The Ensign Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENSG) announced on Jan. 3 that it has acquired the underlying real estate and other operating assets of Orem Rehabilitation & Nursing Center located in Orem, Utah, effective Dec. 22, 2011.

The facility has 108 and has been operated by an Ensign subsidiary since May of 2008 under a lease that did not include a purchase options.

“With this fortuitous addition to our real estate portfolio we now own 75% of the facilities operated under the Ensign banner,” said Christopher Christensen, Ensign’s president and CEO, in a statement.

Noting that Orem Rehabilitation & Nursing Center was voted “Best of Utah Valley,” in 2010, Christensen added that he expects the recently-renovated and expanded facility to continue to build on the outstanding reputation developed by its dedicated therapists and caregivers.

The purchase was made in cash, and Ensign’s portfolio has now increased to 101 healthcare facilities, 76 of which are owned by Ensign; three hospice companies; and four home health business in 10 states. Ensign affiliates hold purchase options on five of their 25 leased facilities, and the company is actively seeking more opportunities to expand its portfolio.

Written by Alyssa Gerace