Liberty Dialysis and Renal Advantage to form the third largest dialysis provider in the U.S.

Liberty Dialysis and Renal Advantage today announced that the deal to form the 3^rd largest dialysis provider in the U.S. has closed. The transaction was completed on December 17, 2010. The new company has 5,300 employees serving more than 19,000 patients in 260 locations in 32 states.

“By focusing on the patient, partnering with talented nephrologists, and recruiting the best caregivers, we will optimize patient outcomes through active participation of both patients and caregivers.”

"The completion of our deal signals a new era in the dialysis industry, uniting two patient-focused, physician-driven and employee-oriented companies with great autonomy to build their brands," said Mark Caputo, founder of Liberty Dialysis and CEO of the combined organization. "This transaction allows us to take advantage of the combined financial strength, purchasing power, and systems investment of two leaders in the industry."

"As we begin a new year with change on the health care horizon, we are well positioned for robust growth in the future through this deal," said Michael D. Klein, who has served as chief executive officer of RAI. "By focusing on the patient, partnering with talented nephrologists, and recruiting the best caregivers, we will optimize patient outcomes through active participation of both patients and caregivers."