<?xml version="1.0" encoding="US-ASCII" standalone="no"?>
<!--Generated by ThunderDome XBRL - 12:50PM UTC 2024-08-08--><xsd:schema xmlns:xsd="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema" xmlns:country="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2024" xmlns:currency="http://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2024" xmlns:dei="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024" xmlns:dtr-types="http://www.xbrl.org/dtr/type/2020-01-21" xmlns:ecd="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/2024" xmlns:enum2="http://xbrl.org/2020/extensible-enumerations-2.0" xmlns:exch="http://xbrl.sec.gov/exch/2024" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:naics="http://xbrl.sec.gov/naics/2024" xmlns:nhc="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630" xmlns:sic="http://xbrl.sec.gov/sic/2024" xmlns:srt="http://fasb.org/srt/2024" xmlns:srt-types="http://fasb.org/srt-types/2024" xmlns:stpr="http://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024" xmlns:us-gaap="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/2024" xmlns:us-types="http://fasb.org/us-types/2024" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" attributeFormDefault="unqualified" elementFormDefault="qualified" targetNamespace="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630">
  <xsd:import namespace="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance" schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-instance-2003-12-31.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2024/country-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/naics/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/naics/2024/naics-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/exch/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/exch/2024/exch-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://fasb.org/srt/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/currency/2024/currency-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024/stpr-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://fasb.org/srt-types/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-types-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://www.xbrl.org/dtr/type/2020-01-21" schemaLocation="https://www.xbrl.org/dtr/type/2020-01-21/types.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.org/2020/extensible-enumerations-2.0" schemaLocation="https://www.xbrl.org/2020/extensible-enumerations-2.0.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/sic/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/sic/2024/sic-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/2024/ecd-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://fasb.org/us-types/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-types-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/2024" schemaLocation="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd"/>
  <xsd:import namespace="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negated" schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/role/negated-2009-12-16.xsd"/>
  <xsd:annotation>
    <xsd:appinfo>
      <link:linkbaseRef xlink:arcrole="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink/properties/linkbase" xlink:href="nhc-20240630_lab.xml" xlink:role="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/labelLinkbaseRef" xlink:type="simple"/>
      <link:linkbaseRef xlink:arcrole="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink/properties/linkbase" xlink:href="nhc-20240630_cal.xml" xlink:role="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/calculationLinkbaseRef" xlink:type="simple"/>
      <link:linkbaseRef xlink:arcrole="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink/properties/linkbase" xlink:href="nhc-20240630_def.xml" xlink:role="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/definitionLinkbaseRef" xlink:type="simple"/>
      <link:linkbaseRef xlink:arcrole="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink/properties/linkbase" xlink:href="nhc-20240630_pre.xml" xlink:role="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationLinkbaseRef" xlink:type="simple"/>
      <link:roleType id="statement-document-and-entity-information" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-document-and-entity-information">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">000 - Document - Document And Entity Information</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-operations-unaudited" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-operations-unaudited">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">001 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-unaudited" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-unaudited">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">002 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">003 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Current Period Unaudited)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited-parentheticals" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-balance-sheets-current-period-unaudited-parentheticals">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">004 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Current Period Unaudited) (Parentheticals)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows-unaudited" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows-unaudited">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">005 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-stockholders-equity-unaudited" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-stockholders-equity-unaudited">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">006 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-stockholders-equity-unaudited-parentheticals" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-interim-condensed-consolidated-statements-of-stockholders-equity-unaudited-parentheticals">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">007 - Statement - Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) (Parentheticals)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-1-description-of-business-" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-1-description-of-business-">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">008 - Disclosure - Note 1 - Description of Business</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-2-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-2-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">009 - Disclosure - Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">010 - Disclosure - Note 3 - Net Patient Revenues</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-4-other-revenues" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-4-other-revenues">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">011 - Disclosure - Note 4 - Other Revenues</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-5-nonoperating-income" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-5-nonoperating-income">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">012 - Disclosure - Note 5 - Non-operating Income</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-6-business-segments-" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-6-business-segments-">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">013 - Disclosure - Note 6 - Business Segments</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-7-longterm-leases" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-7-longterm-leases">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">014 - Disclosure - Note 7 - Long-term Leases</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-8-earnings-per-share" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-8-earnings-per-share">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">015 - Disclosure - Note 8 - Earnings Per Share</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">016 - Disclosure - Note 9 - Investments in Marketable Securities</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">017 - Disclosure - Note 10 - Fair Value Measurements</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">018 - Disclosure - Note 11 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-12-stock-repurchase-program" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-12-stock-repurchase-program">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">019 - Disclosure - Note 12 - Stock Repurchase Program</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">020 - Disclosure - Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-14-income-taxes" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-14-income-taxes">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">021 - Disclosure - Note 14 - Income Taxes</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-15-contingencies-and-commitments" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-15-contingencies-and-commitments">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">022 - Disclosure - Note 15 - Contingencies and Commitments</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-16-subsequent-events" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-16-subsequent-events">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">023 - Disclosure - Note 16 - Subsequent Events</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995470 - Disclosure - Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995471 - Disclosure - Note 3 - Net Patient Revenues (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-4-other-revenues-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-4-other-revenues-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995472 - Disclosure - Note 4 - Other Revenues (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995473 - Disclosure - Note 5 - Non-operating Income (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-6-business-segments-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-6-business-segments-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995474 - Disclosure - Note 6 - Business Segments (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-7-longterm-leases-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-7-longterm-leases-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995475 - Disclosure - Note 7 - Long-term Leases (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995476 - Disclosure - Note 8 - Earnings Per Share (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995477 - Disclosure - Note 9 - Investments in Marketable Securities (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995478 - Disclosure - Note 10 - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995479 - Disclosure - Note 11 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995480 - Disclosure - Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-16-subsequent-events-tables" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-16-subsequent-events-tables">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995481 - Disclosure - Note 16 - Subsequent Events (Tables)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-1-description-of-business-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-1-description-of-business-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995482 - Disclosure - Note 1 - Description of Business (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-2-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-2-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995483 - Disclosure - Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995484 - Disclosure - Note 3 - Net Patient Revenues (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-revenue-disaggregation-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-revenue-disaggregation-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995485 - Disclosure - Note 3 - Net Patient Revenues - Revenue Disaggregation (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-4-other-revenues-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-4-other-revenues-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995486 - Disclosure - Note 4 - Other Revenues (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-4-other-revenues-summary-of-other-revenues-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-4-other-revenues-summary-of-other-revenues-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995487 - Disclosure - Note 4 - Other Revenues - Summary of Other Revenues (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995488 - Disclosure - Note 5 - Non-operating Income (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-summary-of-nonoperating-income-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-summary-of-nonoperating-income-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995489 - Disclosure - Note 5 - Non-operating Income - Summary of Non-operating Income (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-6-business-segments-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-6-business-segments-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995490 - Disclosure - Note 6 - Business Segments (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-6-business-segments-summary-of-financial-information-by-reporting-segment-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-6-business-segments-summary-of-financial-information-by-reporting-segment-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995491 - Disclosure - Note 6 - Business Segments - Summary of Financial Information by Reporting Segment (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-7-longterm-leases-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-7-longterm-leases-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995492 - Disclosure - Note 7 - Long-term Leases (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-7-longterm-leases-maturity-of-lease-liabilities-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-7-longterm-leases-maturity-of-lease-liabilities-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995493 - Disclosure - Note 7 - Long-term Leases - Maturity of Lease Liabilities (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995494 - Disclosure - Note 8 - Earnings Per Share (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-summary-of-earnings-and-weighted-average-number-of-common-shares-used-in-calculation-of-basic-and-diluted-earnings-per-share-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-summary-of-earnings-and-weighted-average-number-of-common-shares-used-in-calculation-of-basic-and-diluted-earnings-per-share-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995495 - Disclosure - Note 8 - Earnings Per Share - Summary of Earnings and Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Used in Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995496 - Disclosure - Note 9 - Investments in Marketable Securities (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-marketable-securities-and-restricted-marketable-securities-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-marketable-securities-and-restricted-marketable-securities-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995497 - Disclosure - Note 9 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Marketable Securities and Restricted Marketable Securities (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-available-for-sale-marketable-equity-securities-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-available-for-sale-marketable-equity-securities-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995498 - Disclosure - Note 9 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Available for Sale Marketable Equity Securities (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-fair-value-of-debt-securities-as-available-for-sale-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-fair-value-of-debt-securities-as-available-for-sale-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995499 - Disclosure - Note 9 - Investments in Marketable Securities - Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Debt Securities as Available for Sale (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-summary-of-fair-value-measurements-by-level-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-summary-of-fair-value-measurements-by-level-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995500 - Disclosure - Note 10 - Fair Value Measurements - Summary of Fair Value Measurements by Level (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995501 - Disclosure - Note 11 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-activity-related-to-goodwill-by-segment-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-activity-related-to-goodwill-by-segment-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995502 - Disclosure - Note 11 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Activity Related to Goodwill By Segment (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-12-stock-repurchase-program-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-12-stock-repurchase-program-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995503 - Disclosure - Note 12 - Stock Repurchase Program (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995504 - Disclosure - Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-assumptions-used-to-value-options-granted-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-assumptions-used-to-value-options-granted-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995505 - Disclosure - Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Assumptions Used to Value Options Granted (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-options-outstanding-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-options-outstanding-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995506 - Disclosure - Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Options Outstanding (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-options-outstanding-by-exercise-price-range-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-options-outstanding-by-exercise-price-range-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995507 - Disclosure - Note 13 - Stock-based Compensation - Options Outstanding by Exercise Price Range (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-14-income-taxes-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-14-income-taxes-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995508 - Disclosure - Note 14 - Income Taxes (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-15-contingencies-and-commitments-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-15-contingencies-and-commitments-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995509 - Disclosure - Note 15 - Contingencies and Commitments (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-16-subsequent-events-details-textual" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-16-subsequent-events-details-textual">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995510 - Disclosure - Note 16 - Subsequent Events (Details Textual)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
      <link:roleType id="statement-note-16-subsequent-events-pro-forma-information-details" roleURI="http://www.nhccare.com/20240630/role/statement-note-16-subsequent-events-pro-forma-information-details">
        <link:definition xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">995511 - Disclosure - Note 16 - Subsequent Events - Pro Forma Information (Details)</link:definition>
        <link:usedOn>link:calculationLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:definitionLink</link:usedOn>
        <link:usedOn>link:presentationLink</link:usedOn>
      </link:roleType>
    </xsd:appinfo>
  </xsd:annotation>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_AcquisitionOfCarisMember" name="AcquisitionOfCarisMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_AppreciationMember" name="AppreciationMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_AppreciationOfApartmentOverOriginalResidentsEntryFeePercentage" name="AppreciationOfApartmentOverOriginalResidentsEntryFeePercentage" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:percentItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_BalanceSheetClassificationsAbstract" name="BalanceSheetClassificationsAbstract" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_BothNHILeaseAgreementsMember" name="BothNHILeaseAgreementsMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_CertificatesOfNeedAndLicensesMember" name="CertificatesOfNeedAndLicensesMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_ChangesInOperatingAssetsAndLiabilitiesNetOfTheEffectOfAcquisitionsAbstract" name="ChangesInOperatingAssetsAndLiabilitiesNetOfTheEffectOfAcquisitionsAbstract" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_ContinuingCareContractsAndRefundableEntranceFeesPolicyPolicyTextBlock" name="ContinuingCareContractsAndRefundableEntranceFeesPolicyPolicyTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_CreditFacilityMember" name="CreditFacilityMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleRestrictedAmortizedCost" name="DebtSecuritiesAvailableforsaleRestrictedAmortizedCost" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_DividendsAndOtherNetRealizedGainsAndLossesOnSalesOfSecurities" name="DividendsAndOtherNetRealizedGainsAndLossesOnSalesOfSecurities" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_DocumentAndEntityInformation" name="DocumentAndEntityInformation" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_EntranceFeeDepositsRefunds" name="EntranceFeeDepositsRefunds" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_EquipmentAndFurnitureMember" name="EquipmentAndFurnitureMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGrossUnrealizedGain" name="EquitySecuritiesFvNiGrossUnrealizedGain" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_EquitySecuritiesFvNiGrossUnrealizedLoss" name="EquitySecuritiesFvNiGrossUnrealizedLoss" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_EquitySecuritiesFvNiRestrictedCost" name="EquitySecuritiesFvNiRestrictedCost" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_ExercisePriceRange1Member" name="ExercisePriceRange1Member" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_ExercisePriceRange2Member" name="ExercisePriceRange2Member" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_GainLossOnSaleOfUnconsolidatedCompany" name="GainLossOnSaleOfUnconsolidatedCompany" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_HomecareAgencyInNashvilleTennesseeMember" name="HomecareAgencyInNashvilleTennesseeMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_HomecareAndHospiceMember" name="HomecareAndHospiceMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_HomecareAndHospiceSegmentMember" name="HomecareAndHospiceSegmentMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_HomecareServicesSegmentMember" name="HomecareServicesSegmentMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_IncreaseDecreaseInDueToThirdPartyPayors" name="IncreaseDecreaseInDueToThirdPartyPayors" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_InpatientServicesMember" name="InpatientServicesMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_InpatientServicesSegmentMember" name="InpatientServicesSegmentMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_LeaseOneWithNhiMember" name="LeaseOneWithNhiMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_LesseeLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" name="LesseeLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_LesseeOperatingAndFinanceLeasesTextBlock" name="LesseeOperatingAndFinanceLeasesTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_ManagedCareMember" name="ManagedCareMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_ManagementAndAccountingServicesFeesRevenue" name="ManagementAndAccountingServicesFeesRevenue" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_MarketableSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAmortizedCost" name="MarketableSecuritiesAvailableforsaleAmortizedCost" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_MedicaidMember" name="MedicaidMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_MedicareAndMedicaidMember" name="MedicareAndMedicaidMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_MedicareMember" name="MedicareMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_MiscellaneousRevenue" name="MiscellaneousRevenue" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_NHICommonStockMember" name="NHICommonStockMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_NHILeaseAgreementMember" name="NHILeaseAgreementMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_NationalMember" name="NationalMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NonrefundableResidentEntryFeePercentage" name="NonrefundableResidentEntryFeePercentage" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:percentItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_NoteToFinancialStatementDetailsTextual" name="NoteToFinancialStatementDetailsTextual" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_NotesToFinancialStatements" name="NotesToFinancialStatements" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_NotesToFinancialStatementsAbstract" name="NotesToFinancialStatementsAbstract" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfAssistedLivingAndIndependentLivingUnits" name="NumberOfAssistedLivingAndIndependentLivingUnits" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfAssistedLivingCentersLeasedFromNHI" name="NumberOfAssistedLivingCentersLeasedFromNHI" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfAssistedLivingFacilities" name="NumberOfAssistedLivingFacilities" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfBeds" name="NumberOfBeds" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfBehavioralHealthHospitals" name="NumberOfBehavioralHealthHospitals" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfContinuingCareRetirementCenters" name="NumberOfContinuingCareRetirementCenters" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfHomecarePrograms" name="NumberOfHomecarePrograms" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfHospiceAgencies" name="NumberOfHospiceAgencies" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfIndependentLivingCentersLeasedFromNHI" name="NumberOfIndependentLivingCentersLeasedFromNHI" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfIndependentLivingFacilities" name="NumberOfIndependentLivingFacilities" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfSkilledNursingCenters" name="NumberOfSkilledNursingCenters" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfSkilledNursingCentersLeasedFromNHI" name="NumberOfSkilledNursingCentersLeasedFromNHI" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:positiveIntegerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfSkilledNursingFacilitiesLeased" name="NumberOfSkilledNursingFacilitiesLeased" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_NumberOfSkilledNursingFacilitiesSubleased" name="NumberOfSkilledNursingFacilitiesSubleased" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:integerItemType" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_OriginalEntryFeeMember" name="OriginalEntryFeeMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesPolicyTextBlock" name="OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesPolicyTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_OtherOperatingExpensesPolicyPolicyTextBlock" name="OtherOperatingExpensesPolicyPolicyTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_OtherRevenues" name="OtherRevenues" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_OtherRevenuesTextBlock" name="OtherRevenuesTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_PaymentsForProceedsFromNotesReceivableTotal" name="PaymentsForProceedsFromNotesReceivableTotal" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_PaymentsForProceedsFromUnconsolidatedInvestments" name="PaymentsForProceedsFromUnconsolidatedInvestments" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="credit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_PrivatePayAndOtherMember" name="PrivatePayAndOtherMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_ProceedsFromSaleOfUnconsolidatedCompany" name="ProceedsFromSaleOfUnconsolidatedCompany" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_RefundableAdvanceFeesMember" name="RefundableAdvanceFeesMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_RefundableResidentEntryFeePercentage" name="RefundableResidentEntryFeePercentage" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:percentItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_RestrictedMarketableDebtSecuritiesCurrent" name="RestrictedMarketableDebtSecuritiesCurrent" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_RestrictedMarketableDebtSecuritiesNoncurrent" name="RestrictedMarketableDebtSecuritiesNoncurrent" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:monetaryItemType" xbrli:balance="debit" xbrli:periodType="instant"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTaxPercentage" name="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTaxPercentage" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:percentItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_SalariesWagesAndBenefitsMember" name="SalariesWagesAndBenefitsMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element id="nhc_ScheduleOfOtherRevenuesTableTextBlock" name="ScheduleOfOtherRevenuesTableTextBlock" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:textBlockItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_TermFacilityMember" name="TermFacilityMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_TwoLeasesWithNHIMember" name="TwoLeasesWithNHIMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_WhiteOakSeniorLivingPortfolioMember" name="WhiteOakSeniorLivingPortfolioMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_WorkersCompensationRevenueMember" name="WorkersCompensationRevenueMember" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="dtr-types:domainItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-summary-of-fair-value-measurements-by-level-details" name="statement-statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-summary-of-fair-value-measurements-by-level-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-tables" name="statement-statement-note-10-fair-value-measurements-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-activity-related-to-goodwill-by-segment-details" name="statement-statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-activity-related-to-goodwill-by-segment-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-tables" name="statement-statement-note-11-goodwill-and-other-intangible-assets-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-options-outstanding-by-exercise-price-range-details" name="statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-options-outstanding-by-exercise-price-range-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-assumptions-used-to-value-options-granted-details" name="statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-assumptions-used-to-value-options-granted-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-options-outstanding-details" name="statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-summary-of-options-outstanding-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-tables" name="statement-statement-note-13-stockbased-compensation-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-16-subsequent-events-pro-forma-information-details" name="statement-statement-note-16-subsequent-events-pro-forma-information-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-16-subsequent-events-tables" name="statement-statement-note-16-subsequent-events-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-revenue-disaggregation-details" name="statement-statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-revenue-disaggregation-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-tables" name="statement-statement-note-3-net-patient-revenues-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-4-other-revenues-summary-of-other-revenues-details" name="statement-statement-note-4-other-revenues-summary-of-other-revenues-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-4-other-revenues-tables" name="statement-statement-note-4-other-revenues-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-summary-of-nonoperating-income-details" name="statement-statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-summary-of-nonoperating-income-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-tables" name="statement-statement-note-5-nonoperating-income-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-6-business-segments-summary-of-financial-information-by-reporting-segment-details" name="statement-statement-note-6-business-segments-summary-of-financial-information-by-reporting-segment-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-6-business-segments-tables" name="statement-statement-note-6-business-segments-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-7-longterm-leases-maturity-of-lease-liabilities-details" name="statement-statement-note-7-longterm-leases-maturity-of-lease-liabilities-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-7-longterm-leases-tables" name="statement-statement-note-7-longterm-leases-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-summary-of-earnings-and-weighted-average-number-of-common-shares-used-in-calculation-of-basic-and-diluted-earnings-per-share-details" name="statement-statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-summary-of-earnings-and-weighted-average-number-of-common-shares-used-in-calculation-of-basic-and-diluted-earnings-per-share-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-tables" name="statement-statement-note-8-earnings-per-share-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-fair-value-of-debt-securities-as-available-for-sale-details" name="statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-amortized-cost-and-estimated-fair-value-of-debt-securities-as-available-for-sale-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-available-for-sale-marketable-equity-securities-details" name="statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-available-for-sale-marketable-equity-securities-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-marketable-securities-and-restricted-marketable-securities-details" name="statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-marketable-securities-and-restricted-marketable-securities-details" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-tables" name="statement-statement-note-9-investments-in-marketable-securities-tables" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
  <xsd:element abstract="true" id="nhc_statement-statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies" name="statement-statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies" nillable="true" substitutionGroup="xbrli:item" type="xbrli:stringItemType" xbrli:periodType="duration"/>
</xsd:schema>
