Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Computations of the basic and diluted per share amounts
Net income (loss) attributable to Gentiva shareholders	$ 314	$ (207,177)
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	36,189	30,785
Shares issuable upon the assumed exercise of stock options and under stock plans for employees and directors using the treasury stock method	488	0
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	36,677	30,785
Basic earnings per common share
Net income (loss) attributable to Gentiva shareholders	$ 0.01	$ (6.73)
Diluted earnings per common share:
Net income (loss) attributable to Gentiva shareholders	$ 0.01	$ (6.73)
Statement [Line Items]
Total anti-dilutive shares	1,056	3,091
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Total anti-dilutive shares	1,056	2,630
Performance Shares [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Total anti-dilutive shares	0	80
Restricted Stock [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Total anti-dilutive shares	0	381