NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust announces May
distribution

TORONTO, May 17 /CNW/ - NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX: NWH.UN) (the "REIT") announced today that the Trustees of the REIT have declared a distribution of $0.06667 per unit for the month of May, 2010, representing $0.80 per unit on an annualized basis. The distribution will be payable on June 15, 2010 to unitholders of record as at May 31, 2010.

About NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust

NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust is an unincorporated, open-ended real estate investment trust established under the laws of the Province of Ontario. The REIT holds a portfolio of 45 income-producing properties, with a focus on medical office buildings and healthcare real estate, comprising approximately 2.7 million square feet of gross leasable area located in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Québec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

This press release contains forward-looking statements which reflect the REIT's current expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those projected herein. The REIT disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

For further information: Mike Brady, Senior Vice President, NorthWest Healthcare Properties Real Estate Investment Trust, [phone] ext. 243, or www.nwhp.ca