Healthcare Services (HCSG) 10-Q 23 Apr 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Apr. 20, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	HEALTHCARE SERVICES GROUP INC
Entity Central Index Key	731012
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-15
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		71,485

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$58,292		$75,280
Marketable securities, at fair value	11,855		11,799
Accounts and notes receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $4,352,000 as of March 31, 2015 and $6,136,000 as of December 31, 2014	211,412		198,128
Inventories and supplies	35,418		35,462
Deferred income taxes	2,246		3,455
Prepaid income taxes	0		912
Prepaid expenses and other	11,028		9,792
Total current assets	330,251		334,828
Property and equipment:
Laundry and linen equipment installations	2,727		2,578
Housekeeping and office equipment and furniture	34,539		33,546
Autos and trucks	209		232
Property and equipment, gross	37,475		36,356
Less accumulated depreciation	24,411		23,584
Property and equipment, net	13,064		12,772
Goodwill	44,438		44,438
Other intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of $17,042,000 as of March 31, 2015 and $16,232,000 as of December 31, 2014	19,539		20,349
Notes receivable — long term portion, net of reserve	2,716		5,179
Deferred compensation funding, at fair value	24,291		24,742
Deferred income taxes — long term portion	27,914		27,233
Other noncurrent assets	38		38
Total Assets	462,251		469,579
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	42,644		43,554
Accrued payroll, accrued and withheld payroll taxes	25,370		47,696
Other accrued expenses	7,253		8,961
Income taxes payable	6,179		0
Accrued insurance claims	18,523		17,748
Total current liabilities	99,969		117,959
Accrued insurance claims — long term portion	52,718		50,514
Deferred compensation liability	24,492		25,276
Commitments and contingencies
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Common stock, $.01 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 73,218,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2015 and 72,878,000 shares as of December 31, 2014	732		729
Additional paid-in capital	192,068		186,022
Retained earnings	103,098		100,237
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxes	28	[1]	25	[1]
Common stock in treasury, at cost, 1,759,000 shares as of March 31, 2015 and 1,821,000 shares as of December 31, 2014	-10,854		-11,183
Total stockholders’ equity	285,072		275,830
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$462,251		$469,579
[1]	All amounts are net of tax.

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$4,352	$6,136
Accumulated amortization of other intangible assets	$17,042	$16,232
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Common stock, par value (dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (shares)	73,218,000	72,878,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (shares)	73,218,000	72,878,000
Common stock in treasury (shares)	1,759,000	1,821,000

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Com

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015		Mar. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$355,246		$312,165
Operating costs and expenses:
Costs of services provided	303,936		267,371
Selling, general and administrative	26,763		22,046
Other income:
Investment and interest	507		381
Income before income taxes	25,054		23,129
Income tax provision	9,538		8,490
Net income	15,516		14,639
Per share data:
Basic earnings (loss) per common share (dollars per share)	$0.22		$0.21
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share (dollars per share)	$0.22		$0.21
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic (shares)	71,469		70,321
Diluted (shares)	72,159		71,072
Comprehensive income:
Net income	15,516		14,639
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gain on available for sale marketable securities, net of taxes	3	[1]	1
Total comprehensive income	$15,519		$14,640
[1]	All amounts are net of tax.

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$15,516	$14,639
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	1,911	1,757
Bad debt provision	925	750
Deferred income tax benefits	525	3,075
Stock-based compensation expense	884	762
Amortization of premium on marketable securities	93	88
Unrealized gains on deferred compensation fund investments	-365	-264
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts and notes receivable	-11,746	-6,855
Prepaid income taxes	912	-1,007
Inventories and supplies	44	-309
Prepaid expenses and other assets	-1,235	-2,106
Deferred compensation funding	451	-798
Accounts payable and other accrued expenses	-2,351	-469
Accrued payroll, accrued and withheld payroll taxes	-21,002	9,679
Accrued insurance claims	2,979	26
Deferred compensation liability	76	1,230
Income taxes payable	6,179	-1,878
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	-6,204	18,320
Cash flows from investing activities:
Disposals of fixed assets	41	60
Additions to property and equipment	-1,436	-1,513
Purchases of marketable securities	-989	-1,228
Sales of marketable securities	846	939
Net cash used in investing activities	-1,538	-1,742
Cash flows from financing activities:
Dividends paid	-12,655	-12,077
Reissuance of treasury stock pursuant to Dividend Reinvestment Plan	26	0
Tax benefit from equity compensation plans	499	477
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options	2,884	2,559
Net cash used in financing activities	-9,246	-9,041
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-16,988	7,537
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period	75,280	64,155
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period	58,292	71,692
Supplementary Cash Flow Information:
Cash paid for interest	22	13
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds	1,424	7,821
Issuance of Common Stock in 2015 and 2014, respectively, pursuant to Employee Stock Purchase Plan	$1,701	$1,851

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) (USD $)	Total		Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, net of taxes [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$275,830		$729	$186,022	$25	$100,237	($11,183)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014			72,878
Comprehensive income:
Net income for the period	15,516					15,516
Unrealized gain on available for sale marketable securities, net of taxes	3	[1]			3
Total comprehensive income	15,519
Exercise of stock options, net of shares tendered for payment (in shares)			164
Exercise of stock options, net of shares tendered for payment	2,884		1	2,883
Tax benefit from equity compensation plans	499			499
Share-based compensation expense — stock options and restricted stock	777			777
Treasury shares issued for Deferred Compensation Plan funding and redemptions	491			443			48
Shares issued pursuant to Employee Stock Purchase Plan	1,701			1,363			338
Cash dividends	-12,655					-12,655
Shares issued pursuant to Dividend Reinvestment Plan	26			83			-57
Shares issued pursuant to prior year acquisition (in shares)			176
Shares issued pursuant to prior year acquisition	0		2	-2
Balance at Mar. 31, 2015	$285,072		$732	$192,068	$28	$103,098	($10,854)
Balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2015			73,218
[1]	All amounts are net of tax.

Description_of_Business_and_Si

Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies	Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies
	Unaudited Interim Financial Data
	The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") for interim financial information and the requirements of Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes necessary for a complete presentation of financial position, results of operations and cash flows. However, in our opinion, all adjustments which are of a normal recurring nature and necessary for a fair presentation have been reflected in these consolidated financial statements. The balance sheet shown in this report as of December 31, 2014 has been derived from, and does not include, all the disclosures contained in the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014. The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period.
	Nature of Operations
	We provide management, administrative and operating expertise and services to the housekeeping, laundry, linen, facility maintenance and dietary service departments of the health care industry, including nursing homes, retirement complexes, rehabilitation centers and hospitals located throughout the United States. Although we do not directly participate in any government reimbursement programs, our clients’ reimbursements are subject to government regulation. Therefore, they are directly affected by any legislation relating to Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement programs.
	We provide our services primarily pursuant to full service agreements with our clients. In such agreements, we are responsible for the day-to-day management of the managers and hourly employees located at our clients’ facilities. We also provide services on the basis of a management-only agreement for a very limited number of clients. Our agreements with clients typically provide for a one year service term, cancelable by either party upon 30 to 90 days’ notice after the initial 90-day period.
	We are organized into two reportable segments: housekeeping, laundry, linen and other services (“Housekeeping”), and dietary department services (“Dietary”).
	Housekeeping consists of the managing of the client’s housekeeping department which is principally responsible for the cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing of patient rooms and common areas of a client’s facility, as well as the laundering and processing of the personal clothing belonging to the facility’s patients. Also within the scope of this segment’s service is the responsibility for laundering and processing of the bed linens, uniforms and other assorted linen items utilized by a client facility.
	Dietary consists of managing the client’s dietary department which is principally responsible for food purchasing, meal preparation and providing dietitian consulting professional services, which includes the development of a menu that meets the patient’s dietary needs.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Healthcare Services Group, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents are held in U.S. financial institutions or in custodial accounts with U.S. financial institutions. Cash and cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at time of purchase that are readily convertible into cash and have insignificant interest rate risk.
	Inventories and Supplies
	Inventories and supplies include housekeeping, linen and laundry supplies, as well as food provisions and supplies. Inventories and supplies are stated at cost to approximate a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. Linen supplies are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life of 24 months.
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenues from our service agreements with clients are recognized as services are performed.
	As a distributor of laundry equipment, we occasionally sell laundry installations to certain clients. The sales in most cases represent the construction and installation of a turn-key operation and are for payment terms ranging from 24 to 60 months. During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, laundry installation sales were not material.
	Income Taxes
	We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, income tax expense is recognized for the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current period. We accrue for probable tax obligations as required by facts and circumstances in the various regulatory environments. In addition, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. If appropriate, we would record a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to an amount for which realization is more likely than not.
	In accordance with U.S. GAAP, we account for uncertain income tax positions reflected within our financial statements based on a recognition threshold and measurement process for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.
	Earnings per Common Share
	Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share reflect the weighted-average common shares outstanding and dilutive common shares, such as those issuable upon exercise of stock options.
	Share-Based Compensation
	U.S. GAAP addresses the accounting for share-based compensation, specifically, the measurement and recognition of compensation expense, based on estimated fair values, for all share-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options and participation in the Company’s employee stock purchase plan. We estimate the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as an expense in the Company’s consolidated statements of comprehensive income over the requisite service periods. We use the straight-line single option method of expensing share-based awards in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Because share-based compensation expense is based on awards that are ultimately expected to vest, share-based compensation expense will be reduced to account for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
	Use of Estimates in Financial Statements
	In preparing financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP, we make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates are used for, but not limited to, our allowance for doubtful accounts, accrued insurance claims, asset valuations and review for potential impairment, and deferred taxes. The estimates are based upon various factors including current and historical trends, as well as other pertinent industry and regulatory authority information. We regularly evaluate this information to determine if it is necessary to update the basis for our estimates and to compensate for known changes.
	Self-Funded Captive Insurance Programs
	Effective in the second half of 2015, the Company expects to transition its workers compensation and certain employee health & welfare insurance programs to HCSG Insurance Corp. ("HCSG Insurance"), its wholly owned captive insurance subsidiary. HCSG Insurance currently provides general liability coverage to the Company. HCSG Insurance was formed in January 2014 to provide the Company with greater flexibility and cost efficiency in meeting its property & casualty and health & welfare needs.
	Concentrations of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments, as defined by U.S. GAAP, which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, deferred compensation funding and accounts and notes receivable. We define our marketable securities as fixed income investments which are highly liquid investments that can be readily purchased or sold using established markets. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents, and marketable securities were held in one large financial institution located in the United States.
	Our clients are concentrated in the health care industry, primarily providers of long-term care. Many of our clients’ revenues are highly contingent on Medicare, Medicaid and third party payors’ reimbursement funding rates. Congress has enacted a number of major laws during the past decade that have significantly altered, or threatened to alter, overall government reimbursement for nursing home services. These changes and lack of substantive reimbursement funding rate reform legislation, as well as other trends in the long-term care industry have affected and could adversely affect the liquidity of our clients, resulting in their inability to make payments to us on agreed upon payment terms. These factors, in addition to delays in payments from clients, could result in significant additional bad debts in the future.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2015-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40). This ASU will require an entity's management, for each annual and interim reporting period, to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. The definition of substantial doubt within this ASU incorporates a likelihood threshold of "probable" similar to the use of that term under current guidance for Topic 450, Contingencies. Certain disclosures will be required if conditions give rise to substantial doubt. This ASU is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect the guidance in this ASU to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customer (Topic 606). This ASU establishes core principles that should assist an entity in recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance in this ASU supersedes the current revenue recognition requirements in Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), and most industry-specific guidance throughout the Industry Topics of the Codification. This ASU is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning on or after December 15, 2016, with early adoption prohibited. The Company is currently assessing the impact the guidance in this ASU will have, if any, on our consolidated results of operations, cash flows, or financial position.

Acquisition

Acquisition	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	Acquisition
	On July 12, 2013, the Company acquired substantially all of the operating assets of Platinum Health Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and Platinum Health Services PEO, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (collectively “Platinum”). The total purchase consideration was $50,766,000, which consisted of a cash payment of $5,000,000, the issuance of 1,215,000 shares of the Company's common stock with a fair value of $30,062,000 and contingent consideration with a fair value of $15,704,000. The purchase price allocation was completed in the second quarter of 2014.
	Upon the achievement of certain financial and retention targets, the Platinum stockholders are eligible for contingent consideration paid by the future issuance of 1,005,000 shares of the Company's common stock. As of March 31, 2015, 652,000 shares of contingent consideration have been earned and distributed to the Platinum stockholders. The remaining 353,000 shares may be issued to the Platinum stockholders upon the achievement of certain financial targets. The Company's obligation to pay contingent consideration has been appropriately classified as equity within the financial statements.

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component	Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component
	U.S. GAAP establishes standards for presenting information about significant items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. As of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively, we generated other comprehensive income from one component, which relates to the unrealized gains and losses from our available for sale marketable securities during a given reporting period.
	The following table provides a summary of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
		Unrealized Gains and Losses on Available for Sale Securities (1)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income — December 31, 2014	$	25,000
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	1,000
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (2)(3)	2,000
	Net current period change in other comprehensive income	3,000
	Accumulated other comprehensive income — March 31, 2015	$	28,000
	-1	All amounts are net of tax.
	-2	Realized gains and losses are recorded pre-tax in the other income - investment and interest caption on our consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
	-3	For the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company recorded $3,000 of realized gains from the sale of available for sale securities. Refer to Note 5 herein for further information.

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired of businesses and is not amortized. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise, using a fair-value-based test that compares the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value.
	Goodwill by reportable operating segment, as described in Note 10 herein, was approximately $42,377,000 and $2,061,000 for Housekeeping and Dietary as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
	The cost of intangible assets is based on fair values at the date of acquisition. Intangible assets with determinable lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life (between 7 and 10 years).
	The following table sets forth the amounts of our identifiable intangible assets subject to amortization, which were acquired in acquisitions.
		March 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Customer relationships	$	35,781,000		$	35,781,000
	Non-compete agreements	800,000			800,000
	Total other intangibles, gross	36,581,000			36,581,000
	Less accumulated amortization	17,042,000			16,232,000
	Other intangibles, net	$	19,539,000		$	20,349,000
	The customer relationships and non-compete agreements have a weighted-average amortization period of eight years. As of March 31, 2015, the Company's non-compete agreements have been fully amortized.
	The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense for intangibles subject to amortization for the remainder of 2015, the following five fiscal years and thereafter:
	Period/Year		Total Amortization Expense
	April 1 to December 31, 2015		$	2,432,000
	2016		3,241,000
	2017		2,970,000
	2018		2,328,000
	2019		2,130,000
	2020		2,130,000
	Thereafter		4,308,000
	Amortization expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 was $810,000 and $828,000, respectively.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	We, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, define fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). We have not elected the fair value option for our available for sale marketable securities as we believe these assets are more representative of our investing activities and are viewed as non-operating in nature. These assets are available for future needs of the Company to support our current and projected growth, if required. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, our investments in marketable securities are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. These investment securities are valued based upon quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.
	The Company’s financial instruments consist mainly of cash and cash equivalents, available for sale marketable securities, accounts and notes receivable, prepaid expenses and other, and accounts payable (including income taxes payable and accrued expenses). The carrying value of these financial instruments approximates their fair value because of their short-term nature. The fair value of financial instruments is defined as the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties.
	The following tables provide fair value measurement information for our marketable securities and deferred compensation fund investment assets as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
		As of March 31, 2015
						Fair Value Measurement Using:
		Carrying		Total Fair		Quoted			Significant		Significant
		Amount		Value		Prices			Other		Unobservable
						in Active			Observable		Inputs
						Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
						(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Financial Assets:
	Marketable securities
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	$	11,855,000	$	11,855,000	$	—		$	11,855,000	$	—
	Deferred compensation fund
	Money Market	$	3,462,000	$	3,462,000	$	—		$	3,462,000	$	—
	Balanced and Lifestyle	8,921,000		8,921,000		8,921,000			—		—
	Large Cap Growth	5,068,000		5,068,000		5,068,000			—		—
	Small Cap Value	2,323,000		2,323,000		2,323,000			—		—
	Fixed Income	2,129,000		2,129,000		2,129,000			—		—
	International	1,161,000		1,161,000		1,161,000			—		—
	Mid Cap Growth	1,227,000		1,227,000		1,227,000			—		—
	Deferred compensation fund	$	24,291,000	$	24,291,000	$	20,829,000		$	3,462,000	$	—
		As of December 31, 2014
						Fair Value Measurement Using:
		Carrying		Total Fair		Quoted			Significant		Significant
		Amount		Value		Prices			Other		Unobservable
						in Active			Observable		Inputs
						Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
						(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Financial Assets:
	Marketable securities
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	$	11,799,000	$	11,799,000	$	—		$	11,799,000	$	—
	Deferred compensation fund
	Money Market	$	4,278,000	$	4,278,000	$	—		$	4,278,000	$	—
	Balanced and Lifestyle	8,885,000		8,885,000		8,885,000			—		—
	Large Cap Growth	4,856,000		4,856,000		4,856,000			—		—
	Small Cap Value	2,392,000		2,392,000		2,392,000			—		—
	Fixed Income	2,081,000		2,081,000		2,081,000			—		—
	International	1,097,000		1,097,000		1,097,000			—		—
	Mid Cap Growth	1,153,000		1,153,000		1,153,000			—		—
	Deferred compensation fund	$	24,742,000	$	24,742,000	$	20,464,000		$	4,278,000	$	—
	The fair value of the municipal bonds is measured using third party pricing service data. The fair value of equity investments in the funded deferred compensation plan are valued (Level 1) based on quoted market prices. The money market fund in the funded deferred compensation plan is valued (Level 2) at the net asset value (“NAV”) of the shares held by the plan at the end of the period. As a practical expedient, fair value of our money market fund is valued at the NAV as determined by the custodian of the fund. The money market fund includes short-term United States dollar denominated money-market instruments. The money market fund can be redeemed at its NAV at its measurement date as there are no significant restrictions on the ability of participants to sell this investment. These assets will be redeemed by the plan participants on an as needed basis.
	Unrealized gains and losses from marketable securities are recorded in the other comprehensive income caption in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we recorded unrealized gains from marketable securities of $3,000 and $1,000, respectively.
		Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Estimated Fair Value		Other-than-temporary Impairments
	March 31, 2015
	Type of security:
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	11,808,000		49,000		(2,000		)	11,855,000		—
	Total debt securities	$	11,808,000	$	49,000	$	(2,000	)	$	11,855,000	$	—
	December 31, 2014
	Type of security:
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	11,758,000		48,000		(7,000		)	11,799,000		—
	Total debt securities	$	11,758,000	$	48,000	$	(7,000	)	$	11,799,000	$	—
	For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we received total proceeds, less the amount of interest received, of $758,000 and $871,000, respectively, from sales of available for sale municipal bonds. These sales resulted in realized gains of $3,000 and $1,000, respectively, and are recorded in other income – investment and interest caption on our consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The basis for the sale of these securities was a specific identification of each bond sold during this period.
	The following tables include contractual maturities of debt securities held at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, which are classified as marketable securities in the consolidated Balance Sheet.
		Municipal Bonds — Available for Sale
	Contractual maturity:	31-Mar-15		31-Dec-14
	Maturing in one year or less	$	3,585,000	$	4,343,000
	Maturing after one year through three years	4,557,000		4,041,000
	Maturing after three years	3,713,000		3,415,000
	Total debt securities	$	11,855,000	$	11,799,000

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation
	2012 Equity Incentive Plan
	The Company's 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the "2012 Plan") provides that current or prospective officers, employees, non-employee directors and advisors can receive share-based awards such as stock options, restricted stock and other stock awards. The 2012 Plan seeks to promote the highest level of performance by providing an economic interest in the long-term success of the Company. As of the adoption of the 2012 Plan, no further grants were permitted under any previously existing stock plans (the "Pre-existing Plans"). Additionally, all remaining shares available for future grants under the Pre-existing Plans became available for issuance under the 2012 Plan.
	The Nominating, Compensation and Stock Option Committee of the Board of Directors is responsible for determining the individuals who will be granted stock awards, the number of stock awards each individual will receive, the price per share (in accordance with the terms of our 2012 Plan), and the exercise period of each stock award.
	A summary of stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
		For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015				2014
	Stock Options	$	719,000			$	646,000
	Restricted Stock	58,000				26,000
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP")	107,000				90,000
	Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense charged against income (1)	$	884,000			$	762,000
	-1	Stock-based compensation expense is recorded in the selling, general and administrative caption in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
	We have outstanding stock awards that were granted under the Pre-existing Plans to non-employee directors, officers and employees of the Company and other specified groups, depending on the Pre-existing Plan. As of March 31, 2015, 4,488,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance under our 2012 Plan, including 1,748,000 shares available for future grant. The stock price will not be less than the fair market value of the common stock on the date the award is granted. No stock award will have a term in excess of ten years. Since 2008, all awards granted under the Pre-existing Plans and the 2012 Plan become vested and exercisable ratably over a five year period on each yearly anniversary date of the option grant.
	A summary of our stock option activity under the 2012 Plan as of December 31, 2014 and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2015 is as follows:
		Stock Options Outstanding
		Number of Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
	31-Dec-14	2,362,000			$	19.45
	Granted	561,000			30.3
	Cancelled	(22,000	)		26.26
	Exercised	(161,000	)		18.21
	31-Mar-15	2,740,000			$	21.69
	The weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 was $6.64 and $8.24 per common share, respectively.
	During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company granted 25,000 shares of restricted stock with a weighted average grant date fair value of $30.30 per share. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company granted 14,000 shares of restricted stock with a weighted average grant date fair value of $28.02 per share.
	A summary of our non-vested stock-based compensation as of December 31, 2014 and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2015 is as follows:
		Number of Non-vested Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	31-Dec-14	1,465,000			$	6.17
	Granted	561,000			6.64
	Vested	(488,000	)		5.17
	Forfeited	(22,000	)		6.51
	31-Mar-15	1,516,000			$	6.66
	The following table summarizes other information about our outstanding stock options at March 31, 2015.
			Stock Options
	Range of exercise prices		$10.39 - $30.30
	Outstanding:
	Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		7.1
	Aggregate intrinsic value		$	28,607,000
	Exercisable:
	Number of shares		1,224,000
	Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		5.4
	Aggregate intrinsic value		$	19,264,000
	Exercised:
	Aggregate intrinsic value		$	2,205,000
	Fair Value Estimates
	The fair value of stock awards granted in 2015 and 2014 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model based on the following assumptions:
		March 31, 2015		March 31, 2014
	Risk-free interest rate	1.90%		1.90%
	Weighted average expected life in years	5.8 years		5.9 years
	Expected volatility	27.20%		36.90%
	Dividend yield	2.20%		2.40%
	Other Information
	Other information pertaining to activity of our stock awards during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:
		March 31, 2015				March 31, 2014
	Total grant-date fair value of stock awards granted	$	4,027,000			$	4,268,000
	Total fair value of stock awards vested during period	$	2,719,000			$	2,051,000
	Total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock awards	$	9,363,000			$	8,523,000
	At March 31, 2015, the unrecognized compensation cost related to stock awards granted but not yet vested, as reported above, was expected to be recognized through the fourth quarter of 2019 for the 2015 grants and the fourth quarter of 2018 for the 2014 grants.
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan
	We have an Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP") for all eligible employees. All full-time and certain part-time employees who have completed two years of continuous service with us are eligible to participate. On April 12, 2011, the Board of Directors extended the ESPP for an additional five offerings through 2016. Annual offerings commence and terminate on the respective year’s first and last calendar day.
	Under the ESPP, we are authorized to issue up to 4,050,000 shares of our common stock to our employees. Pursuant to such authorization, we have 2,421,000 shares available for future grant at March 31, 2015.
	The stock-based compensation expense associated with our ESPP was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model based on the following assumptions:
		March 31, 2015		March 31, 2014
	Risk-free interest rate	0.18%		0.10%
	Weighted average expected life in years	1.0 year		1.0 year
	Expected volatility	19.20%		21.90%
Dividend yield	2.20%		2.40%

Dividends

Dividends	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Dividends	Dividends
	On March 27, 2015, we paid to shareholders of record on February 20, 2015, a regular cash dividend of $0.17625 per common share or $12,655,000 in the aggregate.
	Additionally, on April 14, 2015, our Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.17750 per common share, which will be paid on June 26, 2015, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 22, 2015.
	Cash dividends on our outstanding weighted average number of basic common shares for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 were approximately as follows:
		For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015		2014
	Cash dividends per common share	$	0.18	$	0.17
	Our Board of Directors reviews our dividend policy on a quarterly basis. Although there can be no assurance that we will continue to pay dividends or the amount of the dividend, we expect to continue to pay a regular quarterly cash dividend. In connection with the establishment of our dividend policy, we adopted a Dividend Reinvestment Plan in 2003.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	For the three months ended March 31, 2015, our effective tax rate was approximately 38%, an increase from the 37% effective tax rate for the comparable 2014 period. Such differences between the effective tax rates and the applicable U.S. federal statutory rate arise primarily from the effect of state and local income taxes and tax credits available to the Company. The increase in the effective tax rate is primarily due to the impact of tax credits realized in 2014 as compared to the current period. As such, the 2015 estimated annual effective tax rate is expected to be approximately 38% compared to 31% for 2014. This amount could vary depending on the availability of tax credits.
	We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method, which results in recognizing income tax expense based on the amount of income taxes payable or refundable for the current year. Additionally, we evaluate regularly the tax positions taken or expected to be taken resulting from financial statement recognition of certain items. Based on our evaluation, we have concluded that there are no significant uncertain tax positions requiring recognition in our financial statements. Our evaluation was performed for the tax years ended December 31, 2011 through 2014 (with regard to U.S. federal income tax returns) and December 31, 2010 through 2014 (with regard to various state and local income tax returns), the tax years which remain subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions as of March 31, 2015.
	We may from time to time be assessed interest or penalties by taxing jurisdictions, although any such assessments historically have been minimal and immaterial to our financial results. When we have received an assessment for interest and/or penalties, it has been classified in the financial statements as selling, general and administrative expense.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions
	A director is a member of a law firm which was retained by us. In each of the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, fees received from us by such firm did not exceed $120,000 in any period. Additionally, such fees did not exceed, in either period, 5% of such firm’s or the Company's revenues.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information
	Reportable Operating Segments
	U.S. GAAP establishes standards for reporting information regarding operating segments in annual financial statements. Operating segments are identified as components of an enterprise for which separate discrete financial information is available for evaluation by the chief operating decision-maker, or decision-making group in making decisions on how to allocate resources and assess performance.
	We manage and evaluate our operations in two reportable segments: Housekeeping (housekeeping, laundry, linen and other services) and Dietary (dietary department services). Although both segments serve the same client base and share many operational similarities, they are managed separately due to distinct differences in the type of service provided, as well as the specialized expertise required of the professional management personnel responsible for delivering the respective segment’s services. We consider the various services provided within each reportable segment to comprise an identifiable reportable operating segment since such services are rendered pursuant to a single service agreement, specific to that reportable segment, as well as the fact that the delivery of the respective reportable segment’s services are managed by the same management personnel of the particular reportable segment.
	The Company’s accounting policies for the segments are generally the same as the Company’s significant accounting policies. Differences between the reportable segments’ operating results and other disclosed data and our consolidated financial statements relate primarily to corporate level transactions and recording of transactions at the reportable segment level which use methods other than generally accepted accounting principles. There are certain inventories and supplies that are primarily expensed when incurred within the operating segments, while they are capitalized for the consolidated financial statements. As discussed, most corporate expense is not allocated to the operating segments, and such expenses include corporate salary and benefit costs, bad debt expense, certain legal costs, information technology costs, depreciation, amortization of finite lived intangibles, share based compensation costs and other corporate specific costs. Additionally, there are allocations for workers' compensation and general liability expense within the operating segments that differ from our actual expense recorded for U.S. GAAP. Additionally, included in the differences between the reportable segments’ operating results and other disclosed data are amounts attributable to Huntingdon Holdings Inc. ("Huntingdon"), our investment holding company subsidiary. Huntingdon does not transact any business with the reportable segments. Segment amounts disclosed are prior to any elimination entries made in consolidation.
	Housekeeping provides services in Canada, although essentially all of its revenues and net income, 99% in both categories, are earned in one geographic area, the United States. Dietary provides services solely in the United States.
		Housekeeping		Dietary		Corporate and				Total
		Services		Services		Eliminations
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
	Revenues	$	226,581,000	$	128,665,000	$	—			$	355,246,000
	Income before income taxes	20,617,000		8,905,000		(4,468,000		)	(1)	25,054,000
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Revenues	$	204,741,000	$	107,424,000	$	—			$	312,165,000
	Income before income taxes	18,752,000		6,780,000		(2,403,000		)	(1)	23,129,000
	-1	Represents primarily corporate office cost and related overhead, recording of transactions at the reportable segment level which use methods other than U.S. GAAP, as well as consolidated subsidiaries’ operating expenses that are not allocated to the reportable segments, net of investment and interest income.
	Total Revenues from Clients
	The following revenues earned from clients differ from segment revenues reported above due to the inclusion of adjustments used for segment reporting purposes by management. We earned total revenues from clients in the following service categories:
		For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015		2014
	Housekeeping services	$	156,587,000	$	140,940,000
	Laundry and linen services	69,488,000		63,270,000
	Dietary services	128,665,000		107,424,000
	Maintenance services and other	506,000		531,000
		$	355,246,000	$	312,165,000

Earnings_Per_Common_Share

Earnings Per Common Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Common Share	Earnings Per Common Share
	Basic net earnings per share are computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. The dilutive effect of potential common shares outstanding is included in diluted net earnings per share. The computations of basic net earnings per share and diluted net earnings per share are as follows:
			Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
			Income		Shares	Per-share
			(Numerator)		(Denominator)	Amount
		Net income	$	15,516,000
		Basic earnings per common share	$	15,516,000	71,469,000	$	0.22
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Stock options and restricted stock			690,000	—
		Diluted earnings per common share	$	15,516,000	72,159,000	$	0.22
			Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
			Income		Shares	Per-share
			(Numerator)		(Denominator)	Amount
		Net income	$	14,639,000
		Basic earnings per common share	$	14,639,000	70,321,000	$	0.21
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Stock options and restricted stock			751,000	—
		Diluted earnings per common share	$	14,639,000	71,072,000	$	0.21
	Stock awards to purchase 1,014,000 shares of common stock having average exercise price of $29.22 per common share were outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2015 but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because the exercise prices of the options were greater than the average market price of the common shares, and therefore, would be antidilutive.
	Stock awards to purchase 993,000 shares of common stock having an average exercise price of $25.87 per common share were outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2014 but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because the exercise prices of the options were greater than the average market price of the common shares, and therefore, would be antidilutive.

Other_Contingencies

Other Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Contingencies	Other Contingencies
	We have a $125,000,000 bank line of credit on which we may draw to meet short-term liquidity requirements in excess of internally generated cash flow. Amounts drawn under the line of credit are payable upon demand. At March 31, 2015, there were no borrowings under the line of credit. However, at such date, we had outstanding a $71,415,000 (increased to $73,696,000 on April 1, 2015) irrevocable standby letter of credit which relates to payment obligations under our insurance programs. As a result of the letter of credit issued, the amount available under the line of credit was reduced by $71,415,000 at March 31, 2015. The line of credit requires us to satisfy one financial covenant. We are in compliance with our financial covenant at March 31, 2015 and expect to continue to remain in compliance with such financial covenant. This line of credit has a five year term and expires on December 18, 2018.
	We provide our services in 48 states and are subject to numerous local taxing jurisdictions within those states. Consequently, in the ordinary course of business, a jurisdiction may contest our reporting positions with respect to the application of its tax code to our services. A jurisdiction’s conflicting position on the taxability of our services could result in additional tax liabilities.
	We have tax matters with various taxing authorities. Because of the uncertainties related to both the probable outcome and amount of probable assessment due, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate of a liability. We do not expect the resolution of any of these matters, taken individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations based on our best estimate of the outcomes of such matters.
	We are also subject to various claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of business. Some of these matters include payroll and employee-related matters and examinations by governmental agencies. As we become aware of such claims and legal actions, we provide accruals if the exposures are probable and estimable. If an adverse outcome of such claims and legal actions is reasonably possible, we assess materiality and provide such financial disclosure, as appropriate.
	Many states have significant budget deficits. State Medicaid programs are experiencing increased demand, and with lower revenues than projected, they have fewer resources to support their Medicaid programs. In addition, comprehensive health care legislation under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (together, the “Act”) was signed into law in March 2010. The Act will continue to significantly impact the governmental healthcare programs in which our clients participate, and reimbursements received thereunder from governmental or third-party payors. Effective October 1, 2011, a rule enacted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) reduced Medicare payments to nursing centers by 11.1% and changed the reimbursement for the provision of group rehabilitation therapy services to Medicare beneficiaries. Furthermore, during the remainder of 2015 and in coming years, new proposals or additional changes in existing regulations could be made to the Act and/or CMS could propose additional reimbursement reductions which could directly impact the governmental reimbursement programs in which our clients participate. As a result, some state Medicaid programs are reconsidering previously approved increases in nursing home reimbursement or are considering delaying or foregoing those increases. A few states have indicated it is possible they will run out of cash to pay Medicaid providers, including nursing homes. In addition, certain states have rejected Federal Medicaid assistance under the Act and may continue to do so. Any negative changes in our clients’ reimbursements may negatively impact our results of operations. Although we continually evaluate the Act’s effect on our client base, we may not know the full effect until such time as these laws are fully implemented and CMS and other agencies issue applicable regulations or guidance.
	In January 2013, the U.S. Congress enacted the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which delayed automatic spending cuts, including reduced Medicare payments to plans and providers up to 2%. These discretionary spending caps were originally enacted under provisions in the Budget Control Act of 2011, an initiative to reduce the federal deficit through the year 2021, also known as “sequestration.” The sequestration went into effect starting March 2013. In December 2013, the U.S. Congress enacted the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013, which reduces the impact of the sequestration for two years, beginning in fiscal year 2014 and extended the reduction in Medicare payments to plans and providers for two years through the year 2023.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events
	We evaluated all subsequent events through the date this Form 10-Q is being filed with the SEC. We believe there were no events or transactions occurring during this subsequent reporting period which require recognition or additional disclosure in these financial statements.

Description_of_Business_and_Si1

Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Unaudited Interim Financial Data	Unaudited Interim Financial Data
	The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") for interim financial information and the requirements of Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes necessary for a complete presentation of financial position, results of operations and cash flows. However, in our opinion, all adjustments which are of a normal recurring nature and necessary for a fair presentation have been reflected in these consolidated financial statements. The balance sheet shown in this report as of December 31, 2014 has been derived from, and does not include, all the disclosures contained in the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014. The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for any future period.
Nature Of Operations	Nature of Operations
	We provide management, administrative and operating expertise and services to the housekeeping, laundry, linen, facility maintenance and dietary service departments of the health care industry, including nursing homes, retirement complexes, rehabilitation centers and hospitals located throughout the United States. Although we do not directly participate in any government reimbursement programs, our clients’ reimbursements are subject to government regulation. Therefore, they are directly affected by any legislation relating to Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement programs.
	We provide our services primarily pursuant to full service agreements with our clients. In such agreements, we are responsible for the day-to-day management of the managers and hourly employees located at our clients’ facilities. We also provide services on the basis of a management-only agreement for a very limited number of clients. Our agreements with clients typically provide for a one year service term, cancelable by either party upon 30 to 90 days’ notice after the initial 90-day period.
	We are organized into two reportable segments: housekeeping, laundry, linen and other services (“Housekeeping”), and dietary department services (“Dietary”).
	Housekeeping consists of the managing of the client’s housekeeping department which is principally responsible for the cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing of patient rooms and common areas of a client’s facility, as well as the laundering and processing of the personal clothing belonging to the facility’s patients. Also within the scope of this segment’s service is the responsibility for laundering and processing of the bed linens, uniforms and other assorted linen items utilized by a client facility.
	Dietary consists of managing the client’s dietary department which is principally responsible for food purchasing, meal preparation and providing dietitian consulting professional services, which includes the development of a menu that meets the patient’s dietary needs.
Principles Of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Healthcare Services Group, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents are held in U.S. financial institutions or in custodial accounts with U.S. financial institutions. Cash and cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at time of purchase that are readily convertible into cash and have insignificant interest rate risk.
Inventories and Supplies	Inventories and Supplies
	Inventories and supplies include housekeeping, linen and laundry supplies, as well as food provisions and supplies. Inventories and supplies are stated at cost to approximate a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. Linen supplies are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful life of 24 months.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	Revenues from our service agreements with clients are recognized as services are performed.
	As a distributor of laundry equipment, we occasionally sell laundry installations to certain clients. The sales in most cases represent the construction and installation of a turn-key operation and are for payment terms ranging from 24 to 60 months.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, income tax expense is recognized for the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current period. We accrue for probable tax obligations as required by facts and circumstances in the various regulatory environments. In addition, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. If appropriate, we would record a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to an amount for which realization is more likely than not.
	In accordance with U.S. GAAP, we account for uncertain income tax positions reflected within our financial statements based on a recognition threshold and measurement process for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.
Earnings per Common Share	Earnings per Common Share
	Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share reflect the weighted-average common shares outstanding and dilutive common shares, such as those issuable upon exercise of stock options.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation
	U.S. GAAP addresses the accounting for share-based compensation, specifically, the measurement and recognition of compensation expense, based on estimated fair values, for all share-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options and participation in the Company’s employee stock purchase plan. We estimate the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The value of the portion of the award that is ultimately expected to vest is recognized as an expense in the Company’s consolidated statements of comprehensive income over the requisite service periods. We use the straight-line single option method of expensing share-based awards in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Because share-based compensation expense is based on awards that are ultimately expected to vest, share-based compensation expense will be reduced to account for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
Use of Estimates in Financial Statements	Use of Estimates in Financial Statements
	In preparing financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP, we make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates are used for, but not limited to, our allowance for doubtful accounts, accrued insurance claims, asset valuations and review for potential impairment, and deferred taxes. The estimates are based upon various factors including current and historical trends, as well as other pertinent industry and regulatory authority information. We regularly evaluate this information to determine if it is necessary to update the basis for our estimates and to compensate for known changes.
Self-Funded Captive Insurance Programs	Self-Funded Captive Insurance Programs
	Effective in the second half of 2015, the Company expects to transition its workers compensation and certain employee health & welfare insurance programs to HCSG Insurance Corp. ("HCSG Insurance"), its wholly owned captive insurance subsidiary. HCSG Insurance currently provides general liability coverage to the Company. HCSG Insurance was formed in January 2014 to provide the Company with greater flexibility and cost efficiency in meeting its property & casualty and health & welfare needs.
Concentrations of Credit Risk	Concentrations of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments, as defined by U.S. GAAP, which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, deferred compensation funding and accounts and notes receivable. We define our marketable securities as fixed income investments which are highly liquid investments that can be readily purchased or sold using established markets. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, substantially all of our cash and cash equivalents, and marketable securities were held in one large financial institution located in the United States.
	Our clients are concentrated in the health care industry, primarily providers of long-term care. Many of our clients’ revenues are highly contingent on Medicare, Medicaid and third party payors’ reimbursement funding rates. Congress has enacted a number of major laws during the past decade that have significantly altered, or threatened to alter, overall government reimbursement for nursing home services. These changes and lack of substantive reimbursement funding rate reform legislation, as well as other trends in the long-term care industry have affected and could adversely affect the liquidity of our clients, resulting in their inability to make payments to us on agreed upon payment terms. These factors, in addition to delays in payments from clients, could result in significant additional bad debts in the future.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2015-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40). This ASU will require an entity's management, for each annual and interim reporting period, to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. The definition of substantial doubt within this ASU incorporates a likelihood threshold of "probable" similar to the use of that term under current guidance for Topic 450, Contingencies. Certain disclosures will be required if conditions give rise to substantial doubt. This ASU is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect the guidance in this ASU to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customer (Topic 606). This ASU establishes core principles that should assist an entity in recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance in this ASU supersedes the current revenue recognition requirements in Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), and most industry-specific guidance throughout the Industry Topics of the Codification. This ASU is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning on or after December 15, 2016, with early adoption prohibited. The Company is currently assessing the impact the guidance in this ASU will have, if any, on our consolidated results of operations, cash flows, or financial position.

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C1

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The following table provides a summary of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2015:
		Unrealized Gains and Losses on Available for Sale Securities (1)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income — December 31, 2014	$	25,000
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	1,000
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (2)(3)	2,000
	Net current period change in other comprehensive income	3,000
	Accumulated other comprehensive income — March 31, 2015	$	28,000
	-1	All amounts are net of tax.
	-2	Realized gains and losses are recorded pre-tax in the other income - investment and interest caption on our consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
	-3	For the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company recorded $3,000 of realized gains from the sale of available for sale securities. Refer to Note 5 herein for further information.

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Identifiable Intangible Assets Subject To Amortization	The following table sets forth the amounts of our identifiable intangible assets subject to amortization, which were acquired in acquisitions.
		March 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Customer relationships	$	35,781,000		$	35,781,000
	Non-compete agreements	800,000			800,000
	Total other intangibles, gross	36,581,000			36,581,000
	Less accumulated amortization	17,042,000			16,232,000
	Other intangibles, net	$	19,539,000		$	20,349,000
Estimated Amortization Expense For Intangibles Subject To Amortization	The following table sets forth the estimated amortization expense for intangibles subject to amortization for the remainder of 2015, the following five fiscal years and thereafter:
	Period/Year		Total Amortization Expense
	April 1 to December 31, 2015		$	2,432,000
	2016		3,241,000
	2017		2,970,000
	2018		2,328,000
	2019		2,130,000
	2020		2,130,000
	Thereafter		4,308,000

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	The following tables provide fair value measurement information for our marketable securities and deferred compensation fund investment assets as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
		As of March 31, 2015
						Fair Value Measurement Using:
		Carrying		Total Fair		Quoted			Significant		Significant
		Amount		Value		Prices			Other		Unobservable
						in Active			Observable		Inputs
						Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
						(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Financial Assets:
	Marketable securities
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	$	11,855,000	$	11,855,000	$	—		$	11,855,000	$	—
	Deferred compensation fund
	Money Market	$	3,462,000	$	3,462,000	$	—		$	3,462,000	$	—
	Balanced and Lifestyle	8,921,000		8,921,000		8,921,000			—		—
	Large Cap Growth	5,068,000		5,068,000		5,068,000			—		—
	Small Cap Value	2,323,000		2,323,000		2,323,000			—		—
	Fixed Income	2,129,000		2,129,000		2,129,000			—		—
	International	1,161,000		1,161,000		1,161,000			—		—
	Mid Cap Growth	1,227,000		1,227,000		1,227,000			—		—
	Deferred compensation fund	$	24,291,000	$	24,291,000	$	20,829,000		$	3,462,000	$	—
		As of December 31, 2014
						Fair Value Measurement Using:
		Carrying		Total Fair		Quoted			Significant		Significant
		Amount		Value		Prices			Other		Unobservable
						in Active			Observable		Inputs
						Markets			Inputs		(Level 3)
						(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Financial Assets:
	Marketable securities
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	$	11,799,000	$	11,799,000	$	—		$	11,799,000	$	—
	Deferred compensation fund
	Money Market	$	4,278,000	$	4,278,000	$	—		$	4,278,000	$	—
	Balanced and Lifestyle	8,885,000		8,885,000		8,885,000			—		—
	Large Cap Growth	4,856,000		4,856,000		4,856,000			—		—
	Small Cap Value	2,392,000		2,392,000		2,392,000			—		—
	Fixed Income	2,081,000		2,081,000		2,081,000			—		—
	International	1,097,000		1,097,000		1,097,000			—		—
	Mid Cap Growth	1,153,000		1,153,000		1,153,000			—		—
	Deferred compensation fund	$	24,742,000	$	24,742,000	$	20,464,000		$	4,278,000	$	—
Marketable Debt Securities
		Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Estimated Fair Value		Other-than-temporary Impairments
	March 31, 2015
	Type of security:
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	11,808,000		49,000		(2,000		)	11,855,000		—
	Total debt securities	$	11,808,000	$	49,000	$	(2,000	)	$	11,855,000	$	—
	December 31, 2014
	Type of security:
	Municipal bonds — available for sale	11,758,000		48,000		(7,000		)	11,799,000		—
	Total debt securities	$	11,758,000	$	48,000	$	(7,000	)	$	11,799,000	$	—
Contractual Maturities Of Available For Sale Investments	The following tables include contractual maturities of debt securities held at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, which are classified as marketable securities in the consolidated Balance Sheet.
		Municipal Bonds — Available for Sale
	Contractual maturity:	31-Mar-15		31-Dec-14
	Maturing in one year or less	$	3,585,000	$	4,343,000
	Maturing after one year through three years	4,557,000		4,041,000
	Maturing after three years	3,713,000		3,415,000
	Total debt securities	$	11,855,000	$	11,799,000

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock-based Compensation Expense	A summary of stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
		For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015				2014
	Stock Options	$	719,000			$	646,000
	Restricted Stock	58,000				26,000
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP")	107,000				90,000
	Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense charged against income (1)	$	884,000			$	762,000
	-1	Stock-based compensation expense is recorded in the selling, general and administrative caption in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Summary Of Other Information Of Stock Option Plans	Other information pertaining to activity of our stock awards during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:
		March 31, 2015				March 31, 2014
	Total grant-date fair value of stock awards granted	$	4,027,000			$	4,268,000
	Total fair value of stock awards vested during period	$	2,719,000			$	2,051,000
	Total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock awards	$	9,363,000			$	8,523,000
	A summary of our stock option activity under the 2012 Plan as of December 31, 2014 and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2015 is as follows:
		Stock Options Outstanding
		Number of Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
	31-Dec-14	2,362,000			$	19.45
	Granted	561,000			30.3
	Cancelled	(22,000	)		26.26
	Exercised	(161,000	)		18.21
	31-Mar-15	2,740,000			$	21.69
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity	A summary of our non-vested stock-based compensation as of December 31, 2014 and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2015 is as follows:
		Number of Non-vested Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	31-Dec-14	1,465,000			$	6.17
	Granted	561,000			6.64
	Vested	(488,000	)		5.17
	Forfeited	(22,000	)		6.51
	31-Mar-15	1,516,000			$	6.66
Summarized Information Of Stock Options Outstanding	The following table summarizes other information about our outstanding stock options at March 31, 2015.
			Stock Options
	Range of exercise prices		$10.39 - $30.30
	Outstanding:
	Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		7.1
	Aggregate intrinsic value		$	28,607,000
	Exercisable:
	Number of shares		1,224,000
	Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		5.4
	Aggregate intrinsic value		$	19,264,000
	Exercised:
	Aggregate intrinsic value		$	2,205,000
Assumption For Fair Value Of Options Granted	The fair value of stock awards granted in 2015 and 2014 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model based on the following assumptions:
		March 31, 2015		March 31, 2014
	Risk-free interest rate	1.90%		1.90%
	Weighted average expected life in years	5.8 years		5.9 years
	Expected volatility	27.20%		36.90%
	Dividend yield	2.20%		2.40%
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions	The stock-based compensation expense associated with our ESPP was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model based on the following assumptions:
		March 31, 2015		March 31, 2014
	Risk-free interest rate	0.18%		0.10%
	Weighted average expected life in years	1.0 year		1.0 year
	Expected volatility	19.20%		21.90%
	Dividend yield	2.20%		2.40%

Dividends_Tables

Dividends (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Dividends Paid on outstanding weighted average number of basic common shares	Cash dividends on our outstanding weighted average number of basic common shares for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 were approximately as follows:
		For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015		2014
	Cash dividends per common share	$	0.18	$	0.17

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule Of Information Of Reportable Segments	Housekeeping provides services in Canada, although essentially all of its revenues and net income, 99% in both categories, are earned in one geographic area, the United States. Dietary provides services solely in the United States.
		Housekeeping		Dietary		Corporate and				Total
		Services		Services		Eliminations
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
	Revenues	$	226,581,000	$	128,665,000	$	—			$	355,246,000
	Income before income taxes	20,617,000		8,905,000		(4,468,000		)	(1)	25,054,000
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Revenues	$	204,741,000	$	107,424,000	$	—			$	312,165,000
	Income before income taxes	18,752,000		6,780,000		(2,403,000		)	(1)	23,129,000
	-1	Represents primarily corporate office cost and related overhead, recording of transactions at the reportable segment level which use methods other than U.S. GAAP, as well as consolidated subsidiaries’ operating expenses that are not allocated to the reportable segments, net of investment and interest income.
Revenues By Client Services	The following revenues earned from clients differ from segment revenues reported above due to the inclusion of adjustments used for segment reporting purposes by management. We earned total revenues from clients in the following service categories:
		For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015		2014
	Housekeeping services	$	156,587,000	$	140,940,000
	Laundry and linen services	69,488,000		63,270,000
	Dietary services	128,665,000		107,424,000
	Maintenance services and other	506,000		531,000
		$	355,246,000	$	312,165,000

Earnings_Per_Common_Share_Tabl

Earnings Per Common Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation Of Basic And Diluted Net Earnings Per Share	The computations of basic net earnings per share and diluted net earnings per share are as follows:
			Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
			Income		Shares	Per-share
			(Numerator)		(Denominator)	Amount
		Net income	$	15,516,000
		Basic earnings per common share	$	15,516,000	71,469,000	$	0.22
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Stock options and restricted stock			690,000	—
		Diluted earnings per common share	$	15,516,000	72,159,000	$	0.22
			Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
			Income		Shares	Per-share
			(Numerator)		(Denominator)	Amount
		Net income	$	14,639,000
		Basic earnings per common share	$	14,639,000	70,321,000	$	0.21
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Stock options and restricted stock			751,000	—
		Diluted earnings per common share	$	14,639,000	71,072,000	$	0.21

Description_of_Business_and_Si2

Description of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
	segment
Schedule of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Terms of service agreement	Our agreements with clients typically provide for a one year service term, cancelable by either party upon 30 to 90 days’ notice after the initial 90-day period.
Service term	1 year
Initial period of service term	90 days
Number of reportable segments	2
Amortization period of inventories and supplies	24 months
Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Days to notify cancellation of service	30 days
Property and equipment payment terms	24 months
Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Days to notify cancellation of service	90 days
Property and equipment payment terms	60 months

Acquisition_Narrative_Details

Acquisition (Narrative) (Details) (Platinum Health Services, LLC [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 12, 2013	Mar. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase consideration	$50,766
Cash payments to acquire business	5,000
Equity interest issued to acquiree (number of shares)	1,215
Equity interest issued to acquiree	30,062
Contingent consideration fair value	$15,704
Contingent Consideration, Total Shares [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Equity interest issued to acquiree (number of shares)	1,005
Contingent Consideration, Shares Issued [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Equity interest issued to acquiree (number of shares)		652
Contingent Consideration, Shares Not Issued [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Equity interest issued to acquiree (number of shares)		353

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C2

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015		Mar. 31, 2014
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated other comprehensive income — December 31, 2014	$25	[1]
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	1	[1]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	2	[1],[2],[3]
Net current period change in other comprehensive income	3	[1]	1
Accumulated other comprehensive income — March 31, 2015	$28	[1]
[1]	All amounts are net of tax.
[2]	For the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company recorded $3,000 of realized gains from the sale of available for sale securities. Refer to Note 5 herein for further information.
[3]	Realized gains and losses are recorded pre-tax in the other income - investment and interest caption on our consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

Changes_in_Accumulated_Other_C3

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component (Narrative) (Details) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Realized gains from the sale of available for sale securities	$3

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$44,438		$44,438
Amortization expense	810	828
Minimum [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Weighted average useful life of acquired finite-lived intangible assets	7 years
Maximum [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Weighted average useful life of acquired finite-lived intangible assets	10 years
Non-compete Agreements [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period of finite-lived intangible assets	8 years
Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period of finite-lived intangible assets	8 years
Housekeeping Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	42,377
Dietary Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$2,061

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Identifiable Intangible Assets Subject To Amortization) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangibles, gross	$36,581	$36,581
Less accumulated amortization	17,042	16,232
Other intangibles, net	19,539	20,349
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangibles, gross	35,781	35,781
Non-compete Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total other intangibles, gross	$800	$800

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Estimated Amortization Expense For Intangibles Subject To Amortization) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
April 1 to December 31, 2015	$2,432
2016	3,241
2017	2,970
2018	2,328
2019	2,130
2020	2,130
Thereafter	$4,308

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015		Mar. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Unrealized gain on available for sale marketable securities, net of taxes	$3	[1]	$1
Proceeds from available for sale municipal bonds	758		871
Realized gain on other income, investment and interest	$3		$1
[1]	All amounts are net of tax.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	$11,855	$11,799
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	24,291	24,742
Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	20,829	20,464
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	3,462	4,278
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	24,291
Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	24,291	24,742
Municipal bonds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities		11,799
Municipal bonds [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	0	0
Municipal bonds [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	11,855	11,799
Municipal bonds [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	0	0
Municipal bonds [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	11,855
Municipal bonds [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	11,855	11,799
Money Market [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		4,278
Money Market [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Money Market [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	3,462	4,278
Money Market [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Money Market [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	3,462
Money Market [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	3,462	4,278
Balanced and Lifestyle [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		8,885
Balanced and Lifestyle [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	8,921	8,885
Balanced and Lifestyle [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Balanced and Lifestyle [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Balanced and Lifestyle [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	8,921
Balanced and Lifestyle [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	8,921	8,885
Large Cap Growth [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		4,856
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	5,068	4,856
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	5,068
Large Cap Growth [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	5,068	4,856
Small Cap Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		2,392
Small Cap Value [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	2,323	2,392
Small Cap Value [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Small Cap Value [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Small Cap Value [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	2,323
Small Cap Value [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	2,323	2,392
Fixed Income [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		2,081
Fixed Income [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	2,129	2,081
Fixed Income [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Fixed Income [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Fixed Income [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	2,129
Fixed Income [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	2,129	2,081
International [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		1,097
International [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	1,161	1,097
International [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
International [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
International [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	1,161
International [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	1,161	1,097
Mid Cap Growth [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund		1,153
Mid Cap Growth [Member] | Quoted Prices In Active Markets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	1,227	1,153
Mid Cap Growth [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Mid Cap Growth [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	0	0
Mid Cap Growth [Member] | Total Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	1,227
Mid Cap Growth [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity securities - Deferred compensation fund	$1,227	$1,153

Fair_Value_Measurements_Market

Fair Value Measurements (Marketable Debt Securities) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$11,808	$11,758
Gross Unrealized Gains	49	48
Gross Unrealized Losses	-2	-7
Estimated Fair Value	11,855	11,799
Other-than-temporary Impairments	0	0
Municipal bonds - available for sale [Member]
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	11,808	11,758
Gross Unrealized Gains	49	48
Gross Unrealized Losses	-2	-7
Estimated Fair Value	11,855	11,799
Other-than-temporary Impairments	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Measurements_Contra

Fair Value Measurements (Contractual Maturities Of Available For Sale Investments) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Maturing in one year or less	$3,585	$4,343
Maturing after one year through three years	4,557	4,041
Maturing after three years	3,713	3,415
Total debt securities	$11,855	$11,799

ShareBased_Compensation_Narrat

Share-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Apr. 12, 2011
			offering
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock reserved for future issuance	4,488,000
Shares available for future grant	1,748,000
Maximum term of grants	10 years
Options vested and exercisable, period	5 years
Weighted average grant-date fair value of stock options granted (in dollars per share)	$6.64	$8.24
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock granted	25,000	14,000
Weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock granted	$30.30	$28.02
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available for future grant	2,421,000
Requisite service period for plan participation eligibility	2 years
Number of additional offerings			5
Stock options authorized to issue to employees	4,050,000

StockBased_Compensation_Summar

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015		Mar. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense charged against income	$884	[1]	$762	[1]
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense charged against income	719		646
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense charged against income	58		26
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense charged against income	$107		$90
[1]	Stock-based compensation expense is recorded in the selling, general and administrative caption in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar

Share-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Award Activity) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015
Number of Shares
Number of Shares, December 31, 2014	2,362
Granted, Number of Shares	561
Cancelled, Number of Shares	-22
Exercised, Number of Shares	-161
Number of Shares, March 31, 2015	2,740
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted Average price, December 31, 2014 (in dollars per share)	$19.45
Granted, Weighted Average price (in dollars per share)	$30.30
Cancelled, Weighted Average price (in dollars per share)	$26.26
Exercised, Weighted Average price (in dollars per share)	$18.21
Weighted Average price, March 31, 2015 (in dollars per share)	$21.69

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar1

Share-Based Compensation (Summary of Nonvested Share Activity) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Number of Non-vested Shares
December 31, 2014 (in shares)	1,465
Granted (in shares)	561
Vested (in shares)	-488
Forfeited (in shares)	-22
March 31, 2015 (in shares)	1,516
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
December 31, 2014 (in dollars per share)	$6.17
Granted (in dollars per share)	$6.64	$8.24
Vested (in dollars per share)	$5.17
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$6.51
March 31, 2015 (in dollars per share)	$6.66

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar2

Share-Based Compensation (Summarized Information About Stock Awards) (Details) ($10.39 to $30.30 [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015
$10.39 to $30.30 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise price range - lower limit (in dollars per share)	$10.39
Exercise price range - upper limit (in dollars per share)	$30.30
Weighted average remaining contractual life of stock options outstanding	7 years 1 month 6 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding stock options	$28,607
Number of stock options exercisable (in shares)	1,224
Weighted average remaining contractual life of stock options exercisable	5 years 4 months 24 days
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable	19,264
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$2,205

ShareBased_Compensation_Assump

Share-Based Compensation (Assumption For Fair Value Of Options Granted) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Risk-free interest rate	1.90%	1.90%
Weighted average expected life in years	5 years 9 months 18 days	5 years 10 months 24 days
Expected volatility	27.20%	36.90%
Dividend yield	2.20%	2.40%

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar3

Share-Based Compensation (Summary Of Other Information Of Stock Awards) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Total grant-date fair value of stock awards granted	$4,027	$4,268
Total fair value of stock awards vested during period	2,719	2,051
Total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock awards	$9,363	$8,523

ShareBased_Compensation_Assump1

Share-Based Compensation (Assumptions For Employee Stock Purchase Plan) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	1.90%	1.90%
Weighted average expected life in years	5 years 9 months 18 days	5 years 10 months 24 days
Expected volatility	27.20%	36.90%
Dividend yield	2.20%	2.40%
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	0.18%	0.10%
Weighted average expected life in years	1 year	1 year
Expected volatility	19.20%	21.90%
Dividend yield	2.20%	2.40%

Dividends_Narrative_Details

Dividends - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Apr. 14, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Cash dividend paid per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.18
Aggregate cash dividends paid	$12,655	$12,077
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Dividend declared per common share (in dollars per share)			$0.18

Dividends_Dividends_Cash_Divid

Dividends Dividends - Cash Dividends per Common Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Cash dividends per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.18	$0.17

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax [Line Items]
Effective tax rate	38.00%	37.00%	31.00%
Forecast [Member]
Income Tax [Line Items]
Effective tax rate				38.00%

Related_Party_Transactions_Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Fees paid to related party firm (less than)	$120,000	$120,000
Percentage of fee paid to related party in relation to related party's total revenue (less than)	5.00%	5.00%

Segment_Information_Schedule_O

Segment Information (Schedule Of Information Of Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015		Mar. 31, 2014
	segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	2
Percentage of revenue and income earned in one geographic segment	99.00%
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$355,246		$312,165
Income (loss) before income taxes	25,054		23,129
Operating Segments [Member] | Housekeeping Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	226,581		204,741
Income (loss) before income taxes	20,617		18,752
Operating Segments [Member] | Dietary Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	128,665		107,424
Income (loss) before income taxes	8,905		6,780
Corporate And Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	0		0
Income (loss) before income taxes	($4,468)	[1]	($2,403)	[1]
[1]	Represents primarily corporate office cost and related overhead, recording of transactions at the reportable segment level which use methods other than U.S. GAAP, as well as consolidated subsidiaries’ operating expenses that are not allocated to the reportable segments, net of investment and interest income.

Segment_Information_Revenues_B

Segment Information (Revenues By Client Services) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Revenues	$355,246	$312,165
Housekeeping Services [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Revenues	156,587	140,940
Laundry and Linen Services [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Revenues	69,488	63,270
Dietary Services [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Revenues	128,665	107,424
Maintenance Services and Other [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Revenues	$506	$531

Earnings_Per_Common_Share_Comp

Earnings Per Common Share (Computation Of Basic And Diluted Net Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income	$15,516	$14,639
Basic earnings per common share, Income (Numerator)	15,516	14,639
Basic earnings per common share, Shares (Denominator)	71,469	70,321
Basic earnings per common share (dollars per share)	$0.22	$0.21
Effect of dilutive securities, Options, Shares (Denominator)	690	751
Effect of dilutive securities, Options, (dollars per share)	$0	$0
Diluted earnings per common share, Income (Numerator)	$15,516	$14,639
Diluted earnings per common share, Shares (Denominator)	72,159	71,072
Diluted earnings per common share (dollars per share)	$0.22	$0.21
Options outstanding to purchase common stock excluded from computation of diluted earnings per common share (shares)	1,014	993
Antidilutive securities excluded from earnings per share, average exercise price (dollars per share)	$29.22	$25.87

Other_Contingencies_Details

Other Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Oct. 01, 2011	Mar. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2013	Apr. 01, 2015
		financial_covenant
		state
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Bank line of credit		$125,000,000
Borrowings under line of credit		0
Reduction of bank line of credit		71,415,000
Number of financial covenants		1
Credit line, term		5 years
Line of credit expiration date		18-Dec-18
Number of states in which entity operates		48
Percentage of reduction to Medicare payments to nursing centers	11.10%
Standby Letter Of Credit [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Irrevocable standby letter of credit, outstanding		71,415,000
Maximum [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Percentage of reduction of Medicare payments to plans and providers			2.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Standby Letter Of Credit [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Irrevocable standby letter of credit, outstanding				$73,696,000