NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORP
10-Q, 1999-08-16
SKILLED NURSING CARE FACILITIES
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                               FORM 10-Q


                   SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                        WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549


               Quarterly Report Under Section 13 of 15(d)
                 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934


For quarter ended   June 30, 1999       Commission file number 333-37185



                    NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION
         (Exact name of registrant as specified in its Charter)



          Delaware                           52-2057472
(State or other jurisdiction of              (I.R.S. Employer
 incorporation or organization               Identification No.)


     100 Vine Street
     Murfreesboro, TN                           37130
     (Address of principal                    (Zip Code)
      executive offices)


Registrant's telephone number, including area code     (615) 890-2020

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant

     (1)  Has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d), of
          the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months.

                    Yes   x   No

     (2)  Has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

                    Yes   x   No


11,429,794 shares were outstanding as of July 31, 1999.
<PAGE>
                         PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements.
<TABLE>
                         NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

               INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                                   (Unaudited)

<CAPTION>
                                     Three Months Ended      Six Months Ended
                                           June 30               June 30
                                      1999      1998         1999       1998
                                        (in thousands)        (in thousands)
<S>                              <C>         <C>          <C>        <C>
REVENUES:
  Net patient revenues           $    98,189 $  102,512   $  197,436 $  207,632
  Other revenues                       9,533      8,474       18,215     17,451
     Net revenues                    107,722    110,986      215,651    225,083

COSTS AND EXPENSES:
  Salaries, wages and benefits        59,779     60,643      121,340    125,131
  Other operating                     27,912     30,293       55,160     60,900
  Rent                                11,986     11,926       22,954     22,133
  Depreciation and amortization        2,912      2,747        5,719      5,838
  Interest                             1,330      1,028        2,916      2,618
     Total costs and expenses        103,919    106,637      208,089    216,620

Income Before Income Taxes             3,803      4,349        7,562      8,463

Income Tax Provision                  (1,553)    (1,567)      (3,075)    (3,147)

NET INCOME                       $     2,250 $    2,782   $    4,487 $    5,316

EARNINGS PER SHARE:
  Basic                          $       .20 $      .25   $      .39 $      .49
  Diluted                        $       .20 $      .25   $      .39 $      .49

WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING:
  Basic                          11,429,787  11,274,107   11,413,390 10,919,023
  Diluted                        11,430,050  11,364,290   11,421,191 11,367,627

</TABLE>




The accompanying notes to interim condensed consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these statements.



                                        2
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                    NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

             INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                             (in thousands)

                                 ASSETS

<CAPTION>
                                                     June 30         Dec. 31
                                                       1999            1998
                                                    (unaudited)
<S>                                                   <C>             <C>
CURRENT ASSETS:
  Cash and cash equivalents                           $  5,247        $ 12,630
  Cash and securities held by trustees                   2,130           3,871
  Marketable securities                                 28,850          23,207
  Accounts receivable, less allowance for
    doubtful accounts of $8,300 and $7,960              51,979          54,197
  Notes receivable                                      15,097          18,182
  Inventory at lower of cost (first-in,
    first-out method) or market                          4,604           4,207
  Deferred income taxes                                  4,462           2,644
  Prepaid expenses and other assets                      3,065             873
  Total current assets                                 115,434         119,811

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT AND ASSETS UNDER
  ARRANGEMENT WITH OTHER PARTIES:
  Property and equipment at cost                       152,185         136,247
  Less accumulated depreciation and
    amortization                                       (55,529)        (50,498)
  Assets under arrangement with other parties            3,834           4,120
  Net property, equipment and assets under
    arrangement with other parties                     100,490          89,869

OTHER ASSETS:
  Bond reserve funds, mortgage replacement
    reserves and other deposits                            752             668
  Unamortized financing costs                              945             777
  Notes receivable                                       1,084           5,999
  Notes receivable from National                        12,128          12,078
  Deferred income taxes                                  9,194          12,374
  Minority equity investments and other                  7,786           8,112
  Total other assets                                    31,889          40,008

                                                      $247,813        $249,688

</TABLE>

The accompanying notes to interim condensed consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these consolidated balance sheets.



                                   3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                    NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

             INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                             (in thousands)

                        LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL
<CAPTION>
                                                     June 30       December 31
                                                       1999           1998
                                                   (Unaudited)
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
  Current portion of long-term debt                  $  3,955      $   3,779
  Trade accounts payable                               17,820         16,317
  Accrued payroll                                      21,821         23,846
  Amount due to third-party payors                     31,655         33,599
  Accrued interest                                        492            235
  Other current liabilities                            20,061         14,965
  Total current liabilities                            95,804         92,741

Long-term Debt, less current portion                   48,338         56,311
Debt Serviced by Other Parties, less
   Current Portion                                     15,412         15,891
Other Noncurrent Liabilities                           10,861         11,248
Minority Interests in Consolidated Subsidiaries           682            670
Subordinated Convertible Notes                              4            714
Deferred Income                                        22,723         21,798
Commitments, Contingencies And Guarantees

SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY:
  Preferred stock, $.01 par value;
  10,000,000 shares authorized;
  none issued or outstanding                             ---             ---
  Common stock, $.01 par value;
  30,000,000 shares authorized;
  11,429,694 shares issued and
  outstanding                                            114             114
  Capital in excess of par value,
  less notes receivable                               53,594          52,838
  Retained earnings                                   (1,912)         (6,399)
  Unrealized gains on securities                       2,193           3,762
  Total shareowners' equity                           53,989          50,315

                                                    $247,813       $ 249,688
</TABLE>




The accompanying notes to interim condensed consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these consolidated balance sheets.


                                   4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                      NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION
          INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                (Unaudited)
<CAPTION>
                                                             Six Months Ended
                                                                  June 30
                                                             1999          1998
                                                               (in thousands)
<S>                                                         <C>       <C>
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
  Net income                                                $ 4,487   $  5,316
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
    provided by operating activities:
    Depreciation                                              5,331      5,297
    Provision for doubtful accounts receivable                  846      1,461
  Amortization of intangibles and deferred charges              496        579
    Amortization of deferred income                            (335)      (284)
    Equity in earnings of unconsolidated investments           (115)      (271)
    Distributions from unconsolidated investments                95        142
  Deferred income taxes                                         975     (1,169)
  Changes in assets and liabilities:
    Decrease in accounts receivable                           1,372     12,788
    Increase in inventory                                      (397)      (194)
    Increase in prepaid expenses and other assets            (2,192)      (923)
    Increase in trade accounts payable                        1,503      1,390
    Decrease in accrued payroll                              (2,025)   (11,244)
    Increase (decrease) in amounts due to third party payors (1,944)     3,820
    (Increase) decrease in accrued interest                     257       (477)
    Increase in other current liabilities                     5,096      2,541
    Increase in entrance fee deposits                         1,358        ---
     Net cash provided by operating activities               14,808     18,772
CASH FLOWS (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Additions to and acquisitions of property and
    equipment, net                                          (15,991)   (22,509)
  Investment in notes receivable                             (1,235)   (12,448)
  Collection of notes receivable                              9,185     10,660
  (Increase) decrease in minority equity invest-
       ments and other                                         (110)        26
  (Increase) decrease in marketable securities               (7,212)       944
  Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities       (15,363)   (23,327)
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
  Proceeds from debt issuance                                14,095        ---
 (Increase) decrease in cash and securities held by trustee   1,741       (483)
  Decrease in minority interests in subsidiaries                (28)       (17)
  Increase in bond reserve funds, mortgage
    replacement reserves and other deposits                     (84)      (148)
  Issuance of partnership units                                  84        (37)
  Collection of receivables                                       1         30
  Payments on debt                                          (22,420)    (1,736)
  Cash distributions to partners                                ---     (5,388)
  (Increase) decrease in financing costs                       (217)       309
  Net cash used in financing activities                      (6,828)    (7,470)

NET (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS                  (7,383)   (12,025)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD               12,630     17,205
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD                    $ 5,247   $  5,180

Supplemental Information:
  Cash payments for interest expense                        $ 2,659   $ 3,095
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes to interim condensed consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these consolidated statements.


                                     5
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
                         NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION
             INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                   (Unaudited)
<CAPTION>
                                                        Six Months Ended
                                                            June 30
                                                         1999      1998
                                                          (in thousands)

<S>                                                    <C>          <C>
During the six months ended June 30, 1999 and
  June 30, 1998, $710,000 and $17,438,000, respectively,
  of convertible subordinated debentures were converted
  into 46,690 and 1,146,742 shares of common stock:
     Convertible subordinated debentures               $   (710)    $(17,438)
     Financing costs                                         47           10
     Accrued interest                                        (8)         (88)
     Common stock                                           ---           12
     Capital in excess of par value                         671       17,504
</TABLE>





















The accompanying notes to interim condensed consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these consolidated statements.





                                        6
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareowners' Equity and Partners' Capital
(in thousands, except share and unit amounts)
<CAPTION>
                                                                       Unrealized  Total Share-
                                         Receivables                   Gains       owners' Equity
                    Common Stock         from Sale Paid in   Retained  (Losses) on and Partners'
                    Shares/Units  Amount of Units  Capital   Earnings  Securities  Capital
<S>                  <C>          <C>    <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>         <C>
Balance at 12/31/98  11,378,558   $  114 $(16,807) $69,645   $ (6,399) $3,762      $ 50,315
  Net income                ---      ---      ---      ---      4,487     ---         4,487
  Unrealized losses on
     securities             ---      ---      ---      ---        ---  (1,569)       (1,569)
  Total Comprehensive Income                                                          2,918
  Shares sold             4,546      ---      ---       84        ---     ---            84
  Collection of receivables ---      ---        1      ---        ---     ---             1
  Shares issued in conversion of
     convertible debentures to
     common shares       46,690      ---      ---      671        ---     ---           671

Balance at 6/30/99   11,429,794      114  (16,806)  70,400     (1,912)  2,193        53,989

Balance at 12/31/97  10,103,172      101  (16,875)  50,123        ---   4,387        37,736
  Net income                ---      ---      ---      ---      5,316     ---         5,316
  Unrealized losses on
     securities             ---      ---      ---      ---        ---  (1,065)       (1,065)
  Total Comprehensive Income                                                          4,251
  Collection of receivables ---      ---       30      ---        ---     ---            30
  Units sold              4,172      ---      ---       13        ---     ---            13
  Units purchased        (2,000)     ---      ---      (50)       ---     ---           (50)
  Units issued in conversion of
   convertible debentures to
   partnership units  1,146,742       12      ---   17,504        ---     ---        17,516

Balance at 6/30/98   11,252,086   $  113 $(16,845) $67,590    $ 5,316  $3,322      $ 59,496
</TABLE>


The accompanying notes to interim condensed consolidated financial
statements are an integral part of these consolidated statements.




                                            7
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)

Note 1 - CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:

     The financial statements of National HealthCare Corporation ("NHC") for
the six months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, which have not been examined by
independent public accountants, reflect, in the opinion of management, all
adjustments necessary to present fairly the data for such periods.  The
results of the operations for the six months ended June 30, 1999 are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire
fiscal year ended December 31, 1999.  The interim condensed balance sheet at
December 31, 1998 is taken from the audited financial statements at that date.
The interim condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with
the consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, and
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations included in NHC's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998.


Note 2 - OTHER REVENUES:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
                                          June 30             June 30
                                       1999     1998     1999      1998
                                                 (in thousands)
<S>                                <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
Revenue from managed centers       $ 5,647   $ 5,621   $11,569   $11,335
Guarantee fees                         123       144       255       292
Advisory fee from NHI                  704       827     1,407     1,655
Advisory fee from NHR                  118       110       236       221
Earnings on securities                 387       365       785       739
Equity in earnings of
  unconsolidated investments            56       126       115       163
Interest income                      1,077       858     1,834     1,940
Other                                1,421       423     2,014     1,106
                                   $ 9,533   $ 8,474   $18,215   $17,451
</TABLE>
     Revenues from managed centers include management fees and interest
income on notes receivable from the managed centers.  "Other" revenues include
non-health care related earnings.


Note 3 - INVESTMENTS IN MARKETABLE SECURITIES:

     NHC considers its investments in marketable securities as available for
sale securities and unrealized gains and losses are recorded in shareowners'
equity in accordance with SFAS 115.



                                8
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


     Proceeds from the sale of investments in debt and equity securities
during the six months ended June 30, 1999 were $41,000.  Gross investment
gains of $10,000 were realized on these sales during the six months ended June
30, 1999.  Realized gains and losses from securities sales are determined on
the specific identification of the securities.


Note 4 - ACQUISITIONS:

     Effective May 1, 1999, NHC purchased for the assumption of long-term
debt and other liabilities in the approximate amount of $15,861,000 two
long-term health care centers and the related assets.  The centers are located
in Pensacola, Florida (180 beds) and Lake City, Florida (120 beds) and have
been managed by NHC since their openings in 1987 and 1992, respectively.

     The purchase price for the acquisitions above were allocated to the
underlying assets based on their relative fair market values.  The
Consolidated Statements of Income for the six months and three months ended
June 30, 1999 includes the results of operations from the date of acquisition.


Note 5 - GUARANTEES AND CONTINGENCIES:

     In order to obtain management agreements and to facilitate the
construction or acquisition of certain health care centers which NHC manages
for others, NHC has guaranteed some or all of the debt (principal and
interest) on those centers.  For this service, NHC charges an annual guarantee
fee of 1% to 2% of the outstanding principal balance guaranteed, which fee is
in addition to NHC's management fee.  The principal amounts outstanding under
the guarantees is approximately $66,412,000 (net of available debt service
reserves) at variable and fixed interest rates with a weighted average rate of
5.6% at June 30, 1999.

     In April 1999, foreclosure proceedings by a first mortgage lender were
commenced against six long-term health care centers in Florida which are
managed by NHC and for which NHC has extended its corporate guaranty in the
amount of $5,000,000.  The centers are owned by Stockbridge Investment
Partners, Inc. and its subsidiary York Hannover Nursing Centers, Inc.
(collectively York Hannover).  Events leading to the foreclosure included the
violation of the financial covenants contained in the first mortgage loan
agreement and the failure to make timely payments of principal and interest.
                                9
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



     NHC has extended working capital loans to York Hannover in the amount of
approximately $2,000,000 which are secured by a lien on $2,000,000 of the
accounts receivable of York Hannover.  The first mortgage lender who is owed
approximately $26,700,000 under its loan agreements is collateralized by first
mortgages on the six long-term health care centers, the personal guarantee of
certain of the owners, accounts receivable above $2,000,000, and by NHC's
$5,000,000 guaranty.

     NHC was called upon by the first mortgage lender to either make payment
in full under NHC's guaranty, or collateralize the same.  The guaranty was
collateralized at quarter end with marketable securities in the approximate
amount of the guaranty.  If the guaranty is ultimately called, NHC's primary
source of repayment depends upon the underlying value of the properties.
Depending on the outcome of that valuation, which is not currently known,
payments by NHC under the guarantee may have a material adverse impact on
NHC's earnings and cash flows.

     NHC's bank credit facility (outstanding balance $12,841,000 at June 30,
1999) was financed through National Health Corporation ("National") and
through the National Health Corporation Leveraged Employee Stock Ownership
Plan and Trust.

     On July 30, 1999, National was notified by SunTrust Bank of Nashville,
N.A., the Agent for itself and certain other lenders for the above-referenced
loan, that it disputes the allocation of certain collateral between itself and
another lending institution.

     National is actively negotiating for resolution of this dispute.  In the
event the dispute is not resolved, the Agent may call the loan into default.
If the loan is called into default, payments by NHC to repay the loan may have
a material adverse impact upon NHC's cash flows and liquidity.












                               10
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



Note 6 - NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT:

     In April 1998, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
("AICPA") issued Statement of Position 98-5 ("SOP 98-5") effective for fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 1998.  SOP 98-5 requires that all
nongovernmental entities expense the costs of start-up  activities as those
costs are incurred.  The statement also requires nongovernmental entities to
write off any unamortized start-up costs that remain on the balance sheet at
the date of adoption.  NHC has adopted the provisions of SOP 98-5 effective
January 1, 1999.  The adoption did not have a material impact on NHC's
financial position, results of operations or cash flows.


Note 7 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS:

     In late October, 1998, NHC and Florida Convalescent Centers, Inc.
(FCC)settled previously disclosed litigation which had been ongoing since
1996.

     Under the terms of the settlement, NHC purchased two of the 16 FCC long-
term health care centers and related assets for the assumption of
approximately $15.9 million of debt on those two centers.  The centers NHC
purchased are Palm Garden of Pensacola, Florida with 180 beds and Palm Garden
of Lake City, Florida with 120 beds.  The purchase was consummated effective
May 1, 1999.  Additionally, NHC paid a one-time cash settlement of $15.0
million and further agreed to accept any adjustment to previously filed
Medicare and routine cost limit exceptions related to all 16 centers and
indemnify FCC for any noninsurance covered liability claims.  Finally, FCC had
the right to cancel the management contracts for the remaining 14 centers,
which management contracts were in fact terminated July 31, 1999.

     As disclosed at the time of settlement, the loss of the management
contract and related revenues from these 14 facilities will have a material
negative impact on NHC's earnings even after taking into consideration the
purchase of two of the 16 long-term health care centers.






                               11
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


     NHC is also a defendant in a lawsuit styled Braeuning, et al vs.
National HealthCare L.P., et al filed "under seal" in the U.S. District Court
of the Northern District of Florida on April 9, 1996.  The court removed the
seal from the complaint - but not the file itself - on March 20, 1997, and
service of process occurred on July 8, 1997, with the government participating
as an intervening plaintiff.  By agreement, and with court approval, the suit
has been moved from the Pensacola District Court to the Tampa, Florida,
District Court.  NHC has filed its answer denying the allegations.  The suit
alleges that NHC submitted cost reports and routine cost limit exception
requests containing "fraudulent allocation of routine nursing services to
ancillary service cost centers" and also alleges that NHC improperly allocated
skilled nursing service hours in four managed centers, all in the state of
Florida.  The suit was filed under the Qui Tam provisions of the Federal False
Claims Act, commonly referred to as the "Whistleblower Act".  NHC has denied
all allegations and believes the facts will vindicate its position. The
individual plaintiff Braeuning has amended the suit to allege that he was
"retaliatory discharged" from his position in retaliation for the filing of
the suit.  In a March 13, 1998 order denying Braeuning's Motion for Summary
Judgment on this issue, the court stated, "That the defendants have submitted
a legitimate non-retaliatory reason for firing Mr. Braeuning casts significant
doubt on Mr. Braeuning's likelihood of success on the merits."

     In regard to the initial allegations contained in the lawsuit, NHC
believes that the cost report information of the centers has been either
appropriately filed or, upon amendment, will reflect adjustments only for i)
the correction of unintentional misallocations; ii) adjustments where the self
audit process has had to use different source documents due to loss or
misplacement of the originals and iii) adjustments due to recalculation of
Director of Nursing/Assistant Director of Nursing time based upon indirect
allocation percentages rather than time studies, as were originally used.
Prior to the filing of the suit, NHC had commenced an in-depth review of the
nursing time allocation process at its owned, leased and managed centers.  A
number of amended cost reports have been filed and NHC continues to schedule
and prepare revised cost reports.  NHC's self audit process has been approved
by the plaintiffs and NHC has retained a nationally recognized accounting firm
to review the self audit process.  The cost report periods under review
include periods from 1991 through 1996.  The Company is currently in
discussions with the Department of Justice and the Health Care Financing
Agency.  There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to enter into
a settlement that will not have a material adverse impact on the Company.


                               12
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



     Adjustments to the reimbursable cost claimed will be the responsibility
of the center where costs were incurred, whether owned, leased or managed by
the Company; however, under the terms of NHC's settlement with FCC discussed
previously, NHC has agreed to be responsible for any adjustments to previously
filed Medicare and routine cost limit exceptions related to the 16 FCC
centers.  Negative adjustments to managed centers would reduce NHC's
management fee (6% of net revenue)and could result in claims against NHC as
manager by the owners including damages and termination of the management
relationships. Adjustments to owned or leased centers would directly impact
the Company's financial statements.  NHC intends to continue its revenue
policy of not reflecting routine cost limit exception requests as income until
the process, including cost report audits, is completed.  NHC will continue to
fully cooperate with the government in an attempt to determine dollar amounts
involved, and is aggressively pursuing an amicable settlement.  NHC cannot
predict at this time the ultimate outcome of the settlement discussions or the
lawsuit.  An adverse determination in the lawsuit or an agreed upon settlement
could include repayments, fines and/or penalties which will have a material
negative impact on the financial position, cash flow and results of operations
of NHC.

     In October 1996, two managed centers in Florida were audited by
representatives of the regional office of the Office of the Inspector General
("OIG").  As part of these audits, the OIG reviewed various records of the
facilities relating to allocation of nursing hours and contracts with
suppliers of outside services.  At one center, the OIG indicated during an
exit conference that it had no further questions but has not yet issued a
final report.  At the second facility, which is one of four named in the
Braeuning lawsuit, the OIG determined that certain records were insufficient
and NHC supplied the additional requested information.  These audits have been
incorporated into the lawsuit.  Florida is one of the states in which
governmental officials are conducting "Operation Restore Trust", a
federal/state program aimed at detecting and eliminating fraud and abuse by
providers in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.  The OIG has increased its
investigative actions in Florida (and has now opened a Tennessee office) as
part of Operation Restore Trust.






                               12
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

   NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


     The entire long term care industry has seen a dramatic increase in
personal injury/wrongful death claims based on alleged negligence by nursing
homes and their employees in providing care to residents.  This is especially
prevalent in Florida.  The Company is currently a defendant in over fifty (50)
such lawsuits in Florida, and significantly less than that number in all other
states combined.  On March 31, 1999, after the close of business, the
insurance carrier covering both NHC and the Florida based six facility nursing
home chain managed by NHC (York Hannover) contacted NHC's Florida counsel to
advise them that the jury had returned a verdict in excess of policy limits in
compensatory damages, and indicated that punitive damages should be assessed
against NHC.  Prior to that time, the plaintiff's attorney had indicated a
willingness to settle this claim within NHC's available policy limits, but the
insurance carrier refused to settle.  On the evening of March 31, 1999, the
insurance carrier asked what, if any, contribution NHC would be willing to
make to a settlement to avoid the jury's determination as to the amount of
punitive damages to be assessed.  NHC's Florida counsel, unable to reach NHC
management after the close of business, advised the insurance carrier's vice
president that the insurance carrier should do whatever it deemed appropriate
to protect the interests of its insured, who had already been substantially
damaged by the carrier's failure to settle the case within policy limits.  The
insurance carrier then entered into a settlement of the compensatory and
punitive claim against NHC in an amount materially greater than policy limits
and the initial jury verdict.  The settlement was far in excess of what the
insurance carrier could have settled the claim prior to or during the trial.
Unsure as to whether the carrier will seek to assert a claim against NHC
and/or the owner or, alternatively, that the carrier might seek to claim that
the coverage be divided between the umbrella policy issued for separate
calendar years, NHC has filed for declaratory judgment in the Chancery Court
of Rutherford County, Tennessee asking the court to find that the settlement
was made in bad faith and that the insurance carrier should be responsible for
the entire amount of the judgment.  If the insurance carrier asserts a claim
against NHC and is successful in requiring NHC to pay any excess over the
covered amount, then such payment may have a material impact on NHC's earnings
and cash flow.  The insurance carrier has moved the case into the federal
district court in Nashville, Tennessee.
                               13
<PAGE>
                NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

  NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                         June 30, 1999
                          (Unaudited)


     Due to extremely liberal statutory provisions in the State of Florida as
well as an active and specialized plaintiff's bar, the entire long-term care
industry has seen a drastic increase in liability claims, reserves,
settlements, and judgments over the last several years.  As a result, the
Company's professional liability insurance premium for its owned and managed
centers (45 of which are in Florida) has increased from $1,995,000 in 1998 to
$3,200,000 in 1999.  Additionally, each center now has a significant per claim
deductible, with the deductible being capped in the aggregate for all centers
at a total of $2.7 million.  Currently the Company, and/or centers and owners
for which it manages, is the named defendant for approximately 50 liability
actions in the State of Florida.  Given the current legal environment in the
State of Florida, plus the unapproved and bad faith settlement entered into by
the Company's carrier in the previously discussed York Hannover case, the
Company believes there is a potential of uninsured liability in excess of
insurance coverage, for the years 1995 and 1996, which amount is not
quantifiable at the present time.  Any judgments or settlements above the
Company's specific center and umbrella coverage may have a material adverse
impact on NHC's earnings and cash flow.

     There is certain additional litigation incidental to NHC's business,
none of which, in management's opinion, would be material to the financial
position or results of operations of NHC.



Item 2.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and
          Results of Operations

Overview

     National HealthCare Corporation (NHC, or the Company) operates or
manages 108 long-term health care centers with 14,018 beds in nine states.
NHC provides nursing care as well as ancillary therapy services to patients in
a variety of settings including long-term care nursing centers, managed care
specialty units, subacute care units, Alzheimer's care units, homecare
programs, and facilities for assisted living.  NHC also operates retirement
centers.


Results of Operations

Three Months Ended June 30, 1999 Compared to Three Months Ended June 30, 1998.
                               15
<PAGE>
                NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

  NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                         June 30, 1999
                          (Unaudited)


     Results for the three month period ended June 30, 1999 include a 2.9%
decrease in net revenues compared to the same period in 1998 and a 12.6%
decrease in income before income taxes.

     The decline in revenues and net income for the quarter, which occurred
during NHC's first year under the federal government's new prospective payment
system, reflects decreased levels of service and changes in payment systems
for rehabilitative services, homecare services and nursing home operations.

     The decreased revenues for the quarter were partially offset by the
continued growth of operations.  Compared to the quarter a year ago, NHC has
increased the number of owned or leased long-term care beds by 404 beds from
7,483 beds to 7,887 beds.  Also contributing to increased revenues are
improved occupancy rates at assisted living centers and at independent living
centers.

     Revenues from managed centers, which are included in the Statements of
Income in Other Revenues, remained unchanged at $5.6 million in both 1999 and
1998.  However, these revenues and earnings will decline with the loss of
management contracts for the 16 FCC centers as discussed below.  Two of the 16
FCC centers were purchased by NHC during the second quarter.

     Total costs and expenses for the 1999 second quarter decreased $2.7
million or 2.5% to $103.9 million from $106.6 million in 1998.  Salaries,
wages and benefits, the largest operating costs of this service company,
decreased $.9 million or 1.4% to $59.8 million from $60.6 million. Other
operating expenses decreased $2.4 million or 7.9% to $27.9 million for the
1999 period compared to $30.3 million in the 1998 period.  Rent increased $.1
million or 0.5% to $12.0 million from $11.9 million.  Depreciation and
amortization increased 6.0% to $2.9 million.  Interest costs increased 29.4%
to 1.3 million.

     Decreases in salaries, wages and benefits are attributable to decreased
staffing levels in therapy and home care services.  Also, bonus and benefit
programs have been reduced compared to the quarter a year ago.  These
decreases in costs were offset in part by the increase in staffing levels due
to long-term care bed additions and assisted living occupancy improvements and
expansions.  Also contributing to higher costs of labor are inflationary
increases for salaries and the associated benefits.


                               16
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


     Decreases in operating costs are due primarily to the renegotiation at
lower rates of supplier contracts for inhalation therapy, pharmacy, x-ray and
medical supplies.  These cuts were made in response to the lower rates of
reimbursement being received under the phase-in of the Medicare Prospective
Payment System ("PPS"), which began for the majority of NHC centers on January
1, 1999.  Operating cost reductions were offset in part due to the increased
number of beds in operation and the higher occupancies in assisted living and
independent living services.  Rent increases are due primarily to additions at
existing rental properties.

     The total census at owned and leased centers for the quarter averaged
93.4% compared to an average of 90.0% for the same quarter a year ago.


Six Months Ended June 30, 1999 Compared to Six Months Ended June 30, 1998.

     Results for the six month period ended June 30, 1999 include a 4.2%
decrease in net revenues compared to the same period in 1998 and a 10.6%
decrease in income before income taxes.

     The decline in revenues for the six months, which occurred during NHC's
first year under the federal government's new prospective payment system,
reflects decreased levels of service and changes in payment systems for
rehabilitative services, homecare services and nursing home operations.

     The decreased revenues for the quarter were partially offset by the
continued growth of operations.  Compared to the six months a year ago, NHC
has increased the number of owned or leased long-term care beds by 404 beds
from 7,483 beds to 7,887 beds.  Also contributing to increased revenues are
improved occupancy rates at assisted living centers and at independent living
centers.

     Revenues from managed centers, which are included in the Statements of
Income in Other Revenues, increased 2.1% in 1999 from $11.3 million in 1998 to
$11.6 million in 1999.  However, these revenues and earnings will decline with
the loss of management contracts for the 16 FCC centers as discussed below.
Two of the 16 FCC centers were purchased by NHC during the second quarter.






                               17
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


     Total costs and expenses for the 1999 six months decreased $8.5 million
or 3.9% to $208.1 million from $216.6 million in 1998.  Salaries, wages and
benefits, the largest operating costs of this service company, decreased $3.8
million or 3.0% to $121.3 million from $125.1 million. Other operating
expenses decreased $5.7 million or 9.4% to $55.2 million for the 1999 period
compared to $60.9 million in the 1998 period.  Rent increased $.8 million or
3.7% to $22.9 million from $22.1 million.  Depreciation and amortization
decreased 2.0% to $5.7 million.  Interest costs increased 11.4% to 2.9
million.

     Decreases in salaries, wages and benefits are attributable to decreased
staffing levels in therapy and home care services.  Also, bonus and benefit
programs have been reduced compared to the quarter a year ago.  These
decreases in costs were offset in part by the increase in staffing levels due
to long-term care bed additions and assisted living occupancy improvements and
expansions.  Also contributing to higher costs of labor are inflationary
increases for salaries and the associated benefits.

     Decreases in operating costs are due primarily to the renegotiation at
lower rates of supplier contracts for inhalation therapy, pharmacy, x-ray and
medical supplies.  These cuts were made in response to the lower rates of
reimbursement being received under the phase-in of the Medicare Prospective
Payment System ("PPS"), which began for the majority of NHC centers on January
1, 1999.  Operating cost reductions were offset in part due to the increased
number of beds in operation and the higher occupancies in assisted living and
independent living services.  Rent increases are due primarily to additions at
existing rental properties.

     The total census at owned and leased centers for the quarter averaged
93.4% compared to an average of 89.5% for the same period a year ago.


Liquidity and Capital Resources

     NHC generated net cash from operating activities during the first six
months of 1999 totaling $14.8 million compared to $18.8 million in the prior
year period.  The decrease in cash generated from operating activities is due
to the decline in net income and also in the amount of collections of accounts
receivable as compared to the prior period.






                               18
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


     Cash flows used in investing activities during the first six months of
1999 totaled $15.4 million compared to $23.3 million used in the same period
in 1998.  Cash used for investments in property, notes receivable and
marketable securities totaled $24.4 million in 1999 compared to $34.0 million
in 1998.  Collections of notes receivable generated $9.1 million in 1999
compared to $10.7 million in 1998.

     Cash used in financing activities totaled $6.8 million in the first six
months of 1999 compared to $7.5 million for the same period in 1998.  Payments
on debt of $22.4 million in 1999 were offset by proceeds from new debt
issuance of $14.1 million.  In the prior year, cash flows used included $1.7
million for payments in debt and $5.4 million for distributions to partners.

     At June 30, 1999, the Company's ratio of long-term obligations to
convertible debt and capital is 1.2 to 1.

     NHC has also guaranteed approximately $62.0 million of the debt of
certain health care centers which NHC manages for others.  See Note 5 for
discussion of the possibility of NHC being called upon to pay up to $5.0
million related to debt guarantees.

     NHC's current cash on hand, marketable securities, short-term notes
receivable, operating cash flows and, as needed, its borrowing capacity are
expected to be adequate to finance NHC's operating requirements and growth and
development plans for 1999 and into 2000; however, as described in "Note 7 -
Legal Proceedings", there are several matters currently pending which, if
adversely determined, would materially impact NHC's liquidity.


New Accounting Pronouncements

     In April 1998, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
("AICPA") issued Statement of Position 98-5 ("SOP 98-5") effective for fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 1998.  SOP 98-5 requires that all
nongovernmental entities expense the costs of start-up activities as those
costs are incurred.  The statement also requires nongovernmental entities to
write off any unamortized start-up costs that remain on the balance sheet at
the date of adoption.  NHC has adopted the provisions of SOP 98-5 effective
January 1, 1999.  The adoption did not have a material impact on NHC's
financial position, results of operations or cash flows.




                               19
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)

Cash Dividends

     NHC may pay dividends at the discretion of the Board of Directors.  NHC,
as a corporation, does not anticipate paying dividends.

Impact of Inflation

     Reimbursement rates under the Medicare and Medicaid programs generally
reflect the underlying increases in costs and expenses resulting from
inflation.  For this reason, the impact of inflation on profitability has not
been significant.


Health Care Legislation

     During 1997, the Federal government enacted the Balanced Budget Act of
1997 ("BBA"), which requires that skilled nursing facilities transition to a
Prospective Payment System ("PPS") under the Medicare program commencing with
the first cost reporting period beginning on or after July 1, 1998.  Although
PPS went into effect for a small portion of NHC's long-term health care
centers during 1998, PPS was implemented for the vast majority of NHC's
centers beginning January 1, 1999.  PPS has significantly changed the manner
in which NHC's centers are paid for inpatient services provided to Medicare
beneficiaries.  Under PPS, Medicare pays NHC's centers a fixed fee per
Medicare patient per day, based on the acuity level of the patient, to cover
all post-hospital extended care routine service costs, ancillary costs and
capital related costs.  The per diem rate also covers substantially all items
and services furnished during a covered stay for which reimbursement was
previously made separately under Medicare.  PPS is being phased in over  a
three-year period.  During the phase-in, payments are based on a blend of each
center's specific historical costs and federally-established per diem rates
that are based on the average costs of all U.S. skilled nursing facilities.
NHC has analyzed its center-specific historical costs, reviewed the expected
federally-determined rates, and analyzed the current acuity level of Medicare
patients in its centers.  Based on such review and analyses, NHC has developed
plans for each center to deliver care to Medicare patients at a lower cost and
in a manner consistent with PPS requirements.  These plans include a
significant reduction in the number of therapy staff positions and
renegotiation at lower rates of supplier contracts for inhalation therapy,
pharmacy, x-ray and medical supplies.

     Although NHC believes that it is positioned to operate effectively under
PPS, if NHC is unable to execute the center-specific plans to reduce the cost
of care to Medicare patients, PPS could have a material adverse effect on
NHC's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
                               20
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)

Litigation

     As discussed in more detail in Note 7 to the financial statements, NHC
is a defendant in a lawsuit filed under the Qui Tam provisions of the Federal
False Claims Act, commonly referred to as the "Whistleblower Act", with the
government participating as an intervening plaintiff.  The suit alleges that
NHC has submitted cost reports and routine cost limit exception requests
containing "fraudulent allocation of routine nursing services to ancillary
cost centers" and improper allocation of skilled nursing service hours in four
managed centers.  NHC is cooperating fully with the government and will
aggressively pursue an amicable settlement, if such appears necessary at the
conclusion of the in-house audit currently underway.  Adjustments to the
reimbursable cost claimed will be the responsibility of the center where costs
were incurred, whether owned, leased or managed by the Company.  Under the
terms of NHC's settlement discussed below, NHC has agreed to pay for any
adjustments to previously filed Medicare and routine cost limit exceptions
related to the 16 FCC centers.  Negative adjustments to other managed centers
would reduce NHC's management fee (6% of net revenue) and could result in
claims against NHC as manager by the owners including damages and termination
of the management relationship.  Adjustments to owned or leased centers would
directly impact the Company's financial statements.  An adverse determination
in the lawsuit could subject NHC to repayments, fines and/or penalties which
will have a material negative impact on the financial position or results of
operations of NHC.

     Also as discussed in more detail in Note 7 to the financial statements,
NHC settled, during 1998, a lawsuit filed by Florida Convalescent Centers,
Inc. ("FCC"), an independent Florida corporation for whom NHC manages 16
licensed nursing centers in Florida. Under the terms of the settlement, NHC
purchased two of the 16 FCC long-term health care centers.  Additionally, NHC
agreed to pay a one-time cash settlement of $15.0 million, $11.0 million of
which has been paid as of June 30, 1999, and agreed to pay for any adjustments
to previously filed Medicare cost reports and routine cost limit exceptions
related to all 16 centers and indemnify FCC for any noninsurance covered
liability claims.  Finally, FCC had the right to cancel the management
contracts for the remaining 14 centers, which were canceled on July 31, 1999.

     As previously disclosed, the loss of the management contract and related
revenues from these 14 facilities will have a material negative impact on
NHC's earnings, even after taking into consideration the purchase of two of
the 16 long-term health care centers.





                               21
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



     As noted previously, the Company is currently engaged in litigation with
the insurance carrier based on the Company's claims that the insurance carrier
acted in bad faith in failing to settle certain litigation within policy
limits when it had the opportunity to do so.  Although the Company believes
that it has meritorious claims in this regard the outcome of this litigation
cannot be predicted with certainty.  If the lawsuit against the insurance
company is not resolved in NHC's favor, this could have a material negative
impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company due
to the loss of umbrella insurance coverage for 1995 and 1996.


Year 2000 Compliance and Related Risks

     The Year 2000 issue generally relates to computer programs that were
written using two digits rather than four to define the applicable year.  In
those programs, the year 2000 may be incorrectly identified as the year 1900,
which can result in a system failure or miscalculations causing a disruption
of operations, including a temporary inability to process transactions,
prepare financial statements or engage in other normal business activities.
The following discussion identifies the actions taken by NHC to assess and
address its Year 2000 issues.

State of Readiness--

     NHC has formed an internal task force and developed a detailed plan to
address its Year 2000 issues, and is utilizing its internal resources to
assess, remediate and test its systems.  NHC's plan includes an inventory and
review of all core applications systems, networks, desktop systems,
infrastructure and critical supply chains.  NHC's Year 2000 readiness plan is
focused on addressing Year 2000 readiness in the following five categories:
(1) mainframe computer operations, critical applications and related networks,
(2) personal computer hardware and software, (3) other internal equipment such
as infusion pumps, phone systems, monitoring devices and smoke/fire alarms
which rely on microchips or telecommunications, (4) third party payors, and
(5) other third party vendors utilized by NHC's healthcare centers such as
financial institutions, electrical providers, and food services suppliers.







                               22
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



     For each of the above categories, NHC will perform or has performed  the
phases of assessment, remediation and testing of the applicable hardware,
software or equipment, as applicable.  NHC has completed the assessment phase
for category 1 and is currently in the remediation phase of making applicable
modifications to the application programs found to be non-compliant.  NHC has
historically developed the majority of its application programs internally.
All internally developed systems have been assessed and inventoried and plans
have been made to modify or replace them if necessary, in order to make them
Year 2000 compliant.  Purchased applications are either being modified,
replaced or upgraded. Most critical applications, whether internally developed
or purchased externally, have been tested and are already Year 2000 compliant.
All server hardware, dumb terminals and printers have been assessed, repaired
as necessary and tested and are now Year 2000 compliant.  It is expected that
the remediation and testing phases related to category 1 will be completed by
October 1, 1999.

     NHC is currently in the assessment phase for categories 2 through 5.
For personal computer software vendors, NHC is aware of the packages that will
not be Year 2000 compliant and is currently in the process of assessing the
types of packages utilized by each NHC personal computer.  NHC has also
requested all personal computer software vendors, medical equipment
manufacturers, third party governmental payors, fiscal intermediaries and
other third party vendors (financial institutions, electrical providers, etc.)
utilized by its healthcare centers to disclose their current Year 2000
readiness and their plan for achieving Year 2000 readiness.  Responses have
been received from most vendors and third parties.  For those vendors and
third parties that have not yet responded, NHC is in the process of sending
out additional requests.  Although most third party vendors have indicated
that they are currently Year 2000 compliant or expect to be compliant prior to
January 1, 2000, there can be no assurance that such third parties will
achieve Year 2000 compliance by January 1, 2000.  NHC is also in the process
of conducting an examination of the embedded chip technology utilized in the
various medical devices, telecommunications equipment, heating and air
conditioning systems, smoke/fire alarms and lighting systems at each of its
healthcare centers. It is expected that the assessment of categories  2, 3,
and 5 will be completed by October 1, 1999 with remediation and testing to be
completed by December 31, 1999.








                               23
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



     With respect to category 4 (third party payors), the largest sources of
NHC's revenues are state and federal governments through the Medicaid and
Medicare programs.  NHC is reimbursed under these programs through fiscal
intermediaries.  The Health Care Financing Administration ("HCFA"), the
government agency that administers the Medicare program, had previously
publicly stated that it would be Year 2000 compliant by December 31, 1998.
HCFA announced that it required all fiscal intermediaries to be Year 2000
compliant by December 31, 1998 and that it expected state Medicaid agencies to
be Year 2000 compliant by June 30, 1999.  While HCFA has made no public
announcement as to whether the fiscal intermediaries and state Medicaid
agencies have met this schedule, reports by the General Accounting Office
report that the various states may not currently be in compliance.  With
respect to itself, HCFA issued a Provider Correspondence Letter dated January
12, 1999 indicating that they have not met their schedule.  This letter states
that HCFA's systems will function on January 1, 2000 and will be able to
process "acceptable" claims.  NHC has little or no control over the Year 2000
compliance of its third party governmental payors and fiscal intermediaries
and it is expected that the assessment phase for third party payors will be an
ongoing process throughout 1999.  NHC will continue to request and seek
information through all sources available related to the Year 2000 readiness
of these third parties.


Year 2000 Costs--

     NHC currently estimates that its aggregate costs directly related to
Year 2000 compliance efforts will be approximately $250,000, of which
approximately $150,000 has been spent through June 30, 1999.  The costs
primarily relate to the use of internal information systems personnel in NHC's
assessment of Year 2000 issues and modification of software applications as
discussed above.  The Year 2000 costs have been and will be paid through funds
provided by NHC's ongoing operations.  Approximately 25% of the information
systems department budget has been utilized in performing functions related to
Year 2000 preparedness.  Management of NHC believes that there will be no
material impact on NHC's financial condition or results of operations
resulting from other information technology projects being delayed due to Year
2000 efforts.









                               24
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


Year 2000 Risks--

     The failure of NHC or third parties to be fully Year 2000 compliant for
essential systems and equipment by January 1, 2000 could result in
interruptions of normal business operations.  Based on all available
information as of June 30, 1999, management's estimate of NHC's most
reasonably likely worst case scenario includes: (i) the inability to deliver
patient care related services in its healthcare centers, (ii) the delayed
receipt of reimbursement from the federal or state governments, private payors
or intermediaries, (iii) the failure of security systems, heating systems,
lighting systems or other operational systems and equipment of the healthcare
centers, and (iv) the inability to receive critical equipment and supplies
from vendors. Each of these events could have a material adverse impact on
NHC's business, results of operations and financial condition.

Contingency Plans--

     Contingency plans for NHC's Year 2000 issues continue to be developed
and include, but are not limited to, the identification of alternate
suppliers, alternate technologies and alternate manual systems and processes.
In the event that medical devices and other operational equipment containing
non-compliant embedded chip technology cannot be corrected prior to January 1,
2000, the equipment will be removed from service.  NHC's contingency plans are
expected to be completed by October 1, 1999.

     NHC's Year 2000 efforts are ongoing and its overall plan and cost
estimations will continue to evolve as new information becomes available.  The
costs of NHC's Year 2000 compliance plan and the date on which NHC expects to
complete it are based on current estimates, which reflect numerous assumptions
about future events, including the continued availability of certain
resources, the timing and effectiveness of third party remediation plans and
other factors.  NHC can give no assurance that these estimates will be
achieved, and actual results could differ materially from NHC's plans.
Specific factors that might cause such material differences include, but are
not limited to, the availability and cost of personnel trained in this area,
the ability to locate and correct relevant computer source codes and embedded
technology, the results of internal assessment, remediation and testing and
the timeliness and effectiveness of remediation efforts of third parties.  In
addition, NHC's analysis of its Year 2000 issues is based in part on
information from third parties.  There can be no assurance that such
information is accurate or complete.




                               25
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)



Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Information About Market Risk

Interest Rate Risk--

     The Company's cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid
investments with a maturity of less than three months.  As a result of the
short-term nature of the Company's cash instruments, a hypothetical 10% change
in interest rates would have no impact on the Company's future earnings and
cash flows related to these instruments.  A hypothetical 10% change in
interest rates would also have an immaterial impact on the fair values of
these instruments.  Approximately $10 million of the Company's notes
receivable bear interest at fixed interest rates.  As the interest rates on
these notes receivable are fixed, a hypothetical 10% change in interest rates
would have no impact on the Company's future earnings and cash flows related
to these instruments.  A hypothetical 10% change in interest rates would also
have an immaterial impact on the fair values of these instruments.
Approximately $22.6 million of the Company's notes receivable bear interest at
variable rates (generally at prime plus 2%).  Because the interest rates of
these instruments are variable, a hypothetical 10% change in interest rates
would result in a related increase or decrease in interest income of
approximately $220,000.  However, a hypothetical 10% change in interest rates
would have an immaterial impact on the fair values of these instruments.  As
of June 30, 1999, $30.2 million of the Company's long-term debt and debt
serviced by other parties bear interest at fixed interest rates. Because the
interest rates of these instruments are fixed, a hypothetical 10% change in
interest rates would have no impact on the Company's future earnings and cash
flows related to these instruments.  A hypothetical 10% change in interest
rates would have an immaterial impact on the fair values of these instruments.
The remaining $45.3 million of the Company's long-term debt and debt serviced
by other parties bear interest at variable rates.  Because the interest rates
of these instruments are variable, a hypothetical 10% change in interest rates
would result in a related increase or decrease in interest expense of
approximately $275,000.  However, a hypothetical 10% change in interest rates
would have an immaterial impact on the fair value of these instruments.  The
Company does not currently use any derivative instruments to hedge its
interest rate exposure.  The Company has not used derivative instruments for
trading purposes and the use of such instruments in the future would be
subject to strict approvals by the Company's senior officers.  Therefore, the
Company's exposure related to such derivative instruments is not material to
the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.




                               26
<PAGE>
                 NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                          June 30, 1999
                           (Unaudited)


Equity Price Risk--

     The Company considers its investments in marketable securities as
available for sale securities and unrealized gains and losses are recorded in
stockholders' equity in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 115.  The investments in marketable securities are recorded at
their fair market value based on quoted market prices.  Thus, there is
exposure to equity price risk, which is the potential change in fair value due
to a change in quoted market price. Hypothetically, a 10% change in quoted
market prices would result in a related 10% change in the fair value of the
Company's investments in marketable securities.


                   PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION


Item 1.   Legal Proceedings.

          For a discussion of prior, current and pending litigation of
          material significance to NHC, please see Note 7, page 11, of
          this Form 10-Q.


Item 2.   Changes in Securities.  Not applicable


Item 3.   Defaults Upon Senior Securities.  None


Item 4.   Submission of Matters to Vote of Security Holders.  None


Item 5.   Other Information.  None


Item 6.   Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.

          (a)  List of exhibits - Exhibit 27 - Financial Data Schedule
               (for SEC purposes only)
          (b)  Reports on Form 8-K.  None






                               27
<PAGE>
                NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION

                         June 30, 1999
                          (Unaudited)




                           SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Security Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


                                        NATIONAL HEALTHCARE CORPORATION
                                        (Registrant)


Date   August 13, 1999                  /s/ Richard F. LaRoche, Jr.
                                        Richard F. LaRoche, Jr.
                                        Secretary


Date   August 13, 1999                  /s/ Donald K. Daniel
                                        Donald K. Daniel
                                        Vice President and Controller
                                        Principal Accounting Officer


























                                28

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5

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                                0
                                          0
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<EPS-BASIC>                                        .39
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .39


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