 10% not
Noncontrolling Interest, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Noncontrolling Interest The noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is presented within total equity in the Company's interim condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company presents the noncontrolling interest and the amount of consolidated net income attributable to NHC in its interim condensed consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income and net income per share is calculated based on net income attributable to NHC’s stockholders. The carrying amount of the noncontrolling interest is adjusted based on an allocation of subsidiary earnings based on ownership interest.
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Variable Interest Entities We have equity interests in unconsolidated limited liability companies that operate various post-acute and senior healthcare businesses. We analyze our investments in these limited liability companies to determine if the company is considered a VIE and would require consolidation. To the extent that we own interests in a VIE and we (i) are the sole entity that has the power to direct the activities of the VIE and (ii) have the obligation or rights to absorb the VIE's losses or receive its benefits, then we would be determined to be the primary beneficiary and would consolidate the VIE. To the extent we own interests in a VIE, then at each reporting period, we re-assess our conclusions as to which, if any, party within the VIE is considered the primary beneficiary. The Company's maximum exposure to losses in its investments in unconsolidated VIEs cannot be quantified and may may not

Note 2 - Summary of Significa25

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Table Text Block]	Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 As Previously Reported Effect of Accounting Change As Adjusted Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ (10,342 ) $ 10,342 $ – Net cash provided by operating activities 36,086 10,342 46,428 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents 4,748 (4,748 ) – Net cash used in investing activities (32,154 ) (4,748 ) (36,902 ) Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents (665 ) 5,594 4,929 Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash, Equivalents, Beginning of Period 38,208 11,106 49,314 Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash, Equivalents, End of Period $ 37,543 $ 16,700 $ 54,243

Note 3 - Other Revenues (Tables

Note 3 - Other Revenues (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Other Revenues [Table Text Block]	Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 (in thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016 Rental Income $ 5,515 $ 5,435 $ 11,001 $ 11,005 Management and accounting services fees 3,752 3,506 7,611 7,255 Insurance services 2,087 1,815 3,644 3,739 Other 256 525 638 764 $ 11,610 $ 11,281 22,894 22,763

Note 4 - Non-operating Income (

Note 4 - Non-operating Income (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income, by Component [Table Text Block]	Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 (in thousands) 2017 2016 2017 2016 Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investments $ 1,854 $ 1,615 $ 3,380 $ 3,120 Dividends and other net realized gains and losses on sales of securities 1,899 1,901 3,623 3,762 Interest income 1,436 1,409 2,954 2,816 $ 5,189 $ 4,925 $ 9,957 $ 9,698

Note 5 - Business Segments (Tab

Note 5 - Business Segments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 211,888 $ 15,959 $ - $ 227,847 Other revenues 225 - 11,385 11,610 Net operating revenues 212,113 15,959 11,385 239,457 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 124,287 8,615 9,782 142,684 Other operating 55,989 5,058 1,809 62,856 Rent 8,257 499 1,323 10,079 Depreciation and amortization 9,396 39 1,046 10,481 Interest 436 - 783 1,219 Total costs and expenses 198,365 14,211 14,743 227,319 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 13,748 1,748 (3,358 ) 12,138 Non-Operating Income - - 5,189 5,189 Income Before Income Taxes $ 13,748 $ 1,748 $ 1,831 $ 17,327 Three Months Ended June 30, 2016 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 200,617 $ 15,870 $ - $ 216,487 Other revenues 198 - 11,083 11,281 Net operating revenues 200,815 15,870 11,083 227,768 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 117,106 8,216 9,746 135,068 Other operating 50,472 5,092 1,742 57,306 Rent 8,449 481 1,389 10,319 Depreciation and amortization 8,359 46 1,090 9,495 Interest 487 - 452 939 Total costs and expenses 184,873 13,835 14,419 213,127 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 15,942 2,035 (3,336 ) 14,641 Non-Operating Income - - 4,925 4,925 Income Before Income Taxes $ 15,942 $ 2,035 $ 1,589 $ 19,566 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 424,190 $ 31,616 $ - $ 455,806 Other revenues 451 - 22,443 22,894 Net operating revenues 424,641 31,616 22,443 478,700 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 242,535 16,442 21,762 280,739 Other operating 112,859 10,193 3,687 126,739 Rent 16,424 987 2,756 20,167 Depreciation and amortization 18,605 80 2,091 20,776 Interest 886 - 1,391 2,277 Total costs and expenses 391,309 27,702 31,687 450,698 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 33,332 3,914 (9,244 ) 28,002 Non-Operating Income - - 9,957 9,957 Income Before Income Taxes $ 33,332 $ 3,914 $ 713 $ 37,959 Six Months Ended June 30, 2016 Inpatient Services Homecare All Other Total Revenues: Net patient revenues $ 402,700 $ 31,893 $ - $ 434,593 Other revenues 367 - 22,396 22,763 Net operating revenues 403,067 31,893 22,396 457,356 Costs and Expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 227,670 16,197 21,221 265,088 Other operating 104,351 10,386 3,878 118,615 Rent 16,809 968 2,869 20,646 Depreciation and amortization 16,573 92 2,184 18,849 Interest 985 - 908 1,893 Total costs and expenses 366,388 27,643 31,060 425,091 Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income 36,679 4,250 (8,664 ) 32,265 Non-Operating Income - - 9,698 9,698 Income Before Income Taxes $ 36,679 $ 4,250 1,034 $ 41,963

Note 6 - Long-term Leases (Tabl

Note 6 - Long-term Leases (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table Text Block]	June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Buildings and personal property $ 39,032 $ 39,032 Accumulated amortization (13,083 ) (11,120 ) $ 25,949 $ 27,912
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block]	Operating Leases Capital Leases (in thousands) 201 8 $ 34,200 $ 5,200 201 9 34,200 5,200 20 20 34,200 5,200 20 21 34,200 5,200 20 22 34,200 5,200 Thereafter 159,650 8,667 Total minimum lease payments $ 330,650 $ 34,667 Less: Amounts representing interest (6,153 ) Present value of minimum lease payments 28,514 Less: Current portion (3,587 ) Long-term capital lease obligations $ 24,927

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share (Ta

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Three Months Ended June 30 Six Months Ended June 30 2017 2016 2017 2016 Basic: Weighted average common shares outstanding 15,189,818 15,266,559 15,181,700 15,091,732 Net income attributable to National Health Care Corporation $ 10,655 $ 11,866 $ 23,383 $ 25,565 Earnings per common share, basic $ 0.70 $ 0.78 $ 1.54 $ 1.69 Diluted: Weighted average common shares outstanding 15,189,818 15,266,559 15,181,700 15,091,732 Dilutive effect of stock options 30,630 22,545 34,636 23,406 Dilutive effect of contingent issuable stock - - - 97,137 Weighted a verage common shares outstanding 15,220,448 15,289,104 15,216,336 15,212,275 Net income attributable to National Health Care Corporation $ 10,655 $ 11,866 $ 23,383 $ 25,565 Earnings per common share, diluted $ 0.70 $ 0.78 $ 1.54 $ 1.68

Note 8 - Investments in Marke31

Note 8 - Investments in Marketable Securities (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]	June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Amortized Cost Fair Value Amortized Cost Fair Value Investments a vailable for sale: Marketable equity securities $ 30,176 $ 148,137 $ 30,176 $ 138,013 Restricted investments available for sale: Corporate debt securities 67,997 68,496 71,311 71,100 Commercial mortgage –backed securities 51,188 50,905 56,889 56,168 U.S. Treasury securities 20,899 20,533 25,748 25,181 State and municipal securities 24,141 24,020 32,020 31,255 $ 194,401 $ 312,091 $ 216,144 $ 321,717
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Shares Cost Fair Value Shares Cost Fair Value NHI Common Stock 1,630,642 $ 24,734 $ 129,147 1,630,642 $ 24,734 $ 120,945
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 (in thousands) Cost Fair Value Cost Fair Value Maturities: Within 1 year $ 14,628 $ 14,628 $ 14,181 $ 14,216 1 to 5 years 66,519 66,747 79,827 79,502 6 to 10 years 81,923 81,424 91,211 89,269 Over 10 years 1,155 1,155 749 717 $ 164,225 $ 163,954 $ 185,968 $ 183,704

Note 9 - Fair Value Measureme32

Note 9 - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]	Fair Value Measurements Using June 30, 2017 Fair Value Quoted Prices in Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Cash and cash equivalents $ 60,848 $ 60,848 $ – $ – Restricted cash and cash equivalents 5,748 5,748 – – Marketable equity securities 148,137 148,137 – – Corporate debt securities 68,496 47,900 20,596 – M ortgage–backed securities 50,905 – 50,905 – U.S. Treasury securities 20,533 20,533 – – State and municipal securities 24,020 – 24,020 – Total financial assets $ 378,687 $ 283,166 $ 95,521 $ – Fair Value Measurements Using December 31, 2016 Fair Value Quoted Prices in Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Cash and cash equivalents $ 26,335 $ 26,335 $ – $ – Restricted cash and cash equivalents 5,254 5,254 – – Marketable equity securities 138,013 138,013 – – Corporate debt securities 71,100 42,323 28,777 – M ortgage-backed securities 56,168 – 56,168 – U.S. Treasury securities 25,181 25,181 – – State and municipal securities 31,255 – 31,255 – Total financial assets $ 353,306 $ 237,106 $ 116,200 $ –

Note 10 - Long-term Debt (Table

Note 10 - Long-term Debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	Weighted Average Interest Rate Maturities June 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 Variable (dollars in thousands) Revolving Credit Facility, interest payable monthly 2.6% 2020 $ 110,000 $ 110,000 Unsecured term note payable to National, interest payable quarterly, principal payable at maturity 3.6% 2018 10,000 10,000 120,000 120,000 Less current portion – – $ 120,000 $ 120,000

Note 12 - Stock-based Compens34

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Notes Tables
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	201 7 201 6 Risk –free interest rate 2.08 % 0.89 % Expected volatility 16.6 % 15.8 % Expected life, in years 4.8 2.2 Expected dividend yield 3.10 % 3.09 %
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Options outstanding at January 1, 201 6 621,390 $ 48.15 $ – Options granted 56,291 62.54 – Options exercised (499,066 ) 47.16 – Options cancelled (656 ) 46.69 – Options outstanding at December 31, 2016 177,959 55.48 – Options granted 1,124,689 72.96 – Options exercised (31,992 ) 46.54 – Options cancelled – – – Options outstanding at June 30, 2017 1,270,656 $ 71.18 $ 1,854,000 Options exercisable at June 30, 2017 198,467 $ 61.54 $ 1,854,000
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block]	Options Outstanding June 30, 2017 Exercise Prices Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 60,000 $47.45 - $52.93 $ 50.88 1.5 1,210,656 $61.25 - $75.45 72.18 4.5 1,270,656 $ 71.18 4.4

Note 1 - Description of Busin35

Note 1 - Description of Business (Details Textual)	Jun. 30, 2017
Number of Skilled Nursing Centers	76
Number of Beds	9,597
Number of Assisted Living Facilities	25
Number of Independent Living Facilities	5
Number of Homecare Programs	36
Number of States in which Entity Operates	10

Note 2 - Summary of Significa36

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 6,758,000	$ 7,700,000	$ 14,757,000	$ 16,398,000
Number of Reportable Segments			2
Number of Operating Segments			2
Continuing Care Retirement Communities Advance Fees, Obligation for Future Services, Amount	$ 3,236,000		$ 3,236,000		$ 3,236,000
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Number of Claims	61		61
Appreciation [Member]
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Number of Claims	61		61
Appreciation of Apartment Over Original Residents Entry Fee Percentage			40.00%
Refundable Advance Fees [Member]
Customer Refundable Fees	$ 9,167,000		$ 9,167,000		9,924,000
Nonrefundable Resident Entry Fee Percentage			10.00%
Original Entry Fee [Member]
Refundable Resident Entry Fee Percentage			90.00%
Corporate Office Costs [Member]
General and Administrative Expense			$ 15,262,000	$ 14,364,000
Minimum [Member]
Management Services Fees			6.00%
Minimum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life			20 years
Minimum [Member] | Equipment and Furniture [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life			3 years
Maximum [Member]
Management Services Fees			7.00%
Maximum [Member] | Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life			40 years
Maximum [Member] | Equipment and Furniture [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life			15 years
Medicare and Medicaid [Member]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	17,950,000		$ 17,950,000		$ 17,019,000
Percent of Revenues Derived from Medicare, Medicaid and Other Government Programs [Member]
Concentration Risk, Percentage			65.00%
Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (123,000)		$ (244,000)

Note 2 - Summary of Significa37

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Effect of the Accounting Change on the Statements of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Net cash provided by operating activities	$ 40,305	$ 46,428
Net cash used in investing activities	8,775	(36,902)
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents	35,007	4,929
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period	31,589	49,314
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, End of Period	$ 66,596	54,243
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Net cash provided by operating activities		46,428
Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents
Net cash used in investing activities		(36,902)
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents		4,929
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period		49,314
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, End of Period		54,243
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] | Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		(10,342)
Net cash provided by operating activities		36,086
Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents		4,748
Net cash used in investing activities		(32,154)
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents		(665)
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period		38,208
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, End of Period		37,543
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] | Restatement Adjustment [Member]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		10,342
Net cash provided by operating activities		10,342
Change in restricted cash and cash equivalents		(4,748)
Net cash used in investing activities		(4,748)
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents		5,594
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period		11,106
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, End of Period		$ 16,700

Note 3 - Other Revenues (Detail

Note 3 - Other Revenues (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)
Number of Skilled Nursing Centers	76		76
Workers Compensation Premium Revenue [Member]
Health Care Organization, Premium Revenue	$ 1,409,000	$ 1,150,000	$ 2,688,000	$ 2,383,000
Professional Liability Insurance [Member]
Health Care Organization, Premium Revenue	$ 678,000	665,000	$ 956,000	1,356,000
National [Member]
Number of Skilled Nursing Centers	5		5
Management Fees Revenue	$ 989,000	$ 926,000	$ 1,925,000	$ 1,895,000

Note 3 - Other Revenues - Summa

Note 3 - Other Revenues - Summary of Other Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Other Revenues	$ 11,610	$ 11,281	$ 22,894	$ 22,763
Other Income [Member]
Other Revenues	256	525	638	764
Rental Income [Member]
Other Revenues	5,515	5,435	11,001	11,005
Management and Accounting Services Fees [Member]
Other Revenues	3,752	3,506	7,611	7,255
Insurance Services [Member]
Other Revenues	$ 2,087	$ 1,815	$ 3,644	$ 3,739

Note 4 - Non-operating Income40

Note 4 - Non-operating Income (Details Textual)	Jun. 30, 2017
Caris [Member]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	75.10%

Note 4 - Non-operating Income -

Note 4 - Non-operating Income - Schedule of Non-operating Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investments	$ 1,854	$ 1,615	$ 3,380	$ 3,120
Dividends and other net realized gains and losses on sales of securities	1,899	1,901	3,623	3,762
Interest income	1,436	1,409	2,954	2,816
Other non-operating income	$ 5,189	$ 4,925	$ 9,957	$ 9,698

Note 5 - Business Segments (Det

Note 5 - Business Segments (Details Textual)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017
Number of Operating Segments	2

Note 5 - Business Segments - Su

Note 5 - Business Segments - Summary of Financial Information by Reporting Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Revenues:
Net patient revenues	$ 227,847	$ 216,487	$ 455,806	$ 434,593
Other revenues	11,610	11,281	22,894	22,763
Net operating revenues	239,457	227,768	478,700	457,356
Cost and Expenses:
Salaries, wages and benefits	142,684	135,068	280,739	265,088
Other operating	62,856	57,306	126,739	118,615
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	10,079	10,319	20,167	20,646
Depreciation and amortization	10,481	9,495	20,776	18,849
Interest	1,219	939	2,277	1,893
Total costs and expenses	227,319	213,127	450,698	425,091
Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income	12,138	14,641	28,002	32,265
Non–Operating Income	5,189	4,925	9,957	9,698
Income Before Income Taxes	17,327	19,566	37,959	41,963
Inpatient Services Segment [Member]
Revenues:
Net patient revenues	211,888	200,617	424,190	402,700
Other revenues	225	198	451	367
Net operating revenues	212,113	200,815	424,641	403,067
Cost and Expenses:
Salaries, wages and benefits	124,287	117,106	242,535	227,670
Other operating	55,989	50,472	112,859	104,351
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	8,257	8,449	16,424	16,809
Depreciation and amortization	9,396	8,359	18,605	16,573
Interest	436	487	886	985
Total costs and expenses	198,365	184,873	391,309	366,388
Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income	13,748	15,942	33,332	36,679
Non–Operating Income
Income Before Income Taxes	13,748	15,942	33,332	36,679
Homecare Services Segment [Member]
Revenues:
Net patient revenues	15,959	15,870	31,616	31,893
Other revenues
Net operating revenues	15,959	15,870	31,616	31,893
Cost and Expenses:
Salaries, wages and benefits	8,615	8,216	16,442	16,197
Other operating	5,058	5,092	10,193	10,386
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	499	481	987	968
Depreciation and amortization	39	46	80	92
Interest
Total costs and expenses	14,211	13,835	27,702	27,643
Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income	1,748	2,035	3,914	4,250
Non–Operating Income
Income Before Income Taxes	1,748	2,035	3,914	4,250
Other Segments [Member]
Revenues:
Net patient revenues
Other revenues	11,385	11,083	22,443	22,396
Net operating revenues	11,385	11,083	22,443	22,396
Cost and Expenses:
Salaries, wages and benefits	9,782	9,746	21,762	21,221
Other operating	1,809	1,742	3,687	3,878
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	1,323	1,389	2,756	2,869
Depreciation and amortization	1,046	1,090	2,091	2,184
Interest	783	452	1,391	908
Total costs and expenses	14,743	14,419	31,687	31,060
Income (Loss) Before Non-Operating Income	(3,358)	(3,336)	(9,244)	(8,664)
Non–Operating Income	5,189	4,925	9,957	9,698
Income Before Income Taxes	$ 1,831	$ 1,589	$ 713	$ 1,034

Note 6 - Long-term Leases (Deta

Note 6 - Long-term Leases (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 10,079,000	$ 10,319,000	$ 20,167,000	$ 20,646,000
Two Leases with NHI [Member]
Number of Skilled Nursing Centers Leased from NHI	35		35
Number of Assisted Living Centers Leased from NHI	7		7
Number of Independent Living Centers Leased from NHI	3		3
Number of Lease Agreements with NHI	2		2
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals			$ 34,200,000
Operating Lease Additional Percentage Rent Percentage			4.00%
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 9,314,000	$ 9,480,000	$ 18,628,000	$ 18,960,000

Note 6 - Long-term Leases - Fix

Note 6 - Long-term Leases - Fixed Assets Recorded Under Capital Leases (Details) - Buildings and Personal Property [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Buildings and personal property	$ 39,032	$ 39,032
Accumulated amortization	(13,083)	(11,120)
Total capital leases	$ 25,949	$ 27,912

Note 6 - Long-term Leases - Fut

Note 6 - Long-term Leases - Future Minimum Lease Payments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
2018, operating leases	$ 34,200
2018, capital leases	5,200
2019, operating leases	34,200
2019, capital leases	5,200
2020, operating leases	34,200
2020, capital leases	5,200
2021, operating leases	34,200
2021, capital leases	5,200
2022, operating leases	34,200
2022, capital leases	5,200
Thereafter, operating leases	159,650
Thereafter, capital leases	8,667
Total minimum lease payments, operating leases	330,650
Total minimum lease payments, capital leases	34,667
Less: Amounts representing interest, capital leases	(6,153)
Present value of minimum lease payments, capital leases	28,514
Less: Current portion, capital leases	(3,587)	$ (3,481)
Long-term capital lease obligations, capital leases	$ 24,927	$ 26,748

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share (De

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share (Details Textual) - shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Incentive Stock Option [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	1,124,689	12,120	1,124,689	12,120

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share - S

Note 7 - Earnings Per Share - Summary of Earnings and Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Used in Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Basic (in shares)	15,189,818	15,266,559	15,181,700	15,091,732
Net income attributable to National HealthCare Corporation	$ 10,655	$ 11,866	$ 23,383	$ 25,565
Earnings per common share, basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.70	$ 0.78	$ 1.54	$ 1.69
Dilutive effect of contingent issuable stock (in shares)				97,137
Diluted (in shares)	15,220,448	15,289,104	15,216,336	15,212,275
Net income attributable to National HealthCare Corporation	$ 10,655	$ 11,866	$ 23,383	$ 25,565
Earnings per common share, diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.70	$ 0.78	$ 1.54	$ 1.68
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Dilutive effect share-based awards (in shares)	30,630	22,545	34,636	23,406

Note 8 - Investments in Marke49

Note 8 - Investments in Marketable Securities (Details Textual) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	$ 119,086,000		$ 108,730,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	1,396,000		3,157,000
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities	0		$ 0
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities	44,756,000	$ 25,697,000
Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	$ 238,000	$ 540,000

Note 8 - Investments in Marke50

Note 8 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Marketable Securities and Restricted Marketable Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Restricted investments available for sale, amortized cost	$ 164,225	$ 185,968
Investments available for sale, amortized cost	194,401	216,144
Available-for-sale securities	312,091	321,717
Equity Securities [Member]
Unrestricted investments available for sale, fair value	148,137	138,013
Unrestricted investments available for sale, amortized cost	30,176	30,176
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Restricted investments available for sale, amortized cost	67,997	71,311
Restricted investments available for sale, fair value	68,496	71,100
Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Restricted investments available for sale, amortized cost	51,188	56,889
Restricted investments available for sale, fair value	50,905	56,168
US Government Corporations and Agencies Securities [Member]
Restricted investments available for sale, amortized cost	20,899	25,748
Restricted investments available for sale, fair value	20,533	25,181
US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Restricted investments available for sale, amortized cost	24,141	32,020
Restricted investments available for sale, fair value	$ 24,020	$ 31,255

Note 8 - Investments in Marke51

Note 8 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Available for Sale Marketable Equity Securities (Details) - NHI Common Stock [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
NHI Common Stock, Shares (in shares)	1,630,642	1,630,642
NHI Common Stock, Cost	$ 24,734	$ 24,734
NHI Common Stock, Fair Value	$ 129,147	$ 120,945

Note 8 - Investments in Marke52

Note 8 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Debt Securities as Available for Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Within 1 year, cost	$ 14,628	$ 14,181
Within 1 year, fair value	14,628	14,216
1 to 5 years, cost	66,519	79,827
1 to 5 years, fair value	66,747	79,502
6 to 10 years, cost	81,923	91,211
6 to 10 years, fair value	81,424	89,269
Over 10 years, fair value	1,155	717
Over 10 years, cost	1,155	749
Cost	164,225	185,968
Fair Value	$ 163,954	$ 183,704

Note 9 - Fair Value Measureme53

Note 9 - Fair Value Measurements - Summary of Fair Value Measurements by Level (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$ 5,748		$ 16,700
Available-for-sale securities	312,091	$ 321,717
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Total financial assets	378,687	353,306
Cash and cash equivalents	60,848	26,335
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	5,748	5,254
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	148,137	138,013
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	68,496	71,100
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	50,905	56,168
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	20,533	25,181
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	24,020	31,255
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Total financial assets	283,166	237,106
Cash and cash equivalents	60,848	26,335
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	5,748	5,254
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	148,137	138,013
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	47,900	42,323
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	20,533	25,181
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Total financial assets	95,521	116,200
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	20,596	28,777
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	50,905	56,168
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale securities	$ 24,020	$ 31,255

Note 10 - Long-term Debt (Detai

Note 10 - Long-term Debt (Details Textual) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Long-term Debt		$ 120	$ 120
Bank of America [Member]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 175
Debt Instrument, Term	5 years
Bank of America [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.40%
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Base Rate	1.00%
Bank of America [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.40%
Bank of America [Member] | Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Base Rate	0.50%
Unsecured Term Note Payable [Member]
Long-term Debt		$ 10	$ 10

Note 10 - Long-term Debt - Sche

Note 10 - Long-term Debt - Schedule of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Long-term debt	$ 120	$ 120
Long-term debt, noncurrent	$ 120	120
Unsecured Term Note Payable [Member]
Long-term debt maturity	2,018
Long-term debt	$ 10	10
Long-term debt, interest rate	3.60%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Long-term debt maturity	2,020
Long-term debt	$ 110	$ 110
Long-term debt, interest rate	2.60%

Note 11 - Stock Repurchase Pr56

Note 11 - Stock Repurchase Program (Details Textual) - Common Stock [Member] - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	10 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		$ 25
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	0

Note 12 - Stock-based Compens57

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensation (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	May 31, 2015	May 30, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross			1,124,689		56,291
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 740,000	$ 208,000	$ 832,000	$ 494,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	$ 7,951,000		$ 7,951,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition			5 years
2010 Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized						2,575,000	1,200,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross			1,062,500
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	568,744		568,744
2010 Plan [Member] | Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period			52,500
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross			9,689
Incentive Stock Option [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period			10 years

Note 12 - Stock-based Compens58

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Assumptions Used to Value Options Granted (Details)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Risk–free interest rate	2.08%	0.89%
Expected volatility	16.60%	15.80%
Expected life, in years (Year)	4 years 292 days	2 years 73 days
Expected dividend yield	3.10%	3.09%

Note 12 - Stock-based Compens59

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Outstanding Stock Options (Details) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Options outstanding, shares (in shares)	177,959	621,390
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 55.48	$ 48.15
Number of Shares - Options Granted (in shares)	1,124,689	56,291
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Options Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 72.96	$ 62.54
Number of Shares - Options Exercised (in shares)	(31,992)	(499,066)
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Options Exercised (in dollars per share)	$ 46.54	$ 47.16
Number of Shares - Options cancelled (in shares)		(656)
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Options cancelled (in dollars per share)		$ 46.69
Options outstanding, shares (in shares)	1,270,656	177,959
Options outstanding, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 71.18	$ 55.48
Options outstanding, aggregate intrinsic value	$ 1,854,000
Options exercisable (in shares)	198,467
Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 61.54
Options exercisable, aggregate intrinsic value	$ 1,854,000

Note 12 - Stock-based Compens60

Note 12 - Stock-based Compensation - Options Outstanding (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
Options outstanding (in shares) | shares	1,270,656
Exercise prices, lower range limit (in dollars per share)
Exercise prices, upper range limit (in dollars per share)
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 71.18
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years (Year)	4 years 146 days
Exercise Price Range 1 [Member]
Options outstanding (in shares) | shares	60,000
Exercise prices, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$ 47.45
Exercise prices, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	52.93
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 50.88
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years (Year)	1 year 182 days
Exercise Price Range 2 [Member]
Options outstanding (in shares) | shares	1,210,656
Exercise prices, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$ 61.25
Exercise prices, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	75.45
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 72.18
Weighted average remaining contractual life in years (Year)	4 years 182 days

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent	39.00%	39.40%	38.90%	39.10%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Contingency, Amount	$ 146,200	$ 190,000	$ 321,000	$ 365,000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Amount	84,000	143,000	133,400	229,000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Exercise of Stock Options, Amount	123,000		244,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 6,758,000	$ 7,700,000	$ 14,757,000	$ 16,398,000
Earliest Tax Year [Member]
Open Tax Year			2,013

Note 14 - Contingencies and C62

Note 14 - Contingencies and Commitments (Details Textual) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Self Insurance Reserve	$ 94,541,000	$ 91,162,000
Direct Business Coverage Statutory Limits	$ 1,000,000
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Number of Claims	61
Annual Excess Coverage	$ 9,000,000	$ 9,000,000
Line of Credit [Member] | National Health Care [Member]
Long-term Line of Credit	0
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 2,000,000
Caris [Member]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	75.10%
Coverage Amount Per Incident [Member]
Primary Insurance Coverage Amount Per Incident	$ 1,000,000
Primary Insurance Coverage, Amount Per Location	$ 3,000,000

Note 15 - Common Stock Author63

Note 15 - Common Stock Authorized (Details Textual) - $ / shares	May 09, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	May 08, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Common Stock, Increase, Shares Authorized	15,000,000
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	45,000,000	45,000,000	30,000,000	30,000,000
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01		$ 0.01