News Release Details

CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 6, 2002--The Board of Directors of Chemed Corporation (NYSE:CHE) today declared a quarterly cash dividend of 12 cents per share on its capital stock, representing a 9 percent increase over the previous quarterly dividend rate of 11 cents per share. The dividend is payable on December 10, 2002, to stockholders of record on November 20, 2002.

Commenting on the dividend increase, Chemed President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin J. McNamara said, "A dividend provides a tangible return to investors, and this dividend represents the 126th consecutive quarterly dividend paid by Chemed in its 31 years as a public corporation. The increase in the dividend rate attests to the Board's confidence in Chemed's solid financial position and future earnings potential."

Chemed Corporation (www.chemed.com), headquartered in Cincinnati, is a New York Stock Exchange-listed corporation operating in the residential and commercial repair-and-maintenance-service industry through two wholly owned subsidiaries. Roto-Rooter Inc. is North America's largest provider of plumbing and drain cleaning services. Service America Systems Inc. provides major-appliance and heating/air-conditioning repair, maintenance, and replacement services.

Statements in this press release or in other Chemed communications may relate to future events or Chemed's future performance. Such statements are forward-looking statements and are based on present information Chemed has related to its existing business circumstances. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risk that actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. Further, investors are cautioned that Chemed does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements based on unanticipated events or changed expectations.

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