Ensign Exercises Purchase Option, Acquires Two California Skilled Nursing Facilities

The Ensign Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENSG) recently announced its acquisition of the underlying real estate and other operating assets of two California skilled nursing facilities, effective Aug. 23.

Whittier Hills Healthcare Center is a 160-bed facility located in Whittier, Calif. Ukiah Health Care Center has 57 beds and is located in Ukiah, Calif.

Both facilities have been operated by Ensign subsidiaries since July of 2000 and January of 2002, respectively, under leases with an option to purchase.

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“These purchases reflect our deep and long-term commitment to these two communities in particular, and to the state of California generally,” said Christopher Christensen, Ensign’s President and Chief Executive Officer, in a statement.

The purchases, made with cash, brought Ensign’s portfolio to 99 healthcare facilities, 72 of which are owned by Ensign; three hospice companies; and three home health businesses across 10 states. Ensign also leases 27 facilities, with purchase options for six of those.

Christensen says Ensign is actively seeking additional acquisition opportunities for both well-performing and struggling skilled nursing operations.

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Written by Alyssa Gerace