Odyssey HealthCare announces stockholder approval for acquisition by Gentiva Health Services

Odyssey HealthCare, Inc. (NASDAQ: ODSY), one of the largest providers of hospice care in the United States, today announced that its stockholders have adopted the previously announced merger agreement providing for the acquisition of Odyssey by Gentiva Health Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: GTIV). At today's special meeting of Odyssey stockholders, holders of approximately 80.4% of the outstanding shares of Odyssey common stock entitled to vote at the meeting voted to adopt the merger agreement and approve the merger.

"We are pleased with the outcome of today's vote and appreciate the support of our stockholders," said Bob Lefton, Odyssey's Chief Executive Officer.

If the proposed merger is completed, Odyssey's stockholders will receive $27 in cash for each outstanding share of Odyssey common stock they hold.

Odyssey expects to complete the proposed merger on or about August 16, 2010.