DaVita is a leading provider of dialysis services for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure. The Company owns and operates kidney dialysis centers and home peritoneal dialysis programs domestically in 32 states, as well as Washington, D.C. As of September 30, 2002, DaVita operated 504 outpatient dialysis facilities serving over 44,000 patients, including 3,300 patients in 29 centers under management.