Health Care REIT, Inc. Announces Promotion of Scott Brinker to Executive Vice President - Investments

TOLEDO, Ohio--(EON: Enhanced Online News)--Health Care REIT, Inc. (NYSE:HCN) announced today the promotion of Scott Brinker to the position of Executive Vice President – Investments. Mr. Brinker has played a leading role in evaluating, structuring, closing and monitoring the company’s portfolio since 2001, as it grew from approximately $1 billion to more than $13 billion of real estate investments. In his expanded role, Mr. Brinker will continue to provide leadership in these areas, and will also play a central role in executing the company’s strategic objectives.

“Scott has been a significant contributor to Health Care REIT’s success”

“Scott has been a significant contributor to Health Care REIT’s success,” commented George L. Chapman, chief executive officer of Health Care REIT, Inc. “With his increased responsibilities, along with the collective efforts of a strong senior management team, he will play a major role in achieving the company’s long-term goals for growth and stockholder returns.”

Mr. Brinker’s industry experience spans the continuum of health care real estate, including seniors housing, skilled nursing, medical office buildings and acute-care facilities. Mr. Brinker has served as Senior Vice President – Underwriting and Research and as Vice President – Underwriting and Research from January 2006 to January 2009. Since July 2001, he has served in various capacities with the company. Mr. Brinker received his undergraduate degree from Yale University and an MBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

About Health Care REIT, Inc. Health Care REIT, Inc., an S&P 500 company with headquarters in Toledo, Ohio, is a real estate investment trust that invests across the full spectrum of seniors housing and health care real estate. The company also provides an extensive array of property management and development services. As of September 30, 2011, the company’s broadly diversified portfolio consisted of 898 properties in 45 states. More information is available on the company’s website at www.hcreit.com.