GOODWILL (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
GOODWILL
Number of reporting units with goodwill to be evaluated	3
Goodwill, gross
Additions due to acquisitions	$ 14,867	$ 10,539
Additions due to contingent considerations	477	741
Net
Balance at the beginning of the period	609,484	590,699
Additions due to acquisitions	14,867	10,539
Additions due to contingent considerations	477	741
Balance at the end of the period	624,828	601,979
Patient-Care Centers
Goodwill, gross
Balance at the beginning of the period	519,974	502,040
Additions due to acquisitions	13,903	10,116
Additions due to contingent considerations	477	741
Balance at the end of the period	534,354	512,897
Accumulated Impairment Loss	(45,808)	(45,808)	(45,808)	(45,808)
Net
Balance at the beginning of the period	474,166	456,232
Additions due to acquisitions	13,903	10,116
Additions due to contingent considerations	477	741
Balance at the end of the period	488,546	467,089
Distribution
Net
Balance at the beginning of the period			38,388	38,388
Balance at the end of the period	38,388	38,388	38,388	38,388
Therapeutic Solutions
Goodwill, gross
Additions due to acquisitions	964	423
Net
Balance at the beginning of the period	96,930	96,079
Additions due to acquisitions	964	423
Balance at the end of the period	$ 97,894	$ 96,502