Community Health Systems (CYH) 8-K 17 Sep 14 Other Events Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'
Entity Registrant Name	'COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEMS INC
Entity Central Index Key	'0001108109
Document Type	'8-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31
Amendment Flag	'false
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Consolidated Statements of Income [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$14,852,625

$14,746,759

$13,380,581

Provision for bad debts

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,033,669

1,914,023

1,672,851

Net operating revenues

3,191,255

3,174,416

3,191,254

3,262,031

3,229,399

3,163,577

3,196,097

3,243,663

12,818,956

12,832,736

11,707,730

Operating costs and expenses:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Salaries and benefits

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,107,391

5,992,046

5,467,420

Supplies

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,975,236

1,952,918

1,811,814

Other operating expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,816,633

2,805,938

2,458,280

Government settlement and related costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

101,500

'

'

Electronic health records incentive reimbursement

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-162,042

-122,696

-62,881

Rent

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

278,885

264,415

246,218

Depreciation and amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

771,356

713,892

643,368

Total operating costs and expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11,888,959

11,606,513

10,564,219

Income from operations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

929,997

1,226,223

1,143,511

Interest expense, net of interest income of $2,974, $3,016 and $4,634 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

613,122

620,957

642,526

Loss from early extinguishment of debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,295

115,453

66,019

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-42,641

-42,033

-49,491

Impairment of long-lived assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

12,100

10,000

'

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

88,331

34,827

74,195

148,768

125,969

90,575

159,213

146,089

346,121

521,846

484,457

Provision for income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

103,678

164,026

141,593

Income from continuing operations

62,001

27,853

53,245

99,344

88,108

62,665

106,977

100,070

242,443

357,820

342,864

Discontinued operations, net of taxes:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-20,613

-12,017

-14,739

Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-4,562

'

-47,930

Loss on sale, net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-2,572

Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes

-9,739

-6,255

-6,160

-3,021

-2,482

-3,907

-4,810

-818

-25,175

-12,017

-65,241

Net income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

217,268

345,803

277,623

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

76,065

80,163

75,675

Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders

$28,181

$4,095

$29,753

$79,174

$62,574

$44,233

$83,359

$75,474

$141,203

$265,640

$201,948

Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders (1):

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Continuing operations

$0.41

$0.11

$0.39

$0.90

$0.72

[1]

$0.54

[1]

$0.99

[1]

$0.86

[1]

$1.80

[1]

$3.11

[1]

$2.97

[1]

Discontinued operations

($0.10)

($0.07)

($0.07)

($0.03)

($0.03)

[1]

($0.04)

[1]

($0.05)

[1]

($0.01)

[1]

($0.27)

[1]

($0.13)

[1]

($0.73)

[1]

Net income

$0.30

$0.04

$0.32

$0.87

$0.70

[1]

$0.50

[1]

$0.94

[1]

$0.85

[1]

$1.52

[1]

$2.98

[1]

$2.24

[1]

Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders (1):

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Continuing operations

$0.40

$0.11

$0.38

$0.89

$0.72

[1]

$0.53

[1]

$0.98

[1]

$0.86

[1]

$1.77

[1]

$3.09

[1]

$2.95

[1]

Discontinued operations

($0.10)

($0.07)

($0.07)

($0.03)

($0.03)

[1]

($0.04)

[1]

($0.05)

[1]

($0.01)

[1]

($0.27)

[1]

($0.13)

[1]

($0.72)

[1]

Net income

$0.30

$0.04

$0.32

$0.86

$0.69

[1]

$0.49

[1]

$0.93

[1]

$0.85

[1]

$1.51

[1]

$2.96

[1]

$2.23

[1]

Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basic

93,372,398

93,259,027

92,866,370

91,002,615

89,882,380

89,259,950

89,147,472

88,674,779

92,633,332

89,242,949

89,966,933

Diluted

94,703,458

94,483,596

94,109,368

91,998,993

90,828,119

90,009,113

89,530,639

88,852,704

93,815,013

89,806,937

90,666,348

[1]

Total per share amounts may not add due to rounding.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc1

Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Income [Abstract]	'	'	'
Interest Income	$2,974	$3,016	$4,634

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'
Net income	$217,268	$345,803	$277,623
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax of $33,875, $26,219 and $31,154 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively	60,304	46,409	55,145
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes	2,181	3,012	-960
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components, net of tax of $9,140, $(3,310) and $(4,754) for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively	15,320	-10,252	-7,737
Other comprehensive income (loss)	77,805	39,169	46,448
Comprehensive income	295,073	384,972	324,071
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	76,065	80,163	75,675
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$219,008	$304,809	$248,396

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'
Tax provision (benefit) related to the net change in fair value of interest rate swaps	$33,875	$26,219	$31,154
Tax provision (benefit) related to amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components	$9,140	($3,310)	($4,754)

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$373,403	$387,813
Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,437,854 and $2,190,762 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively	2,322,555	2,034,085
Supplies	371,315	362,159
Prepaid income taxes	107,077	49,888
Deferred income taxes	101,372	117,045
Prepaid expenses and taxes	126,972	124,768
Other current assets (including assets of hospitals held for sale of $39,860 and $42,058 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	345,269	343,384
Total current assets	3,747,963	3,419,142
Property and Equipment:	'	'
Land and improvements	623,744	610,179
Buildings and improvements	6,224,755	6,173,169
Equipment and fixtures	3,613,950	3,210,560
Property and equipment, gross	10,462,449	9,993,908
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	-3,411,798	-2,919,491
Property and equipment, net	7,050,651	7,074,417
Goodwill	4,424,425	4,388,429
Other assets, net of accumulated amortization of $535,142 and $394,827 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively (including assets of hospitals held for sale of $94,394 and $107,513 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	1,894,256	1,724,347
Total assets	17,117,295	16,606,335
Current liabilities:	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	166,894	89,902
Accounts payable	949,115	819,643
Deferred income taxes	3,183	'
Accrued liabilities:	'	'
Employee compensation	690,117	704,530
Interest	111,891	110,702
Other (including liabilities of hospitals held for sale of $24,447 and $16,428 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively)	536,717	419,021
Total current liabilities	2,457,917	2,143,798
Long-term debt	9,286,489	9,451,380
Deferred income taxes	906,101	808,489
Other long-term liabilities	976,908	1,038,481
Total liabilities	13,627,415	13,442,148
Redeemable noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated subsidiaries	358,410	367,666
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $.01 par value per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized; none issued	'	'
Common stock, $.01 par value per share, 300,000,000 shares authorized; 95,987,032 shares issued and 95,011,483 shares outstanding at December 31, 2013, and 92,925,715 shares issued and 91,950,166 shares outstanding at December 31, 2012	960	929
Additional paid-in capital	1,255,855	1,138,274
Treasury stock, at cost, 975,549 shares at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012	-6,678	-6,678
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-67,505	-145,310
Retained earnings	1,885,195	1,743,992
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	3,067,827	2,731,207
Noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated subsidiaries	63,643	65,314
Total equity	3,131,470	2,796,521
Total liabilities and equity	$17,117,295	$16,606,335

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]	'	'
Allowance for doubtful patient accounts	$2,437,854	$2,190,762
Current assets of hospitals held for sale	39,860	42,058
Noncurrent assets of hospitals held for sale	94,394	107,513
Current liabilities of hospitals held for sale	24,447	16,428
Accumulated amortization	$535,142	$394,827
Preferred stock, par value per share	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value per share	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	300,000,000	300,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	95,987,032	92,925,715
Common stock, shares outstanding	95,011,483	91,950,166
Treasury stock, shares	975,549	975,549

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Non- Equity) [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings	Noncontrolling Interest	Total
In Thousands, except Share data
Equity, beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2010	$387,472	$936	$1,126,751	($6,678)	($230,927)	$1,299,382	$60,913	$2,250,377
Equity, beginning balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2010	'	93,644,862	'	-975,549	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest	54,251	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive income (loss) including portion attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	46,448	201,948	21,424	269,820
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net of contributions	-39,816	'	'	'	'	'	-15,049	-15,049
Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interests	-7,426	'	-4,556	'	'	'	-1,040	-5,596
Other reclassifications of noncontrolling interests	-2,099	'	'	'	'	'	1,101	1,101
Adjustment to redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests	3,361	'	-3,361	'	'	'	'	-3,361
Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options	'	6	18,910	'	'	'	'	18,916
Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options, shares	'	623,341	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cancellation of restricted stock for tax withholdings on vested shares	'	-3	-13,311	'	'	'	'	-13,314
Cancellation of restricted stock for tax withholdings on vested shares, shares	'	-346,419	'	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	'	-35	-85,790	'	'	'	'	-85,825
Repurchases of common stock, shares	'	-3,469,099	'	'	'	'	'	'
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options	'	'	4,823	'	'	'	'	4,823
Stock-based compensation	'	11	42,542	'	'	'	'	42,553
Stock-based compensation, shares	'	1,094,394	'	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, ending balance at Dec. 31, 2011	395,743	915	1,086,008	-6,678	-184,479	1,501,330	67,349	2,464,445
Equity, ending balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2011	'	91,547,079	'	-975,549	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest	56,235	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive income (loss) including portion attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	39,169	265,640	23,928	328,737
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net of contributions	-43,613	'	'	'	'	'	-24,196	-24,196
Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interests	-21,607	'	-21,537	'	'	'	-1,143	-22,680
Other reclassifications of noncontrolling interests	718	'	'	'	'	'	-624	-624
Adjustment to redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests	-19,810	'	19,810	'	'	'	'	19,810
Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options	'	11	20,858	'	'	'	'	20,869
Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options, shares	'	1,054,075	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cancellation of restricted stock for tax withholdings on vested shares	'	-4	-9,314	'	'	'	'	-9,318
Cancellation of restricted stock for tax withholdings on vested shares, shares	'	-371,946	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net distribution to shareholders	'	'	443	'	'	-22,978	'	-22,535
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options	'	'	1,110	'	'	'	'	1,110
Stock-based compensation	'	7	40,896	'	'	'	'	40,903
Stock-based compensation, shares	'	696,507	'	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, ending balance at Dec. 31, 2012	367,666	929	1,138,274	-6,678	-145,310	1,743,992	65,314	2,796,521
Equity, ending balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2012	'	92,925,715	'	-975,549	'	'	'	91,950,166
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest	50,624	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive income (loss) including portion attributable to nonredeemable noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	77,805	141,203	25,441	244,449
Distributions to noncontrolling interests, net of contributions	-48,518	'	'	'	'	'	-26,776	-26,776
Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interests	-5,891	'	-768	'	'	'	-2,645	-3,413
Other reclassifications of noncontrolling interests	2,290	'	'	'	'	'	-2,290	-2,290
Noncontrolling interests in acquired entity	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,599	4,599
Adjustment to redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests	-7,761	'	7,761	'	'	'	'	7,761
Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options	'	33	110,641	'	'	'	'	110,674
Issuance of common stock in connection with the exercise of stock options, shares	'	3,301,543	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cancellation of restricted stock for tax withholdings on vested shares	'	-3	-14,896	'	'	'	'	-14,899
Cancellation of restricted stock for tax withholdings on vested shares, shares	'	-357,360	'	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	'	-7	-27,133	'	'	'	'	-27,140
Repurchases of common stock, shares	'	-706,023	'	'	'	'	'	'
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options	'	'	3,573	'	'	'	'	3,573
Stock-based compensation	'	8	38,403	'	'	'	'	38,411
Stock-based compensation, shares	'	823,157	'	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, ending balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$358,410	$960	$1,255,855	($6,678)	($67,505)	$1,885,195	$63,643	$3,131,470
Equity, ending balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2013	'	95,987,032	'	-975,549	'	'	'	95,011,483

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$217,268	$345,803	$277,623
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	782,675	725,558	657,665
Deferred income taxes	69,284	53,407	107,032
Government settlement and related costs	101,500	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	38,403	40,896	42,542
Loss on sale, net	'	'	2,572
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale	4,562	'	47,930
Impairment of long-lived assets	12,100	10,000	'
Loss from early extinguishment of debt	1,295	115,453	66,019
Excess tax benefit relating to stock-based compensation	-6,715	-3,973	-5,290
Other non-cash expenses, net	60,839	33,251	28,716
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures:	'	'	'
Patient accounts receivable	-285,437	-204,151	-138,332
Supplies, prepaid expenses and other current assets	-8,453	-99,799	-42,858
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and income taxes	75,912	246,301	246,110
Other	25,486	17,374	-27,821
Net cash provided by operating activities	1,088,719	1,280,120	1,261,908
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Acquisitions of facilities and other related equipment	-43,743	-322,315	-415,360
Purchases of property and equipment	-613,992	-768,790	-776,713
Proceeds from disposition of hospitals and other ancillary operations	'	'	173,387
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	6,409	5,897	11,160
Increase in other investments	-339,942	-297,994	-188,249
Net cash used in investing activities	-991,268	-1,383,202	-1,195,775
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	110,660	20,858	18,910
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll tax withholding requirements	-14,896	-9,314	-13,311
Payment of special dividend to stockholders	'	-22,535	'
Stock buy-back	-27,133	'	-85,790
Deferred financing costs	-13,199	-141,219	-19,352
Excess tax benefit relating to stock-based compensation	6,715	3,973	5,290
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint ventures	289	535	1,229
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint ventures	-9,304	-44,287	-13,022
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint ventures	-75,583	-68,344	-56,094
Borrowings under credit agreements	1,194,575	3,975,866	578,236
Issuance of long-term debt	'	3,825,000	1,000,000
Proceeds from receivables facility	338,000	350,000	'
Repayments of long-term indebtedness	-1,621,985	-7,529,503	-1,651,533
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-111,861	361,030	-235,437
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-14,410	257,948	-169,304
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	387,813	129,865	299,169
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	373,403	387,813	129,865
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:	'	'	'
Interest payments	582,828	594,292	680,704
Income tax paid, net of refunds received	$72,794	$55,551	$26,463

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

'

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies Disclosure

'

1.  BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Business.  Community Health Systems, Inc. is a holding company and operates no business in its own name. On a consolidated basis, Community Health Systems, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively the “Company”) own, lease and operate acute care hospitals in non-urban and selected urban markets. As of December 31, 2013, the Company owned or leased 129 hospitals, included in continuing operations, including four stand-alone rehabilitation or psychiatric hospitals, licensed for 19,632 beds in 28 states. Throughout these notes to the consolidated financial statements, Community Health Systems, Inc. (the “Parent”) and its consolidated subsidiaries are referred to on a collective basis as the “Company.” This drafting style is not meant to indicate that the publicly-traded Parent or any subsidiary of the Parent owns or operates any asset, business, or property. The hospitals, operations and businesses described in this filing are owned and operated, and management services provided, by distinct and indirect subsidiaries of Community Health Systems, Inc.

As of December 31, 2013, Texas, Pennsylvania and Indiana represent the only areas of geographic concentration. Operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), generated by the Company’s hospitals in Texas, as a percentage of consolidated operating revenues, were 15.0% in 2013, 14.7% in 2012 and 13.3% in 2011.  Operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), generated by the Company’s hospitals in Pennsylvania, as a percentage of consolidated operating revenues, were 13.1% in 2013, 12.7% in 2012 and 11.6% in 2011. Operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), generated by the Company’s hospitals in Indiana, as a percentage of consolidated operating revenues, were 10.6% in 2013, 10.7% in 2012 and 10.5% in 2011.

Use of Estimates.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Principles of Consolidation.  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Parent, its subsidiaries, all of which are controlled by the Parent through majority voting control, and variable interest entities for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts, profits and transactions have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interests in less-than-wholly-owned consolidated subsidiaries of the Parent are presented as a component of total equity to distinguish between the interests of the Parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. Revenues, expenses and income from continuing operations from these subsidiaries are included in the consolidated amounts as presented on the consolidated statements of income, along with a net income measure that separately presents the amounts attributable to the controlling interests and the amounts attributable to the noncontrolling interests for each of the periods presented. Noncontrolling interests that are redeemable or may become redeemable at a fixed or determinable price at the option of the holder or upon the occurrence of an event outside of the control of the Company are presented in mezzanine equity on the consolidated balance sheets.

Cost of Revenue.  Substantially all of the Company’s operating expenses are “cost of revenue” items. Operating costs that could be classified as general and administrative by the Company would include the Company’s corporate office costs at its Franklin, Tennessee office, which were $180.8 million, $214.8 million and $183.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Included in these amounts is stock-based compensation of $38.4 million, $40.9 million and $42.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Cash Equivalents.  The Company considers highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Supplies.  Supplies, principally medical supplies, are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out basis) or market.

Marketable Securities. The Company’s marketable securities are classified as trading or available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value as determined by quoted market prices, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Trading securities are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Interest and dividends on securities classified as available-for-sale or trading are included in net operating revenues and were not material in all periods presented. Other comprehensive income (loss) included an unrealized gain of $2.2 million, an unrealized gain of $3.0 million and an unrealized loss of $1.0 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, related to these available-for-sale securities.

Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is recognized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the land and improvements (2 to 15 years; weighted-average useful life is 14 years), buildings and improvements (5 to 50 years; weighted-average useful life is 24 years) and equipment and fixtures (4 to 18 years; weighted-average useful life is 8 years). Costs capitalized as construction in progress were $231.8 million and $173.4 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Expenditures for renovations and other significant improvements are capitalized; however, maintenance and repairs which do not improve or extend the useful lives of the respective assets are charged to operations as incurred. Interest capitalized related to construction in progress was $10.5 million, $23.9 million and $21.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Purchases of property and equipment and internal-use software accrued in accounts payable and not yet paid were $141.6 million and $50.2 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

The Company also leases certain facilities and equipment under capital leases (see Note 9). Such assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the term of the lease or the remaining useful lives of the applicable assets.

Goodwill.  Goodwill represents the excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed in the acquisition over the fair value of net assets acquired. Goodwill arising from business combinations is not amortized. Goodwill is required to be evaluated for impairment at the same time every year and when an event occurs or circumstances change such that it is reasonably possible that an impairment may exist. The Company performs its annual testing of impairment for goodwill in the fourth quarter of each year.

Other Assets.  Other assets consist of costs associated with the issuance of debt, which are included in interest expense over the life of the related debt using the effective interest method; the insurance recovery receivable from excess insurance carriers related to the Company’s self-insured malpractice general liability and workers’ compensation insurance liability; and costs to recruit physicians to the Company’s markets, which are deferred and expensed over the term of the respective physician recruitment contract, generally three years, and included in amortization expense.  Other assets also include capitalized internal-use software costs, which are expensed over the expected useful life, which is generally three years for routine software and eight to ten years for major software projects, and included in amortization expense.

Third-Party Reimbursement.  Net patient service revenue is reported at the estimated net realizable amount from patients, third-party payors and others for services rendered. Operating revenues include amounts estimated by management to be reimbursable by Medicare and Medicaid under prospective payment systems, provisions of cost-reimbursement and other payment methods. Approximately 34.5%,  36.0% and 36.3% of operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, are related to services rendered to patients covered by the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Revenues from Medicare outlier payments are included in the amounts received from Medicare and were approximately 0.46%,  0.47% and 0.44% of operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. In addition, the Company is reimbursed by non-governmental payors using a variety of payment methodologies. Amounts received by the Company for treatment of patients covered by such programs are generally less than the standard billing rates. The differences between the estimated program reimbursement rates and the standard billing rates are accounted for as contractual adjustments, which are deducted from gross revenues to arrive at operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts). These net operating revenues are an estimate of the net realizable amount due from these payors. The process of estimating contractual allowances requires the Company to estimate the amount expected to be received based on payor contract provisions. The key assumption in this process is the estimated contractual reimbursement percentage, which is based on payor classification and historical paid claims data. Due to the complexities involved in these estimates, actual payments the Company receives could be different from the amounts it estimates and records. Final settlements under some of these programs are subject to adjustment based on administrative review and audit by third parties. Adjustments to previous program reimbursement estimates are accounted for as contractual allowance adjustments and reported in the periods that such adjustments become known.

Included in net operating revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 is approximately $105.3 million of net operating revenues from an industry-wide settlement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, based on a claim that acute-care hospitals in the U.S. were underpaid from the Medicare inpatient prospective payment system in federal fiscal years 1999 through 2011. The underpayments resulted from calculations related to the rural floor budget neutrality adjustments implemented in connection with the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company received approximately $104.0 million of cash from this settlement. Also included in net operating revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 is an unfavorable adjustment of approximately $21.0 million related to the revised Supplemental Security Income ratios issued for federal fiscal years 2006 through 2009 utilized for calculating Medicare Disproportionate Share Hospital reimbursements. Other than these items, contractual allowance adjustments related to final settlements and previous program reimbursement estimates impacted net operating revenues and net income by an insignificant amount in each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

Amounts due to third-party payors were $60.5 million and $80.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are included in accrued liabilities-other in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Amounts due from third-party payors were $118.0 million and $119.2 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are included in other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Substantially all Medicare and Medicaid cost reports are final settled through 2008.

Net Operating Revenues.  Net operating revenues are recorded net of provisions for contractual allowance of approximately $52.6 billion, $48.5 billion and $41.6 billion in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Net operating revenues are recognized when services are provided and are reported at the estimated net realizable amount from patients, third-party payors and others for services rendered. Also included in the provision for contractual allowance shown above is the value of administrative and other discounts provided to self-pay patients eliminated from net operating revenues which was $1.3 billion, $1.1 billion and $839.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company renders services to patients who are financially unable to pay for hospital care. The Company’s policy is to not pursue collections for such amounts, therefore, the related charges for those patients who are financially unable to pay and that otherwise do not qualify for reimbursement from a governmental program are not reported in net operating revenues or in the provision for bad debts, and are thus classified as charity care.  The Company determines amounts that qualify for charity care primarily based on the patient’s household income relative to the federal poverty level guidelines, as established by the federal government.

Included in the provision for contractual allowance shown above is $681.2 million, $668.5 million and $622.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, representing the value (at the Company’s standard charges) of these charity care services that are excluded from net operating revenues.

The estimated cost incurred by the Company to provide these charity care services to patients who are unable to pay was approximately $116.3 million, $120.4 million and $120.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The estimated cost of these charity care services was determined using a ratio of cost to gross charges and applying that ratio to the gross charges associated with providing care to charity patients for the period.

Currently, several states utilize supplemental reimbursement programs for the purpose of providing reimbursement to providers to offset a portion of the cost of providing care to Medicaid patients.  These programs are designed with input from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and are funded with a combination of state and federal resources, including, in certain instances, fees or taxes levied on the providers.  Similar programs are also being considered by other states.  After these supplemental programs are signed into law, the Company recognizes revenue and related expenses in the period in which amounts are estimable and collection is reasonably assured.  Reimbursement under these programs is reflected in net operating revenues and fees, taxes or other program-related costs are reflected in other operating expenses.

Operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), recognized during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, were as follows (in thousands):

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

Medicare

$

3,681,975

$

3,878,150

$

3,572,407

Medicaid

1,442,120

1,423,761

1,285,420

Managed Care and other third-party payors

7,705,827

7,534,971

6,920,068

Self-pay

2,022,703

1,909,877

1,602,686

Total

$

14,852,625

$

14,746,759

$

13,380,581

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.  Accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that could become uncollectible in the future. Substantially all of the Company’s receivables are related to providing healthcare services to its hospitals’ patients.

The Company estimates the allowance for doubtful accounts by reserving a percentage of all self-pay accounts receivable without regard to aging category, based on collection history, adjusted for expected recoveries and, if present, anticipated changes in trends. For all other non-self-pay payor categories, the Company reserves 100% of all accounts aging over 365 days from the date of discharge. The percentage used to reserve for all self-pay accounts is based on the Company’s collection history. The Company collects substantially all of its third-party insured receivables, which include receivables from governmental agencies.

Collections are impacted by the economic ability of patients to pay and the effectiveness of the Company’s collection efforts. Significant changes in payor mix, business office operations, economic conditions or trends in federal and state governmental healthcare coverage could affect the Company’s collection of accounts receivable and the estimates of the collectability of future accounts receivable. The process of estimating the allowance for doubtful accounts requires the Company to estimate the collectability of self-pay accounts receivable, which is primarily based on its collection history, adjusted for expected recoveries and, if present, anticipated changes in collection trends. The Company also continually reviews its overall reserve adequacy by monitoring historical cash collections as a percentage of trailing net revenue less provision for bad debts, as well as by analyzing current period net revenue and admissions by payor classification, aged accounts receivable by payor, days revenue outstanding, and the impact of recent acquisitions and dispositions.

Electronic Health Records Incentive Reimbursement. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 included provisions for implementing health information technology under the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (“HITECH”).  These provisions were designed to increase the use of electronic health records (“EHR”) technology and establish the requirements for a Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments program beginning in 2011 for eligible hospitals and providers that adopt and meaningfully use certified EHR technology.  The Company utilizes a gain contingency model to recognize EHR incentive payments. Recognition occurs when our eligible hospitals adopt or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology for the applicable payment period and have available the Medicare cost report information for the relevant full cost report year used to determine the final incentive payment.

Medicaid EHR incentive payments are calculated based on prior period Medicare cost report information available at the time when eligible hospitals adopt, implement or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology. Since the information for the relevant full Medicare cost report year is available, the incentive income from resolving the gain contingency is recognized when eligible hospitals adopt, implement or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology.

Medicare EHR incentive payments are calculated based on the Medicare cost report information for the full cost report year that began during the federal fiscal year in which meaningful use is demonstrated. Since the necessary information is only available at the end of the relevant full Medicare cost report year, the incentive income from resolving the gain contingency is recognized when eligible hospitals demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology and the information for the applicable full Medicare cost report year to determine the final incentive payment is available.

In some instances, the Company may receive estimated Medicare EHR incentive payments prior to when the Medicare cost report information used to determine the final incentive payment is available. In these instances, recognition of the gain for EHR incentive payments is deferred until all recognition criteria described above are met.

Eligibility for annual Medicare incentive payments is dependent on providers demonstrating meaningful use of EHR technology. Initial Medicaid incentive payments were available to providers that adopt, implement or upgrade certified EHR technology; however, providers must demonstrate meaningful use of such technology in subsequent years to qualify for additional incentive payments. Medicaid EHR incentive payments are fully funded by the federal government and administered by the states; however, the states are not required to offer EHR incentive payments to providers.

The Company recognized approximately $162.0 million, $122.7 million and $62.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, of incentive reimbursement for HITECH incentives from Medicare and Medicaid related to certain of the Company’s hospitals and for certain of the Company’s employed physicians that have demonstrated meaningful use of certified EHR technology or have completed attestations to their adoption or implementation of certified EHR technology.  These incentive reimbursements are presented as a reduction of operating costs and expenses on the consolidated statements of income.  The Company received cash related to the incentive reimbursement for HITECH incentives of approximately $203.1 million, $141.0 million and $37.4 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, $90.2 million and $33.3 million, respectively, were recorded as deferred revenue as all criteria for gain recognition had not been met.

Physician Income Guarantees.  The Company enters into physician recruiting agreements under which it supplements physician income to a minimum amount over a period of time, typically one year, while the physicians establish themselves in the community. As part of the agreements, the physicians are committed to practice in the community for a period of time, typically three years, which extends beyond their income guarantee period. The Company records an asset and liability for the estimated fair value of minimum revenue guarantees on new agreements. Adjustments to the ultimate value of the guarantee paid to physicians are recognized in the period that the change in estimate is identified. The Company amortizes an asset over the life of the agreement. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the unamortized portion of these physician income guarantees was $33.0 million and $30.1 million, respectively.

Concentrations of Credit Risk.  The Company grants unsecured credit to its patients, most of whom reside in the service area of the Company’s facilities and are insured under third-party payor agreements. Because of the economic diversity of the Company’s facilities and non-governmental third-party payors, Medicare represents the only significant concentration of credit risk from payors. Accounts receivable, net of contractual allowances, from Medicare were $359.6 million and $315.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, representing 7.5% and 7.4% of consolidated net accounts receivable, before allowance for doubtful accounts, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Professional Liability Claims.  The Company accrues for estimated losses resulting from professional liability. The accrual, which includes an estimate for incurred but not reported claims, is based on historical loss patterns and actuarially-determined projections and is discounted to its net present value. To the extent that subsequent claims information varies from management’s estimates, the liability is adjusted when such information becomes available.

Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.  Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying values of certain long-lived assets may be impaired, the Company projects the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by these assets. If the projections indicate that the reported amounts are not expected to be recovered, such amounts are reduced to their estimated fair value based on a quoted market price, if available, or an estimate based on valuation techniques available in the circumstances.

During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded a pretax impairment charge of $12.1 million to reduce the carrying value of certain long-lived assets at four of its smaller hospitals to their estimated fair value. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded a pretax impairment charge of $10.0 million to reduce the carrying value of certain long-lived assets at three of its smaller hospitals to their estimated fair value. The impairments for 2013 and 2012 were identified because of declining operating results and projections of future cash flows at these hospitals caused by competitive and operational challenges specific to the markets in which these hospitals operate. There were no impairments of long-lived assets in 2011.

Income Taxes.  The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, in which deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the tax consequences of “temporary differences” by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in the consolidated statement of income during the period in which the tax rate change becomes law.

Comprehensive Income (Loss).   Comprehensive income (loss) is the change in equity of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) consisted of the following (in thousands):

Change in Fair

Change in Fair

Change in

Accumulated

Value of

Value of

Unrecognized

Other

Interest Rate

Available for

Pension Cost

Comprehensive

Swaps

Sale Securities

Components

Income (Loss)

Balance as of December 31, 2011

$

-162,791

$

1,576

$

-23,264

$

-184,479

2012 activity, net of tax

46,409

3,012

-10,252

39,169

Balance as of December 31, 2012

-116,382

4,588

-33,516

-145,310

2013 activity, net of tax

60,304

2,181

15,320

77,805

Balance as of December 31, 2013

$

-56,078

$

6,769

$

-18,196

$

-67,505

Segment Reporting.  A public company is required to report annual and interim financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating segments. Operating segments, as defined, are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Aggregation of similar operating segments into a single reportable operating segment is permitted if the businesses have similar economic characteristics and meet the criteria established by U.S. GAAP.

The Company operates in two distinct operating segments, represented by the hospital operations (which includes the Company’s acute care hospitals and related healthcare entities that provide inpatient and outpatient healthcare services) and the home care agencies operations (which provide in-home outpatient care). U.S. GAAP requires (1) that financial information be disclosed for operating segments that meet a 10% quantitative threshold of the consolidated totals of net revenue, profit or loss, or total assets; and (2) that the individual reportable segments disclosed contribute at least 75% of total consolidated net revenue. Based on these measures, only the hospital operations segment meets the criteria as a separate reportable segment. Financial information for the home care agencies segment does not meet the quantitative thresholds and is therefore combined with corporate into the all other reportable segment.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.  The Company records derivative instruments on the consolidated balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. Changes in a derivative’s fair value are recorded each period in earnings or other comprehensive income (“OCI”), depending on whether the derivative is designated and is effective as a hedged transaction, and on the type of hedge transaction. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments recorded to OCI are reclassified to earnings in the period affected by the underlying hedged item. Any portion of the fair value of a derivative instrument determined to be ineffective under the standard is recognized in current earnings.

The Company has entered into several interest rate swap agreements. See Note 7 for further discussion about the swap transactions.

Reclassifications.  During the six months ended June 30, 2014, the Company made the decision to sell several smaller hospitals and entered into a definitive agreement to sell one additional hospital. The consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have been restated to reclassify the consolidated results of operations for these hospitals that were owned or leased in 2013 to discontinued operations. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 has been restated to present these hospitals that were owned or leased in 2013 as held for sale.

New Accounting Pronouncements.  In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-02, which requires additional disclosures on the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The ASU requires a company that reports other comprehensive income to present (either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes) the effects on the line items of net income of significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. For other amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income in the same reporting period, an entity is required to cross-reference to other required disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2012, and was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2013. As it only requires additional disclosure, the adoption of this ASU had no impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure	'
	2.  ACCOUNTING FOR STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
	Stock-based compensation awards have been granted under the Community Health Systems, Inc. Amended and Restated 2000 Stock Option and Award Plan, amended and restated as of March 20, 2013 (the “2000 Plan”), and the Community Health Systems, Inc. 2009 Stock Option and Award Plan, amended and restated as of March 20, 2013 (the “2009 Plan”).
	The 2000 Plan allowed for the grant of incentive stock options intended to qualify under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “IRC”), as well as stock options which do not so qualify, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance-based shares or units and other share awards. Prior to being amended in 2009, the 2000 Plan also allowed for the grant of phantom stock.  Persons eligible to receive grants under the 2000 Plan include the Company’s directors, officers, employees and consultants. All options granted under the 2000 Plan have been “nonqualified” stock options for tax purposes. Generally, vesting of these granted options occurs in one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date. Options granted prior to 2005 have a 10-year contractual term, options granted in 2005 through 2007 have an eight-year contractual term and options granted in 2008 through 2011 have a 10-year contractual term.  The Company has not granted stock option awards under the 2000 Plan since 2011.  Since the Company’s stockholders approved the March 20, 2013 amendment and restatement of the 2009 Plan, no further grants will be awarded under the 2000 Plan.
	The 2009 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options intended to qualify under Section 422 of the IRC and for the grant of stock options which do not so qualify, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance-based shares or units and other share awards. Persons eligible to receive grants under the 2009 Plan include the Company’s directors, officers, employees and consultants. To date, all options granted under the 2009 Plan have been “nonqualified” stock options for tax purposes. Generally, vesting of these granted options occurs in one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date. Options granted in 2011 or later have a 10-year contractual term.  As of December 31, 2013, 4,160,962 shares of unissued common stock were reserved for future grants under the 2009 Plan.
	The exercise price of all options granted is equal to the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the option grant date.
	The following table reflects the impact of total compensation expense related to stock-based equity plans on the reported operating results for the respective periods (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Effect on income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	-38,403		$	-40,896		$	-42,542
	Effect on net income	$	-24,040		$	-25,683		$	-27,014
						-27014
	At December 31, 2013, $30.5 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense was expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 22 months. Of that amount, $1.7 million related to outstanding unvested stock options was expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 9 months and $28.8 million related to outstanding unvested restricted stock and restricted stock units was expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 23 months. There were no modifications to awards during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	The fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was estimated using the Black Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected volatility	N/A			57.8	%		33.8	%
	Expected dividends	N/A			-			-
	Expected term	N/A			4.1 years			4 years
	Risk-free interest rate	N/A			0.66	%		1.63	%
	In determining the expected term, the Company examined concentrations of option holdings and historical patterns of option exercises and forfeitures, as well as forward-looking factors, in an effort to determine if there were any discernible employee populations. From this analysis, the Company identified two primary employee populations, one consisting of certain senior executives and the other one consisting of substantially all other recipients.
	The expected volatility rate was estimated based on historical volatility. In determining expected volatility, the Company also reviewed the market-based implied volatility of actively traded options of its common stock and determined that historical volatility utilized to estimate the expected volatility rate did not differ significantly from the implied volatility.
	The expected term computation is based on historical exercise and cancellation patterns and forward-looking factors, where present, for each population identified. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. The pre-vesting forfeiture rate is based on historical rates and forward-looking factors for each population identified. The Company adjusts the estimated forfeiture rate to its actual experience.
	Options outstanding and exercisable under the 2000 Plan and the 2009 Plan as of December 31, 2013, and changes during each of the years in the three-year period prior to December 31, 2013, were as follows (in thousands, except share and per share data):
							Weighted-		Aggregate
							Average		Intrinsic
				Weighted-			Remaining		Value as of
				Average			Contractual		December 31,
		Shares		Exercise Price			Term		2013
	Outstanding at December 31, 2010	7,834,332		$	32.08
	Granted	1,505,000			35.87
	Exercised	-623,341			30.34
	Forfeited and cancelled	-326,849			33.69
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011	8,389,142			32.83
	Granted	253,500			21.16
	Exercised	-1,050,772			19.85
	Forfeited and cancelled	-487,757			34.12
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012	7,104,113			34.25
	Granted	-			-
	Exercised	-3,299,859			33.53
	Forfeited and cancelled	-66,709			34.01
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	3,737,545		$	34.88		4.1 years		$	17,806
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	3,203,520		$	35.49		3.5 years		$	13,515
	The weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, was $9.20 and $10.07, respectively.  The aggregate intrinsic value (the number of in-the-money stock options multiplied by the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the reporting period ($39.27) and the exercise price of the respective stock options) in the table above represents the amount that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on December 31, 2013. This amount changes based on the market value of the Company’s common stock. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $31.0 million, $9.4 million and $6.1 million, respectively.  The aggregate intrinsic value of options vested and expected to vest approximates that of the outstanding options.
	The Company has also awarded restricted stock under the 2000 Plan and the 2009 Plan to its directors and employees of certain subsidiaries. The restrictions on these shares generally lapse in one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date. Certain of the restricted stock awards granted to the Company’s senior executives contain a performance objective that must be met in addition to any vesting requirements. If the performance objective is not attained, the awards will be forfeited in their entirety. Once the performance objective has been attained, restrictions will lapse in one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date.  Notwithstanding the above-mentioned performance objectives and vesting requirements, the restrictions will lapse earlier in the event of death, disability or termination of employment by the Company for any reason other than for cause of the holder of the restricted stock, or change in control of the Company. Restricted stock awards subject to performance standards are not considered outstanding for purposes of determining earnings per share until the performance objectives have been satisfied.
	Restricted stock outstanding under the 2000 Plan and the 2009 Plan as of December 31, 2013, and changes during each of the years in the three-year period prior to December 31, 2013, were as follows:
				Weighted-
				Average Grant
		Shares		Date Fair Value
	Unvested at December 31, 2010	2,125,291		$	27.92
	Granted	1,109,949			37.57
	Vested	-1,009,959			27.40
	Forfeited	-17,669			35.68
	Unvested at December 31, 2011	2,207,612			32.95
	Granted	680,500			21.20
	Vested	-1,118,213			29.67
	Forfeited	-25,335			30.94
	Unvested at December 31, 2012	1,744,564			30.50
	Granted	836,088			41.55
	Vested	-945,894			32.22
	Forfeited	-27,269			37.09
	Unvested at December 31, 2013	1,607,489			35.13
	Restricted stock units (“RSUs”) have been granted to the Company’s outside directors under the 2000 Plan and the 2009 Plan.  On February 23, 2011, each of the Company’s outside directors received a grant under the 2009 Plan of 3,688 RSUs. On February 16, 2012, each of the Company’s outside directors received a grant under the 2009 Plan of 6,645 RSUs.  On February 27, 2013, each of the Company’s outside directors received a grant under the 2009 Plan of 3,596 RSUs. Vesting of these shares of RSUs occurs in one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date.
	RSUs outstanding under the 2000 Plan and the 2009 Plan as of December 31, 2013, and changes during each of the years in the three-year period prior to December 31, 2013, were as follows:
			Weighted-
			Average Grant
	Shares		Date Fair Value
Unvested at December 31, 2010	53,388		$	26.11
Granted	22,128			37.96
Vested	-22,560			24.68
Forfeited	-			-
Unvested at December 31, 2011	52,956			31.67
Granted	39,870			21.07
Vested	-29,940			27.95
Forfeited	-			-
Unvested at December 31, 2012	62,886			26.72
Granted	21,576			41.71
Vested	-28,926			29.04
Forfeited	-			-
Unvested at December 31, 2013	55,536			31.33
Under the Directors’ Fees Deferral Plan, the Company’s outside directors may elect to receive share equivalent units in lieu of cash for their directors’ fees. These share equivalent units are held in the plan until the director electing to receive the share equivalent units retires or otherwise terminates his/her directorship with the Company. Share equivalent units are converted to shares of common stock of the Company at the time of distribution based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on that date. The following table represents the amount of directors’ fees which were deferred during each of the respective periods, and the number of share equivalent units into which such directors’ fees would have converted had each of the directors who had deferred such fees retired or terminated his/her directorship with the Company as of the end of the respective periods (in thousands, except share equivalent units):
	Year Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Directors’ fees earned and deferred into plan	$	130		$	110		$	220
Share equivalent units		2,990			4,056			9,974
At December 31, 2013, a total of 31,059 share equivalent units were deferred in the plan with an aggregate fair value of $1.2 million, based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock at December 31, 2013 of $39.27.

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures

Acquisitions and Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions and Divestitures Disclosure	'
	3.  ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
	Acquisitions
	The Company accounts for all transactions that represent business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, where the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired entity are recognized and measured at their fair values on the date the Company obtains control in the acquiree.  Such fair values that are not finalized for reporting periods following the acquisition date are estimated and recorded as provisional amounts.  Adjustments to these provisional amounts during the measurement period (defined as the date through which all information required to identify and measure the consideration transferred, the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests has been obtained, limited to one year from the acquisition date) are recorded as of the date of acquisition.  Any material impact to comparative information for periods after acquisition, but before the period in which adjustments are identified, is reflected in those prior periods as if the adjustments were considered as of the acquisition date. Goodwill is determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed in the acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired.
	Effective July 1, 2012, one or more subsidiaries of the Company completed the acquisition of Memorial Health Systems in York, Pennsylvania.  This healthcare system includes Memorial Hospital (100 licensed beds), the Surgical Center of York, and other outpatient and ancillary services. As part of this purchase agreement, the Company has agreed to spend at least $75.0 million to build a replacement hospital within five years of the closing date.  The total cash consideration paid for fixed assets and working capital was approximately $45.0 million and $2.6 million, respectively, with additional consideration of $12.5 million assumed in liabilities, for a total consideration of $60.1 million. Based upon the Company’s final purchase price allocation relating to this acquisition as of December 31, 2013, approximately $10.9 million of goodwill has been recorded.
	Effective March 5, 2012, one or more subsidiaries of the Company completed a merger with Diagnostic Clinic of Longview, P.A., which is a multi-specialty clinic serving residents of Longview, Texas and surrounding East Texas communities.  This merger was accounted for as a purchase business combination. The total cash consideration paid for the business, including net working capital, was approximately $52.3 million, with additional consideration of $6.9 million assumed in liabilities, for a total consideration of $59.2 million. Based upon the Company’s final purchase price allocation relating to this acquisition, approximately $41.8 million of goodwill has been recorded.
	Effective March 1, 2012, one or more subsidiaries of the Company completed the acquisition of MetroSouth Medical Center (330 licensed beds) located in Blue Island, Illinois. The total cash consideration paid for fixed assets was approximately $39.3 million with additional consideration of $5.8 million assumed in liabilities as well as a credit applied at closing of $0.9 million for negative acquired working capital, for a total consideration of $44.2 million. Based upon the Company’s final purchase price allocation relating to this acquisition as of December 31, 2013, no goodwill has been recorded.
	Effective January 1, 2012, one or more subsidiaries of the Company completed the acquisition of Moses Taylor Healthcare System based in Scranton, Pennsylvania, which is a healthcare system comprised of two acute care hospitals and other healthcare providers. This healthcare system includes Moses Taylor Hospital (217 licensed beds) located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Mid-Valley Hospital (25 licensed beds) located in Peckville, Pennsylvania.  The total cash consideration paid for fixed assets and working capital was approximately $151.1 million and $13.1 million, respectively, with additional consideration of $9.4 million assumed in liabilities, for a total consideration of $173.6 million. Based upon the Company’s final purchase price allocation relating to this acquisition, approximately $54.6 million of goodwill has been recorded.
	Effective October 1, 2011, one or more subsidiaries of the Company completed the acquisition of Tomball Regional Hospital (358 licensed beds) located in Tomball, Texas. The total cash consideration paid for fixed assets and working capital was approximately $192.0 million and $17.5 million, respectively, with additional consideration of $15.9 million assumed in liabilities, for a total consideration of $225.4 million. Based upon the Company’s final purchase price allocation relating to this acquisition, as of December 31, 2013, approximately $32.4 million of goodwill has been recorded.
	Effective May 1, 2011, one or more subsidiaries of the Company completed the acquisition of Mercy Health Partners based in Scranton, Pennsylvania, which is a healthcare system comprised of two acute care hospitals, a long-term acute care facility and other healthcare providers. This healthcare system includes Regional Hospital of Scranton (198 licensed beds) located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Tyler Memorial Hospital (48 licensed beds) located in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania. This healthcare system also includes a long-term acute care facility, Special Care Hospital (67 licensed beds) located in Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, as well as several outpatient clinics and other ancillary facilities. The total cash consideration paid for fixed assets was approximately $150.8 million, with additional consideration of $12.3 million assumed in liabilities as well as a credit applied at closing of $2.1 million for negative acquired working capital, for a total consideration of $161.0 million. Based upon the Company’s final purchase price allocation relating to this acquisition, as of December 31, 2013, approximately $43.1 million of goodwill has been recorded.
	Approximately $20.6 million, $9.9 million and $16.0 million of acquisition costs related to prospective and closed acquisitions were expensed during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and are included in other operating expenses on the consolidated statements of income.  For the year ended December 31, 2013, these acquisition costs included $14.1 million of expenses related to the acquisition of Health Management Associates, Inc. (“HMA”).
	The table below summarizes the allocations of the purchase price (including assumed liabilities) for the above hospital acquisition transactions in 2012 (in thousands) and reflects the fact that there were no hospital acquisitions in 2013:
			2013			2012
	Current assets			N/A		$	46,207
	Property and equipment			N/A			178,836
	Goodwill			N/A			106,269
	Intangible assets			N/A			2,522
	Other long-term assets			N/A			490
	Liabilities			N/A			34,463
	The operating results of the foregoing transactions have been included in the accompanying consolidated statements of income from their respective dates of acquisition, including net operating revenues of $337.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 from hospital acquisitions that closed during 2012. The following pro forma combined summary of operations of the Company gives effect to using historical information of the operations of the hospital acquisitions in 2012 discussed above as if the transactions had occurred as of January 1, 2012 (in thousands, except per share data):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012
						(Unaudited)
	Pro forma net operating revenues		$	12,818,956		$	13,120,413
	Pro forma net income			217,268			258,019
	Pro forma net income per share:
	Basic		$	1.52		$	2.89
	Diluted		$	1.51		$	2.87
	There were no hospital acquisitions in 2013, so the pro forma summarized operating results for the year ended December 31, 2013 equal the operating results as reported.  Pro forma adjustments to net income include adjustments to depreciation and amortization expense, net of the related tax effect, based on the estimated fair value assigned to the long-lived assets acquired, and to interest expense, net of the related tax effect, assuming the increase in long-term debt used to fund the acquisitions had occurred as of January 1, 2012. These pro forma results are not necessarily indicative of the actual results of operations.
	Additionally, during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company paid approximately $39.7 million, $41.5 million and $57.9 million, respectively, to acquire the operating assets and related businesses of certain physician practices, clinics and other ancillary businesses that operate within the communities served by its hospitals. In connection with these acquisitions, during 2013, the Company assumed approximately $4.6 million of noncontrolling interests and allocated approximately $8.9 million of the consideration paid to property and equipment, approximately $0.3 million to net working capital and the remainder, approximately $36.2 million consisting of intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition, to goodwill. During 2012, the Company assumed approximately $2.0 million in net working capital liabilities and allocated approximately $10.2 million of the consideration paid to property and equipment and the remainder, approximately $33.3 million consisting of intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition, to goodwill. During 2011, the Company allocated approximately $13.1 million of the consideration paid to property and equipment, $2.9 million to net working capital, $1.6 million to other intangible assets and the remainder, approximately $40.3 million consisting of intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition, to goodwill. These acquisition transactions during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were accounted for as purchase business combinations.
	Discontinued Operations
	Effective February 1, 2011, the Company sold Willamette Community Medical Group, which is a physician clinic operating as Oregon Medical Group, located in Springfield, Oregon, to Oregon Healthcare Resources, LLC, for $14.6 million in cash; this business had a carrying amount of net assets, including an allocation of reporting unit goodwill, of $19.7 million.
	Effective September 1, 2011, the Company sold SouthCrest Hospital, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Claremore Regional Hospital, located in Claremore, Oklahoma, and other related healthcare assets affiliated with those hospitals to Hillcrest Healthcare System, part of Ardent Health Services, for approximately $154.2 million in cash. The carrying amount of the net assets sold in this transaction, including an allocation of reporting unit goodwill, was approximately $193.0 million.
	Effective October 22, 2011, the Company sold Cleveland Regional Medical Center, located in Cleveland, Texas, and other related healthcare assets affiliated with the hospital to New Directions Health Systems, LLC for approximately $0.9 million in cash. The carrying amount of the net assets sold in this transaction, including an allocation of reporting unit goodwill, was approximately $14.2 million.
	During the six months ended June 30, 2014, the Company made the decision to sell several of its smaller hospitals and the Company entered into a definitive agreement to sell one additional hospital. In connection with management’s decision to sell these facilities, the Company has classified the results of operations of these hospitals as well as Oregon Medical Group, SouthCrest Hospital, Claremore Regional Hospital and Cleveland Regional Hospital as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	Net operating revenues and loss from discontinued operations for the respective periods are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Net operating revenues	$	178,737		$	196,249		$	343,028
	Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale
	before income taxes		-32,259			-18,804			-23,300
	Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-8,000			-			-51,695
	Loss on sale, net		-			-			-4,301
	Loss from discontinued operations, before taxes		-40,259			-18,804			-79,296
	Income tax benefit		-15,084			-6,787			-14,055
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$	-25,175		$	-12,017		$	-65,241
	Interest expense was allocated to discontinued operations based on sale proceeds available for debt repayment.
	Assets held for sale at December 31, 2013 and 2012 primarily consist of patient accounts receivable, net and property and equipment, net. Liabilities of hospitals held for sale at those dates primarily consist of accounts payable and employee compensation accrued liabilities.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Disclosure	'
	4.  GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013		2012
		Balance, beginning of year	$	4,388,429	$	4,245,136
		Goodwill acquired as part of acquisitions during current year		36,245		141,277
		Consideration and purchase price allocation adjustments
		for prior year’s acquisitions and other adjustments		-249		2,016
		Balance, end of year	$	4,424,425	$	4,388,429
	Goodwill is allocated to each identified reporting unit, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below the operating segment (referred to as a component of the entity). Management has determined that the Company’s operating segments and hospital management services operations meet the criteria to be classified as reporting units. At December 31, 2013, the hospital operations reporting unit, the home care agency operations reporting unit, and the hospital management services reporting unit had approximately $4.3 billion, $43.6 million and $33.3 million, respectively, of goodwill. At December 31, 2012, the hospital operations reporting unit, the home care agency operations reporting unit, and the hospital management services reporting unit had approximately $4.3 billion, $40.5 million and $33.3 million, respectively, of goodwill.
	Goodwill is evaluated for impairment at the same time every year and when an event occurs or circumstances change that, more likely than not, reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying value. There is a two-step method for determining goodwill impairment. Step one is to compare the fair value of the reporting unit with the unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill. If this test indicates the fair value is less than the carrying value, then step two is required to compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. The Company performed its last annual goodwill evaluation during the fourth quarter of 2013. No impairment was indicated by this evaluation.  The next annual goodwill evaluation will be performed during the fourth quarter of 2014.
	The Company estimates the fair value of the related reporting units using both a discounted cash flow model as well as an EBITDA multiple model. The cash flow forecasts are adjusted by an appropriate discount rate based on the Company’s estimate of a market participant’s weighted-average cost of capital. These models are both based on the Company’s best estimate of future revenues and operating costs and are reconciled to the Company’s consolidated market capitalization, with consideration of the amount a potential acquirer would be required to pay, in the form of a control premium, in order to gain sufficient ownership to set policies, direct operations and control management decisions.
	Approximately $1.2 million of intangible assets other than goodwill were acquired during the year ended December 31, 2013.  The gross carrying amount of the Company’s other intangible assets subject to amortization was $50.9 million at December 31, 2013 and $61.9 million at December 31, 2012, and the net carrying amount was $20.5 million at December 31, 2013 and $26.3 million at December 31, 2012. The carrying amount of the Company’s other intangible assets not subject to amortization was $49.6 million and $48.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Other intangible assets are included in other assets, net on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Substantially all of the Company’s intangible assets are contract-based intangible assets related to operating licenses, management contracts, or non-compete agreements entered into in connection with prior acquisitions.
	The weighted-average amortization period for the intangible assets subject to amortization is approximately eight years. There are no expected residual values related to these intangible assets. Amortization expense on these intangible assets was $5.6 million, $7.5 million and $8.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.  Amortization expense on intangible assets is estimated to be $3.8 million in 2014, $3.3 million in 2015, $2.5 million in 2016, $2.2 million in 2017, $2.0 million in 2018 and $6.7 million thereafter.
	The gross carrying amount of capitalized software for internal use was approximately  $972.0 million and  $640.3 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and the net carrying amount considering accumulated amortization was approximately $550.1 million and $346.0 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The estimated amortization period for capitalized internal-use software is generally three years, except for capitalized costs related to significant system conversions, which is generally eight to ten years.  There is no expected residual value for capitalized internal-use software. At December 31, 2013, there was approximately $140.5 million of capitalized costs for internal-use software that is currently in the development stage and will begin amortization once the software project is complete and ready for its intended use.  Amortization expense on capitalized internal-use software was $138.6 million, $99.2 million and $69.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.   Amortization expense on capitalized internal-use software is estimated to be $139.3 million in 2014, $120.0 million in 2015, $93.4 million in 2016, $44.5 million in 2017, $37.7 million in 2018 and $115.2 million thereafter.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes Disclosure	'
	5.  INCOME TAXES
	The provision for income taxes for income from continuing operations consists of the following (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Current:
	Federal	$	27,427	$	99,298	$	27,624
	State		5,763		10,271		7,827
			33,190		109,569		35,451
	Deferred:
	Federal		59,479		57,488		104,923
	State		11,009		-3,031		1,219
			70,488		54,457		106,142
	Total provision for income taxes for income from continuing operations	$	103,678	$	164,026	$	141,593
	The following table reconciles the differences between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective tax rate (dollars in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		Amount		%		Amount		%		Amount		%
	Provision for income taxes at statutory
	federal rate	$	121,142	35.0	%	$	182,646	35.0	%	$	169,560	35.0	%
	State income taxes, net of federal
	income tax benefit		10,554	3.1			12,491	2.4			8,333	1.7
	Release of unrecognized tax benefit		-	-			-	-			-6,509	-1.3
	Net income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		-26,623	-7.7			-28,057	-5.4			-26,486	-5.5
	Change in valuation allowance		-	-			-1,233	-0.2			-	-
	Federal and state tax credits		-3,972	-1.1			-2,185	-0.4			-3,788	-0.8
	Other		2,577	0.7			364	0.1			483	0.1
	Provision for income taxes and
	effective tax rate for income from
	continuing operations	$	103,678	30.0	%	$	164,026	31.5	%	$	141,593	29.2	%
	Deferred income taxes are based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities under the provisions of the enacted tax laws. Deferred income taxes as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consist of (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013				2012
		Assets		Liabilities		Assets		Liabilities
	Net operating loss and credit carryforwards	$	186,519	$	-	$	170,521	$	-
	Property and equipment		-		820,035		-		762,387
	Self-insurance liabilities		125,367		-		124,842		-
	Intangibles		-		244,019		-		222,392
	Investments in unconsolidated affiliates		-		60,257		-		64,170
	Other liabilities		-		23,767		-		22,468
	Long-term debt and interest		-		21,256		-		28,920
	Accounts receivable		-		86,044		-		38,503
	Accrued expenses		53,011		-		55,203		-
	Other comprehensive income		47,265		-		102,242		-
	Stock-based compensation		22,813		-		31,504		-
	Deferred compensation		73,042		-		58,509		-
	Other		110,813		-		65,887		-
			618,830		1,255,378		608,708		1,138,840
	Valuation allowance		-171,364		-		-161,312		-
	Total deferred income taxes	$	447,466	$	1,255,378	$	447,396	$	1,138,840
	The Company believes that the net deferred tax assets will ultimately be realized, except as noted below. Its conclusion is based on its estimate of future taxable income and the expected timing of temporary difference reversals. The Company has state net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $5.5 billion, which expire from 2014 to 2033. The Company also has unrecognized deferred tax assets primarily related to interest expense that are included in other comprehensive income. If recognized, additional state net operating losses will be created which the Company does not expect to be able to utilize prior to the expiration of the carryforward period. A valuation allowance of approximately $9.0 million has been recognized for those items. With respect to the deferred tax liability pertaining to intangibles, as included above, goodwill purchased in connection with certain of the Company’s business acquisitions is amortizable for income tax reporting purposes. However, for financial reporting purposes, there is no corresponding amortization allowed with respect to such purchased goodwill.
	The valuation allowance increased by $10.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 and increased by $11.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. In addition to amounts previously discussed, the change in valuation allowance relates to a redetermination of the amount of, and realizability of, net operating losses and credits in certain income tax jurisdictions.
	The total amount of unrecognized benefit that would affect the effective tax rate, if recognized, was approximately $0.7 million as of December 31, 2013.  A total of approximately $0.4 million of interest and penalties is included in the amount of the liability for uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2013.  It is the Company’s policy to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized benefits in its consolidated statements of income as income tax expense.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company decreased liabilities for uncertain tax positions by $0.2 million.  It is the Company’s policy to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized benefits in its consolidated statements of income as income tax expense.
	It is possible the amount of unrecognized tax benefit could change in the next twelve months as a result of a lapse of the statute of limitations and settlements with taxing authorities; however, the Company does not anticipate the change will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
	The following is a tabular reconciliation of the total amount of unrecognized tax benefit for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Unrecognized tax benefit, beginning of year	$	682	$	629	$	7,458
	Gross increases — tax positions in prior period		195		1,515		349
	Reductions — tax positions in prior period		-		-		-3,469
	Lapse of statute of limitations		-		-		-3,575
	Settlements		-402		-1,462		-134
	Unrecognized tax benefit, end of year	$	475	$	682	$	629
The Company, or one of its subsidiaries, files income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions.  The Company has extended the federal statute of limitations through December 31, 2014 for Triad Hospitals, Inc. (“Triad”) for the tax periods ended December 31, 1999, December 31, 2000, April 30, 2001, June 30, 2001, December 31, 2001, December 31, 2002, December 31, 2003, December 31, 2004, December 31, 2005, December 31, 2006 and July 25, 2007.  With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to state income tax examinations for years prior to 2010.  The Company’s federal income tax returns for the 2009 and 2010 tax years are currently under examination by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).  The Company believes the results of these examinations will not be material to its consolidated results of operations or consolidated financial position.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the IRS concluded its examination of the federal tax return of Community Health Systems, Inc. for the tax periods ended December 31, 2007 and 2008.  The results of these examinations did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated results of operations or consolidated financial position.  The Company has extended the federal statute of limitations through December 31, 2014 for Community Health Systems, Inc. for the tax periods ended December 31, 2007 and 2008, and through July 18, 2014 for the tax period ended December 31, 2009.
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received, resulted in net cash paid of $72.8 million, $55.6 million and $26.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Long-term Debt [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt Disclosure	'
	6.  LONG-TERM DEBT
	Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013			2012
	Credit Facility:
	Term loan A	$	637,500		$	712,500
	Term loan B		3,412,584			3,619,062
	Revolving credit loans		-			-
	8% Senior Notes due 2019		2,020,346			2,022,829
	7⅛% Senior Notes due 2020		1,200,000			1,200,000
	5⅛% Senior Secured Notes due 2018		1,600,000			1,600,000
	Receivables Facility		500,000			300,000
	Capital lease obligations		46,066			47,951
	Other		36,887			38,940
	Total debt		9,453,383			9,541,282
	Less current maturities		-166,894			-89,902
	Total long-term debt	$	9,286,489		$	9,451,380
	Credit Facility
	The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc. (“CHS”) has obtained senior secured financing under a credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with a syndicate of financial institutions led by Credit Suisse, as administrative agent and collateral agent.  The Credit Facility includes a $750 million revolving credit facility for working capital and general corporate purposes.  The revolving credit facility also includes a subfacility for letters of credit and a swingline subfacility. The Credit Facility requires quarterly amortization payments of each term loan B facility equal to 0.25% of the outstanding amount of such term loans. On November 5, 2010, CHS entered into an amendment and restatement of the Credit Facility.  The amendment extended by two and a half years, until January 25, 2017, the maturity date of $1.5 billion of the existing term loans under the Credit Facility and increased the pricing on these term loans to LIBOR plus 350 basis points.  The amendment also increased CHS’ ability to issue additional indebtedness under the uncommitted incremental facility to $1.0 billion from $600 million, permitted CHS to issue term loan A loans under the incremental facility, and provided up to $2.0 billion of borrowing capacity from receivable transactions, an increase of $0.5 billion, of which approximately $1.7 billion would be required to be used for repayment of existing term loans.  On February 2, 2012, CHS completed a second amendment and restatement of the Credit Facility to extend an additional $1.6 billion of the term loans due 2014 under the Credit Facility to match the maturity date and interest rate margins of the term loans due January 25, 2017.
	On August 3, 2012, CHS entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Credit Facility to provide increased flexibility for refinancing and repayment of the term loans due 2014 and amend certain other terms. On August 17, 2012, the Company made a prepayment of $1.6 billion on the term loans due July 25, 2014, utilizing the proceeds from the issuance of $1.6 billion of 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes due 2018. On August 22, 2012, CHS entered into a loan modification agreement with respect to the Credit Facility to extend approximately $340 million of the term loans due 2014 to match the maturity date and interest rate margins of the term loans due January 25, 2017.
	On November 27, 2012, CHS entered into Amendment No. 2 to the Credit Facility to provide increased flexibility for the Company to make investments and restricted payments, incur debt related to acquisitions, amend certain other terms of the Credit Facility, including the maximum leverage ratio and interest coverage ratio financial coverage levels, and add a one year 1% prepayment premium payable in connection with a repricing of the term loans due in 2017.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company paid down $206.5 million of the term loans due 2014.  The remaining balance of the non-extended term loans due 2014 at December 31, 2013 of approximately $59.6 million was paid as part of the financing for the HMA merger on January 27, 2014.
	On August 12, 2013, CHS entered into Amendment No. 3 to the Credit Facility to provide increased flexibility for CHS to incur debt by amending certain terms of the Credit Facility, including the maximum leverage ratio and secured leverage ratio covenant levels. In addition, the amendment includes pricing protection for certain term loans due January 25, 2017, which specifies an increased margin in certain instances. The amendment also provides for a total leverage-based step-up to the applicable margin of the term loans due January 25, 2017 and the term loans due July 25, 2014. The pricing of the loans under the Credit Facility will otherwise remain unchanged.
	Effective March 6, 2012, the Company obtained a new $750 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Replacement Revolver Facility”) and a new $750 million incremental term loan A facility (the “Incremental Term Loan”) subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Credit Facility. The Replacement Revolver Facility replaced in full the existing revolving credit facility under the Credit Facility. The net proceeds of the Incremental Term Loan were used to repay the same amount of the existing term loans under the Credit Facility. Both the Replacement Revolver Facility and the Incremental Term Loan have a maturity date of October 25, 2016, subject to customary acceleration events and to earlier maturity if the repayment, extension or refinancing with longer maturity debt of substantially all of the Company’s then outstanding term loans maturing July 25, 2014 and the now fully redeemed 8⅞% Senior Notes does not occur by April 25, 2014. The pricing on each of the Replacement Revolver Facility and the Incremental Term Loan is initially LIBOR plus a margin of 250 basis points, subject to adjustment based on the Company’s leverage ratio. The Incremental Term Loan amortizes at 5% in year one, 10% in years two and three, 15% in year four and 60% in year five.
	The term loan facility must be prepaid in an amount equal to (1) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales and dispositions by the Company and its subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions and reinvestment rights, (2) 100% of the net cash proceeds of issuances of certain debt obligations or receivables-based financing by the Company and its subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions, and (3) 50%, subject to reduction to a lower percentage based on the Company’s leverage ratio (as defined in the Credit Facility generally as the ratio of total debt on the date of determination to the Company’s EBITDA, as defined, for the four quarters most recently ended prior to such date), of excess cash flow (as defined) for any year, commencing in 2008, subject to certain exceptions. Voluntary prepayments and commitment reductions are permitted in whole or in part, without any premium or penalty, subject to minimum prepayment or reduction requirements.
	The obligor under the Credit Facility is CHS. All of the obligations under the Credit Facility are unconditionally guaranteed by the Company and certain of its existing and subsequently acquired or organized domestic subsidiaries. All obligations under the Credit Facility and the related guarantees are secured by a perfected first priority lien or security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Company, CHS and each subsidiary guarantor, including equity interests held by the Company, CHS or any subsidiary guarantor, but excluding, among others, the equity interests of non-significant subsidiaries, syndication subsidiaries, securitization subsidiaries and joint venture subsidiaries.
	The loans under the Credit Facility bear interest on the outstanding unpaid principal amount at a rate equal to an applicable percentage plus, at CHS’ option, either (a) an Alternate Base Rate (as defined) determined by reference to the greater of (1) the Prime Rate (as defined) announced by Credit Suisse or (2) the Federal Funds Effective Rate (as defined) plus 0.50% or (3) the adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) on such day for a three-month interest period commencing on the second business day after such day plus 1%, or (b) a reserve adjusted LIBOR for dollars (Eurodollar rate) (as defined). The applicable percentage for Alternate Base Rate loans is 1.25% for term loans due 2014 and is 2.50% for term loans due 2017.  The applicable percentage for Eurodollar rate loans is 2.25% for term loans due 2014 and 3.50% for term loans due 2017.  The applicable percentage for revolving loans and the Incremental Term Loan is 1.50% for Alternate Base Rate loans and 2.50% for Eurodollar loans. The applicable percentage for the loans under the Credit Facility is subject to adjustment based on the Company’s leverage ratio. Loans under the swingline subfacility bear interest at the rate applicable to Alternate Base Rate loans under the Credit Facility.
	CHS has agreed to pay letter of credit fees equal to the applicable percentage then in effect with respect to Eurodollar rate loans under the revolving credit facility times the maximum aggregate amount available to be drawn under all letters of credit outstanding under the subfacility for letters of credit. The issuer of any letter of credit issued under the subfacility for letters of credit will also receive a customary fronting fee and other customary processing charges. CHS is obligated to pay commitment fees of 0.50% per annum (subject to reduction based upon the Company’s leverage ratio) on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility. For purposes of this calculation, swingline loans are not treated as usage of the revolving credit facility.
	The Credit Facility contains customary representations and warranties, subject to limitations and exceptions, and customary covenants restricting the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ ability, subject to certain exceptions, to, among other things (1) declare dividends, make distributions or redeem or repurchase capital stock, (2) prepay, redeem or repurchase other debt, (3) incur liens or grant negative pledges, (4) make loans and investments and enter into acquisitions and joint ventures, (5) incur additional indebtedness or provide certain guarantees, (6) make capital expenditures, (7) engage in mergers, acquisitions and asset sales, (8) conduct transactions with affiliates, (9) alter the nature of the Company’s businesses, (10) grant certain guarantees with respect to physician practices, (11) engage in sale and leaseback transactions or (12) change the Company’s fiscal year. The Company is also required to comply with specified financial covenants (consisting of a leverage ratio and an interest coverage ratio) and various affirmative covenants.
	Events of default under the Credit Facility include, but are not limited to, (1) CHS’ failure to pay principal, interest, fees or other amounts under the credit agreement when due (taking into account any applicable grace period), (2) any representation or warranty proving to have been materially incorrect when made, (3) covenant defaults subject, with respect to certain covenants, to a grace period, (4) bankruptcy events, (5) a cross default to certain other debt, (6) certain undischarged judgments (not paid within an applicable grace period), (7) a change of control, (8) certain ERISA-related defaults and (9) the invalidity or impairment of specified security interests, guarantees or subordination provisions in favor of the administrative agent or lenders under the Credit Facility.
	As of December 31, 2013, the availability for additional borrowings under the Credit Facility was approximately $750.0 million pursuant to the Replacement Revolver Facility, of which $19.4 million was set aside for outstanding letters of credit. CHS has the ability to amend the Credit Facility to provide for one or more tranches of term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $1.0 billion, which CHS has not yet accessed. As of December 31, 2013, the weighted-average interest rate under the Credit Facility, excluding swaps, was 3.9%.
	As of December 31, 2013, the term loans are scheduled to be paid with principal payments for future years as follows (in thousands):
	Year			Amount
	2014		$	152,050
	2015			147,336
	2016			484,836
	2017			3,265,862
	2018			-
	Thereafter			-
	Total		$	4,050,084
	See Note 17 for a description and revised maturities of the term loans under the amended and restated Credit Facility in conjunction with the HMA merger.
	As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had letters of credit issued, primarily in support of potential insurance-related claims and certain bonds, of approximately $19.4 million and $37.8 million, respectively.
	8⅞% Senior Notes due 2015
	On July 25, 2007, CHS completed its offering of approximately $3.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 8⅞% Senior Notes due 2015 (the “8⅞% Senior Notes”), which were issued in a private placement. The 8⅞% Senior Notes were to mature on July 15, 2015. The 8⅞% Senior Notes bore interest at the rate of 8.875% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on January 15 and July 15, commencing January 15, 2008. Interest on the 8⅞% Senior Notes accrued from the date of original issuance. Interest was calculated on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
	Pursuant to a registration rights agreement entered into at the time of the issuance of the 8⅞% Senior Notes, as a result of an exchange offer made by CHS, substantially all of the 8⅞% Senior Notes issued in July 2007 were exchanged in November 2007 for new notes (the “8⅞% Exchange Notes”) having terms substantially identical in all material respects to the 8⅞% Senior Notes (except that the 8⅞% Exchange Notes were issued under a registration statement pursuant to the 1933 Act). References to the 8⅞% Senior Notes shall also be deemed to include the 8⅞% Exchange Notes unless the context provides otherwise.
	On March 21, 2012, CHS completed the cash tender offer for $850 million of the then $1.8 billion aggregate outstanding principal amount of the 8⅞% Senior Notes.
	On July 18, 2012, CHS completed the cash tender offer for $639.7 million of the then $934.3 million aggregate outstanding principal amount of the 8⅞% Senior Notes. On August 17, 2012, pursuant to its redemption option, CHS redeemed the remaining $294.6 million outstanding principal of the 8⅞% Senior Notes.
	8% Senior Notes due 2019
	On November 22, 2011, CHS completed its offering of $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 8% Senior Notes due 2019 (the “8% Senior Notes”), which were issued in a private placement.  The net proceeds from this issuance, together with available cash on hand, were used to finance the purchase of up to $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of CHS’ then outstanding 8⅞% Senior Notes and related fees and expenses.  On March 21, 2012, CHS completed the secondary offering of $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 8% Senior Notes, which were issued in a private placement (at a premium of 102.5%).  The net proceeds from this issuance were used to finance the purchase of approximately $850 million aggregate principal amount of CHS’ then outstanding 8⅞% Senior Notes, to pay related fees and expenses and for general corporate purposes.  The 8% Senior Notes bear interest at 8% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on May 15 and November 15, commencing May 15, 2012. Interest on the 8% Senior Notes accrues from the date of original issuance. Interest is calculated on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
	Except as set forth below, CHS is not entitled to redeem the 8% Senior Notes prior to November 15, 2015.
	Prior to November 15, 2014, CHS is entitled, at its option, to redeem a portion of the 8% Senior Notes (not to exceed 35% of the outstanding principal amount) at a redemption price equal to 108% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, with the proceeds from certain public equity offerings.  Prior to November 15, 2015, CHS may redeem some or all of the 8% Senior Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, plus a “make-whole” premium, as described in the 8% Senior Notes indenture. On and after November 15, 2015, CHS is entitled, at its option, to redeem all or a portion of the 8% Senior Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount on the redemption date), plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the periods set forth below:
	Period		Redemption Price
	November 15, 2015 to November 14, 2016		104.000	%
	November 15, 2016 to November 14, 2017		102.000	%
	November 15, 2017 to November 15, 2019		100.000	%
	Pursuant to a registration rights agreement entered into at the time of the issuance of the 8% Senior Notes, as a result of an exchange offer made by CHS, substantially all of the 8% Senior Notes issued in November 2011 and March 2012 were exchanged in May 2012 for new notes (the “8% Exchange Notes”) having terms substantially identical in all material respects to the 8% Senior Notes (except that the 8% Exchange Notes were issued under a registration statement pursuant to the 1933 Act). References to the 8% Senior Notes shall also be deemed to include the 8% Exchange Notes unless the context provides otherwise.
	7⅛% Senior Notes due 2020
	On July 18, 2012, CHS completed an underwritten public offering under its automatic shelf registration filed with the SEC of $1.2 billion aggregate principal amount of 7⅛% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “7⅛% Senior Notes”).  The net proceeds from this issuance were used to finance the purchase or redemption of $934.3 million aggregate principal amount plus accrued interest of CHS’ outstanding 8⅞% Senior Notes, to pay for consents delivered in connection therewith, to pay related fees and expenses, and for general corporate purposes. The 7⅛% Senior Notes bear interest at 7.125% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on July 15 and January 15, commencing January 15, 2013. Interest on the 7⅛% Senior Notes accrues from the date of original issuance. Interest is calculated on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
	Except as set forth below, CHS is not entitled to redeem the 7⅛% Senior Notes prior to July 15, 2016.
	Prior to July 15, 2015, CHS is entitled, at its option, to redeem a portion of the 7⅛% Senior Notes (not to exceed 35% of the outstanding principal amount) at a redemption price equal to 107.125% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, with the proceeds from certain public equity offerings.  Prior to July 15, 2016, CHS may redeem some or all of the 7⅛% Senior Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, plus a “make-whole” premium, as described in the 7⅛% Senior Notes indenture. On and after July 15, 2016, CHS is entitled, at its option, to redeem all or a portion of the 7⅛% Senior Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount on the redemption date), plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the periods set forth below:
	Period		Redemption Price
	July 15, 2016 to July 14, 2017		103.563	%
	July 15, 2017 to July 14, 2018		101.781	%
	July 15, 2018 to July 15, 2020		100.000	%
5⅛% Senior Secured Notes due 2018
On August 17, 2012, CHS completed an underwritten public offering under its automatic shelf registration filed with the SEC of $1.6 billion aggregate principal amount of 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes due 2018 (the “5⅛% Senior Secured Notes”).  The net proceeds from this issuance, together with available cash on hand, were used to finance the prepayment of $1.6 billion of the outstanding term loans due 2014 under the Credit Facility and related fees and expenses.  The 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes bear interest at 5.125% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears on August 15 and February 15, commencing February 15, 2013. Interest on the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes accrues from the date of original issuance. Interest is calculated on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months. The 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes are secured by a first-priority lien subject to a shared lien of equal priority with certain other obligations, including obligations under the Credit Facility, and subject to prior ranking liens permitted by the indenture governing the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes on substantially the same assets, subject to certain exceptions, that secure CHS’ obligations under the Credit Facility.
Except as set forth below, CHS is not entitled to redeem the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes prior to August 15, 2015.
Prior to August 15, 2015, CHS is entitled, at its option, to redeem a portion of the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes (not to exceed 35% of the outstanding principal amount) at a redemption price equal to 105.125% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, with the proceeds from certain public equity offerings. Prior to August 15, 2015, CHS may redeem some or all of the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, plus a “make-whole” premium, as described in the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes indenture. On and after August 15, 2015, CHS is entitled, at its option, to redeem all or a portion of the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount on the redemption date), plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the periods set forth below:
Period		Redemption Price
August 15, 2015 to August 14, 2016		102.563	%
August 15, 2016 to August 14, 2017		101.281	%
August 15, 2017 to August 15, 2018		100.000	%
Receivables Facility
On March 21, 2012, CHS and certain of its subsidiaries entered into an accounts receivable loan agreement (the “Receivables Facility”) with a group of lenders and banks, Credit Agricolé Corporate and Investment Bank, as a managing agent and as the administrative agent, and The Bank of Nova Scotia, as a managing agent.  On March 7, 2013, CHS and certain of its subsidiaries amended the Receivables Facility to add an additional managing agent, The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., to increase the size of the facility from $300 million to $500 million and to extend the scheduled termination date. Additional subsidiaries of the Company also agreed to participate in the Receivables Facility as of that date.  The existing and future non-self pay patient-related accounts receivable (the “Receivables”) for certain of the Company’s hospitals serves as collateral for the outstanding borrowings under the Receivables Facility.  The interest rate on the borrowings is based on the commercial paper rate plus an applicable interest rate spread.  Unless earlier terminated or subsequently extended pursuant to its terms, the Receivables Facility will expire on March 21, 2015, subject to customary termination events that could cause an early termination date.  The Company maintains effective control over the Receivables because, pursuant to the terms of the Receivables Facility, the Receivables are sold from certain of the Company’s subsidiaries to CHS, which then sells or contributes the Receivables to a special-purpose entity that is wholly-owned by CHS.  The wholly-owned special-purpose entity in turn grants security interests in the Receivables in exchange for borrowings obtained from the group of third-party lenders and banks of up to $500 million outstanding from time to time based on the availability of eligible Receivables and other customary factors. The group of third-party lenders and banks do not have recourse to the Company or its subsidiaries beyond the assets of the wholly-owned special-purpose entity that collateralizes the loan.  The Receivables and other assets of the wholly-owned special-purpose entity will be available first and foremost to satisfy the claims of the creditors of such entity. The outstanding borrowings pursuant to the Receivables Facility at December 31, 2013 totaled $500.0 million and are classified as long-term debt on the consolidated balance sheet. At December 31, 2013, the carrying amount of Receivables included in the Receivables Facility totaled approximately $1.0 billion and is included in patient accounts receivable on the consolidated balance sheet.
Loss from Early Extinguishment of Debt
The financing transactions discussed above resulted in a loss from early extinguishment of debt of $1.3 million, $115.5 million and $66.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and an after-tax loss of $0.8 million, $71.8 million and $42.0 million for years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Other Debt
As of December 31, 2013, other debt consisted primarily of the mortgage obligation on the Company’s corporate headquarters and other obligations maturing in various installments through 2020.
To limit the effect of changes in interest rates on a portion of the Company’s long-term borrowings, the Company is a party to 14 separate interest swap agreements in effect at December 31, 2013, with an aggregate notional amount of $2.0 billion, and two forward-starting swap agreements with an aggregate notional amount of $400 million. On each of these swaps, the Company receives a variable rate of interest based on the three-month LIBOR in exchange for the payment of a fixed rate of interest. The Company currently pays, on a quarterly basis, a margin above LIBOR of 225 basis points for the outstanding balance of term loans due in 2014, 250 basis points for the Replacement Revolver Facility and the Incremental Term Loan and 350 basis points for term loans due in 2017 under the Credit Facility. See Note 7 for additional information regarding these swaps.
As of December 31, 2013, the scheduled maturities of long-term debt outstanding, including capital lease obligations for each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows (in thousands):
Year			Amount
2014		$	166,894
2015			654,867
2016			488,902
2017			3,287,695
2018			1,603,565
Thereafter			3,231,114
Total maturities			9,433,037
Plus unamortized note premium			20,346
Total long-term debt		$	9,453,383
The Company paid interest of $582.8 million, $594.3 million and $680.7 million on borrowings during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Disclosure	'
	7.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
	The fair value of financial instruments has been estimated by the Company using available market information as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and valuation methodologies considered appropriate. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of amounts the Company could realize in a current market exchange (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013						2012
		Carrying			Estimated Fair			Carrying			Estimated Fair
		Amount			Value			Amount			Value
	Assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	373,403		$	373,403		$	387,813		$	387,813
	Available-for-sale securities		64,869			64,869			56,376			56,376
	Trading securities		37,999			37,999			34,696			34,696
	Liabilities:
	Credit Facility		4,050,084			4,084,983			4,331,562			4,357,910
	8% Senior Notes		2,020,346			2,172,440			2,022,829			2,185,220
	7⅛% Senior Notes		1,200,000			1,245,720			1,200,000			1,285,848
	5⅛% Senior Secured Notes		1,600,000			1,662,160			1,600,000			1,674,480
	Receivables Facility and other debt		536,887			536,887			338,940			338,940
	The estimated fair value is determined using the methodologies discussed below in accordance with accounting standards related to the determination of fair value based on the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy as discussed in Note 8.  The estimated fair value for financial instruments with a fair value that does not equal its carrying value is considered a Level 1 valuation.  The Company utilizes the market approach and obtains indicative pricing from the administrative agent to the Credit Facility to determine fair values, which are validated through publicly available subscription services such as Bloomberg where relevant.
	Cash and cash equivalents.  The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments (less than three months).
	Available-for-sale securities.  Estimated fair value is based on closing price as quoted in public markets.
	Trading securities.  Estimated fair value is based on closing price as quoted in public markets.
	Credit Facility.  Estimated fair value is based on information from the Company’s bankers regarding relevant pricing for trading activity among the Company’s lending institutions.
	8% Senior Notes.  Estimated fair value is based on the average bid and ask price as quoted by the bank who served as underwriters in the sale of these notes.
	7⅛% Senior Notes.  Estimated fair value is based on the average bid and ask price as quoted by the bank who served as underwriters in the sale of these notes.
	5⅛% Senior Secured Notes.  Estimated fair value is based on the average bid and ask price as quoted by the bank who served as underwriters in the sale of these notes.
	Receivables Facility and other debt.  The carrying amount of the Receivables Facility and all other debt approximates fair value due to the nature of these obligations.
	Interest rate swaps.  The fair value of interest rate swap agreements is the amount at which they could be settled, based on estimates calculated by the Company using a discounted cash flow analysis based on observable market inputs and validated by comparison to estimates obtained from the counterparty. The Company incorporates credit valuation adjustments (“CVAs”) to appropriately reflect both its own nonperformance or credit risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance or credit risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of its interest rate swap agreements for the effect of nonperformance or credit risk, the Company has considered the impact of any netting features included in the agreements.
	The Company assesses the effectiveness of its hedge instruments on a quarterly basis. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company completed an assessment of the cash flow hedge instruments and determined the hedges to be highly effective. The Company has also determined that the ineffective portion of the hedges do not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, operations or cash flows. The counterparties to the interest rate swap agreements expose the Company to credit risk in the event of nonperformance. However, at December 31, 2013, since the majority of the swap agreements entered into by the Company were in a net liability position so that the Company would be required to make the net settlement payments to the counterparties; the Company does not anticipate nonperformance by those counterparties. The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
	Interest rate swaps consisted of the following at December 31, 2013:
	Swap #		Notional Amount (in thousands)			Fixed Interest Rate			Termination Date		Fair Value (in thousands)
	1		$	100,000		5.231	%		July 25, 2014		$	2,818
	2			100,000		5.231	%		July 25, 2014			2,818
	3			200,000		5.160	%		July 25, 2014			5,556
	4			75,000		5.041	%		July 25, 2014			2,033
	5			125,000		5.022	%		July 25, 2014			3,374
	6			100,000		2.621	%		July 25, 2014			1,336
	7			100,000		3.110	%		July 25, 2014			1,613
	8			100,000		3.258	%		July 25, 2014			1,697
	9			200,000		2.693	%		26-Oct-14			3,977
	10			300,000		3.447	%		August 8, 2016			21,597
	11			200,000		3.429	%		August 19, 2016			14,403
	12			100,000		3.401	%		August 19, 2016			7,130
	13			200,000		3.500	%		August 30, 2016			14,884
	14			100,000		3.005	%		November 30, 2016			6,376
	15			200,000		2.055	%		July 25, 2019			-954	-1
	16			200,000		2.059	%		July 25, 2019			-895	-2
	___________________
	(1) This interest rate swap becomes effective July 25, 2014.
	(2) This interest rate swap becomes effective July 25, 2014.
	The Company is exposed to certain risks relating to its ongoing business operations. The risk managed by using derivative instruments is interest rate risk. Interest rate swaps are entered into to manage interest rate fluctuation risk associated with the term loans in the Credit Facility. Companies are required to recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the consolidated statement of financial position. The Company designates its interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of OCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. Gains and losses on the derivative representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.
	Assuming no change in December 31, 2013 interest rates, approximately $57.1 million of interest expense resulting from the spread between the fixed and floating rates defined in each interest rate swap agreement will be recognized during the next 12 months. If interest rate swaps do not remain highly effective as a cash flow hedge, the derivatives’ gains or losses resulting from the change in fair value reported through OCI will be reclassified into earnings.
	The following tabular disclosure provides the amount of pre-tax loss recognized as a component of OCI during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			Amount of Pre-Tax Loss Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships		Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012
	Interest rate swaps		$	-5,970		$	-69,020
	The following tabular disclosure provides the location of the effective portion of the pre-tax loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) into interest expense on the consolidated statements of income during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			Amount of Pre-Tax Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion)
	Location of Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion)		Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012
	Interest expense, net		$	99,808		$	141,648
	The fair values of derivative instruments in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows (in thousands):
			Asset Derivatives											Liability Derivatives
			31-Dec-13					31-Dec-12						31-Dec-13			31-Dec-12
		Balance Sheet Location			Fair Value		Balance Sheet Location			Fair Value			Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value	Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments		Other assets, net		$	-		Other assets, net		$	-			Other long-term liabilities	$	87,763	Other long-term liabilities	$	181,600

Fair_Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosure	'
	8.  FAIR VALUE
	Fair Value Hierarchy
	Fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement. Therefore, a fair value measurement should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, the Company utilizes the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumption about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy).
	The inputs used to measure fair value are classified into the following fair value hierarchy:
	Level 1:  Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2:  Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
	Level 3:  Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 includes values determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques reflecting the Company’s own assumptions.
	In instances where the determination of the fair value hierarchy measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment of factors specific to the asset or liability.
	The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-13		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Available-for-sale securities	$	64,869	$	64,869	$	-	$	-
	Trading securities		37,999		37,999		-		-
	Total assets	$	102,868	$	102,868	$	-	$	-
	Fair value of interest rate swap agreements	$	87,763	$	-	$	87,763	$	-
	Total liabilities	$	87,763	$	-	$	87,763	$	-
		31-Dec-12		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Available-for-sale securities	$	56,376	$	56,376	$	-	$	-
	Trading securities		34,696		34,696		-		-
	Total assets	$	91,072	$	91,072	$	-	$	-
	Fair value of interest rate swap agreements	$	181,600	$	-	$	181,600	$	-
	Total liabilities	$	181,600	$	-	$	181,600	$	-
	Available-for-sale securities and trading securities classified as Level 1 are measured using quoted market prices.
	The valuation of the Company’s interest rate swap agreements is determined using market valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each agreement. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the agreement, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including forward interest rate curves. The fair value of interest rate swap agreements are determined by netting the discounted future fixed cash payments and the discounted expected variable cash receipts. The variable cash receipts are based on the expectation of future interest rates based on observable market forward interest rate curves and the notional amount being hedged.
	The Company incorporates CVAs to appropriately reflect both its own nonperformance or credit risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance or credit risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of its interest rate swap agreements for the effect of nonperformance or credit risk, the Company has considered the impact of any netting features included in the agreements. The CVA on the Company’s interest rate swap agreements at December 31, 2013 resulted in a decrease in the fair value of the related liability of $0.9 million and an after-tax adjustment of $0.6 million to OCI. The CVA on the Company’s interest rate swap agreements at December 31, 2012 resulted in a decrease in the fair value of the related liability of $3.6 million and an after-tax adjustment of $2.3 million to OCI.
	The majority of the inputs used to value its interest rate swap agreements, including the forward interest rate curves and market perceptions of the Company’s credit risk used in the CVAs, are observable inputs available to a market participant. As a result, the Company has determined that the interest rate swap valuations are classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
Leases Disclosure	'
	9.  LEASES
	The Company leases hospitals, medical office buildings, and certain equipment under capital and operating lease agreements. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company entered into capital lease obligations of $4.3 million, $5.0 million and $3.0 million, respectively. All lease agreements generally require the Company to pay maintenance, repairs, property taxes and insurance costs.
	Commitments relating to noncancellable operating and capital leases for each of the next five years and thereafter are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,	Operating (1)		Capital
	2014	$	186,715	$	9,289
	2015		158,039		7,428
	2016		119,403		6,060
	2017		89,049		5,663
	2018		61,675		5,533
	Thereafter		153,763		46,949
	Total minimum future payments	$	768,644		80,922
	Less:  Imputed interest				-34,856
	Total capital lease obligations				46,066
	Less:  Current portion				-5,439
	Long-term capital lease obligations			$	40,627
	___________________
	(1) Minimum lease payments have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals due in the future of $16.8 million.
	Assets capitalized under capital leases as reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were $27.9 million of land and improvements, $200.1 million of buildings and improvements and $64.5 million of equipment and fixtures as of December 31, 2013 and $27.9 million of land and improvements, $200.1 million of buildings and improvements and $65.1 million of equipment and fixtures as of December 31, 2012. The accumulated depreciation related to assets under capital leases was $147.3 million and $129.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Depreciation of assets under capital leases is included in depreciation and amortization expense and amortization of debt discounts on capital lease obligations is included in interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]	'
Employee Benefit Plans Disclosure	'
	10.  EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
	The Company maintains various benefit plans, including defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans and deferred compensation plans, for which the Company’s subsidiary, CHS, is the plan sponsor.  The CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc. Retirement Savings Plan is a defined contribution plan which covers the majority of the employees of the Company.  Employees of certain subsidiaries whose employment is covered by collective bargaining agreements are eligible to participate in one of several other defined contribution plans including the CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc. Standard 401(k) Plan, which was established effective October 1, 2010 for the benefit of employees at the three hospitals acquired in Youngstown, Ohio and Warren, Ohio and their beneficiaries.  This plan is structured such that employees of other subsidiaries may become eligible to participate as new entities are acquired by the Company or upon changes to collective bargaining agreements covering participants in the other defined contribution plans.  Total expense to the Company under the 401(k) plans was $101.5 million, $108.5 million and $101.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	The Company maintains unfunded deferred compensation plans that allow participants to defer receipt of a portion of their compensation. The liability for the deferred compensation plans was $111.6 million and $87.3 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company had assets of $109.1 million and $87.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, in a non-qualified plan trust generally designated to pay benefits of the deferred compensation plans, consisting of trading securities of $38.0 million and $34.7 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and company-owned life insurance contracts of $71.1 million and $52.4 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The Company provides an unfunded Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) for certain members of its executive management. The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for the benefit obligations and a January 1 measurement date for its net periodic costs for the SERP. Variances from actuarially assumed rates will result in increases or decreases in benefit obligations and net periodic cost in future periods. Benefits expense under the SERP was $14.2 million, $12.9 million and $11.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  The accrued benefit liability for the SERP totaled $105.3 million at December 31, 2013 and $104.8 million at December 31, 2012, and is included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.  The weighted-average assumptions used in determining net periodic cost for the year ended December 31, 2013 was a discount rate of 3.0% and annual salary increase of 4.0%. The estimated future benefit payments reflecting future service as of December 31, 2013 are $1.5 million for 2014, $16.0 million for 2015, $43.9 million for 2016, $17.8 million for 2017, $7.2 million for 2018, and $21.2 million for the five years thereafter.  The Company had available-for-sale securities in a rabbi trust generally designated to pay benefits of the SERP in the amounts of $64.9 million and $56.4 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  These amounts are included in other assets, net on the consolidated balance sheets.
	The Company maintains the CHS/Community Health Systems, Inc. Retirement Income Plan (“Pension Plan”), which is a defined benefit, non-contributory pension plan that covers certain employees at three of its hospitals. The Pension Plan provides benefits to covered individuals satisfying certain age and service requirements. Employer contributions to the Pension Plan are in accordance with the minimum funding requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. The Company expects to make no contribution to the Pension Plan in 2014. The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for the benefit obligations and a January 1 measurement date for its net periodic costs for the Pension Plan. Variances from actuarially assumed rates will result in increases or decreases in benefit obligations, net periodic cost and funding requirements in future periods. Benefits expense under the Pension Plan was $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $0.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  The accrued benefit liability for the Pension Plan totaled $6.6 million at December 31, 2013 and $16.8 million at December 31, 2012, and is included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.  The weighted-average assumptions used for determining the net periodic cost for the year ended December 31, 2013 was a discount rate of 3.9%, an annual salary increase of 5.0% and the expected long-term rate of return on assets of 8.0%.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity Disclosure	'
	11.  STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Authorized capital shares of the Company include 400,000,000 shares of capital stock consisting of 300,000,000 shares of common stock and 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock. Each of the aforementioned classes of capital stock has a par value of $0.01 per share. Shares of preferred stock, none of which were outstanding as of December 31, 2013, may be issued in one or more series having such rights, preferences and other provisions as determined by the Board of Directors without approval by the holders of common stock.
	On December 14, 2011, the Company adopted an open market repurchase program for up to 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, not to exceed $100 million in repurchases.  The repurchase program will conclude at the earliest of three years from the commencement date, when the maximum number of shares has been repurchased, or when the maximum dollar amount of repurchases has been expended.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company repurchased and retired 706,023 shares at a weighted-average price of $38.39 per share, which is the cumulative number of shares repurchased and retired under this program.  No shares were repurchased under this program during the year ended December 31, 2012.
	Historically, the Company has not paid any cash dividends. In December 2012, the Company declared and paid a special dividend of $0.25 per share to holders of its common stock at the close of business as of December 17, 2012, which totaled approximately $23.0 million.  The Company did not pay a cash dividend in 2013 and does not anticipate the payment of any other cash dividends in the foreseeable future. The Company’s Credit Facility limits the Company’s ability to pay dividends and/or repurchase stock to an amount not to exceed $150 million in the aggregate plus the aggregate amount of proceeds from the exercise of stock options. The indentures governing the 8% Senior Notes due 2019 and the 7⅛% Senior Notes due 2020 (collectively, the “Senior Notes”) and the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes due 2018 also limit the Company’s ability to pay dividends and/or repurchase stock. As of December 31, 2013, under the most restrictive test under these agreements, the Company has approximately $261.9 million remaining available with which to pay permitted dividends and/or repurchase shares of stock or its Senior Notes.
	The following schedule discloses the effects of changes in the Company’s ownership interest in its less-than-wholly-owned subsidiaries on Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’ equity (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
	Inc. stockholders	$	141,203	$	265,640	$	201,948
	Transfers to the noncontrolling interests:
	Net decrease in Community Health Systems, Inc. paid-in
	capital for  purchase of subsidiary partnership interests		-768		-21,537		-4,556
	Net transfers to the noncontrolling interests		-768		-21,537		-4,556
	Change to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’ equity
	from net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
	Inc. stockholders and transfers to noncontrolling interests	$	140,435	$	244,103	$	197,392

Earnings_per_Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share Disclosure	'
	12.  EARNINGS PER SHARE
	The following table sets forth the components of the numerator and denominator for the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for income from continuing operations, discontinued operations and net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders (in thousands, except share data):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations, net of taxes	$	242,443	$	357,820	$	342,864
	Less: Income from continuing operations attributable
	to noncontrolling interests, net of taxes		76,065		80,163		75,675
	Income from continuing operations attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders — basic and diluted	$	166,378	$	277,657	$	267,189
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$	-25,175	$	-12,017	$	-65,241
	Less: Loss from discontinued operations attributable
	to noncontrolling interests, net of taxes		-		-		-
	Loss from discontinued operations attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders — basic and diluted	$	-25,175	$	-12,017	$	-65,241
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding — basic		92,633,332		89,242,949		89,966,933
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Restricted stock awards		448,567		335,664		327,652
	Employee stock options		714,560		212,227		361,554
	Other equity-based awards		18,554		16,097		10,209
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding — diluted		93,815,013		89,806,937		90,666,348
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Dilutive securities outstanding not included in
	the computation of earnings per
	share because their effect is antidilutive:
	Employee stock options and restricted stock awards		-		7,071,896		6,432,281

Equity_Investments

Equity Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity Investments [Abstract]	'
Equity Investments Disclosure	'
	13.  EQUITY INVESTMENTS
	As of December 31, 2013, the Company owned equity interests of 27.5% in four hospitals in Las Vegas, Nevada, and 26.1% in one hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, in which Universal Health Systems, Inc. owns the majority interest, and an equity interest of 38.0% in three hospitals in Macon, Georgia, in which HCA Holdings, Inc. (“HCA”) owns the majority interest.
	Summarized combined financial information for these unconsolidated entities in which the Company owns an equity interest is as follows (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Current assets	$	235,679	$	240,086
	Noncurrent assets		790,297		847,484
	Total assets	$	1,025,976	$	1,087,570
	Current liabilities	$	99,330	$	89,933
	Noncurrent liabilities		1,616		1,941
	Members’ equity		924,909		995,569
	Noncontrolling interest		121		127
	Total liabilities and equity	$	1,025,976	$	1,087,570
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Revenues	$	1,246,183	$	1,236,915	$	1,230,146
	Operating costs and expenses		1,116,745		1,079,055		1,068,212
	Income from continuing operations before taxes		129,576		157,762		162,124
	The summarized financial information was derived from the unaudited financial information provided to the Company by those unconsolidated entities.
	The Company’s investment in all of its unconsolidated affiliates was $421.7 million and $432.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is included in other assets, net in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Included in the Company’s results of operations is the Company’s equity in pre-tax earnings from all of its investments in unconsolidated affiliates, which was $42.6 million, $42.0 million and $49.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Information Disclosure	'
	14.  SEGMENT INFORMATION
	Prior to the quarter ended March 31, 2013, the Company operated in three distinct operating segments, represented by hospital operations (which includes its general acute care hospitals and related healthcare entities that provide inpatient and outpatient healthcare services), home care agency operations (which provide in-home outpatient care), and hospital management services (which provides executive management and consulting services to non-affiliated acute care hospitals). During the quarter ended March 31, 2013, the chief operating decision maker stopped receiving discrete financial information for the hospital management services, so it no longer meets the criteria as a separate operating segment.  The Company operates in two operating segments, hospital operations and home care agency operations. Financial information for hospital management services is now presented as a component of the hospital operations segment. The financial information from prior years has been revised to reflect the change in the composition of the Company’s operating segments.  Consistent with 2012, the Company presents two reportable segments, as noted below.
	Only the hospital operations segment meets the criteria as a separate reportable segment. The financial information for the home care agency segment does not meet the quantitative thresholds for a separate identifiable reportable segment and is combined into the corporate and all other reportable segment.
	The distribution between reportable segments of the Company’s net operating revenues, income from continuing operations before income taxes, expenditures for segment assets and total assets is summarized in the following tables (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net operating revenues:
	Hospital operations	$	12,637,162	$	12,664,967	$	11,548,335
	Corporate and all other		181,794		167,769		159,395
	Total	$	12,818,956	$	12,832,736	$	11,707,730
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes:
	Hospital operations	$	575,307	$	881,962	$	742,858
	Corporate and all other		-229,186		-360,116		-258,401
	Total	$	346,121	$	521,846	$	484,457
	Expenditures for segment assets:
	Hospital operations	$	582,910	$	730,445	$	738,420
	Corporate and all other		31,082		38,345		38,293
	Total	$	613,992	$	768,790	$	776,713
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Total assets:
	Hospital operations	$	15,594,720	$	15,216,827
	Corporate and all other		1,522,575		1,389,508
	Total	$	17,117,295	$	16,606,335

Other_Comprehensive_Income

Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Other Comprehensive Income Disclosure	'
	15. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	The following tables present information about items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the year ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands, net of tax):
						Change in
		Change in Fair		Change in Fair		Unrecognized		Accumulated Other
		Value of Interest		Value of Available		Pension Cost		Comprehensive
		Rate Swaps		for Sale Securities		Components		Income (Loss)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	-116,382	$	4,588	$	-33,516	$	-145,310
	Other comprehensive (loss)
	income before reclassifications		-3,837		2,181		12,479		10,823
	Amounts reclassified from
	accumulated other
	comprehensive income (loss)		64,141		-		2,841		66,982
	Net current-period other				.
	comprehensive income		60,304		2,181		15,320		77,805
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	-56,078	$	6,769	$	-18,196	$	-67,505
	The following table presents a subtotal for each significant reclassification to net income out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and the line item affected in the accompanying consolidated statement of income during the year ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		Amount reclassified
		from AOCL		Affected line item in the
	Details about accumulated other	Year Ended		statement where net
	comprehensive income (loss) components	31-Dec-13		income is presented
	Gains and losses on cash flow hedges
	Interest rate swaps	$	-99,808	Interest expense, net
			35,667	Tax benefit
		$	-64,141	Net of tax
	Amortization of defined benefit pension items
	Prior service costs	$	-1,143	Salaries and benefits
	Actuarial losses		-3,382	Salaries and benefits
			-4,525	Total before tax
			1,684	Tax benefit
		$	-2,841	Net of tax

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure	'
	16.   COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	Construction and Other Capital Commitments.  Pursuant to a hospital purchase agreement in effect as of December 31, 2013, the Company has agreed to build a replacement facility in York, Pennsylvania. The estimated construction cost, including equipment costs, is approximately $100.0 million. This project is required to be completed in 2017 and $0.7 million has been expended through December 31, 2013 related to this replacement hospital. In October 2008, after the purchase of the noncontrolling owner’s interest in the Company’s Birmingham, Alabama facility, the Company initiated the purchase of a site, which includes a partially constructed hospital structure, for a potential replacement for the existing Birmingham facility. In September 2010, the Company received approval of its request for a certificate of need (“CON”) from the Alabama Certificate of Need Review Board. This CON was challenged in the Alabama state circuit and appellate courts, but the CON was upheld by the Supreme Court of Alabama in May 2013, eliminating any further appeals. The Company’s estimated construction costs, including the acquisition of the site and equipment costs, are approximately $280.0 million for the Birmingham replacement facility. Of this amount, approximately $64.2 million has been expended through December 31, 2013. In addition, under other purchase agreements outstanding at December 31, 2013, the Company has committed to spend approximately $393.5 million for costs such as capital improvements, equipment, selected leases and physician recruiting. These commitments are required to be fulfilled generally over a five to seven year period after acquisition. Through December 31, 2013, the Company has spent approximately $256.8 million related to these commitments.
	Physician Recruiting Commitments.  As part of its physician recruitment strategy, the Company provides income guarantee agreements to certain physicians who agree to relocate to its communities and commit to remain in practice there. Under such agreements, the Company is required to make payments to the physicians in excess of the amounts they earned in their practice up to the amount of the income guarantee. These income guarantee periods are typically for 12 months. Such payments are recoverable by the Company from physicians who do not fulfill their commitment period, which is typically three years, to the respective community. At December 31, 2013, the maximum potential amount of future payments under these guarantees in excess of the liability recorded is $20.9 million.
	Professional Liability Claims.  As part of the Company’s business of owning and operating hospitals, it is subject to legal actions alleging liability on its part. The Company accrues for losses resulting from such liability claims, as well as loss adjustment expenses that are out-of-pocket and directly related to such liability claims. These direct out-of-pocket expenses include fees of outside counsel and experts. The Company does not accrue for costs that are part of corporate overhead, such as the costs of in-house legal and risk management departments. The losses resulting from professional liability claims primarily consist of estimates for known claims, as well as estimates for incurred but not reported claims. The estimates are based on specific claim facts, historical claim reporting and payment patterns, the nature and level of hospital operations and actuarially determined projections. The actuarially determined projections are based on the Company’s actual claim data, including historic reporting and payment patterns which have been gathered over an approximate 20-year period. As discussed below, since the Company purchases excess insurance on a claims-made basis that transfers risk to third-party insurers, the liability it accrues does include an amount for the losses covered by its excess insurance. The Company also records a receivable for the expected reimbursement of losses covered by excess insurance. Since the Company believes that the amount and timing of its future claims payments are reliably determinable, it discounts the amount accrued for losses resulting from professional liability claims using the risk-free interest rate corresponding to the timing of expected payments.
	The net present value of the projected payments was discounted using a weighted-average risk-free rate of 1.6%,  1.2% and 1.2% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. This liability is adjusted for new claims information in the period such information becomes known. The Company’s estimated liability for professional and general liability claims was $643.9 million and $621.7 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The estimated undiscounted claims liability was $686.9 million and $649.4 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The current portion of the liability for professional and general liability claims was $104.4 million and $106.9 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is included in other accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Professional malpractice expense includes the losses resulting from professional liability claims and loss adjustment expense, as well as paid excess insurance premiums, and is presented within other operating expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
	The Company’s processes for obtaining and analyzing claims and incident data are standardized across all of its hospitals and have been consistent for many years. The Company monitors the outcomes of the medical care services that it provides and for each reported claim, the Company obtains various information concerning the facts and circumstances related to that claim. In addition, the Company routinely monitors current key statistics and volume indicators in its assessment of utilizing historical trends. The average lag period between claim occurrence and payment of a final settlement is between four and five years, although the facts and circumstances of individual claims could result in the timing of such payments being different from this average. Since claims are paid promptly after settlement with the claimant is reached, settled claims represent less than 1.0% of the total liability at the end of any period.
	For purposes of estimating its individual claim accruals, the Company utilizes specific claim information, including the nature of the claim, the expected claim amount, the year in which the claim occurred and the laws of the jurisdiction in which the claim occurred. Once the case accruals for known claims are determined, information is stratified by loss layers and retentions, accident years, reported years, geography and claims relating to the acquired Triad hospitals versus claims relating to the Company’s other hospitals. Several actuarial methods are used against this data to produce estimates of ultimate paid losses and reserves for incurred but not reported claims. Each of these methods uses company-specific historical claims data and other information. This company-specific data includes information regarding the Company’s business, including historical paid losses and loss adjustment expenses, historical and current case loss reserves, actual and projected hospital statistical data, a variety of hospital census information, employed physician information, professional liability retentions for each policy year, geographic information and other data.
	Based on these analyses the Company determines its estimate of the professional liability claims. The determination of management’s estimate, including the preparation of the reserve analysis that supports such estimate, involves subjective judgment of the management. Changes in reserving data or the trends and factors that influence reserving data may signal fundamental shifts in the Company’s future claim development patterns or may simply reflect single-period anomalies. Even if a change reflects a fundamental shift, the full extent of the change may not become evident until years later. Moreover, since the Company’s methods and models use different types of data and the Company selects its liability from the results of all of these methods, it typically cannot quantify the precise impact of such factors on its estimates of the liability. Due to the Company’s standardized and consistent processes for handling claims and the long history and depth of company-specific data, the Company’s methodologies have produced reliably determinable estimates of ultimate paid losses.
	The Company is primarily self-insured for these claims; however, the Company obtains excess insurance that transfers the risk of loss to a third-party insurer for claims in excess of self-insured retentions. The Company’s excess insurance is underwritten on a claims-made basis. For claims reported prior to June 1, 2002, substantially all of the Company’s professional and general liability risks were subject to a $0.5 million per occurrence self-insured retention and for claims reported from June 1, 2002 through June 1, 2003, these self-insured retentions were $2.0 million per occurrence. Substantially all claims reported after June 1, 2003 and before June 1, 2005 are self-insured up to $4.0 million per claim. Substantially all claims reported on or after June 1, 2005 are self-insured up to $5.0 million per claim. Management on occasion has selectively increased the insured risk at certain hospitals based upon insurance pricing and other factors and may continue that practice in the future. Excess insurance for all hospitals has been purchased through commercial insurance companies and generally covers the Company for liabilities in excess of the self-insured retentions. The excess coverage consists of multiple layers of insurance, the sum of which totals up to $95.0 million per occurrence and in the aggregate for claims reported on or after June 1, 2003, up to $145.0 million per occurrence and in the aggregate for claims reported on or after June 1, 2008 and up to $195.0 million per occurrence and in the aggregate for claims incurred and reported after January 1, 2010. For certain policy years, if the first aggregate layer of excess coverage becomes fully utilized, then the Company’s self-insured retention could increase to $10 million per claim for any subsequent claims in that policy year until the Company’s total aggregate coverage is met.
	Effective January 1, 2008, the former Triad hospitals are insured on a claims-made basis as described above and through commercial insurance companies as described above for substantially all claims occurring on or after January 1, 2002 and reported on or after January 1, 2008. Substantially all losses for the former Triad hospitals in periods prior to May 1999 were insured through a wholly-owned insurance subsidiary of HCA, Triad’s owner prior to that time, and excess loss policies maintained by HCA. HCA has agreed to indemnify the former Triad hospitals in respect of claims covered by such insurance policies arising prior to May 1999. After May 1999 through December 31, 2006, the former Triad hospitals obtained insurance coverage on a claims incurred basis from HCA’s wholly-owned insurance subsidiary, with excess coverage obtained from other carriers that is subject to certain deductibles. Effective for claims incurred after December 31, 2006, Triad began insuring its claims from $1 million to $5 million through its wholly-owned captive insurance company, replacing the coverage provided by HCA. Substantially all claims occurring during 2007 were self-insured up to $10 million per claim.
	Legal Matters.  The Company is a party to various legal proceedings incidental to its business. In the opinion of management, any ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, cash flows or results of operations. With respect to all litigation matters, the Company considers the likelihood of a negative outcome. If the Company determines the likelihood of a negative outcome is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated, the Company records an estimated loss for the expected outcome of the litigation and discloses that fact together with the amount accrued, if it was estimable. If the likelihood of a negative outcome is reasonably possible and the Company is able to determine an estimate of the possible loss or a range of loss, the Company discloses that fact together with the estimate of the possible loss or range of loss. However, it is difficult to predict the outcome or estimate a possible loss or range of loss in some instances because litigation is subject to significant uncertainties.
	Probable Contingencies
	Department of Justice Investigation of Medicare Short-Stay Admissions from Emergency Departments
	In April 2011, the Company received a document subpoena from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (“OIG”) in connection with an investigation of possible improper claims submitted to Medicare and Medicaid. The subpoena was directed to all of the Company’s hospitals and requested documents concerning emergency department processes and procedures, including the hospitals’ use of the Pro-MED Clinical Information System, a third-party software system that assists with the management of patient care and provides operational support and data collection for emergency department management. The subpoena also sought information about the Company’s relationships with emergency department physicians, including financial arrangements. This investigation is being led by the Department of Justice. The Company is continuing to cooperate with the government with the ongoing document production, as well as conducting a joint medical necessity review of a sampling of medical records at a small number of hospitals.  In 2013, the Company has met with the government twice to review and discuss the investigation.  On July 9, 2013, shortly after a second meeting with the government, the Company was served with an additional document subpoena, as well as civil investigative demands to interview two of the Company’s current executives.  In further discussions with the government, these additional requests do not reflect an expansion of the pending investigation.  The Company will continue to cooperate with the government in their investigative efforts.
	We are currently in negotiations with the Department of Justice about resolving its claims in connection with its investigation into the Company’s short stay hospital admissions for the years 2005-2010, as well as their investigation at our hospital in Laredo, Texas. Based on those negotiations, which are not final, we believe that a reserve of $101.5 million is sufficient to cover the federal government’s claims for Medicare, Tricare, and Medicaid admissions (including the claims described in the Legal Proceedings section in Part I Item 3 of this Form 10-K related to United States ex rel. and Reuille vs. Community Health Systems Professional Services Corporation and Lutheran Musculoskeletal Center, LLC d/b/a Lutheran Hospital (United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana, Fort Wayne Division) and the May 2011 subpoena identified as “Shelbyville, Tennessee OIG Subpoena”), certain claims specifically related to our hospital in Laredo, Texas, and on other related legal expenses. This reserve is not meant to include third party legal expenses. The Company is also negotiating a corporate integrity agreement with the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services.
	There are a number of legal matters for which, based on information currently available, the Company believes that a negative outcome is known or is probable. In the aggregate, including the matter above, an estimate of these losses has been accrued in the amount of $118.7 million and $22.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is included in other accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Due to the uncertainties and difficulty in predicting the ultimate resolution of these contingencies, the actual amount could differ from the estimated amount; however, the Company does not believe a change in estimate for any of these matters would be material.
	The table below presents a reconciliation of the beginning and ending liability balances in connection with probable contingencies recorded during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Balance, beginning of year	$	22,612	$	10,562
	Government settlement and related costs		101,500		-
	Other legal settlements		4,654		27,538
	Cash payments		-10,049		-15,488
	Balance, end of year	$	118,717	$	22,612
	Other costs incurred related to probable contingencies, including attorneys’ fees, totaled $8.5 million and $12.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are included in other operating expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
	Reasonably Possible Contingencies
	For the legal matter below, the Company believes that a negative outcome is reasonably possible, but the Company is unable to determine an estimate of the possible loss or a range of loss.
	U.S. ex rel. Baker vs. Community Health Systems, Inc. (United States District Court for the District of New Mexico)
	The Company’s knowledge of this matter originated in early 2006 with correspondence from the Civil Division of the Department of Justice requesting documents in an investigation it was conducting involving the Company. The inquiry related to the way in which different state Medicaid programs apply to the federal government for matching or supplemental funds that are ultimately used to pay for a small portion of the services provided to Medicaid and indigent patients. These programs are referred to by different names, including “intergovernmental payments,” “upper payment limit programs,” and “Medicaid disproportionate share hospital payments.” For approximately three years, the Company provided the Department of Justice with requested documents, met with its personnel on numerous occasions and otherwise cooperated in its investigation. During the course of the investigation, the Civil Division notified the Company that it believed that the Company and three of its New Mexico hospitals caused the State of New Mexico to submit improper claims for federal funds, in violation of the Federal False Claims Act. This investigation has culminated in the federal government’s intervention in the referenced qui tam lawsuit, which alleges that the Company’s New Mexico hospitals “caused to be filed” false claims from the period of August 2000 through June 2011. Two of the parent company’s subsidiaries are also defendants in this lawsuit.  The Company continues to vigorously defend this action. On December 4-5, 2013, the district court judge heard oral arguments on both sides’ motions for summary judgment.  By telephone conference on December 19, 2013, he advised the parties that, with respect to the core motions for summary judgment, he was denying all parties’ motions, concluding that there were issues of fact to be determined at trial.  Court ordered mediation has been set for March 12, 2014 and a trial date of October 14, 2014 has been assigned.
	Matters for which an Outcome Cannot be Assessed
	For all of the legal matters below, the Company cannot at this time assess what the outcome may be and is further unable to determine any estimate of loss or range of loss.  Because the investigations are at a preliminary stage, there are not sufficient facts available to make these assessments.
	Multi-provider National Department of Justice Investigations
	Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (“ICDs”).  The Company was first made aware of this investigation in September 2010, when the Company received a letter from the Civil Division of the United States Department of Justice.  The letter advised the Company that an investigation was being conducted to determine whether certain hospitals have improperly submitted claims for payment for ICDs. The period of time covered by the investigation was 2003 to 2010. The Company continues to fully cooperate with the government in this investigation and has provided requested records and documents. On August 30, 2012, the Department of Justice issued a document entitled, “Medical Review Guidelines/Resolution Model,” which sets out, for the purposes of this investigation, the patient conditions and criteria for the medical necessity of the implantation of ICDs in Medicare beneficiaries and how the Department of Justice will enforce the repayment obligations of hospitals. The Company is in the process of reviewing its medical records in light of the guidance contained in this document.
	Class Action Shareholder Federal Securities Cases.  Three purported class action cases have been filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee; namely, Norfolk County Retirement System v. Community Health Systems, Inc., et al., filed May 9, 2011; De Zheng v. Community Health Systems, Inc., et al., filed May 12, 2011; and Minneapolis Firefighters Relief Association v. Community Health Systems, Inc., et al., filed June 21, 2011. All three seek class certification on behalf of purchasers of the Company’s common stock between July 27, 2006 and April 11, 2011 and allege that misleading statements resulted in artificially inflated prices for the Company’s common stock. In December 2011, the cases were consolidated for pretrial purposes and NYC Funds and its counsel were selected as lead plaintiffs/lead plaintiffs’ counsel. The Company’s motion to dismiss this case has been fully briefed and is pending before the court. The Company believes this consolidated matter is without merit and will vigorously defend this case.
	Shareholder Derivative Actions.  Three purported shareholder derivative actions have also been filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee; Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union No. 630 Pension Annuity Trust Fund v. Wayne T. Smith, et al., filed May 24, 2011; Roofers Local No. 149 Pension Fund v. Wayne T. Smith, et al., filed June 21, 2011; and Lambert Sweat v. Wayne T. Smith, et al., filed October 5, 2011. These three cases allege breach of fiduciary duty arising out of allegedly improper inpatient admission practices, mismanagement, waste and unjust enrichment. These cases have been consolidated into a single, consolidated action. The plaintiffs filed an operative amended derivative complaint in these three consolidated actions on March 15, 2012. The Company’s motion to dismiss was argued on June 13, 2013. On September 27, 2013, the court issued an order granting in part and denying in part the Company’s motion to dismiss. On October 14, 2013, the Company filed for a Motion for Reconsideration of the Order Granting in Part and Denying in Part the Motion to Dismiss, a Motion to Stay Discovery, and an unopposed Motion for Extension of Time to File an Answer. The Company believes all of the plaintiffs’ claims are without merit and will vigorously defend them.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Events Disclosure	'
	17.  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
	The Company evaluated all material events occurring subsequent to the balance sheet date for events requiring disclosure or recognition in the consolidated financial statements.
	On January 27, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of HMA. Pursuant to the merger agreement governing the transaction, the Company acquired all the outstanding shares of HMA’s common stock for approximately $7.6 billion, including the assumption of approximately $3.7 billion of existing indebtedness, for consideration for each share of HMA’s common stock consisting of $10.50 in cash, 0.06942 of a share of the Company’s common stock, and one contingent value right (“CVR”). The CVR entitles the holder to receive a cash payment of up to $1.00 per CVR (subject to downward adjustment), subject to the final resolution of certain legal matters pertaining to HMA, as defined in the CVR agreement.
	In connection with the HMA merger, the Company and CHS entered into a third amendment and restatement of the Credit Facility, providing for additional financing and recapitalization of certain of the Company’s term loans, including (i) the replacement of the revolving credit facility with a new $1.0 billion revolving facility maturing 2019 (the “Revolving Facility”), (ii) the addition of a new $1.0 billion Term A facility due 2019 (the “Term A Facility”), (iii) a Term D facility in an aggregate principal amount equal to approximately $4.602 billion due 2021 (which includes certain term loans due 2017 that were converted into such Term D facility (collectively, the “Term D Facility”)), (iv) the conversion of certain term loans due 2017 into Term E Loans and the borrowing of new Term E Loans due 2017 in an aggregate principal amount of approximately $1.677 billion (collectively, the “Term E Facility” and, together with the Revolving Facility, the Term D Facility and the Term A Facility, the “Credit Facilities”) and (v) the addition of flexibility commensurate with the Company’s post-acquisition structure. In addition to funding a portion of the consideration in connection with the HMA merger, some of the proceeds of the Term A Facility and Term D Facility were used to refinance the outstanding $637.5 million existing Term A facility due 2016 and the $59.6 million of term loans due 2014, respectively.
	Adjusted for the effect of this amendment and restatement of the Company’s Credit Facility, the term loans are scheduled to be paid with principal payments for future years as follows $112.8 million due in 2014, $162.8 million due in 2015, $162.8 million due in 2016, $1.822 billion due in 2017, $496.0 million due in 2018 and $4.521 billion due thereafter.
	In connection with the financing activities of the HMA merger, the Company and CHS, through one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, also issued: (i) $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 5.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (the “Secured Notes”) and (ii) $3.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 6.875% Senior Notes due 2022 (the “Unsecured Notes” and, together with the Secured Notes, the “Notes”). The Secured Notes are senior secured obligations of CHS and are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by the Company and by CHS and certain of CHS’s subsidiaries. The Secured Notes mature on August 1, 2021, and bear interest at a rate of 5.125% per annum. The Unsecured Notes are senior unsecured obligations of CHS and are guaranteed on a senior basis by the Company and certain of CHS’s subsidiaries. The Unsecured Notes mature on February 1, 2022, and bear interest at a rate of 6.875% per annum.
	The initial accounting for the acquisition of HMA is currently incomplete. The Company is in the process of obtaining initial information relative to the fair values of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests in the transaction. The valuation of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities will include, but not be limited to, fixed assets, Medicare licenses, certificates of need, other potential intangible assets and contingencies. The valuations will consist of physical inspections and appraisal reports, discounted cash flow analyses, or other appropriate valuation techniques to determine the fair value of the assets acquired or liabilities assumed.
	On February 5, 2014, the Company announced that one or more subsidiaries of the Company have executed a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Sharon Regional Health System in Sharon, Pennsylvania for approximately $70 million, plus net working capital. Sharon Regional Health System includes a 251-bed acute care hospital and other outpatient and ancillary services.

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Disclosure	'
	18.  QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
			Quarter
			1st		2nd		3rd		4th			Total
			(in thousands, except share and per share data)
	Year ended December 31, 2013:
	Net operating revenues		$	3,262,031	$	3,191,254	$	3,174,416	$	3,191,255	$	12,818,956
	Income from continuing operations
	before income taxes			148,768		74,195		34,827		88,331		346,121
	Income from continuing operations			99,344		53,245		27,853		62,001		242,443
	Loss from discontinued operations			-3,021		-6,160		-6,255		-9,739		-25,175
	Net income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc.		$	79,174	$	29,753	$	4,095	$	28,181	$	141,203
	Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders:
	Continuing operations		$	0.90	$	0.39	$	0.11	$	0.41	$	1.80
	Discontinued operations			-0.03		-0.07		-0.07		-0.1		-0.27
	Net income		$	0.87	$	0.32	$	0.04	$	0.30	$	1.52
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders:
	Continuing operations		$	0.89	$	0.38	$	0.11	$	0.40	$	1.77
	Discontinued operations			-0.03		-0.07		-0.07		-0.1		-0.27
	Net income		$	0.86	$	0.32	$	0.04	$	0.30	$	1.51
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:
	Basic			91,002,615		92,866,370		93,259,027		93,372,398		92,633,332
	Diluted			91,998,993		94,109,368		94,483,596		94,703,458		93,815,013
	Year ended December 31, 2012:
	Net operating revenues		$	3,243,663	$	3,196,097	$	3,163,577	$	3,229,399	$	12,832,736
	Income from continuing operations
	before income taxes			146,089		159,213		90,575		125,969		521,846
	Income from continuing operations			100,070		106,977		62,665		88,108		357,820
	Loss from discontinued operations			-818		-4,810		-3,907		-2,482		-12,017
	Net income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc.		$	75,474	$	83,359	$	44,233	$	62,574	$	265,640
	Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders(1):
	Continuing operations		$	0.86	$	0.99	$	0.54	$	0.72	$	3.11
	Discontinued operations			-0.01		-0.05		-0.04		-0.03		-0.13
	Net income		$	0.85	$	0.94	$	0.50	$	0.70	$	2.98
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders(1):
	Continuing operations		$	0.86	$	0.98	$	0.53	$	0.72	$	3.09
	Discontinued operations			-0.01		-0.05		-0.04		-0.03		-0.13
	Net income		$	0.85	$	0.93	$	0.49	$	0.69	$	2.96
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:
	Basic			88,674,779		89,147,472		89,259,950		89,882,380		89,242,949
	Diluted			88,852,704		89,530,639		90,009,113		90,828,119		89,806,937
	___________
		-1		Total per share amounts may not add due to rounding.

Supplemental_Consolidating_Fin

Supplemental Consolidating Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Financial Information [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Disclosure	'
	19.  SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION
	The Senior Notes, which are senior unsecured obligations of CHS, and the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes are guaranteed on a senior basis by the Company and by certain of its existing and subsequently acquired or organized 100% owned domestic subsidiaries.  The Senior Notes and the 5⅛% Senior Secured Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis, with exceptions considered customary for such guarantees, limited to the release of the guarantee when a subsidiary guarantor’s capital stock is sold, or a sale of all of the subsidiary guarantor’s assets used in operations. The following condensed consolidating financial statements present Community Health Systems, Inc. (as parent guarantor), CHS (as the issuer), the subsidiary guarantors, the subsidiary non-guarantors and eliminations. These condensed consolidating financial statements have been prepared and presented in accordance with SEC Regulation S-X Rule 3-10 “Financial Statements of Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities Registered or Being Registered.”
	The accounting policies used in the preparation of this financial information are consistent with those elsewhere in the consolidated financial statements of the Company, except as noted below:
	•Intercompany receivables and payables are presented gross in the supplemental condensed consolidating balance sheets.
	•Cash flows from intercompany transactions are presented in cash flows from financing activities, as changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net.
	•Income tax expense is allocated from the parent guarantor to the income producing operations (other guarantors and non-guarantors) and the issuer through stockholders’ equity. As this approach represents an allocation, the income tax expense allocation is considered non-cash for statement of cash flow purposes.
	•Interest expense, net has been presented to reflect net interest expense and interest income from outstanding long-term debt and intercompany balances.
	The Company’s intercompany activity consists primarily of daily cash transfers for purposes of cash management, the allocation of certain expenses and expenditures paid for by the parent on behalf of its subsidiaries, and the push down of investment in its subsidiaries. This activity also includes the intercompany transactions between consolidated entities as part of the Receivables Facility that is further discussed in Note 6.  The Company’s subsidiaries generally do not purchase services from one another; thus, the intercompany transactions do not represent revenue generating transactions. All intercompany transactions eliminate in consolidation.
	From time to time, the Company sells and/or repurchases noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries, which may change subsidiaries between guarantors and non-guarantors. Amounts for prior periods are revised to reflect the status of guarantors or non-guarantors as of December 31, 2013.
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	Operating revenues (net of contractual
	allowances and discounts)	$	-	$	-14,923	$	9,487,566	$	5,379,982	$	-	$	14,852,625
	Provision for bad debts		-		-		1,394,111		639,558		-		2,033,669
	Net operating revenues		-		-14,923		8,093,455		4,740,424		-		12,818,956
	Operating costs and expenses:
	Salaries and benefits		-		-		3,591,443		2,515,948		-		6,107,391
	Supplies		-		-		1,284,542		690,694		-		1,975,236
	Other operating expenses		-		240		1,824,811		991,582		-		2,816,633
	Government settlement and related costs		-		-		101,500		-		-		101,500
	Electronic health records incentive reimbursement		-		-		-104,922		-57,120		-		-162,042
	Rent		-		-		158,541		120,344		-		278,885
	Depreciation and amortization		-		-		521,557		249,799		-		771,356
	Total operating costs and expenses		-		240		7,377,472		4,511,247		-		11,888,959
	Income from operations		-		-15,163		715,983		229,177		-		929,997
	Interest expense, net		-		-4,749		554,861		63,010		-		613,122
	Loss from early extinguishment of debt		-		1,295		-		-		-		1,295
	Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		-141,203		-138,906		-85,859		-		323,327		-42,641
	Impairment of long-lived assets		-		-		12,100		-		-		12,100
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes		141,203		127,197		234,881		166,167		-323,327		346,121
	Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		-		-14,006		85,208		32,476		-		103,678
	Income from continuing operations		141,203		141,203		149,673		133,691		-323,327		242,443
	Discontinued operations, net of taxes:
	Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale		-		-		-12,980		-7,633		-		-20,613
	Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-		-		-4,562		-		-		-4,562
	Loss on sale, net		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		-		-		-17,542		-7,633		-		-25,175
	Net income		141,203		141,203		132,131		126,058		-323,327		217,268
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		76,065		-		76,065
	Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
	Inc. stockholders	$	141,203	$	141,203	$	132,131	$	49,993	$	-323,327	$	141,203
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	Operating revenues (net of contractual
	allowances and discounts)	$	-	$	-9,653	$	9,413,925	$	5,342,487	$	-	$	14,746,759
	Provision for bad debts		-		-		1,292,852		621,171		-		1,914,023
	Net operating revenues		-		-9,653		8,121,073		4,721,316		-		12,832,736
	Operating costs and expenses:
	Salaries and benefits		-		-		3,552,225		2,439,821		-		5,992,046
	Supplies		-		-		1,281,193		671,725		-		1,952,918
	Other operating expenses		-		603		1,828,771		976,564		-		2,805,938
	Government settlement and related costs		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Electronic health records incentive reimbursement		-		-		-78,419		-44,277		-		-122,696
	Rent		-		-		149,089		115,326		-		264,415
	Depreciation and amortization		-		-		472,919		240,973		-		713,892
	Total operating costs and expenses		-		603		7,205,778		4,400,132		-		11,606,513
	Income from operations		-		-10,256		915,295		321,184		-		1,226,223
	Interest expense, net		-		58,726		503,484		58,747		-		620,957
	Loss from early extinguishment of debt		-		115,453		-		-		-		115,453
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		-265,640		-348,878		-150,606		-		723,091		-42,033
Impairment of long-lived assets		-		-		10,000		-		-		10,000
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		265,640		164,443		552,417		262,437		-723,091		521,846
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		-		-101,197		199,423		65,800		-		164,026
Income from continuing operations		265,640		265,640		352,994		196,637		-723,091		357,820
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale		-		-		-5,438		-6,579		-		-12,017
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-		-		-		-		-		-
Loss on sale, net		-		-		-		-		-		-
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		-		-		-5,438		-6,579		-		-12,017
Net income		265,640		265,640		347,556		190,058		-723,091		345,803
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		80,163		-		80,163
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
Inc. stockholders	$	265,640	$	265,640	$	347,556	$	109,895	$	-723,091	$	265,640
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Operating revenues (net of contractual
allowances and discounts)	$	-	$	-	$	8,489,187	$	4,891,394	$	-	$	13,380,581
Provision for bad debts		-		-		1,137,662		535,189		-		1,672,851
Net operating revenues		-		-		7,351,525		4,356,205		-		11,707,730
Operating costs and expenses:
Salaries and benefits		-		-		3,213,478		2,253,942		-		5,467,420
Supplies		-		-		1,165,970		645,844		-		1,811,814
Other operating expenses		-		-		1,595,918		862,362		-		2,458,280
Government settlement and related costs		-		-		-		-		-		-
Electronic health records incentive reimbursement		-		-		-43,959		-18,922		-		-62,881
Rent		-		-		134,862		111,356		-		246,218
Depreciation and amortization		-		-		413,587		229,781		-		643,368
Total operating costs and expenses		-		-		6,479,856		4,084,363		-		10,564,219
Income from operations		-		-		871,669		271,842		-		1,143,511
Interest expense, net		-		87,095		494,185		61,246		-		642,526
Loss from early extinguishment of debt		-		66,019		-		-		-		66,019
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		-201,948		-287,903		-65,846		-		506,206		-49,491
Impairment of long-lived assets		-		-		-		-		-		-
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		201,948		134,789		443,330		210,596		-506,206		484,457
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		-		-67,159		160,045		48,707		-		141,593
Income from continuing operations		201,948		201,948		283,285		161,889		-506,206		342,864
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale		-		-		-1,950		-12,789		-		-14,739
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-		-		-		-47,930		-		-47,930
Loss on sale, net		-		-		-		-2,572		-		-2,572
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		-		-		-1,950		-63,291		-		-65,241
Net income		201,948		201,948		281,335		98,598		-506,206		277,623
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		75,675		-		75,675
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
Inc. stockholders	$	201,948	$	201,948	$	281,335	$	22,923	$	-506,206	$	201,948
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
Net income	$	141,203	$	141,203	$	132,131	$	126,058	$	-323,327	$	217,268
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax		60,304		60,304		-		-		-60,304		60,304
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net
of tax		2,181		2,181		2,181		-		-4,362		2,181
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension
cost components, net of tax		15,320		15,320		15,320		-		-30,640		15,320
Other comprehensive income (loss)		77,805		77,805		17,501		-		-95,306		77,805
Comprehensive income		219,008		219,008		149,632		126,058		-418,633		295,073
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		76,065		-		76,065
Comprehensive income attributable to Community
Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$	219,008	$	219,008	$	149,632	$	49,993	$	-418,633	$	219,008
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
Net income	$	265,640	$	265,640	$	347,556	$	190,058	$	-723,091	$	345,803
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax		46,409		46,409		-		-		-46,409		46,409
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net
of tax		3,012		3,012		3,012		-		-6,024		3,012
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension
cost components, net of tax		-10,252		-10,252		-10,252		-		20,504		-10,252
Other comprehensive income (loss)		39,169		39,169		-7,240		-		-31,929		39,169
Comprehensive income		304,809		304,809		340,316		190,058		-755,020		384,972
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		80,163		-		80,163
Comprehensive income attributable to Community
Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$	304,809	$	304,809	$	340,316	$	109,895	$	-755,020	$	304,809
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
Net income	$	201,948	$	201,948	$	281,335	$	98,598	$	-506,206	$	277,623
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax		55,145		55,145		-		-		-55,145		55,145
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net
of tax		-960		-960		-960		-		1,920		-960
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension
cost components, net of tax		-7,737		-7,737		-7,737		-		15,474		-7,737
Other comprehensive income (loss)		46,448		46,448		-8,697		-		-37,751		46,448
Comprehensive income		248,396		248,396		272,638		98,598		-543,957		324,071
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		75,675		-		75,675
Comprehensive income attributable to Community
Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$	248,396	$	248,396	$	272,638	$	22,923	$	-543,957	$	248,396
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
31-Dec-13
	Parent				Other		Non -
	Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	-	$	-	$	238,336	$	135,067	$	-	$	373,403
Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance								-
for doubtful accounts		-		-		865,714		1,456,841		-		2,322,555
Supplies		-		-		256,130		115,185		-		371,315
Prepaid income taxes		107,077		-		-		-		-		107,077
Deferred income taxes		101,372		-		-		-		-		101,372
Prepaid expenses and taxes		-		112		97,940		28,920		-		126,972
Other current assets		-		-		264,053		81,216		-		345,269
Total current assets		208,449		112		1,722,173		1,817,229		-		3,747,963
Intercompany receivable		579,793		9,540,603		4,529,246		3,811,213		-18,460,855		-
Property and equipment, net		-		-		4,656,968		2,393,683		-		7,050,651
Goodwill		-		-		2,532,570		1,891,855		-		4,424,425
Other assets, net		-		144,148		1,453,248		828,233		-531,373		1,894,256
Net investment in subsidiaries		3,193,971		9,335,210		4,029,631		-		-16,558,812		-
Total assets	$	3,982,213	$	19,020,073	$	18,923,836	$	10,742,213	$	-35,551,040	$	17,117,295
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	-	$	152,050	$	12,458	$	2,386	$	-	$	166,894
Accounts payable		-		19		734,398		214,698		-		949,115
Deferred income taxes		3,183		-		-		-		-		3,183
Accrued interest		-		111,330		124		437		-		111,891
Accrued liabilities		4,178		-		870,532		352,124		-		1,226,834
Total current liabilities		7,361		263,399		1,617,512		569,645		-		2,457,917
Long-term debt		-		8,718,379		50,856		517,254		-		9,286,489
Intercompany payable		-		6,225,192		13,059,089		8,264,665		-27,548,946		-
Deferred income taxes		906,101		-		-		-		-		906,101
Other long-term liabilities		924		619,135		671,166		217,056		-531,373		976,908
Total liabilities		914,386		15,826,105		15,398,623		9,568,620		-28,080,319		13,627,415
Redeemable noncontrolling interests in
equity of consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		358,410		-		358,410
Equity:
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’
equity:
Preferred stock		-		-		-		-		-		-
Common stock		960		-		1		2		-3		960
Additional paid-in capital		1,255,855		1,175,265		1,274,420		594,989		-3,044,674		1,255,855
Treasury stock, at cost		-6,678		-		-		-		-		-6,678
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)
income		-67,505		-67,505		-11,425		-		78,930		-67,505
Retained earnings		1,885,195		2,086,208		2,262,217		156,549		-4,504,974		1,885,195
Total Community Health Systems, Inc.
stockholders’ equity		3,067,827		3,193,968		3,525,213		751,540		-7,470,721		3,067,827
Noncontrolling interests in equity of
consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		63,643		-		63,643
Total equity		3,067,827		3,193,968		3,525,213		815,183		-7,470,721		3,131,470
Total liabilities and equity	$	3,982,213	$	19,020,073	$	18,923,836	$	10,742,213	$	-35,551,040	$	17,117,295
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
31-Dec-12
	Parent				Other		Non -
	Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	-	$	-	$	271,559	$	116,254	$	-	$	387,813
Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance
for doubtful accounts		-		-		654,894		1,379,191		-		2,034,085
Supplies		-		-		250,316		111,843		-		362,159
Prepaid income taxes		49,888		-		-		-		-		49,888
Deferred income taxes		117,045		-		-		-		-		117,045
Prepaid expenses and taxes		-		115		85,383		39,270		-		124,768
Other current assets		-		-		249,962		93,422		-		343,384
Total current assets		166,933		115		1,512,114		1,739,980		-		3,419,142
Intercompany receivable		406,534		9,837,904		3,723,120		3,262,823		-17,230,381		-
Property and equipment, net		-		-		4,593,286		2,481,131		-		7,074,417
Goodwill		-		-		2,527,041		1,861,388		-		4,388,429
Other assets, net		-		165,236		1,357,771		829,114		-627,774		1,724,347
Net investment in subsidiaries		2,974,965		8,686,242		3,427,182		-		-15,088,389		-
Total assets	$	3,548,432	$	18,689,497	$	17,140,514	$	10,174,436	$	-32,946,544	$	16,606,335
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	-	$	75,679	$	11,094	$	3,129	$	-	$	89,902
Accounts payable		-		74		579,001		240,568		-		819,643
Accrued interest		-		110,091		295		316		-		110,702
Accrued liabilities		7,580		-		752,949		363,022		-		1,123,551
Total current liabilities		7,580		185,844		1,343,339		607,035		-		2,143,798
Long-term debt		-		9,079,392		53,186		318,802		-		9,451,380
Intercompany payable		-		5,639,928		11,693,119		7,822,313		-25,155,360		-
Deferred income taxes		808,489		-		-		-		-		808,489
Other long-term liabilities		1,156		809,372		675,290		180,437		-627,774		1,038,481
Total liabilities		817,225		15,714,536		13,764,934		8,928,587		-25,783,134		13,442,148
Redeemable noncontrolling interests in
equity of consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		367,666		-		367,666
Equity:
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’
equity:
Preferred stock		-		-		-		-		-		-
Common stock		929		-		1		2		-3		929
Additional paid-in capital		1,138,274		1,176,342		1,283,499		690,929		-3,150,770		1,138,274
Treasury stock, at cost		-6,678		-		-		-		-		-6,678
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)
income		-145,310		-145,310		-28,927		-		174,237		-145,310
Retained earnings		1,743,992		1,943,929		2,121,007		121,938		-4,186,874		1,743,992
Total Community Health Systems, Inc.
stockholders’ equity		2,731,207		2,974,961		3,375,580		812,869		-7,163,410		2,731,207
Noncontrolling interests in equity of
consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		65,314		-		65,314
Total equity		2,731,207		2,974,961		3,375,580		878,183		-7,163,410		2,796,521
Total liabilities and equity	$	3,548,432	$	18,689,497	$	17,140,514	$	10,174,436	$	-32,946,544	$	16,606,335
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Parent				Other		Non -
	Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating
activities	$	-78,754	$	21,281	$	871,489	$	274,703	$	-	$	1,088,719
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of facilities and other related
equipment		-		-		-11,894		-31,849		-		-43,743
Purchases of property and equipment		-		-		-491,863		-122,129		-		-613,992
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		-		-		3,540		2,869		-		6,409
Increase in other investments		-		-		-275,149		-64,793		-		-339,942
Net cash used in investing activities		-		-		-775,366		-215,902		-		-991,268
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from exercise of stock options		110,660		-		-		-		-		110,660
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll
tax withholding requirements		-14,896		-		-		-		-		-14,896
Stock buy-back		-27,133		-		-		-		-		-27,133
Deferred financing costs		-		-13,199		-		-		-		-13,199
Excess tax benefit relating to
stock-based compensation		6,715		-		-		-		-		6,715
Payment of special dividend to stockholders		-		-		-		-		-		-
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		289		-		289
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-9,304		-		-9,304
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-75,583		-		-75,583
Changes in intercompany balances with
affiliates, net		3,408		274,075		-124,384		-153,099		-		-
Borrowings under credit agreements		-		1,170,000		23,710		865		-		1,194,575
Issuance of long-term debt		-		-		-		-		-		-
Proceeds from receivables facility		-		-		-		338,000		-		338,000
Repayments of long-term indebtedness		-		-1,452,157		-28,672		-141,156		-		-1,621,985
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities		78,754		-21,281		-129,346		-39,988		-		-111,861
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		-		-		-33,223		18,813		-		-14,410
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		-		-		271,559		116,254		-		387,813
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	-	$	-	$	238,336	$	135,067	$	-	$	373,403
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Parent				Other		Non -
	Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating
activities	$	-55,122	$	-71,683	$	1,156,708	$	250,217	$	-	$	1,280,120
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of facilities and other related
equipment		-		-		-309,731		-12,584		-		-322,315
Purchases of property and equipment		-		-		-540,816		-227,974		-		-768,790
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		-		-		2,756		3,141		-		5,897
Increase in other investments		-		10,000		-231,326		-76,668		-		-297,994
Net cash used in investing activities		-		10,000		-1,079,117		-314,085		-		-1,383,202
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from exercise of stock options		20,858		-		-		-		-		20,858
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll
tax withholding requirements		-9,314		-		-		-		-		-9,314
Stock buy-back		-		-		-		-		-		-
Deferred financing costs		-		-141,219		-		-		-		-141,219
Excess tax benefit relating to
stock-based compensation		3,973		-		-		-		-		3,973
Payment of special dividend to stockholders		-22,535		-		-		-		-		-22,535
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		535		-		535
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-44,287		-		-44,287
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-68,344		-		-68,344
Changes in intercompany balances with
affiliates, net		62,140		-124,560		189,076		-126,656		-		-
Borrowings under credit agreements		-		3,955,000		20,866		-		-		3,975,866
Issuance of long-term debt		-		3,825,000		-		-		-		3,825,000
Proceeds from receivables facility		-		-		-		350,000		-		350,000
Repayments of long-term indebtedness		-		-7,452,538		-24,894		-52,071		-		-7,529,503
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities		55,122		61,683		185,048		59,177		-		361,030
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		-		-		262,639		-4,691		-		257,948
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		-		-		8,920		120,945		-		129,865
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	-	$	-	$	271,559	$	116,254	$	-	$	387,813
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Parent				Other		Non -
	Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating
activities	$	-41,780	$	-111,001	$	918,947	$	495,742	$	-	$	1,261,908
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of facilities and other related
equipment		-		-		-370,243		-45,117		-		-415,360
Purchases of property and equipment		-		-		-440,754		-335,959		-		-776,713
Proceeds from disposition of hospitals and other
ancillary operations		-		-		-		173,387		-		173,387
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		-		-		2,283		8,877		-		11,160
Increase in other investments		-		-10,000		-129,852		-48,397		-		-188,249
Net cash used in investing activities		-		-10,000		-938,566		-247,209		-		-1,195,775
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from exercise of stock options		18,910		-		-		-		-		18,910
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll
tax withholding requirements		-13,311		-		-		-		-		-13,311
Stock buy-back		-85,790		-		-		-		-		-85,790
Deferred financing costs		-		-19,352		-		-		-		-19,352
Excess tax benefit relating to
stock-based compensation		5,290		-		-		-		-		5,290
Payment of special dividend to stockholders		-		-		-		-		-		-
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		1,229		-		1,229
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-13,022		-		-13,022
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-56,094		-		-56,094
Changes in intercompany balances with
affiliates, net		116,681		209,056		-175,332		-150,405		-		-
Borrowings under credit agreements		-		560,000		18,236		2,145		-2,145		578,236
Issuance of long-term debt		-		1,000,000		-		-		-		1,000,000
Proceeds from receivables facility		-		-		-		-		-		-
Repayments of long-term indebtedness		-		-1,628,703		-23,200		-1,775		2,145		-1,651,533
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities		41,780		121,001		-180,296		-217,922		-		-235,437
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		-		-		-199,915		30,611		-		-169,304
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		-		-		208,835		90,334		-		299,169
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	-	$	-	$	8,920	$	120,945	$	-	$	129,865

Schedule_of_Qualifying_and_Val

Schedule of Qualifying and Valuation Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Community Health Systems, Inc. and Subsidiaries
	Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
		Balance at		Acquisitions		Charged to				Balance
		Beginning		and		Costs and				at End
	Description	of Year		Dispositions		Expenses		Write-offs		of Year
			(In thousands)
	Year ended December 31, 2013
	allowance for doubtful accounts	$	2,190,762	$	-	$	2,033,669	$	-1,786,577	$	2,437,854
	Year ended December 31, 2012
	allowance for doubtful accounts	$	1,876,303	$	-	$	1,914,023	$	-1,599,564	$	2,190,762
	Year ended December 31, 2011
	allowance for doubtful accounts	$	1,629,814	$	-28,954	$	1,672,851	$	-1,397,408	$	1,876,303

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign1

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

'

Use of Estimates, Policy

'

Use of Estimates.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Principles of Consolidation, Policy

'

Principles of Consolidation.  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Parent, its subsidiaries, all of which are controlled by the Parent through majority voting control, and variable interest entities for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts, profits and transactions have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interests in less-than-wholly-owned consolidated subsidiaries of the Parent are presented as a component of total equity to distinguish between the interests of the Parent and the interests of the noncontrolling owners. Revenues, expenses and income from continuing operations from these subsidiaries are included in the consolidated amounts as presented on the consolidated statements of income, along with a net income measure that separately presents the amounts attributable to the controlling interests and the amounts attributable to the noncontrolling interests for each of the periods presented. Noncontrolling interests that are redeemable or may become redeemable at a fixed or determinable price at the option of the holder or upon the occurrence of an event outside of the control of the Company are presented in mezzanine equity on the consolidated balance sheets.

Cost of Revenue, Policy

'

Cost of Revenue.  Substantially all of the Company’s operating expenses are “cost of revenue” items. Operating costs that could be classified as general and administrative by the Company would include the Company’s corporate office costs at its Franklin, Tennessee office, which were $180.8 million, $214.8 million and $183.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Included in these amounts is stock-based compensation of $38.4 million, $40.9 million and $42.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Cash Equivalents, Policy

'

Cash Equivalents.  The Company considers highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Supplies, Policy

'

Supplies.  Supplies, principally medical supplies, are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out basis) or market.

Marketable Securities, Policy

'

Marketable Securities. The Company’s marketable securities are classified as trading or available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value as determined by quoted market prices, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Trading securities are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Interest and dividends on securities classified as available-for-sale or trading are included in net operating revenues and were not material in all periods presented. Other comprehensive income (loss) included an unrealized gain of $2.2 million, an unrealized gain of $3.0 million and an unrealized loss of $1.0 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, related to these available-for-sale securities.

Property and Equipment, Policy

'

Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is recognized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the land and improvements (2 to 15 years; weighted-average useful life is 14 years), buildings and improvements (5 to 50 years; weighted-average useful life is 24 years) and equipment and fixtures (4 to 18 years; weighted-average useful life is 8 years). Costs capitalized as construction in progress were $231.8 million and $173.4 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Expenditures for renovations and other significant improvements are capitalized; however, maintenance and repairs which do not improve or extend the useful lives of the respective assets are charged to operations as incurred. Interest capitalized related to construction in progress was $10.5 million, $23.9 million and $21.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Purchases of property and equipment and internal-use software accrued in accounts payable and not yet paid were $141.6 million and $50.2 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

The Company also leases certain facilities and equipment under capital leases (see Note 9). Such assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the term of the lease or the remaining useful lives of the applicable assets.

Other Assets, Policy

'

Other Assets.  Other assets consist of costs associated with the issuance of debt, which are included in interest expense over the life of the related debt using the effective interest method; the insurance recovery receivable from excess insurance carriers related to the Company’s self-insured malpractice general liability and workers’ compensation insurance liability; and costs to recruit physicians to the Company’s markets, which are deferred and expensed over the term of the respective physician recruitment contract, generally three years, and included in amortization expense.  Other assets also include capitalized internal-use software costs, which are expensed over the expected useful life, which is generally three years for routine software and eight to ten years for major software projects, and included in amortization expense.

Third-Party Reimbursement, Policy

'

Third-Party Reimbursement.  Net patient service revenue is reported at the estimated net realizable amount from patients, third-party payors and others for services rendered. Operating revenues include amounts estimated by management to be reimbursable by Medicare and Medicaid under prospective payment systems, provisions of cost-reimbursement and other payment methods. Approximately 34.5%,  36.0% and 36.3% of operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, are related to services rendered to patients covered by the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Revenues from Medicare outlier payments are included in the amounts received from Medicare and were approximately 0.46%,  0.47% and 0.44% of operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. In addition, the Company is reimbursed by non-governmental payors using a variety of payment methodologies. Amounts received by the Company for treatment of patients covered by such programs are generally less than the standard billing rates. The differences between the estimated program reimbursement rates and the standard billing rates are accounted for as contractual adjustments, which are deducted from gross revenues to arrive at operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts). These net operating revenues are an estimate of the net realizable amount due from these payors. The process of estimating contractual allowances requires the Company to estimate the amount expected to be received based on payor contract provisions. The key assumption in this process is the estimated contractual reimbursement percentage, which is based on payor classification and historical paid claims data. Due to the complexities involved in these estimates, actual payments the Company receives could be different from the amounts it estimates and records. Final settlements under some of these programs are subject to adjustment based on administrative review and audit by third parties. Adjustments to previous program reimbursement estimates are accounted for as contractual allowance adjustments and reported in the periods that such adjustments become known.

Included in net operating revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 is approximately $105.3 million of net operating revenues from an industry-wide settlement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, based on a claim that acute-care hospitals in the U.S. were underpaid from the Medicare inpatient prospective payment system in federal fiscal years 1999 through 2011. The underpayments resulted from calculations related to the rural floor budget neutrality adjustments implemented in connection with the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company received approximately $104.0 million of cash from this settlement. Also included in net operating revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 is an unfavorable adjustment of approximately $21.0 million related to the revised Supplemental Security Income ratios issued for federal fiscal years 2006 through 2009 utilized for calculating Medicare Disproportionate Share Hospital reimbursements. Other than these items, contractual allowance adjustments related to final settlements and previous program reimbursement estimates impacted net operating revenues and net income by an insignificant amount in each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

Amounts due to third-party payors were $60.5 million and $80.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are included in accrued liabilities-other in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Amounts due from third-party payors were $118.0 million and $119.2 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are included in other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Substantially all Medicare and Medicaid cost reports are final settled through 2008.

Net Operating Revenues, Policy

'

Net Operating Revenues.  Net operating revenues are recorded net of provisions for contractual allowance of approximately $52.6 billion, $48.5 billion and $41.6 billion in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Net operating revenues are recognized when services are provided and are reported at the estimated net realizable amount from patients, third-party payors and others for services rendered. Also included in the provision for contractual allowance shown above is the value of administrative and other discounts provided to self-pay patients eliminated from net operating revenues which was $1.3 billion, $1.1 billion and $839.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

In the ordinary course of business, the Company renders services to patients who are financially unable to pay for hospital care. The Company’s policy is to not pursue collections for such amounts, therefore, the related charges for those patients who are financially unable to pay and that otherwise do not qualify for reimbursement from a governmental program are not reported in net operating revenues or in the provision for bad debts, and are thus classified as charity care.  The Company determines amounts that qualify for charity care primarily based on the patient’s household income relative to the federal poverty level guidelines, as established by the federal government.

Included in the provision for contractual allowance shown above is $681.2 million, $668.5 million and $622.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, representing the value (at the Company’s standard charges) of these charity care services that are excluded from net operating revenues.

The estimated cost incurred by the Company to provide these charity care services to patients who are unable to pay was approximately $116.3 million, $120.4 million and $120.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The estimated cost of these charity care services was determined using a ratio of cost to gross charges and applying that ratio to the gross charges associated with providing care to charity patients for the period.

Currently, several states utilize supplemental reimbursement programs for the purpose of providing reimbursement to providers to offset a portion of the cost of providing care to Medicaid patients.  These programs are designed with input from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and are funded with a combination of state and federal resources, including, in certain instances, fees or taxes levied on the providers.  Similar programs are also being considered by other states.  After these supplemental programs are signed into law, the Company recognizes revenue and related expenses in the period in which amounts are estimable and collection is reasonably assured.  Reimbursement under these programs is reflected in net operating revenues and fees, taxes or other program-related costs are reflected in other operating expenses.

Operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts), recognized during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, were as follows (in thousands):

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

Medicare

$

3,681,975

$

3,878,150

$

3,572,407

Medicaid

1,442,120

1,423,761

1,285,420

Managed Care and other third-party payors

7,705,827

7,534,971

6,920,068

Self-pay

2,022,703

1,909,877

1,602,686

Total

$

14,852,625

$

14,746,759

$

13,380,581

Charity Care, Policy

'

In the ordinary course of business, the Company renders services to patients who are financially unable to pay for hospital care. The Company’s policy is to not pursue collections for such amounts, therefore, the related charges for those patients who are financially unable to pay and that otherwise do not qualify for reimbursement from a governmental program are not reported in net operating revenues or in the provision for bad debts, and are thus classified as charity care.  The Company determines amounts that qualify for charity care primarily based on the patient’s household income relative to the federal poverty level guidelines, as established by the federal government.

Included in the provision for contractual allowance shown above is $681.2 million, $668.5 million and $622.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, representing the value (at the Company’s standard charges) of these charity care services that are excluded from net operating revenues.

The estimated cost incurred by the Company to provide these charity care services to patients who are unable to pay was approximately $116.3 million, $120.4 million and $120.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The estimated cost of these charity care services was determined using a ratio of cost to gross charges and applying that ratio to the gross charges associated with providing care to charity patients for the period.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy

'

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts.  Accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that could become uncollectible in the future. Substantially all of the Company’s receivables are related to providing healthcare services to its hospitals’ patients.

The Company estimates the allowance for doubtful accounts by reserving a percentage of all self-pay accounts receivable without regard to aging category, based on collection history, adjusted for expected recoveries and, if present, anticipated changes in trends. For all other non-self-pay payor categories, the Company reserves 100% of all accounts aging over 365 days from the date of discharge. The percentage used to reserve for all self-pay accounts is based on the Company’s collection history. The Company collects substantially all of its third-party insured receivables, which include receivables from governmental agencies.

Collections are impacted by the economic ability of patients to pay and the effectiveness of the Company’s collection efforts. Significant changes in payor mix, business office operations, economic conditions or trends in federal and state governmental healthcare coverage could affect the Company’s collection of accounts receivable and the estimates of the collectability of future accounts receivable. The process of estimating the allowance for doubtful accounts requires the Company to estimate the collectability of self-pay accounts receivable, which is primarily based on its collection history, adjusted for expected recoveries and, if present, anticipated changes in collection trends. The Company also continually reviews its overall reserve adequacy by monitoring historical cash collections as a percentage of trailing net revenue less provision for bad debts, as well as by analyzing current period net revenue and admissions by payor classification, aged accounts receivable by payor, days revenue outstanding, and the impact of recent acquisitions and dispositions.

Electronic Health Records Incentive Reimbursement Policy

'

Electronic Health Records Incentive Reimbursement. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 included provisions for implementing health information technology under the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (“HITECH”).  These provisions were designed to increase the use of electronic health records (“EHR”) technology and establish the requirements for a Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments program beginning in 2011 for eligible hospitals and providers that adopt and meaningfully use certified EHR technology.  The Company utilizes a gain contingency model to recognize EHR incentive payments. Recognition occurs when our eligible hospitals adopt or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology for the applicable payment period and have available the Medicare cost report information for the relevant full cost report year used to determine the final incentive payment.

Medicaid EHR incentive payments are calculated based on prior period Medicare cost report information available at the time when eligible hospitals adopt, implement or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology. Since the information for the relevant full Medicare cost report year is available, the incentive income from resolving the gain contingency is recognized when eligible hospitals adopt, implement or demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology.

Medicare EHR incentive payments are calculated based on the Medicare cost report information for the full cost report year that began during the federal fiscal year in which meaningful use is demonstrated. Since the necessary information is only available at the end of the relevant full Medicare cost report year, the incentive income from resolving the gain contingency is recognized when eligible hospitals demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology and the information for the applicable full Medicare cost report year to determine the final incentive payment is available.

In some instances, the Company may receive estimated Medicare EHR incentive payments prior to when the Medicare cost report information used to determine the final incentive payment is available. In these instances, recognition of the gain for EHR incentive payments is deferred until all recognition criteria described above are met.

Eligibility for annual Medicare incentive payments is dependent on providers demonstrating meaningful use of EHR technology. Initial Medicaid incentive payments were available to providers that adopt, implement or upgrade certified EHR technology; however, providers must demonstrate meaningful use of such technology in subsequent years to qualify for additional incentive payments. Medicaid EHR incentive payments are fully funded by the federal government and administered by the states; however, the states are not required to offer EHR incentive payments to providers.

Physician Income Guarantees, Policy

'

Physician Income Guarantees.  The Company enters into physician recruiting agreements under which it supplements physician income to a minimum amount over a period of time, typically one year, while the physicians establish themselves in the community. As part of the agreements, the physicians are committed to practice in the community for a period of time, typically three years, which extends beyond their income guarantee period. The Company records an asset and liability for the estimated fair value of minimum revenue guarantees on new agreements. Adjustments to the ultimate value of the guarantee paid to physicians are recognized in the period that the change in estimate is identified. The Company amortizes an asset over the life of the agreement. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the unamortized portion of these physician income guarantees was $33.0 million and $30.1 million, respectively.

Concentrations of Credit Risk, Policy

'

Concentrations of Credit Risk.  The Company grants unsecured credit to its patients, most of whom reside in the service area of the Company’s facilities and are insured under third-party payor agreements. Because of the economic diversity of the Company’s facilities and non-governmental third-party payors, Medicare represents the only significant concentration of credit risk from payors. Accounts receivable, net of contractual allowances, from Medicare were $359.6 million and $315.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, representing 7.5% and 7.4% of consolidated net accounts receivable, before allowance for doubtful accounts, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Professional Liability Claims, Policy

'

Professional Liability Claims.  The Company accrues for estimated losses resulting from professional liability. The accrual, which includes an estimate for incurred but not reported claims, is based on historical loss patterns and actuarially-determined projections and is discounted to its net present value. To the extent that subsequent claims information varies from management’s estimates, the liability is adjusted when such information becomes available.

Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy

'

Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.  Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying values of certain long-lived assets may be impaired, the Company projects the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by these assets. If the projections indicate that the reported amounts are not expected to be recovered, such amounts are reduced to their estimated fair value based on a quoted market price, if available, or an estimate based on valuation techniques available in the circumstances.

During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded a pretax impairment charge of $12.1 million to reduce the carrying value of certain long-lived assets at four of its smaller hospitals to their estimated fair value. During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company recorded a pretax impairment charge of $10.0 million to reduce the carrying value of certain long-lived assets at three of its smaller hospitals to their estimated fair value. The impairments for 2013 and 2012 were identified because of declining operating results and projections of future cash flows at these hospitals caused by competitive and operational challenges specific to the markets in which these hospitals operate. There were no impairments of long-lived assets in 2011.

Income Taxes, Policy

'

Income Taxes.  The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, in which deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the tax consequences of “temporary differences” by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in the consolidated statement of income during the period in which the tax rate change becomes law.

Comprehensive Income (Loss), Policy

'

Comprehensive Income (Loss).   Comprehensive income (loss) is the change in equity of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) consisted of the following (in thousands):

Change in Fair

Change in Fair

Change in

Accumulated

Value of

Value of

Unrecognized

Other

Interest Rate

Available for

Pension Cost

Comprehensive

Swaps

Sale Securities

Components

Income (Loss)

Balance as of December 31, 2011

$

-162,791

$

1,576

$

-23,264

$

-184,479

2012 activity, net of tax

46,409

3,012

-10,252

39,169

Balance as of December 31, 2012

-116,382

4,588

-33,516

-145,310

2013 activity, net of tax

60,304

2,181

15,320

77,805

Balance as of December 31, 2013

$

-56,078

$

6,769

$

-18,196

$

-67,505

Segment Reporting, Policy

'

Segment Reporting.  A public company is required to report annual and interim financial and descriptive information about its reportable operating segments. Operating segments, as defined, are components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Aggregation of similar operating segments into a single reportable operating segment is permitted if the businesses have similar economic characteristics and meet the criteria established by U.S. GAAP.

The Company operates in two distinct operating segments, represented by the hospital operations (which includes the Company’s acute care hospitals and related healthcare entities that provide inpatient and outpatient healthcare services) and the home care agencies operations (which provide in-home outpatient care). U.S. GAAP requires (1) that financial information be disclosed for operating segments that meet a 10% quantitative threshold of the consolidated totals of net revenue, profit or loss, or total assets; and (2) that the individual reportable segments disclosed contribute at least 75% of total consolidated net revenue. Based on these measures, only the hospital operations segment meets the criteria as a separate reportable segment. Financial information for the home care agencies segment does not meet the quantitative thresholds and is therefore combined with corporate into the all other reportable segment.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, Policy

'

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.  The Company records derivative instruments on the consolidated balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. Changes in a derivative’s fair value are recorded each period in earnings or other comprehensive income (“OCI”), depending on whether the derivative is designated and is effective as a hedged transaction, and on the type of hedge transaction. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments recorded to OCI are reclassified to earnings in the period affected by the underlying hedged item. Any portion of the fair value of a derivative instrument determined to be ineffective under the standard is recognized in current earnings.

The Company has entered into several interest rate swap agreements. See Note 7 for further discussion about the swap transactions.

Reclassifications, Policy

'

Reclassifications.  During the six months ended June 30, 2014, the Company made the decision to sell several smaller hospitals and entered into a definitive agreement to sell one additional hospital. The consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 have been restated to reclassify the consolidated results of operations for these hospitals that were owned or leased in 2013 to discontinued operations. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 has been restated to present these hospitals that were owned or leased in 2013 as held for sale.

New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy

'

New Accounting Pronouncements.  In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-02, which requires additional disclosures on the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The ASU requires a company that reports other comprehensive income to present (either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes) the effects on the line items of net income of significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. For other amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income in the same reporting period, an entity is required to cross-reference to other required disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2012, and was adopted by the Company on January 1, 2013. As it only requires additional disclosure, the adoption of this ASU had no impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]	'
Business Combinations Policy	'
	Acquisitions
	The Company accounts for all transactions that represent business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, where the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired entity are recognized and measured at their fair values on the date the Company obtains control in the acquiree.  Such fair values that are not finalized for reporting periods following the acquisition date are estimated and recorded as provisional amounts.  Adjustments to these provisional amounts during the measurement period (defined as the date through which all information required to identify and measure the consideration transferred, the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests has been obtained, limited to one year from the acquisition date) are recorded as of the date of acquisition.  Any material impact to comparative information for periods after acquisition, but before the period in which adjustments are identified, is reflected in those prior periods as if the adjustments were considered as of the acquisition date. Goodwill is determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed in the acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment [Abstract]	'
Goodwill, Policy	'
	Goodwill is allocated to each identified reporting unit, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below the operating segment (referred to as a component of the entity). Management has determined that the Company’s operating segments and hospital management services operations meet the criteria to be classified as reporting units. At December 31, 2013, the hospital operations reporting unit, the home care agency operations reporting unit, and the hospital management services reporting unit had approximately $4.3 billion, $43.6 million and $33.3 million, respectively, of goodwill. At December 31, 2012, the hospital operations reporting unit, the home care agency operations reporting unit, and the hospital management services reporting unit had approximately $4.3 billion, $40.5 million and $33.3 million, respectively, of goodwill.
	Goodwill is evaluated for impairment at the same time every year and when an event occurs or circumstances change that, more likely than not, reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying value. There is a two-step method for determining goodwill impairment. Step one is to compare the fair value of the reporting unit with the unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill. If this test indicates the fair value is less than the carrying value, then step two is required to compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. The Company performed its last annual goodwill evaluation during the fourth quarter of 2013. No impairment was indicated by this evaluation.  The next annual goodwill evaluation will be performed during the fourth quarter of 2014.
	The Company estimates the fair value of the related reporting units using both a discounted cash flow model as well as an EBITDA multiple model. The cash flow forecasts are adjusted by an appropriate discount rate based on the Company’s estimate of a market participant’s weighted-average cost of capital. These models are both based on the Company’s best estimate of future revenues and operating costs and are reconciled to the Company’s consolidated market capitalization, with consideration of the amount a potential acquirer would be required to pay, in the form of a control premium, in order to gain sufficient ownership to set policies, direct operations and control management decisions.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy	'
	The estimated fair value is determined using the methodologies discussed below in accordance with accounting standards related to the determination of fair value based on the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy as discussed in Note 8.  The estimated fair value for financial instruments with a fair value that does not equal its carrying value is considered a Level 1 valuation.  The Company utilizes the market approach and obtains indicative pricing from the administrative agent to the Credit Facility to determine fair values, which are validated through publicly available subscription services such as Bloomberg where relevant.
	Cash and cash equivalents.  The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments (less than three months).
	Available-for-sale securities.  Estimated fair value is based on closing price as quoted in public markets.
	Trading securities.  Estimated fair value is based on closing price as quoted in public markets.
	Credit Facility.  Estimated fair value is based on information from the Company’s bankers regarding relevant pricing for trading activity among the Company’s lending institutions.
	8% Senior Notes.  Estimated fair value is based on the average bid and ask price as quoted by the bank who served as underwriters in the sale of these notes.
	7⅛% Senior Notes.  Estimated fair value is based on the average bid and ask price as quoted by the bank who served as underwriters in the sale of these notes.
	5⅛% Senior Secured Notes.  Estimated fair value is based on the average bid and ask price as quoted by the bank who served as underwriters in the sale of these notes.
	Receivables Facility and other debt.  The carrying amount of the Receivables Facility and all other debt approximates fair value due to the nature of these obligations.
	Interest rate swaps.  The fair value of interest rate swap agreements is the amount at which they could be settled, based on estimates calculated by the Company using a discounted cash flow analysis based on observable market inputs and validated by comparison to estimates obtained from the counterparty. The Company incorporates credit valuation adjustments (“CVAs”) to appropriately reflect both its own nonperformance or credit risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance or credit risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of its interest rate swap agreements for the effect of nonperformance or credit risk, the Company has considered the impact of any netting features included in the agreements.

Fair_Value_Policies

Fair Value (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurement, Policy	'
	Fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement. Therefore, a fair value measurement should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, the Company utilizes the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumption about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy).
	The inputs used to measure fair value are classified into the following fair value hierarchy:
	Level 1:  Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2:  Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
	Level 3:  Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 includes values determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques reflecting the Company’s own assumptions.
	In instances where the determination of the fair value hierarchy measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment of factors specific to the asset or liability.

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Legal Costs, Policy	'
	Legal Matters.  The Company is a party to various legal proceedings incidental to its business. In the opinion of management, any ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, cash flows or results of operations. With respect to all litigation matters, the Company considers the likelihood of a negative outcome. If the Company determines the likelihood of a negative outcome is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated, the Company records an estimated loss for the expected outcome of the litigation and discloses that fact together with the amount accrued, if it was estimable. If the likelihood of a negative outcome is reasonably possible and the Company is able to determine an estimate of the possible loss or a range of loss, the Company discloses that fact together with the estimate of the possible loss or range of loss. However, it is difficult to predict the outcome or estimate a possible loss or range of loss in some instances because litigation is subject to significant uncertainties.

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Financial Information [Abstract]	'
Guarantor Financial Information Policy	'
	These condensed consolidating financial statements have been prepared and presented in accordance with SEC Regulation S-X Rule 3-10 “Financial Statements of Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities Registered or Being Registered.”
	The accounting policies used in the preparation of this financial information are consistent with those elsewhere in the consolidated financial statements of the Company, except as noted below:
	•Intercompany receivables and payables are presented gross in the supplemental condensed consolidating balance sheets.
	•Cash flows from intercompany transactions are presented in cash flows from financing activities, as changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net.
	•Income tax expense is allocated from the parent guarantor to the income producing operations (other guarantors and non-guarantors) and the issuer through stockholders’ equity. As this approach represents an allocation, the income tax expense allocation is considered non-cash for statement of cash flow purposes.
	•Interest expense, net has been presented to reflect net interest expense and interest income from outstanding long-term debt and intercompany balances.
	The Company’s intercompany activity consists primarily of daily cash transfers for purposes of cash management, the allocation of certain expenses and expenditures paid for by the parent on behalf of its subsidiaries, and the push down of investment in its subsidiaries. This activity also includes the intercompany transactions between consolidated entities as part of the Receivables Facility that is further discussed in Note 6.  The Company’s subsidiaries generally do not purchase services from one another; thus, the intercompany transactions do not represent revenue generating transactions. All intercompany transactions eliminate in consolidation.
	From time to time, the Company sells and/or repurchases noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries, which may change subsidiaries between guarantors and non-guarantors. Amounts for prior periods are revised to reflect the status of guarantors or non-guarantors as of December 31, 2013.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign2

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Operating Revenues, Net of Contractual Allowances and Discounts (But Before the Provision for Bad Debts)	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Medicare	$	3,681,975		$	3,878,150		$	3,572,407
	Medicaid		1,442,120			1,423,761			1,285,420
	Managed Care and other third-party payors		7,705,827			7,534,971			6,920,068
	Self-pay		2,022,703			1,909,877			1,602,686
	Total	$	14,852,625		$	14,746,759		$	13,380,581
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
				Change in Fair			Change in Fair			Change in		Accumulated
				Value of			Value of			Unrecognized		Other
				Interest Rate			Available for			Pension Cost		Comprehensive
				Swaps			Sale Securities			Components		Income (Loss)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011		$	-162,791		$	1,576		$	-23,264	$	-184,479
	2012 activity, net of tax			46,409			3,012			-10,252		39,169
	Balance as of December 31, 2012			-116,382			4,588			-33,516		-145,310
	2013 activity, net of tax			60,304			2,181			15,320		77,805
	Balance as of December 31, 2013		$	-56,078		$	6,769		$	-18,196	$	-67,505

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp1

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Expense	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Effect on income from continuing operations before income taxes	$	-38,403		$	-40,896		$	-42,542
	Effect on net income	$	-24,040		$	-25,683		$	-27,014
						-27014
Schedule of Share-based Payment Awards, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected volatility	N/A			57.8	%		33.8	%
	Expected dividends	N/A			-			-
	Expected term	N/A			4.1 years			4 years
	Risk-free interest rate	N/A			0.66	%		1.63	%
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	'
							Weighted-		Aggregate
							Average		Intrinsic
				Weighted-			Remaining		Value as of
				Average			Contractual		December 31,
		Shares		Exercise Price			Term		2013
	Outstanding at December 31, 2010	7,834,332		$	32.08
	Granted	1,505,000			35.87
	Exercised	-623,341			30.34
	Forfeited and cancelled	-326,849			33.69
	Outstanding at December 31, 2011	8,389,142			32.83
	Granted	253,500			21.16
	Exercised	-1,050,772			19.85
	Forfeited and cancelled	-487,757			34.12
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012	7,104,113			34.25
	Granted	-			-
	Exercised	-3,299,859			33.53
	Forfeited and cancelled	-66,709			34.01
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	3,737,545		$	34.88		4.1 years		$	17,806
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	3,203,520		$	35.49		3.5 years		$	13,515
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock, Activity	'
				Weighted-
				Average Grant
		Shares		Date Fair Value
	Unvested at December 31, 2010	2,125,291		$	27.92
	Granted	1,109,949			37.57
	Vested	-1,009,959			27.40
	Forfeited	-17,669			35.68
	Unvested at December 31, 2011	2,207,612			32.95
	Granted	680,500			21.20
	Vested	-1,118,213			29.67
	Forfeited	-25,335			30.94
	Unvested at December 31, 2012	1,744,564			30.50
	Granted	836,088			41.55
	Vested	-945,894			32.22
	Forfeited	-27,269			37.09
	Unvested at December 31, 2013	1,607,489			35.13
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award, Activity	'
				Weighted-
				Average Grant
		Shares		Date Fair Value
	Unvested at December 31, 2010	53,388		$	26.11
	Granted	22,128			37.96
	Vested	-22,560			24.68
	Forfeited	-			-
	Unvested at December 31, 2011	52,956			31.67
	Granted	39,870			21.07
	Vested	-29,940			27.95
	Forfeited	-			-
	Unvested at December 31, 2012	62,886			26.72
	Granted	21,576			41.71
	Vested	-28,926			29.04
	Forfeited	-			-
	Unvested at December 31, 2013	55,536			31.33
Schedule of Directors' Fees Deferral Plan, Activity	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Directors’ fees earned and deferred into plan	$	130		$	110		$	220
	Share equivalent units		2,990			4,056			9,974

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_1

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Consolidated Pro Forma Operating Results	'
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012
						(Unaudited)
	Pro forma net operating revenues		$	12,818,956		$	13,120,413
	Pro forma net income			217,268			258,019
	Pro forma net income per share:
	Basic		$	1.52		$	2.89
	Diluted		$	1.51		$	2.87
Schedule of Net Operating Revenues and Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Net operating revenues	$	178,737		$	196,249		$	343,028
	Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale
	before income taxes		-32,259			-18,804			-23,300
	Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-8,000			-			-51,695
	Loss on sale, net		-			-			-4,301
	Loss from discontinued operations, before taxes		-40,259			-18,804			-79,296
	Income tax benefit		-15,084			-6,787			-14,055
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$	-25,175		$	-12,017		$	-65,241
Hospitals and Significant Practices Acquired [Member]	'
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation	'
			2013			2012
	Current assets			N/A		$	46,207
	Property and equipment			N/A			178,836
	Goodwill			N/A			106,269
	Intangible assets			N/A			2,522
	Other long-term assets			N/A			490
	Liabilities			N/A			34,463

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Goodwill	'
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013		2012
		Balance, beginning of year	$	4,388,429	$	4,245,136
		Goodwill acquired as part of acquisitions during current year		36,245		141,277
		Consideration and purchase price allocation adjustments
		for prior year’s acquisitions and other adjustments		-249		2,016
		Balance, end of year	$	4,424,425	$	4,388,429

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes for Income from Continuing Operations	'
			Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Current:
	Federal	$	27,427	$	99,298	$	27,624
	State		5,763		10,271		7,827
			33,190		109,569		35,451
	Deferred:
	Federal		59,479		57,488		104,923
	State		11,009		-3,031		1,219
			70,488		54,457		106,142
	Total provision for income taxes for income from continuing operations	$	103,678	$	164,026	$	141,593
Schedule of Reconciliation between the Statutory Federal Income Tax Rate and the Effective Tax Rate	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
		Amount		%		Amount		%		Amount		%
	Provision for income taxes at statutory
	federal rate	$	121,142	35.0	%	$	182,646	35.0	%	$	169,560	35.0	%
	State income taxes, net of federal
	income tax benefit		10,554	3.1			12,491	2.4			8,333	1.7
	Release of unrecognized tax benefit		-	-			-	-			-6,509	-1.3
	Net income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		-26,623	-7.7			-28,057	-5.4			-26,486	-5.5
	Change in valuation allowance		-	-			-1,233	-0.2			-	-
	Federal and state tax credits		-3,972	-1.1			-2,185	-0.4			-3,788	-0.8
	Other		2,577	0.7			364	0.1			483	0.1
	Provision for income taxes and
	effective tax rate for income from
	continuing operations	$	103,678	30.0	%	$	164,026	31.5	%	$	141,593	29.2	%
Schedule of Components of Deferred Income Taxes	'
		December 31,
		2013				2012
		Assets		Liabilities		Assets		Liabilities
	Net operating loss and credit carryforwards	$	186,519	$	-	$	170,521	$	-
	Property and equipment		-		820,035		-		762,387
	Self-insurance liabilities		125,367		-		124,842		-
	Intangibles		-		244,019		-		222,392
	Investments in unconsolidated affiliates		-		60,257		-		64,170
	Other liabilities		-		23,767		-		22,468
	Long-term debt and interest		-		21,256		-		28,920
	Accounts receivable		-		86,044		-		38,503
	Accrued expenses		53,011		-		55,203		-
	Other comprehensive income		47,265		-		102,242		-
	Stock-based compensation		22,813		-		31,504		-
	Deferred compensation		73,042		-		58,509		-
	Other		110,813		-		65,887		-
			618,830		1,255,378		608,708		1,138,840
	Valuation allowance		-171,364		-		-161,312		-
	Total deferred income taxes	$	447,466	$	1,255,378	$	447,396	$	1,138,840
Schedule of Reconciliation of the Total Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefit	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Unrecognized tax benefit, beginning of year	$	682	$	629	$	7,458
	Gross increases — tax positions in prior period		195		1,515		349
	Reductions — tax positions in prior period		-		-		-3,469
	Lapse of statute of limitations		-		-		-3,575
	Settlements		-402		-1,462		-134
	Unrecognized tax benefit, end of year	$	475	$	682	$	629

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Debt	'
		December 31,
		2013			2012
	Credit Facility:
	Term loan A	$	637,500		$	712,500
	Term loan B		3,412,584			3,619,062
	Revolving credit loans		-			-
	8% Senior Notes due 2019		2,020,346			2,022,829
	7⅛% Senior Notes due 2020		1,200,000			1,200,000
	5⅛% Senior Secured Notes due 2018		1,600,000			1,600,000
	Receivables Facility		500,000			300,000
	Capital lease obligations		46,066			47,951
	Other		36,887			38,940
	Total debt		9,453,383			9,541,282
	Less current maturities		-166,894			-89,902
	Total long-term debt	$	9,286,489		$	9,451,380
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	'
	Year			Amount
	2014		$	166,894
	2015			654,867
	2016			488,902
	2017			3,287,695
	2018			1,603,565
	Thereafter			3,231,114
	Total maturities			9,433,037
	Plus unamortized note premium			20,346
	Total long-term debt		$	9,453,383
Notes Payable to Banks [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	'
	Year			Amount
	2014		$	152,050
	2015			147,336
	2016			484,836
	2017			3,265,862
	2018			-
	Thereafter			-
	Total		$	4,050,084
Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Early Redemption Prices on Notes	'
	Period		Redemption Price
	November 15, 2015 to November 14, 2016		104.000	%
	November 15, 2016 to November 14, 2017		102.000	%
	November 15, 2017 to November 15, 2019		100.000	%
Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Early Redemption Prices on Notes	'
	Period		Redemption Price
	July 15, 2016 to July 14, 2017		103.563	%
	July 15, 2017 to July 14, 2018		101.781	%
	July 15, 2018 to July 15, 2020		100.000	%
Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Early Redemption Prices on Notes	'
	Period		Redemption Price
	August 15, 2015 to August 14, 2016		102.563	%
	August 15, 2016 to August 14, 2017		101.281	%
	August 15, 2017 to August 15, 2018		100.000	%

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments, by Balance Sheet Grouping	'
		December 31,
		2013						2012
		Carrying			Estimated Fair			Carrying			Estimated Fair
		Amount			Value			Amount			Value
	Assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	373,403		$	373,403		$	387,813		$	387,813
	Available-for-sale securities		64,869			64,869			56,376			56,376
	Trading securities		37,999			37,999			34,696			34,696
	Liabilities:
	Credit Facility		4,050,084			4,084,983			4,331,562			4,357,910
	8% Senior Notes		2,020,346			2,172,440			2,022,829			2,185,220
	7⅛% Senior Notes		1,200,000			1,245,720			1,200,000			1,285,848
	5⅛% Senior Secured Notes		1,600,000			1,662,160			1,600,000			1,674,480
	Receivables Facility and other debt		536,887			536,887			338,940			338,940
Schedule of Interest Rate Swaps	'
	Swap #		Notional Amount (in thousands)			Fixed Interest Rate			Termination Date		Fair Value (in thousands)
	1		$	100,000		5.231	%		July 25, 2014		$	2,818
	2			100,000		5.231	%		July 25, 2014			2,818
	3			200,000		5.160	%		July 25, 2014			5,556
	4			75,000		5.041	%		July 25, 2014			2,033
	5			125,000		5.022	%		July 25, 2014			3,374
	6			100,000		2.621	%		July 25, 2014			1,336
	7			100,000		3.110	%		July 25, 2014			1,613
	8			100,000		3.258	%		July 25, 2014			1,697
	9			200,000		2.693	%		26-Oct-14			3,977
	10			300,000		3.447	%		August 8, 2016			21,597
	11			200,000		3.429	%		August 19, 2016			14,403
	12			100,000		3.401	%		August 19, 2016			7,130
	13			200,000		3.500	%		August 30, 2016			14,884
	14			100,000		3.005	%		November 30, 2016			6,376
	15			200,000		2.055	%		July 25, 2019			-954	-1
	16			200,000		2.059	%		July 25, 2019			-895	-2
Schedule of Pre-tax Loss Recognized as a Component of Other Comprehensive Income	'
			Amount of Pre-Tax Loss Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships		Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012
	Interest rate swaps		$	-5,970		$	-69,020
Schedule of Effective Portion of the Pre-tax Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Interest Expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income	'
			Amount of Pre-Tax Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion)
	Location of Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion)		Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012
	Interest expense, net		$	99,808		$	141,648
Schedule of the Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet	'
			Asset Derivatives											Liability Derivatives
			31-Dec-13					31-Dec-12						31-Dec-13			31-Dec-12
			Balance Sheet Location			Fair Value		Balance Sheet Location			Fair Value			Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value	Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments		Other assets, net		$	-		Other assets, net		$	-			Other long-term liabilities	$	87,763	Other long-term liabilities	$	181,600

Fair_Value_Tables

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	'
		31-Dec-13		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Available-for-sale securities	$	64,869	$	64,869	$	-	$	-
	Trading securities		37,999		37,999		-		-
	Total assets	$	102,868	$	102,868	$	-	$	-
	Fair value of interest rate swap agreements	$	87,763	$	-	$	87,763	$	-
	Total liabilities	$	87,763	$	-	$	87,763	$	-
		31-Dec-12		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Available-for-sale securities	$	56,376	$	56,376	$	-	$	-
	Trading securities		34,696		34,696		-		-
	Total assets	$	91,072	$	91,072	$	-	$	-
	Fair value of interest rate swap agreements	$	181,600	$	-	$	181,600	$	-
	Total liabilities	$	181,600	$	-	$	181,600	$	-

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
Schedule of future minimum lease payments for operating and capital leases	'
	Year Ended December 31,	Operating (1)		Capital
	2014	$	186,715	$	9,289
	2015		158,039		7,428
	2016		119,403		6,060
	2017		89,049		5,663
	2018		61,675		5,533
	Thereafter		153,763		46,949
	Total minimum future payments	$	768,644		80,922
	Less:  Imputed interest				-34,856
	Total capital lease obligations				46,066
	Less:  Current portion				-5,439
	Long-term capital lease obligations			$	40,627

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Impact of Noncontrolling Interest to Stockholders' Equity	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
	Inc. stockholders	$	141,203	$	265,640	$	201,948
	Transfers to the noncontrolling interests:
	Net decrease in Community Health Systems, Inc. paid-in
	capital for  purchase of subsidiary partnership interests		-768		-21,537		-4,556
	Net transfers to the noncontrolling interests		-768		-21,537		-4,556
	Change to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’ equity
	from net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
	Inc. stockholders and transfers to noncontrolling interests	$	140,435	$	244,103	$	197,392

Earnings_per_Share_Tables

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations, net of taxes	$	242,443	$	357,820	$	342,864
	Less: Income from continuing operations attributable
	to noncontrolling interests, net of taxes		76,065		80,163		75,675
	Income from continuing operations attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders — basic and diluted	$	166,378	$	277,657	$	267,189
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$	-25,175	$	-12,017	$	-65,241
	Less: Loss from discontinued operations attributable
	to noncontrolling interests, net of taxes		-		-		-
	Loss from discontinued operations attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders — basic and diluted	$	-25,175	$	-12,017	$	-65,241
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding — basic		92,633,332		89,242,949		89,966,933
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Restricted stock awards		448,567		335,664		327,652
	Employee stock options		714,560		212,227		361,554
	Other equity-based awards		18,554		16,097		10,209
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding — diluted		93,815,013		89,806,937		90,666,348
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Dilutive securities outstanding not included in
	the computation of earnings per
	share because their effect is antidilutive:
	Employee stock options and restricted stock awards		-		7,071,896		6,432,281

Equity_Investments_Tables

Equity Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity Investments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Financial Information Related to Unconsolidated Entities-Balance Sheet	'
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Current assets	$	235,679	$	240,086
	Noncurrent assets		790,297		847,484
	Total assets	$	1,025,976	$	1,087,570
	Current liabilities	$	99,330	$	89,933
	Noncurrent liabilities		1,616		1,941
	Members’ equity		924,909		995,569
	Noncontrolling interest		121		127
	Total liabilities and equity	$	1,025,976	$	1,087,570
Schedule of Financial Information Related to Unconsolidated Entities Included in Consolidated Statement of Income	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Revenues	$	1,246,183	$	1,236,915	$	1,230,146
	Operating costs and expenses		1,116,745		1,079,055		1,068,212
	Income from continuing operations before taxes		129,576		157,762		162,124

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information by Segment	'
		December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net operating revenues:
	Hospital operations	$	12,637,162	$	12,664,967	$	11,548,335
	Corporate and all other		181,794		167,769		159,395
	Total	$	12,818,956	$	12,832,736	$	11,707,730
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes:
	Hospital operations	$	575,307	$	881,962	$	742,858
	Corporate and all other		-229,186		-360,116		-258,401
	Total	$	346,121	$	521,846	$	484,457
	Expenditures for segment assets:
	Hospital operations	$	582,910	$	730,445	$	738,420
	Corporate and all other		31,082		38,345		38,293
	Total	$	613,992	$	768,790	$	776,713
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Total assets:
	Hospital operations	$	15,594,720	$	15,216,827
	Corporate and all other		1,522,575		1,389,508
	Total	$	17,117,295	$	16,606,335

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Tab

Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component	'
						Change in
		Change in Fair		Change in Fair		Unrecognized		Accumulated Other
		Value of Interest		Value of Available		Pension Cost		Comprehensive
		Rate Swaps		for Sale Securities		Components		Income (Loss)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	-116,382	$	4,588	$	-33,516	$	-145,310
	Other comprehensive (loss)
	income before reclassifications		-3,837		2,181		12,479		10,823
	Amounts reclassified from
	accumulated other
	comprehensive income (loss)		64,141		-		2,841		66,982
	Net current-period other				.
	comprehensive income		60,304		2,181		15,320		77,805
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	-56,078	$	6,769	$	-18,196	$	-67,505
Schedule of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
		Amount reclassified
		from AOCL		Affected line item in the
	Details about accumulated other	Year Ended		statement where net
	comprehensive income (loss) components	31-Dec-13		income is presented
	Gains and losses on cash flow hedges
	Interest rate swaps	$	-99,808	Interest expense, net
			35,667	Tax benefit
		$	-64,141	Net of tax
	Amortization of defined benefit pension items
	Prior service costs	$	-1,143	Salaries and benefits
	Actuarial losses		-3,382	Salaries and benefits
			-4,525	Total before tax
			1,684	Tax benefit
		$	-2,841	Net of tax

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Schedule Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Liability Balances in Connection with Probable Contingencies	'
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Balance, beginning of year	$	22,612	$	10,562
	Government settlement and related costs		101,500		-
	Other legal settlements		4,654		27,538
	Cash payments		-10,049		-15,488
	Balance, end of year	$	118,717	$	22,612

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud1

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	'
			Quarter
			1st		2nd		3rd		4th			Total
			(in thousands, except share and per share data)
	Year ended December 31, 2013:
	Net operating revenues		$	3,262,031	$	3,191,254	$	3,174,416	$	3,191,255	$	12,818,956
	Income from continuing operations
	before income taxes			148,768		74,195		34,827		88,331		346,121
	Income from continuing operations			99,344		53,245		27,853		62,001		242,443
	Loss from discontinued operations			-3,021		-6,160		-6,255		-9,739		-25,175
	Net income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc.		$	79,174	$	29,753	$	4,095	$	28,181	$	141,203
	Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders:
	Continuing operations		$	0.90	$	0.39	$	0.11	$	0.41	$	1.80
	Discontinued operations			-0.03		-0.07		-0.07		-0.1		-0.27
	Net income		$	0.87	$	0.32	$	0.04	$	0.30	$	1.52
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders:
	Continuing operations		$	0.89	$	0.38	$	0.11	$	0.40	$	1.77
	Discontinued operations			-0.03		-0.07		-0.07		-0.1		-0.27
	Net income		$	0.86	$	0.32	$	0.04	$	0.30	$	1.51
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:
	Basic			91,002,615		92,866,370		93,259,027		93,372,398		92,633,332
	Diluted			91,998,993		94,109,368		94,483,596		94,703,458		93,815,013
	Year ended December 31, 2012:
	Net operating revenues		$	3,243,663	$	3,196,097	$	3,163,577	$	3,229,399	$	12,832,736
	Income from continuing operations
	before income taxes			146,089		159,213		90,575		125,969		521,846
	Income from continuing operations			100,070		106,977		62,665		88,108		357,820
	Loss from discontinued operations			-818		-4,810		-3,907		-2,482		-12,017
	Net income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc.		$	75,474	$	83,359	$	44,233	$	62,574	$	265,640
	Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders(1):
	Continuing operations		$	0.86	$	0.99	$	0.54	$	0.72	$	3.11
	Discontinued operations			-0.01		-0.05		-0.04		-0.03		-0.13
	Net income		$	0.85	$	0.94	$	0.50	$	0.70	$	2.98
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to
	Community Health Systems, Inc. common
	stockholders(1):
	Continuing operations		$	0.86	$	0.98	$	0.53	$	0.72	$	3.09
	Discontinued operations			-0.01		-0.05		-0.04		-0.03		-0.13
	Net income		$	0.85	$	0.93	$	0.49	$	0.69	$	2.96
	Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:
	Basic			88,674,779		89,147,472		89,259,950		89,882,380		89,242,949
	Diluted			88,852,704		89,530,639		90,009,113		90,828,119		89,806,937
	___________
		-1		Total per share amounts may not add due to rounding.

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli1

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Financial Information [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income	'
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	Operating revenues (net of contractual
	allowances and discounts)	$	-	$	-14,923	$	9,487,566	$	5,379,982	$	-	$	14,852,625
	Provision for bad debts		-		-		1,394,111		639,558		-		2,033,669
	Net operating revenues		-		-14,923		8,093,455		4,740,424		-		12,818,956
	Operating costs and expenses:
	Salaries and benefits		-		-		3,591,443		2,515,948		-		6,107,391
	Supplies		-		-		1,284,542		690,694		-		1,975,236
	Other operating expenses		-		240		1,824,811		991,582		-		2,816,633
	Government settlement and related costs		-		-		101,500		-		-		101,500
	Electronic health records incentive reimbursement		-		-		-104,922		-57,120		-		-162,042
	Rent		-		-		158,541		120,344		-		278,885
	Depreciation and amortization		-		-		521,557		249,799		-		771,356
	Total operating costs and expenses		-		240		7,377,472		4,511,247		-		11,888,959
	Income from operations		-		-15,163		715,983		229,177		-		929,997
	Interest expense, net		-		-4,749		554,861		63,010		-		613,122
	Loss from early extinguishment of debt		-		1,295		-		-		-		1,295
	Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		-141,203		-138,906		-85,859		-		323,327		-42,641
	Impairment of long-lived assets		-		-		12,100		-		-		12,100
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes		141,203		127,197		234,881		166,167		-323,327		346,121
	Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		-		-14,006		85,208		32,476		-		103,678
	Income from continuing operations		141,203		141,203		149,673		133,691		-323,327		242,443
	Discontinued operations, net of taxes:
	Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale		-		-		-12,980		-7,633		-		-20,613
	Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-		-		-4,562		-		-		-4,562
	Loss on sale, net		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		-		-		-17,542		-7,633		-		-25,175
	Net income		141,203		141,203		132,131		126,058		-323,327		217,268
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		76,065		-		76,065
	Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
	Inc. stockholders	$	141,203	$	141,203	$	132,131	$	49,993	$	-323,327	$	141,203
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	Operating revenues (net of contractual
	allowances and discounts)	$	-	$	-9,653	$	9,413,925	$	5,342,487	$	-	$	14,746,759
	Provision for bad debts		-		-		1,292,852		621,171		-		1,914,023
	Net operating revenues		-		-9,653		8,121,073		4,721,316		-		12,832,736
	Operating costs and expenses:
	Salaries and benefits		-		-		3,552,225		2,439,821		-		5,992,046
	Supplies		-		-		1,281,193		671,725		-		1,952,918
	Other operating expenses		-		603		1,828,771		976,564		-		2,805,938
	Government settlement and related costs		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Electronic health records incentive reimbursement		-		-		-78,419		-44,277		-		-122,696
	Rent		-		-		149,089		115,326		-		264,415
	Depreciation and amortization		-		-		472,919		240,973		-		713,892
	Total operating costs and expenses		-		603		7,205,778		4,400,132		-		11,606,513
	Income from operations		-		-10,256		915,295		321,184		-		1,226,223
	Interest expense, net		-		58,726		503,484		58,747		-		620,957
	Loss from early extinguishment of debt		-		115,453		-		-		-		115,453
	Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		-265,640		-348,878		-150,606		-		723,091		-42,033
	Impairment of long-lived assets		-		-		10,000		-		-		10,000
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes		265,640		164,443		552,417		262,437		-723,091		521,846
	Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		-		-101,197		199,423		65,800		-		164,026
	Income from continuing operations		265,640		265,640		352,994		196,637		-723,091		357,820
	Discontinued operations, net of taxes:
	Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale		-		-		-5,438		-6,579		-		-12,017
	Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Loss on sale, net		-		-		-		-		-		-
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		-		-		-5,438		-6,579		-		-12,017
Net income		265,640		265,640		347,556		190,058		-723,091		345,803
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		80,163		-		80,163
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
Inc. stockholders	$	265,640	$	265,640	$	347,556	$	109,895	$	-723,091	$	265,640
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Operating revenues (net of contractual
allowances and discounts)	$	-	$	-	$	8,489,187	$	4,891,394	$	-	$	13,380,581
Provision for bad debts		-		-		1,137,662		535,189		-		1,672,851
Net operating revenues		-		-		7,351,525		4,356,205		-		11,707,730
Operating costs and expenses:
Salaries and benefits		-		-		3,213,478		2,253,942		-		5,467,420
Supplies		-		-		1,165,970		645,844		-		1,811,814
Other operating expenses		-		-		1,595,918		862,362		-		2,458,280
Government settlement and related costs		-		-		-		-		-		-
Electronic health records incentive reimbursement		-		-		-43,959		-18,922		-		-62,881
Rent		-		-		134,862		111,356		-		246,218
Depreciation and amortization		-		-		413,587		229,781		-		643,368
Total operating costs and expenses		-		-		6,479,856		4,084,363		-		10,564,219
Income from operations		-		-		871,669		271,842		-		1,143,511
Interest expense, net		-		87,095		494,185		61,246		-		642,526
Loss from early extinguishment of debt		-		66,019		-		-		-		66,019
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		-201,948		-287,903		-65,846		-		506,206		-49,491
Impairment of long-lived assets		-		-		-		-		-		-
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		201,948		134,789		443,330		210,596		-506,206		484,457
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes		-		-67,159		160,045		48,707		-		141,593
Income from continuing operations		201,948		201,948		283,285		161,889		-506,206		342,864
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale		-		-		-1,950		-12,789		-		-14,739
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale		-		-		-		-47,930		-		-47,930
Loss on sale, net		-		-		-		-2,572		-		-2,572
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes		-		-		-1,950		-63,291		-		-65,241
Net income		201,948		201,948		281,335		98,598		-506,206		277,623
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		75,675		-		75,675
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems,
Inc. stockholders	$	201,948	$	201,948	$	281,335	$	22,923	$	-506,206	$	201,948
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
			(In thousands)
	Net income	$	141,203	$	141,203	$	132,131	$	126,058	$	-323,327	$	217,268
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
	Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax		60,304		60,304		-		-		-60,304		60,304
	Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net
	of tax		2,181		2,181		2,181		-		-4,362		2,181
	Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension
	cost components, net of tax		15,320		15,320		15,320		-		-30,640		15,320
	Other comprehensive income (loss)		77,805		77,805		17,501		-		-95,306		77,805
	Comprehensive income		219,008		219,008		149,632		126,058		-418,633		295,073
	Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		76,065		-		76,065
	Comprehensive income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$	219,008	$	219,008	$	149,632	$	49,993	$	-418,633	$	219,008
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
			(In thousands)
	Net income	$	265,640	$	265,640	$	347,556	$	190,058	$	-723,091	$	345,803
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
	Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax		46,409		46,409		-		-		-46,409		46,409
	Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net
	of tax		3,012		3,012		3,012		-		-6,024		3,012
	Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension
	cost components, net of tax		-10,252		-10,252		-10,252		-		20,504		-10,252
	Other comprehensive income (loss)		39,169		39,169		-7,240		-		-31,929		39,169
	Comprehensive income		304,809		304,809		340,316		190,058		-755,020		384,972
	Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		80,163		-		80,163
	Comprehensive income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$	304,809	$	304,809	$	340,316	$	109,895	$	-755,020	$	304,809
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income
	Year Ended December 31, 2011
		Parent Guarantor		Issuer		Other Guarantors		Non - Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
			(In thousands)
	Net income	$	201,948	$	201,948	$	281,335	$	98,598	$	-506,206	$	277,623
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:
	Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax		55,145		55,145		-		-		-55,145		55,145
	Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net
	of tax		-960		-960		-960		-		1,920		-960
	Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension
	cost components, net of tax		-7,737		-7,737		-7,737		-		15,474		-7,737
	Other comprehensive income (loss)		46,448		46,448		-8,697		-		-37,751		46,448
	Comprehensive income		248,396		248,396		272,638		98,598		-543,957		324,071
	Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
	noncontrolling interests		-		-		-		75,675		-		75,675
	Comprehensive income attributable to Community
	Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$	248,396	$	248,396	$	272,638	$	22,923	$	-543,957	$	248,396
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet	'
	Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
	31-Dec-13
		Parent				Other		Non -
		Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	ASSETS
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	-	$	-	$	238,336	$	135,067	$	-	$	373,403
	Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance								-
	for doubtful accounts		-		-		865,714		1,456,841		-		2,322,555
	Supplies		-		-		256,130		115,185		-		371,315
	Prepaid income taxes		107,077		-		-		-		-		107,077
	Deferred income taxes		101,372		-		-		-		-		101,372
	Prepaid expenses and taxes		-		112		97,940		28,920		-		126,972
	Other current assets		-		-		264,053		81,216		-		345,269
	Total current assets		208,449		112		1,722,173		1,817,229		-		3,747,963
	Intercompany receivable		579,793		9,540,603		4,529,246		3,811,213		-18,460,855		-
	Property and equipment, net		-		-		4,656,968		2,393,683		-		7,050,651
	Goodwill		-		-		2,532,570		1,891,855		-		4,424,425
	Other assets, net		-		144,148		1,453,248		828,233		-531,373		1,894,256
	Net investment in subsidiaries		3,193,971		9,335,210		4,029,631		-		-16,558,812		-
	Total assets	$	3,982,213	$	19,020,073	$	18,923,836	$	10,742,213	$	-35,551,040	$	17,117,295
	LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
	Current liabilities:
	Current maturities of long-term debt	$	-	$	152,050	$	12,458	$	2,386	$	-	$	166,894
	Accounts payable		-		19		734,398		214,698		-		949,115
	Deferred income taxes		3,183		-		-		-		-		3,183
	Accrued interest		-		111,330		124		437		-		111,891
	Accrued liabilities		4,178		-		870,532		352,124		-		1,226,834
	Total current liabilities		7,361		263,399		1,617,512		569,645		-		2,457,917
	Long-term debt		-		8,718,379		50,856		517,254		-		9,286,489
	Intercompany payable		-		6,225,192		13,059,089		8,264,665		-27,548,946		-
	Deferred income taxes		906,101		-		-		-		-		906,101
	Other long-term liabilities		924		619,135		671,166		217,056		-531,373		976,908
	Total liabilities		914,386		15,826,105		15,398,623		9,568,620		-28,080,319		13,627,415
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests in
	equity of consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		358,410		-		358,410
	Equity:
	Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’
	equity:
	Preferred stock		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Common stock		960		-		1		2		-3		960
	Additional paid-in capital		1,255,855		1,175,265		1,274,420		594,989		-3,044,674		1,255,855
	Treasury stock, at cost		-6,678		-		-		-		-		-6,678
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)
	income		-67,505		-67,505		-11,425		-		78,930		-67,505
	Retained earnings		1,885,195		2,086,208		2,262,217		156,549		-4,504,974		1,885,195
	Total Community Health Systems, Inc.
	stockholders’ equity		3,067,827		3,193,968		3,525,213		751,540		-7,470,721		3,067,827
	Noncontrolling interests in equity of
	consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		63,643		-		63,643
	Total equity		3,067,827		3,193,968		3,525,213		815,183		-7,470,721		3,131,470
	Total liabilities and equity	$	3,982,213	$	19,020,073	$	18,923,836	$	10,742,213	$	-35,551,040	$	17,117,295
	Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
	31-Dec-12
		Parent				Other		Non -
		Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	ASSETS
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	-	$	-	$	271,559	$	116,254	$	-	$	387,813
	Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance
	for doubtful accounts		-		-		654,894		1,379,191		-		2,034,085
Supplies		-		-		250,316		111,843		-		362,159
Prepaid income taxes		49,888		-		-		-		-		49,888
Deferred income taxes		117,045		-		-		-		-		117,045
Prepaid expenses and taxes		-		115		85,383		39,270		-		124,768
Other current assets		-		-		249,962		93,422		-		343,384
Total current assets		166,933		115		1,512,114		1,739,980		-		3,419,142
Intercompany receivable		406,534		9,837,904		3,723,120		3,262,823		-17,230,381		-
Property and equipment, net		-		-		4,593,286		2,481,131		-		7,074,417
Goodwill		-		-		2,527,041		1,861,388		-		4,388,429
Other assets, net		-		165,236		1,357,771		829,114		-627,774		1,724,347
Net investment in subsidiaries		2,974,965		8,686,242		3,427,182		-		-15,088,389		-
Total assets	$	3,548,432	$	18,689,497	$	17,140,514	$	10,174,436	$	-32,946,544	$	16,606,335
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	-	$	75,679	$	11,094	$	3,129	$	-	$	89,902
Accounts payable		-		74		579,001		240,568		-		819,643
Accrued interest		-		110,091		295		316		-		110,702
Accrued liabilities		7,580		-		752,949		363,022		-		1,123,551
Total current liabilities		7,580		185,844		1,343,339		607,035		-		2,143,798
Long-term debt		-		9,079,392		53,186		318,802		-		9,451,380
Intercompany payable		-		5,639,928		11,693,119		7,822,313		-25,155,360		-
Deferred income taxes		808,489		-		-		-		-		808,489
Other long-term liabilities		1,156		809,372		675,290		180,437		-627,774		1,038,481
Total liabilities		817,225		15,714,536		13,764,934		8,928,587		-25,783,134		13,442,148
Redeemable noncontrolling interests in
equity of consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		367,666		-		367,666
Equity:
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders’
equity:
Preferred stock		-		-		-		-		-		-
Common stock		929		-		1		2		-3		929
Additional paid-in capital		1,138,274		1,176,342		1,283,499		690,929		-3,150,770		1,138,274
Treasury stock, at cost		-6,678		-		-		-		-		-6,678
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)
income		-145,310		-145,310		-28,927		-		174,237		-145,310
Retained earnings		1,743,992		1,943,929		2,121,007		121,938		-4,186,874		1,743,992
Total Community Health Systems, Inc.
stockholders’ equity		2,731,207		2,974,961		3,375,580		812,869		-7,163,410		2,731,207
Noncontrolling interests in equity of
consolidated subsidiaries		-		-		-		65,314		-		65,314
Total equity		2,731,207		2,974,961		3,375,580		878,183		-7,163,410		2,796,521
Total liabilities and equity	$	3,548,432	$	18,689,497	$	17,140,514	$	10,174,436	$	-32,946,544	$	16,606,335
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows	'
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Parent				Other		Non -
		Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	Net cash (used in) provided by operating
	activities	$	-78,754	$	21,281	$	871,489	$	274,703	$	-	$	1,088,719
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Acquisitions of facilities and other related
	equipment		-		-		-11,894		-31,849		-		-43,743
	Purchases of property and equipment		-		-		-491,863		-122,129		-		-613,992
	Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		-		-		3,540		2,869		-		6,409
	Increase in other investments		-		-		-275,149		-64,793		-		-339,942
	Net cash used in investing activities		-		-		-775,366		-215,902		-		-991,268
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Proceeds from exercise of stock options		110,660		-		-		-		-		110,660
	Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll
	tax withholding requirements		-14,896		-		-		-		-		-14,896
	Stock buy-back		-27,133		-		-		-		-		-27,133
	Deferred financing costs		-		-13,199		-		-		-		-13,199
	Excess tax benefit relating to
	stock-based compensation		6,715		-		-		-		-		6,715
	Payment of special dividend to stockholders		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint
	ventures		-		-		-		289		-		289
	Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint
	ventures		-		-		-		-9,304		-		-9,304
	Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint
	ventures		-		-		-		-75,583		-		-75,583
	Changes in intercompany balances with
	affiliates, net		3,408		274,075		-124,384		-153,099		-		-
	Borrowings under credit agreements		-		1,170,000		23,710		865		-		1,194,575
	Issuance of long-term debt		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Proceeds from receivables facility		-		-		-		338,000		-		338,000
	Repayments of long-term indebtedness		-		-1,452,157		-28,672		-141,156		-		-1,621,985
	Net cash provided by (used in) financing
	activities		78,754		-21,281		-129,346		-39,988		-		-111,861
	Net change in cash and cash equivalents		-		-		-33,223		18,813		-		-14,410
	Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		-		-		271,559		116,254		-		387,813
	Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	-	$	-	$	238,336	$	135,067	$	-	$	373,403
	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Parent				Other		Non -
		Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
		(In thousands)
	Net cash (used in) provided by operating
	activities	$	-55,122	$	-71,683	$	1,156,708	$	250,217	$	-	$	1,280,120
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Acquisitions of facilities and other related
	equipment		-		-		-309,731		-12,584		-		-322,315
	Purchases of property and equipment		-		-		-540,816		-227,974		-		-768,790
	Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		-		-		2,756		3,141		-		5,897
	Increase in other investments		-		10,000		-231,326		-76,668		-		-297,994
	Net cash used in investing activities		-		10,000		-1,079,117		-314,085		-		-1,383,202
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Proceeds from exercise of stock options		20,858		-		-		-		-		20,858
	Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll
	tax withholding requirements		-9,314		-		-		-		-		-9,314
	Stock buy-back		-		-		-		-		-		-
	Deferred financing costs		-		-141,219		-		-		-		-141,219
	Excess tax benefit relating to
	stock-based compensation		3,973		-		-		-		-		3,973
	Payment of special dividend to stockholders		-22,535		-		-		-		-		-22,535
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		535		-		535
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-44,287		-		-44,287
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-68,344		-		-68,344
Changes in intercompany balances with
affiliates, net		62,140		-124,560		189,076		-126,656		-		-
Borrowings under credit agreements		-		3,955,000		20,866		-		-		3,975,866
Issuance of long-term debt		-		3,825,000		-		-		-		3,825,000
Proceeds from receivables facility		-		-		-		350,000		-		350,000
Repayments of long-term indebtedness		-		-7,452,538		-24,894		-52,071		-		-7,529,503
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities		55,122		61,683		185,048		59,177		-		361,030
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		-		-		262,639		-4,691		-		257,948
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		-		-		8,920		120,945		-		129,865
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	-	$	-	$	271,559	$	116,254	$	-	$	387,813
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Parent				Other		Non -
	Guarantor		Issuer		Guarantors		Guarantors		Eliminations		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating
activities	$	-41,780	$	-111,001	$	918,947	$	495,742	$	-	$	1,261,908
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of facilities and other related
equipment		-		-		-370,243		-45,117		-		-415,360
Purchases of property and equipment		-		-		-440,754		-335,959		-		-776,713
Proceeds from disposition of hospitals and other
ancillary operations		-		-		-		173,387		-		173,387
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		-		-		2,283		8,877		-		11,160
Increase in other investments		-		-10,000		-129,852		-48,397		-		-188,249
Net cash used in investing activities		-		-10,000		-938,566		-247,209		-		-1,195,775
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from exercise of stock options		18,910		-		-		-		-		18,910
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll
tax withholding requirements		-13,311		-		-		-		-		-13,311
Stock buy-back		-85,790		-		-		-		-		-85,790
Deferred financing costs		-		-19,352		-		-		-		-19,352
Excess tax benefit relating to
stock-based compensation		5,290		-		-		-		-		5,290
Payment of special dividend to stockholders		-		-		-		-		-		-
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		1,229		-		1,229
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-13,022		-		-13,022
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint
ventures		-		-		-		-56,094		-		-56,094
Changes in intercompany balances with
affiliates, net		116,681		209,056		-175,332		-150,405		-		-
Borrowings under credit agreements		-		560,000		18,236		2,145		-2,145		578,236
Issuance of long-term debt		-		1,000,000		-		-		-		1,000,000
Proceeds from receivables facility		-		-		-		-		-		-
Repayments of long-term indebtedness		-		-1,628,703		-23,200		-1,775		2,145		-1,651,533
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities		41,780		121,001		-180,296		-217,922		-		-235,437
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		-		-		-199,915		30,611		-		-169,304
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		-		-		208,835		90,334		-		299,169
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	-	$	-	$	8,920	$	120,945	$	-	$	129,865

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign3

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jun. 30, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

item

item

Subsequent Event [Member]

Medicare [Member]

Medicare [Member]

Electronic Health Records Incentive Reimbursements [Member]

Electronic Health Records Incentive Reimbursements [Member]

Capitalized Internal Use Software, Significant System Conversions [Member]

Capitalized Internal Use Software, Significant System Conversions [Member]

Capitalized Internal Use Software, Except Significant System Conversions [Member]

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Except Capitalized Internal-Use Software [Member]

Physician recruitment contracts [Member]

Physician recruitment contracts [Member]

Land Improvements [Member]

Land Improvements [Member]

Land Improvements [Member]

Building and Building Improvements [Member]

Building and Building Improvements [Member]

Building and Building Improvements [Member]

Furniture and Fixtures [Member]

Furniture and Fixtures [Member]

Furniture and Fixtures [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]

state

agreement

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Weighted Average [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Weighted Average [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Weighted Average [Member]

Texas [Member]

Texas [Member]

Texas [Member]

Pennsylvania [Member]

Pennsylvania [Member]

Pennsylvania [Member]

Indiana [Member]

Indiana [Member]

Indiana [Member]

Business Description [Abstract]

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Number of hospitals owned and leased by the Company

129

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Number of stand alone rehabilitation or psychiatric hospitals

4

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Number of licensed beds

19,632

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Number of states in which we operate

28

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Operating revenues, net of contractual allowances and discounts (but before the provision for bad debts) as a percentage of consolidated operating revenues

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15.00%

14.70%

13.30%

13.10%

12.70%

11.60%

10.60%

10.70%

10.50%

Cost of Revenue, Policy [Abstract]

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Corporate Office Costs

$180,800,000

$214,800,000

$183,400,000

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Stock-based compensation expense

38,403,000

40,896,000

42,542,000

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Marketable Securities, Policy [Abstract]

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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax

2,181,000

3,012,000

-960,000

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Property and Equipment, Policy [Abstract]

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Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life

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'

'

'

'

'

'

'2 years

'15 years

'14 years

'5 years

'50 years

'24 years

'4 years

'18 years

'8 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Construction in Progress, Gross

231,800,000

173,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Costs Capitalized

10,500,000

23,900,000

21,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Purchases of property and equipment accrued in accounts payable

141,600,000

50,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other Assets, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'8 years

'10 years

'3 years

'8 years

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Third-Party Reimbursement [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of net operating revenues related to services rendered to patients covered by the Medicare and Medicaid programs

34.50%

36.00%

36.30%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of revenues from Medicare outlier payments included in amounts received from Medicare

0.46%

0.47%

0.44%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reimbursement Settlement and Payment Included in Net Operating Revenues

'

105,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds From Reimbursement Settlement Net of Related Legal Fees Paid

'

104,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unfavorable Adjustment Related To the Revised Supplemental Security Income Ratios Utilized for Calculating Medicare Disproportionate Share Hospital Reimbursements

'

21,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amounts due to third party payors

60,500,000

80,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amounts due from third party payors

118,000,000

119,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Operating Revenues, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Provision for contractual allowance included in net operating revenues

52,600,000,000

48,500,000,000

41,600,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Value of administrative and other discounts provided to self-pay patients included in contractual allowances

1,300,000,000

1,100,000,000

839,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Value of charity care services at the Company's standard charges included in contractual allowances

681,200,000

668,500,000

622,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated cost incurred by Company to provide charity care services

116,300,000

120,400,000

120,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage reserved for all non-self-pay payors accounts aging over 365 days from the date of discharge

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of days from the date of discharge over which all accounts are reserved 100%

'365 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Electronic Health Records Reimbursement, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Electronic health records incentive reimbursement under HITECH

162,042,000

122,696,000

62,881,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Electronic Health Records Incentive Reimbursement, Cash Received

203,100,000

141,000,000

37,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred Revenue

'

'

'

'

'

'

90,200,000

33,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Physician Income Guarantees, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Physicians recruitment agreement period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Term of Physician Recruitment Contract

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net

20,500,000

26,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

33,000,000

30,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Concentration of Credit Risk, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounts receivable, net of contractual allowances

2,322,555,000

2,034,085,000

'

'

359,600,000

315,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounts receivable, net of contractual allowances, from Medicare as a percentage of consolidated net accounts receivable, before allowance for doubtful accounts

'

'

'

'

7.50%

7.40%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of long-lived assets

$12,100,000

$10,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of hospitals impaired

4

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Operating Segments

2

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reclassifications, Policy [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of hospitals with a definitive purchase agreement

'

'

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign4

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Operating Revenue, Net of Contractual Allowances and Discounts (But Before the Provision for Bad Debts)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Health Care Organization, Receivable and Revenue Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	$14,852,625	$14,746,759	$13,380,581
Medicare [Member]	'	'	'
Health Care Organization, Receivable and Revenue Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	3,681,975	3,878,150	3,572,407
Medicaid [Member]	'	'	'
Health Care Organization, Receivable and Revenue Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	1,442,120	1,423,761	1,285,420
Managed Care And Other Third Party Payors [Member]	'	'	'
Health Care Organization, Receivable and Revenue Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	7,705,827	7,534,971	6,920,068
Self-Pay [Member]	'	'	'
Health Care Organization, Receivable and Revenue Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	$2,022,703	$1,909,877	$1,602,686

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign5

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	($145,310)	($184,479)	'
Activity, net of tax	77,805	39,169	46,448
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	-67,505	-145,310	-184,479
Change in Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	-116,382	-162,791	'
Activity, net of tax	60,304	46,409	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	-56,078	-116,382	'
Change in Fair Value of Available for Sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	4,588	1,576	'
Activity, net of tax	2,181	3,012	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	6,769	4,588	'
Change in Unrecognized Pension Cost Components [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	-33,516	-23,264	'
Activity, net of tax	15,320	-10,252	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	($18,196)	($33,516)	'

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp2

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Feb. 27, 2013

Feb. 16, 2012

Feb. 23, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Common Class A [Member]

Plan 2000 [Member]

Plan 2009 [Member]

Directors' Fees Deferral Plan [Member]

Employee Stock Option [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock [Member]

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units [Member]

Restricted Stock, Performance-Based Units [Member]

Contractual Term of Option Granted Prior to 2005 [Member]

Contractual Term of Option Granted From 2005 Through 2007 [Member]

Contractual Term Of Option Granted From 2008 Through 2011 [Member]

Contractual Term of Option Granted in 2011 or Later [Member]

Plan 2000 [Member]

Plan 2000 [Member]

Plan 2000 [Member]

Plan 2009 [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share Based Compensation Contractual Term of Option Granted

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'8 years

'10 years

'10 years

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights

'

'

'

'

'one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date

'one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date

'

'

'one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date

'

'

'

'one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date

'

'one-third increments on each of the first three anniversaries of the award date

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant

'

'

'

'

0

4,160,962

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Unrecognized Compensation Costs on Nonvested Awards

$30.50

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1.70

'

'

'

'

'

$28.80

'

'

'

'

'

Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition

'22 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'9 months

'

'

'

'

'

'23 months

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

'

$9.20

$10.07

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share Price

'

'

'

$39.27

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised

31

9.4

6.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation, Number of Shares Received by Each Director

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,596

6,645

3,688

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cumulative Share Equivalent Units Deferred in Plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

31,059

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate Fair Value Deferred in Plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1.20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp3

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Compensation Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'	'	'
Effect on income from continuing operations before income taxes	($38,403)	($40,896)	($42,542)
Effect on net income	($24,040)	($25,683)	($27,014)

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp4

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Payment Awards, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions) (Details) (Employee Stock Option [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used	'Black Scholes option pricing model	'	'
Expected volatility	'	57.80%	33.80%
Expected term	'	'4 years 1 month 6 days	'4 years
Risk-free interest rate	'	0.66%	1.63%

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp5

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity) (Details) (Employee Stock Option [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance, shares	7,104,113	8,389,142	7,834,332
Granted, Shares	'	253,500	1,505,000
Exercised, Shares	-3,299,859	-1,050,772	-623,341
Forfeited and Cancelled, Shares	-66,709	-487,757	-326,849
Ending Balance, shares	3,737,545	7,104,113	8,389,142
Beginning of Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$34.25	$32.83	$32.08
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price	'	$21.16	$35.87
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$33.53	$19.85	$30.34
Forfeited and Cancelled, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$34.01	$34.12	$33.69
End of Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$34.88	$34.25	$32.83
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'4 years 1 month 6 days	'	'
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$17,806	'	'
Exercisable, Shares	3,203,520	'	'
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$35.49	'	'
Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'3 years 6 months	'	'
Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$13,515	'	'

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp6

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock, Activity) (Details) (Restricted Stock [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Restricted Stock [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance, Unvested Shares	1,744,564	2,207,612	2,125,291
Granted, Shares	836,088	680,500	1,109,949
Vested, Shares	-945,894	-1,118,213	-1,009,959
Forfeited, Shares	-27,269	-25,335	-17,669
Ending Balance, Unvested Shares	1,607,489	1,744,564	2,207,612
Beginning of Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$30.50	$32.95	$27.92
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$41.55	$21.20	$37.57
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$32.22	$29.67	$27.40
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$37.09	$30.94	$35.68
End of Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$35.13	$30.50	$32.95

Accounting_For_Stock_Based_Com

Accounting For Stock Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units, Activity) (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance, Unvested Shares	62,886	52,956	53,388
Granted, Shares	21,576	39,870	22,128
Vested, Shares	-28,926	-29,940	-22,560
Ending Balance, Unvested Shares	55,536	62,886	52,956
Beginning of Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$26.72	$31.67	$26.11
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$41.71	$21.07	$37.96
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$29.04	$27.95	$24.68
End of Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$31.33	$26.72	$31.67

Accounting_for_StockBased_Comp7

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Director's Fees Deferral Plan, Activity) (Details) (Directors' Fees Deferral Plan [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Directors' Fees Deferral Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Directors' Fees Earned and Deferred into Plan	$130	$110	$220
Share Equivalent Units	2,990	4,056	9,974

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_2

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Acquisitions Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jul. 02, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 05, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 02, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 02, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 02, 2012

Jan. 02, 2012

Oct. 02, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

2-May-11

Dec. 31, 2013

2-May-11

2-May-11

2-May-11

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Memorial Health Systems [Member]

Memorial Health Systems [Member]

Diagnostic Clinic of Longview [Member]

Diagnostic Clinic of Longview [Member]

Metro South Medical Center [Member]

Metro South Medical Center [Member]

Moses Taylor Healthcare [Member]

Moses Taylor Healthcare [Member]

Moses Taylor Hospital [Member]

Mid-Valley Hospital [Member]

Tomball Regional Hospital [Member]

Tomball Regional Hospital [Member]

Mercy Health Partners [Member]

Mercy Health Partners [Member]

Regional Hospital of Scranton [Member]

Tyler Memorial Hospital [Member]

Special Care Hospital [Member]

Physician Practices Clinics and Other Ancillary Businesses [Member]

Physician Practices Clinics and Other Ancillary Businesses [Member]

Physician Practices Clinics and Other Ancillary Businesses [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

item

item

item

item

item

item

item

item

item

item

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition

'

'

'

'

1-Jul-12

'

5-Mar-12

'

1-Mar-12

'

1-Jan-12

'

'

'

1-Oct-11

'

1-May-11

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Number of Licensed Hospital or Facility Beds

'

'

'

100

'

'

'

330

'

'

'

217

25

358

'

'

'

198

48

67

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Maximum Number of Years for Completion of Replacement Hospital Construction

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other Commitment

'

'

'

$75,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Number of Hospitals Acquired

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid for Fixed Assets

'

'

'

45,000,000

'

'

'

39,300,000

'

151,100,000

'

'

'

192,000,000

'

150,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid for Working Capital

'

'

'

2,600,000

'

'

'

-900,000

'

13,100,000

'

'

'

17,500,000

'

-2,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed

'

'

'

12,500,000

'

6,900,000

'

5,800,000

'

9,400,000

'

'

'

15,900,000

'

12,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price

'

'

'

60,100,000

'

59,200,000

'

44,200,000

'

173,600,000

'

'

'

225,400,000

'

161,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill

4,424,425,000

4,388,429,000

4,245,136,000

'

10,900,000

'

41,800,000

'

0

'

54,600,000

'

'

'

32,400,000

'

43,100,000

'

'

'

36,200,000

33,300,000

40,300,000

'

Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid

'

'

'

'

'

52,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

39,700,000

41,500,000

57,900,000

'

Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs

20,600,000

9,900,000

16,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

14,100,000

Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual

'

337,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination, Assumed Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value

4,599,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,600,000

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,900,000

10,200,000

13,100,000

'

Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Net Working Capital

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000

2,000,000

2,900,000

'

Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1,600,000

'

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_3

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	$4,424,425	$4,388,429	$4,245,136
Hospitals and Significant Practices Acquired [Member]	'	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Current assets	'	46,207	'
Property and equipment	'	178,836	'
Goodwill	'	106,269	'
Intangible assets	'	2,522	'
Other long-term assets	'	490	'
Liabilities	'	$34,463	'

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_4

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Schedule of Consolidated Pro Forma Operating Results) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]	'	'
Pro forma net operating revenues	$12,818,956	$13,120,413
Pro forma net income	$217,268	$258,019
Pro Forma Net Income Per Share [Abstract]	'	'
Basic	$1.52	$2.89
Diluted	$1.51	$2.87

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_5

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Divestitures Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Feb. 01, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 01, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Oct. 22, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014
		Williamette Community Medical Group [Member]	Williamette Community Medical Group [Member]	SouthCrest Hospital and Claremore Regional Hospital and Other Related Facilities [Member]	SouthCrest Hospital and Claremore Regional Hospital and Other Related Facilities [Member]	Cleveland Regional Medical Center and Other Related Healthcare Assets [Member]	Cleveland Regional Medical Center and Other Related Healthcare Assets [Member]	Subsequent Event [Member]
								agreement
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Disposal Date	'	'	1-Feb-11	'	1-Sep-11	'	22-Oct-11	'
Proceeds from disposition of hospitals and other ancillary operations	$173,387,000	$14,600,000	'	$154,200,000	'	$900,000	'	'
Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation	'	$19,700,000	'	$193,000,000	'	$14,200,000	'	'
Number of hospitals with a definitive purchase agreement	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_6

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Schedule of Net Operating Revenues and Losses from Discontinued Operations) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net operating revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$178,737	$196,249	$343,028
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-32,259	-18,804	-23,300
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-8,000	'	-51,695
Loss on sale, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-4,301
Loss from discontinued operations, before taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-40,259	-18,804	-79,296
Income tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-15,084	-6,787	-14,055
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	($9,739)	($6,255)	($6,160)	($3,021)	($2,482)	($3,907)	($4,810)	($818)	($25,175)	($12,017)	($65,241)

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$4,388,429	$4,245,136
Goodwill acquired as part of acquisitions during current year	36,245	141,277
Consideration and purchase price allocation adjustments for prior year's acquisitions and other adjustments	-249	2,016
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$4,424,425	$4,388,429

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Goodwill Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	$4,424,425,000	$4,388,429,000	$4,245,136,000
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0	'	'
Hospital operations [Member]	'	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	4,300,000,000	4,300,000,000	'
Home Care Agency Operations Reporting Unit [Member]	'	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	43,600,000	40,500,000	'
Hospital Management Services Reporting Unit [Member]	'	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	$33,300,000	$33,300,000	'

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Other Intangible Assets Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired during the year	$1,200,000	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	50,900,000	61,900,000	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	20,500,000	26,300,000	'
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	49,600,000	48,100,000	'
Capitalized Computer Software, Gross	972,000,000	640,300,000	'
Capitalized Computer Software, Net	550,100,000	346,000,000	'
Capitalized Computer Software, Development Stage Costs	140,500,000	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Except Capitalized Internal-Use Software [Member]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life	'8 years	'	'
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Residual Value	0	'	'
Amortization expense	5,600,000	7,500,000	8,100,000
Amortization expense for 2014	3,800,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2015	3,300,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2016	2,500,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2017	2,200,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2018	2,000,000	'	'
Amortization expense thereafter	6,700,000	'	'
Capitalized Internal Use Software [Member]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Residual Value	0	'	'
Amortization expense	138,600,000	99,200,000	69,600,000
Amortization expense for 2014	139,300,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2015	120,000,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2016	93,400,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2017	44,500,000	'	'
Amortization expense for 2018	37,700,000	'	'
Amortization expense thereafter	$115,200,000	'	'
Capitalized Internal Use Software, Except Significant System Conversions [Member]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life	'3 years	'	'
Minimum [Member] | Capitalized Internal Use Software, Significant System Conversions [Member]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life	'8 years	'	'
Maximum [Member] | Capitalized Internal Use Software, Significant System Conversions [Member]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life	'10 years	'	'

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Provi

Income Taxes (Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes for Income from Continuing Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Current:	'	'	'
Federal	$27,427	$99,298	$27,624
State	5,763	10,271	7,827
Total, Current	33,190	109,569	35,451
Deferred:	'	'	'
Federal	59,479	57,488	104,923
State	11,009	-3,031	1,219
Total, Deferred	70,488	54,457	106,142
Total provision for income taxes for income from continuing operations	$103,678	$164,026	$141,593

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Recon

Income Taxes (Schedule of Reconciliation between the Statutory Federal Income Tax Rate and the Effective Tax Rate) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Differences between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective tax rate	'	'	'
Provision for income taxes at statutory federal rate, Amount	$121,142	$182,646	$169,560
Provision for income taxes at statutory federal rate, Percentage	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit, Amount	10,554	12,491	8,333
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit, Percentage	3.10%	2.40%	1.70%
Release of unrecognized tax benefit, Amount	'	'	-6,509
Release of unrecognized tax benefit, Percentage	'	'	-1.30%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, Amount	-26,623	-28,057	-26,486
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, Percentage	-7.70%	-5.40%	-5.50%
Change in valuation allowance, Amount	'	-1,233	'
Change in valuation allowance, Percentage	'	-0.20%	'
Federal and state tax credits, Amount	-3,972	-2,185	-3,788
Federal and state tax credits, Percentage	-1.10%	-0.40%	-0.80%
Other, Amount	2,577	364	483
Other, Percentage	0.70%	0.10%	0.10%
Total provision for income taxes for income from continuing operations	$103,678	$164,026	$141,593
Effective tax rate for income from continuing operations	30.00%	31.50%	29.20%

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Compo

Income Taxes (Schedule of Components of Deferred Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets	'	'
Net operating loss and credit carryforwards	$186,519	$170,521
Self-insurance liabilities	125,367	124,842
Accrued expenses	53,011	55,203
Other comprehensive income	47,265	102,242
Stock-based compensation	22,813	31,504
Deferred compensation	73,042	58,509
Other	110,813	65,887
Total Deferred Income Tax Assets, Gross	618,830	608,708
Valuation Allowance	-171,364	-161,312
Total Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net	447,466	447,396
Liabilities	'	'
Property and equipment	820,035	762,387
Intangibles	244,019	222,392
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates	60,257	64,170
Other liabilities	23,767	22,468
Long-term debt and interest	21,256	28,920
Accounts receivable	86,044	38,503
Total Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Gross	$1,255,378	$1,138,840

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Recon1

Income Taxes (Schedule of Reconciliation of the Total Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefit) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Beginning Balance	$682	$629	$7,458
Gross increases in tax positions in prior period	195	1,515	349
Reductions of tax positions in prior period	'	'	-3,469
Lapse of statute of limitations	'	'	-3,575
Settlements	-402	-1,462	-134
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Ending Balance	$475	$682	$629

Income_Taxes_Operating_Loss_Ca

Income Taxes (Operating Loss Carryforwards Narrative) (Details) (State and Local Jurisdiction [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'
Net operating loss and credit carryforwards	5,500,000,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance	9,000,000
Minimum [Member]	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date	1-Jan-14
Maximum [Member]	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date	31-Dec-33

Income_Taxes_Valuation_Allowan

Income Taxes (Valuation Allowance Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'
Valuation allowance increase	$10.10	$11.10

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Contin

Income Taxes (Income Tax Contingency And Taxes Paid Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Contingency [Abstract]	'	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	$700,000	'	'
Amount of interest and penalties included in liabilities for uncertain tax positions	400,000	'	'
Decreased liabilities for uncertain tax positions	200,000	'	'
Cash Paid for Income Taxes, Net of Refunds Received [Abstract]	'	'	'
Cash paid for income taxes (refunds received), net	$72,794,000	$55,551,000	$26,463,000

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Debt

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	$9,453,383	$9,541,282
Current maturities of long-term debt	-166,894	-89,902
Long-term debt	9,286,489	9,451,380
Secured Debt [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan A [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	637,500	712,500
Secured Debt [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	3,412,584	3,619,062
Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	2,020,346	2,022,829
Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	1,200,000	1,200,000
Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	1,600,000	1,600,000
Receivables Facility [Member] | Receivables Facility, Name [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	500,000	300,000
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	46,066	47,951
Unsecured Debt [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt	$36,887	$38,940

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Requ

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Required Future Principal Payments on Term Loans) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	$166,894
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	654,867
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	488,902
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	3,287,695
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	1,603,565
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	3,231,114
Total maturities	9,433,037
Term Loans [Member]	'
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	152,050
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	147,336
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	484,836
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	3,265,862
Total maturities	$4,050,084

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Earl

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Early Redemption Prices on 8.0% Senior Notes) (Details) (Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member], Senior Notes [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	104.00%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Nov-15
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	14-Nov-16
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	102.00%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Nov-16
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	14-Nov-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Five [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	100.00%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Nov-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	15-Nov-19

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Earl1

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Early Redemption Prices on 7.125% Senior Notes) (Details) (Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member], Senior Notes [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	103.56%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Jul-16
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	14-Jul-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	101.78%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Jul-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	14-Jul-18
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Five [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	100.00%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Jul-18
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	15-Jul-20

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Earl2

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Early Redemption Prices on 5.125% Senior Secured Notes) (Details) (Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member], Senior Secured Notes [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	102.56%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Aug-15
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	14-Aug-16
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	101.28%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Aug-16
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	14-Aug-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Five [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	100.00%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	15-Aug-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	15-Aug-18

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Matu

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Maturities of Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	$166,894
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	654,867
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	488,902
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	3,287,695
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	1,603,565
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	3,231,114
Total maturities	9,433,037
Unamortized Note Premium	20,346
Long-term Debt, Total	$9,453,383

LongTerm_Debt_Credit_Facility_

Long-Term Debt (Credit Facility as Amended, Amendments and Modifications Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Aug. 17, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Aug. 17, 2012

Nov. 05, 2010

Nov. 05, 2010

Nov. 05, 2010

Nov. 05, 2010

Feb. 02, 2012

Feb. 02, 2012

Mar. 06, 2012

Mar. 06, 2012

Mar. 06, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Aug. 17, 2012

Aug. 17, 2012

Aug. 17, 2012

Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding Facility [Member]

Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]

November 5, 2010 Amendment [Member]

November 5, 2010 Amendment [Member]

November 5, 2010 Amendment [Member]

November 5, 2010 Amendment [Member]

February 2, 2012 Amendment [Member]

February 2, 2012 Amendment [Member]

March 6, 2012 Amendment [Member]

March 6, 2012 Amendment [Member]

March 6, 2012 Amendment [Member]

August 3, 2012 Amendment [Member]

August 22, 2012 Modification [Member]

August 22, 2012 Modification [Member]

November 27, 2012 Amendment (Member)

Line of Credit [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Senior Secured Notes [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Incremental Facility [Member]

Receivables Facility, Name [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member]

Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans and Term Loan A [Member]

Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan A [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Receivables Facility [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Credit Facility, Type of Debt [Member]

Line of Credit [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

'

'

'

$750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,600,000,000

1,500,000,000

'

'

'

1,600,000,000

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

340,000,000

'

'

Debt Instrument, Quarterly Amortization Payment

'

'

'

'

'

0.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Extended Maturity Period for Term Loans, After Amendment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2 years 6 months

'

'

'

'2 years 6 months

'

'

'

'

'

'2 years 6 months

'

'

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.50%

'

'

'

3.50%

2.50%

'

'

'

'

3.50%

'

Debt Instrument, Uncommitted Incremental Borrowing Capacity, After Amendment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Uncommitted Incremental Borrowing Capacity, Before Amendment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

600,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowing Capacity, Receivables Transactions, After Amendment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowing Capacity, Receivables Transactions, Incremental Capacity Due to Amendment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

500,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowing Capacity, Receivables Transactions, Required Amount Committed to Repayments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,700,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Extinguishment of Debt, Amount

'

'

'

'

1,600,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Extinguishment Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

17-Aug-12

'

'

'

Payable Period for Prepayment Premium in Connection with Repricing of Debt Within Certain Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

Debt Instrument, Prepayment Premium Payable in Connection with Repricing of Debt Within Certain Period, as Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

Repayments of Long-term Debt

1,621,985,000

7,529,503,000

1,651,533,000

'

'

'

206,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance of Remaining Non-extended Term Loans

$9,433,037,000

'

'

'

'

'

$59,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Amortization Rate, Year One

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.00%

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Amortization Rate, Years Two and Three

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10.00%

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Amortization Rate, Year Four

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15.00%

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Amortization Rate, Year Five

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

60.00%

'

'

'

'

LongTerm_Debt_Credit_Facility_1

Long-Term Debt (Credit Facility Terms Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.50%
Credit Facility, Term Loans [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Equivalent Percentage of Term Loan Facility Related to Net Cash Proceeds of Certain Asset Sales and Dispositions by Company and Its Subsidiaries	100.00%
Equivalent Percentage of Term Loan Facility Related to Net Cash Proceeds of Issuance of Certain Debt Obligations or Receivables Based Financing by Company and Its Subsidiaries	100.00%
Equivalent Percentage of Term Loan Facility Subject to Reduction to Lower Percentage Based on Company Leverage Ratio	50.00%
Alternate Base Rate [Member] | Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.50%
Alternate Base Rate [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding Facility [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.25%
Alternate Base Rate [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan A and Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.50%
Federal Funds Effective Rate [Member] | Credit Facility, Name [Member] | Credit Facility, Type of Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Alternative Base Rate Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate Options	0.50%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Credit Facility, Name [Member] | Credit Facility, Type of Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Interest Period for Measurement of Option on Variable Rate Interest, London Interbank Offered Rate	'3 months
Alternative Base Rate Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate Options	1.00%
Eurodollar [Member] | Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.50%
Eurodollar [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding Facility [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	2.25%
Eurodollar [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan A and Term Loan B, Extended Facility [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	3.50%

LongTerm_Debt_Credit_Facility_2

Long-Term Debt (Credit Facility End of Period Disclosures Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
			Credit Facility, Name [Member]	Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member]	Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member]
			Credit Facility, Type of Debt [Member]	Line of Credit [Member]	Line of Credit [Member]
			item
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Debt	$9,453,383,000	$9,541,282,000	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	'	'	'	750,000,000	'
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	'	'	'	19,400,000	37,800,000
Minimum Number of Additional Tranches Available in Future	'	'	1	'	'
Aggregate Principal Amount of Each Tranche Available in Future	'	'	$1,000,000,000	'	'
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	'	'	3.90%	'	'

LongTerm_Debt_8875_Senior_Note

Long-Term Debt (8.875% Senior Notes, Due 2015 Narrative) (Details) (Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member], Senior Notes [Member], USD $)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 18, 2012	Mar. 21, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2011	Jul. 25, 2007	Mar. 21, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 18, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Aug. 17, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013
						March 21, 2012 Cash Tender Offer [Member]	March 21, 2012 Cash Tender Offer [Member]	July 18, 2012 Cash Tender Offer [Member]	July 18, 2012 Cash Tender Offer [Member]	August 17, 2012 Redemption Offer Exercise [Member]	August 17, 2012 Redemption Offer Exercise [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	'	'	'	'	$3,000,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	'	'	15-Jul-15	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	'	'	'	'	8.88%	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Extinguishment Date	'	'	'	'	'	'	21-Mar-12	'	18-Jul-12	'	17-Aug-12
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	934,300,000	850,000,000	'	1,000,000,000	'	850,000,000	'	639,700,000	'	294,600,000	'
Debt Outstanding, Prior to Extinguishment of Portion	'	'	'	'	'	$1,800,000,000	'	$934,300,000	'	$294,600,000	'

LongTerm_Debt_80_Senior_Notes_

Long-Term Debt (8.0% Senior Notes, Due 2019 Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

Jul. 18, 2012

Mar. 21, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Jul. 25, 2007

Mar. 21, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 21, 2012

Nov. 22, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 21, 2012

Nov. 22, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Nov. 22, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Nov. 22, 2011

Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member]

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

March 21, 2012 Secondary Offering [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]

March 21, 2012 Secondary Offering [Member]

March 21, 2012 Secondary Offering [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Offering Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

22-Nov-11

'

'

21-Mar-12

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

'

'

15-Jul-15

'

'

'

15-Nov-19

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

'

'

'

'

$3,000,000,000

'

'

'

$1,000,000,000

'

$1,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

Extinguishment of Debt, Amount

$934,300,000

$850,000,000

'

$1,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Premium Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

102.50%

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

'

'

'

'

8.88%

8.00%

'

8.00%

8.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Earliest Redemption Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Nov-15

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum Principal Redeemable Using Proceeds from a Public Equity Offering, as a Percentage of Principal Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

35.00%

Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

108.00%

'

100.00%

'

'

Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Nov-14

'

Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Nov-14

'

15-Nov-15

'

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Description

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'with the proceeds from certain public equity offerings

'

'plus a "make-whole" premium, as described in the 8% Senior Notes indenture

'

Minimum Period Notice for Redemption of Debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'30 days

'

'

Maximum Period Notice for Redemption of Debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'60 days

'

'

LongTerm_Debt_7125_Senior_Note

Long-Term Debt (7.125% Senior Notes, Due 2020 Narrative) (Details) (Senior Notes [Member], USD $)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Jul. 18, 2012	Mar. 21, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Jul. 25, 2007	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 18, 2012	Jul. 18, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 18, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 18, 2012
	Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]	Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]	Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]	Senior Notes at 8.875, Due 2015 [Member]	Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]	Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]	Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member]	Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member]	Maximum [Member]
							Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]
											Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Offering Date	'	'	'	'	18-Jul-12	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	'	'	'	$3,000,000,000	'	$1,200,000,000	'	'	'	'	'
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	$934,300,000	$850,000,000	$1,000,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	'	'	'	8.88%	'	7.13%	'	'	'	'	'
Max Principal Redeemable Using Proceeds from a Public Equity Offering, as a Percentage of Principal Amount	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	35.00%
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	'	'	'	'	'	'	107.13%	'	100.00%	'	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, Start Date	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	15-Jul-15	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	15-Jul-15	'	15-Jul-16	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Description	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'with the proceeds from certain public equity offerings	'	'plus a "make-whole" premium, as described in the 7b% Senior Notes indenture	'
Minimum Period Notice for Redemption of Debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'30 days	'	'
Maximum Period Notice for Redemption of Debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'60 days	'	'

LongTerm_Debt_5125_Senior_Note

Long-Term Debt ( 5.125% Senior Notes, Due 2018 Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 17, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013
Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Offering Date	'	17-Aug-12
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	1,600,000,000	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	5.13%	'
Debt Instrument, Earliest Redemption Date	'	15-Aug-15
Secured Debt [Member] | Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	1,600,000,000	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	105.13%	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	'	15-Aug-15
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Description	'	'with the proceeds from certain public equity offerings
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage	100.00%	'
Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date	'	15-Aug-15
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Description	'	'plus a "make-whole" premium, as described in the 5b% Senior Secured Notes indenture
Minimum Period Notice for Redemption of Debt	'30 days	'
Maximum Period Notice for Redemption of Debt	'60 days	'
Maximum [Member] | Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Max Principal Redeemable Using Proceeds from a Public Equity Offering, as a Percentage of Principal Amount	35.00%	'

LongTerm_Debt_Receivables_Faci

Long-Term Debt (Receivables Facility Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 21, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 07, 2013
			Receivables Facility, Name [Member]	Receivables Facility, Name [Member]	Receivables Facility, Name [Member]	March 7, 2013 Amendment [Member]	March 7, 2013 Amendment [Member]
			Receivables Facility [Member]	Receivables Facility [Member]	Receivables Facility [Member]	Receivables Facility, Name [Member]	Receivables Facility, Name [Member]
						Receivables Facility [Member]	Receivables Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	'	'	21-Mar-12	'	'	7-Mar-13	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	'	'	'	'	'	21-Mar-15	'
Maximum Borrowing Capacity of Receivables Facility	'	'	'	'	$300,000,000	'	$500,000,000
Debt	9,453,383,000	9,541,282,000	500,000,000	300,000,000	'	500,000,000	'
Receivables included in the Receivables Facility	'	'	'	'	'	$1,000,000,000	'

LongTerm_Debt_Loss_from_Early_

Long-Term Debt (Loss from Early Extinguishment of Debt Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Extinguishment of Debt Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Loss (gain) from early extinguishment of debt	$1,295,000	$115,453,000	$66,019,000
Loss on Extinguishment of Debt, Net of Tax	$800,000	$71,800,000	$42,000,000

LongTerm_Debt_Other_Debt_and_I

Long-Term Debt (Other Debt and Interest Payments Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Interest Paid, Net	$582,828,000	$594,292,000	$680,704,000
Interest Rate Swap [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Liability, Number of Instruments Held	14	'	'
Notional Amount, Liability	2,000,000,000	'	'
Derivative Asset, Number of Instruments Held	2	'	'
Derivative Asset, Notional Amount	$400,000,000	'	'

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru3

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Schedule of Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments, by Balance Sheet Grouping) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets:	'	'
Available-for-sale securities	$64,869	$56,376
Trading securities	37,999	34,696
Carrying Amount Measurement [Member]	'	'
Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	373,403	387,813
Available-for-sale securities	64,869	56,376
Trading securities	37,999	34,696
Carrying Amount Measurement [Member] | Credit Facility, Type of Debt [Member] | Credit Facility, Name [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Credit Facility, fair value disclosure	4,050,084	4,331,562
Carrying Amount Measurement [Member] | Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure	2,020,346	2,022,829
Carrying Amount Measurement [Member] | Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure	1,200,000	1,200,000
Carrying Amount Measurement [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure	1,600,000	1,600,000
Carrying Amount Measurement [Member] | Receivables Facility and Other Debt, Type [Member] | Receivables Facility and Unsecured Debt [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	536,887	338,940
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]	'	'
Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	373,403	387,813
Available-for-sale securities	64,869	56,376
Trading securities	37,999	34,696
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Credit Facility, Type of Debt [Member] | Credit Facility, Name [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Credit Facility, fair value disclosure	4,084,983	4,357,910
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Notes at 8.0, Due 2019 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure	2,172,440	2,185,220
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Notes at 7.125, Due 2020 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure	1,245,720	1,285,848
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Senior Secured Notes At 5.125 Due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure	1,662,160	1,674,480
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Receivables Facility and Other Debt, Type [Member] | Receivables Facility and Unsecured Debt [Member]	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	$536,887	$338,940

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru4

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Schedule of Interest Rate Swaps) (Details) (Interest Rate Swap [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	$2,000,000,000
Interest Rate Swaps One [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	5.23%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	2,818,000
Interest Rate Swaps Two [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	5.23%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	2,818,000
Interest Rate Swaps Three [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	200,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	5.16%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	5,556,000
Interest Rate Swaps Four [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	75,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	5.04%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	2,033,000
Interest Rate Swaps Five [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	125,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	5.02%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	3,374,000
Interest Rate Swaps Six [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	2.62%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	1,336,000
Interest Rate Swaps Seven [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.11%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	1,613,000
Interest Rate Swaps Eight [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.26%
Termination Date	25-Jul-14
Fair Value of Liability	1,697,000
Interest Rate Swaps Nine [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	200,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	2.69%
Termination Date	26-Oct-14
Fair Value of Liability	3,977,000
Interest Rate Swaps Ten [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	300,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.45%
Termination Date	8-Aug-16
Fair Value of Liability	21,597,000
Interest Rate Swaps Eleven [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	200,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.43%
Termination Date	19-Aug-16
Fair Value of Liability	14,403,000
Interest Rate Swaps Twelve [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.40%
Termination Date	19-Aug-16
Fair Value of Liability	7,130,000
Interest Rate Swaps Thirteen [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	200,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.50%
Termination Date	30-Aug-16
Fair Value of Liability	14,884,000
Interest Rate Swaps Fourteen [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	100,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate	3.01%
Termination Date	30-Nov-16
Fair Value of Liability	6,376,000
Interest Rate Swaps Fifteen [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	200,000,000	[1]
Fixed Interest Rate	2.06%	[1]
Termination Date	25-Jul-19	[1]
Fair Value of Asset	-954,000	[1]
Interest Rate Swaps Sixteen [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Notional Amount, Liability	200,000,000	[2]
Fixed Interest Rate	2.06%	[2]
Termination Date	25-Jul-19	[2]
Fair Value of Asset	($895,000)	[2]
[1]	(1) This interest rate swap becomes effective July 25, 2014.
[2]	(2) This interest rate swap becomes effective July 25, 2014.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru5

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Interest expense arising from spread in fixed and floating rates of interest rate swap agreements that will be recognized in next 12 months	$57.10

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru6

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Schedule of Pre-tax Loss Recognized as a Component of Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (Cash Flow Hedging [Member], Interest Rate Swap [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Amount of Pre-Tax (Loss) Gain Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion)	($5,970)	($69,020)

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru7

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Schedule of Effective Portion of the Pre-tax Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Interest Expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income) (Details) (Interest Expense [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Interest Expense [Member]	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Amount of Pre-Tax Loss Reclassified from AOCL into Income (Effective Portion)	$99,808	$141,648

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru8

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Schedule of the Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet) (Details) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], Other Long-term Liabilities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Other Long-term Liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Liability derivatives designated as hedging instruments	$87,763	$181,600

Fair_Value_Schedule_of_Fair_Va

Fair Value (Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities	$64,869	$56,376
Trading securities	37,999	34,696
Total assets	102,868	91,072
Fair value of interest rate swap agreements	87,763	181,600
Total liabilities	87,763	181,600
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale securities	64,869	56,376
Trading securities	37,999	34,696
Total assets	102,868	91,072
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Fair value of interest rate swap agreements	87,763	181,600
Total liabilities	$87,763	$181,600

Fair_Value_Narrative_Details

Fair Value (Narrative) (Details) (Interest Rate Swap [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Interest Rate Swap [Member]	'	'
Fair Value Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'
Credit risk valuation adjustment, decrease in fair value of liability	$0.90	$3.60
Credit risk valuation adjustment, decrease in fair value of liability, net of tax	$0.60	$2.30

Leases_Capital_Leases_Narrativ

Leases (Capital Leases Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred	$4.30	$5	$3
Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation	147.3	129.1	'
Land and Land Improvements [Member]	'	'	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	27.9	27.9	'
Building and Building Improvements [Member]	'	'	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	200.1	200.1	'
Equipment and Fixture [Member]	'	'	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Leased Assets, Gross	$64.50	$65.10	'

Leases_Schedule_of_Future_Mini

Leases (Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital and Operating Leases) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Leases [Abstract]	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	$186,715	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	158,039	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	119,403	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	89,049	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	61,675	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	153,763	[1]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Total	768,644	[1]
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	9,289
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years	7,428
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years	6,060
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years	5,663
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years	5,533
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter	46,949
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Total	80,922
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments	-34,856
Capital Lease Obligations, Total	46,066
Capital Lease Obligations, Current	-5,439
Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent	$40,627
[1]	Minimum lease payments have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals due in the future of $16.8 million.

Leases_Operating_Leases_Footno

Leases (Operating Leases Footnote Narrative to Schedule) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Leases [Abstract]	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals	$16.80

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Narrati

Employee Benefit Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
	item
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of hospitals covered under Plan	3	'	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$101,500,000	$108,500,000	$101,700,000
Defined Contribution Pension [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Deferred Compensation Liability, Current and Noncurrent	111,600,000	87,300,000	'
Deferred Compensation Plan Assets	109,100,000	87,100,000	'
Trading Securities [Member] | Defined Contribution Pension [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Deferred Compensation Plan Assets	38,000,000	34,700,000	'
Company-Owned Life Insurance Contracts [Member] | Defined Contribution Pension [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Deferred Compensation Plan Assets	71,100,000	52,400,000	'
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year	0	'	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	300,000	300,000	600,000
Accrued benefits liabilities	6,600,000	16,800,000	'
Defined benefit plans and other post-retirement plans, weighted-average assumptions to determine net periodic cost, discount rate	3.90%	'	'
Defined benefit plans and other post-retirement plans, weighted-average assumptions to determine net periodic cost, rate of compensation increase	5.00%	'	'
Defined benefit plans and other post-retirement plans, weighted-average assumptions to determine net periodic cost, expected long-term rate of return on assets	8.00%	'	'
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	14,200,000	12,900,000	11,900,000
Accrued benefits liabilities	105,300,000	104,800,000	'
Defined benefit plans and other post-retirement plans, weighted-average assumptions to determine net periodic cost, discount rate	3.00%	'	'
Defined benefit plans and other post-retirement plans, weighted-average assumptions to determine net periodic cost, rate of compensation increase	4.00%	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	1,500,000	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	16,000,000	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	43,900,000	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	17,800,000	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	7,200,000	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	21,200,000	'	'
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets in a rabbi trust generally designated to pay benefits of the SERP	$64,900,000	$56,400,000	'

Stockholders_Equity_Narrative_

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 17, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total capital stock, shares authorized	'	400,000,000	400,000,000
Common stock, shares authorized	'	300,000,000	300,000,000
Preferred stock, shares authorized	'	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, par value per share	'	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, par value per share	'	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	'	0	0
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$0.25	'	'
Dividends, Common Stock	'	'	$22,535,000
Maximum amount of dividends or stock repurchases permissible under the Credit Facility	'	150,000,000	'
Amount available for dividend payments, stock repurchases or Senior Notes repurchases at period end	'	261,900,000	'
Open Market Repurchase Program for Common Stock, Adopted December 14, 2011 [Member]	'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Maximum number of shares authorized for repurchase	'	4,000,000	'
Maximum value of shares authorized under repurchase program	'	$100,000,000	'
Period repurchase program in force unless maximum dollar amount of repurchases expended first	'	'3 years	'
Number of shares repurchased and retired	'	706,023	'
Weighted-average price of repurchased and retired shares, per share	'	$38.39	'

Stockholders_Equity_Schedule_o

Stockholders Equity (Schedule of Impact of Noncontrolling Interest to Stockholders' Equity) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$28,181	$4,095	$29,753	$79,174	$62,574	$44,233	$83,359	$75,474	$141,203	$265,640	$201,948
Net decrease in Community Health Systems, Inc. paid-in capital for purchase of subsidiary partnership interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-768	-21,537	-4,556
Net transfers to the noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-768	-21,537	-4,556
Change to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity from net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders and transfers to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$140,435	$244,103	$197,392

Earnings_Per_Share_Schedule_of

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Numerator:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations, net of taxes	$62,001	$27,853	$53,245	$99,344	$88,108	$62,665	$106,977	$100,070	$242,443	$357,820	$342,864
Less: Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	76,065	80,163	75,675
Income from continuing operations attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders - basic and diluted	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	166,378	277,657	267,189
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	-9,739	-6,255	-6,160	-3,021	-2,482	-3,907	-4,810	-818	-25,175	-12,017	-65,241
Loss from discontinued operations attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders - basic and diluted	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($25,175)	($12,017)	($65,241)
Denominator:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding - basic	93,372,398	93,259,027	92,866,370	91,002,615	89,882,380	89,259,950	89,147,472	88,674,779	92,633,332	89,242,949	89,966,933
Effect of dilutive securities:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Restricted stock awards	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	448,567	335,664	327,652
Employee stock options	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	714,560	212,227	361,554
Other equity-based awards	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	18,554	16,097	10,209
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding - diluted	94,703,458	94,483,596	94,109,368	91,998,993	90,828,119	90,009,113	89,530,639	88,852,704	93,815,013	89,806,937	90,666,348

Earnings_Per_Share_Schedule_of1

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of Antidilutive Securities (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Earnings per Share [Abstract]	'	'
Employee stock options and restricted stock awards	7,071,896	6,432,281

Equity_Investments_Narrative_D

Equity Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity Method Investments	$421,700,000	$432,100,000	'
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	$42,641,000	$42,033,000	$49,491,000
Four Hospitals in Las Vegas, Nevada [Member]	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	27.50%	'	'
One Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada [Member]	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	26.10%	'	'
Three Hospitals in Macon Georgia, [Member]	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	38.00%	'	'

Equity_Investments_Schedule_of

Equity Investments (Schedule of Financial Information Related to Unconsolidated Entities Included in Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Equity Investments [Abstract]	'	'
Current assets	$235,679	$240,086
Noncurrent assets	790,297	847,484
Total assets	1,025,976	1,087,570
Current liabilities	99,330	89,933
Noncurrent liabilities	1,616	1,941
Members' equity	924,909	995,569
Noncontrolling interest	121	127
Total liabilities and equity	$1,025,976	$1,087,570

Equity_Investments_Schedule_of1

Equity Investments (Schedule of Financial Information Related to Unconsolidated Entities Included in Consolidated Statement of Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Equity Investments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Revenues	$1,246,183	$1,236,915	$1,230,146
Operating costs and expenses	1,116,745	1,079,055	1,068,212
Income from continuing operations before taxes	$129,576	$157,762	$162,124

Segment_Information_Narrative_

Segment Information (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	item	item
Segment Information [Abstract]	'	'
Number of Operating Segments	2	3

Segment_Information_Schedule_o

Segment Information (Schedule of Segment Reporting Information by Segment) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net operating revenues	$3,191,255	$3,174,416	$3,191,254	$3,262,031	$3,229,399	$3,163,577	$3,196,097	$3,243,663	$12,818,956	$12,832,736	$11,707,730
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	88,331	34,827	74,195	148,768	125,969	90,575	159,213	146,089	346,121	521,846	484,457
Expenditures for segment assets	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	613,992	768,790	776,713
Total assets	17,117,295	'	'	'	16,606,335	'	'	'	17,117,295	16,606,335	'
Hospital operations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net operating revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	12,637,162	12,664,967	11,548,335
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	575,307	881,962	742,858
Expenditures for segment assets	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	582,910	730,445	738,420
Total assets	15,594,720	'	'	'	15,216,827	'	'	'	15,594,720	15,216,827	'
Corporate and All Other Reporting Units [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net operating revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	181,794	167,769	159,395
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-229,186	-360,116	-258,401
Expenditures for segment assets	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	31,082	38,345	38,293
Total assets	$1,522,575	'	'	'	$1,389,508	'	'	'	$1,522,575	$1,389,508	'

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Sch

Other Comprehensive Income (Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	($145,310)	($184,479)	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications	10,823	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	66,982	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	77,805	39,169	46,448
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	-67,505	-145,310	-184,479
Change in Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	-116,382	-162,791	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications	-3,837	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	64,141	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	60,304	46,409	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	-56,078	-116,382	'
Change in Fair Value of Available for Sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	4,588	1,576	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications	2,181	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2,181	3,012	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	6,769	4,588	'
Change in Unrecognized Pension Cost Components [Member]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Beginning Balance	-33,516	-23,264	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications	12,479	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	2,841	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	15,320	-10,252	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Ending Balance	($18,196)	($33,516)	'

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Sch1

Other Comprehensive Income (Schedule of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gains and losses on cash flow hedges - Interest rate swaps	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($613,122)	($620,957)	($642,526)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	88,331	34,827	74,195	148,768	125,969	90,575	159,213	146,089	346,121	521,846	484,457
Tax benefit	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-103,678	-164,026	-141,593
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	28,181	4,095	29,753	79,174	62,574	44,233	83,359	75,474	141,203	265,640	201,948
Change in Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gains and losses on cash flow hedges - Interest rate swaps	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-99,808	'	'
Tax benefit	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	35,667	'	'
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-64,141	'	'
Change in Unrecognized Pension Cost Components [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization of defined benefit pension items - Prior service costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,143	'	'
Amortization of defined benefit pension items - Actuarial losses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-3,382	'	'
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-4,525	'	'
Tax benefit	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,684	'	'
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($2,841)	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Commitments Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Physician Recruiting Commitments [Abstract]	'
Physician recruiting commitment, physician income guarantee period	'12 months
Physician recruiting commitment, period of recoverability of physician income guarantee for noncommitment	'3 years
Physician recruiting commitment, maximum potential future payments in excess of liability recorded	$20.90
All other purchase commitments [Member]	'
Construction and Other Capital Commitments [Abstract]	'
Capital commitment, post-acquisition estimated cost of replacement hospital	393.5
Capital commitment, construction cost of replacement hospital incurred to date	256.8
Pennsylvania [Member]	'
Construction and Other Capital Commitments [Abstract]	'
Capital commitment, post-acquisition estimated cost of replacement hospital	100
Capital commitment, construction cost of replacement hospital incurred to date	0.7
Birmingham, Alabama hospital [Member]	'
Construction and Other Capital Commitments [Abstract]	'
Capital commitment, post-acquisition estimated cost of replacement hospital	280
Capital commitment, construction cost of replacement hospital incurred to date	$64.20
Minimum [Member] | All other purchase commitments [Member]	'
Construction and Other Capital Commitments [Abstract]	'
Capital commitment, future period after acquisition for completing open capital improvement projects	'5 years
Maximum [Member] | All other purchase commitments [Member]	'
Construction and Other Capital Commitments [Abstract]	'
Capital commitment, future period after acquisition for completing open capital improvement projects	'7 years

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies (Professional Liability Claims Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, historical claims period used by actuary to estimate liability	'20 years	'	'
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Discount Rate	1.60%	1.20%	1.20%
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Accrual, Discounted	$643.90	$621.70	'
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Accrual, Undiscounted	686.9	649.4	'
Malpractice Loss Contingency, Accrual, Discounted, Current	104.4	106.9	'
Professional and general liability self-insured claims reported prior to June 1, 2002, per occurrence [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	0.5	'	'
Professional and general liability self-insured reported from June 1, 2002 through June 1, 2003, per occurrence [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	2	'	'
Professional and general liability self-insured reported from June 1, 2003 and before June 1, 2005, per occurrence [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	4	'	'
Professional and general liability self-insured claims reported on or after June 1, 2005, per occurrence [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	5	'	'
Professional and general liability claims reported on or after June 1, 2003 [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance, Maximum Coverage Per Incident	95	'	'
Professional and general liability claims incurred and reported after January 1, 2008 [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance, Maximum Coverage Per Incident	145	'	'
Professional and general liability claims incurred and reported after January 1, 2010 [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance, Maximum Coverage Per Incident	195	'	'
Professional and general liability self-insured claims under certain policy terms until Company total aggregate coverage is met if first aggregate layer becomes fully utilized [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	10	'	'
Triad professional and general liability self-insured claims during 2007 [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	10	'	'
Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, average lag period from occurrence to settlement	'4 years	'	'
Minimum [Member] | Triad professional and general liability self-insured claims after December 31, 2006 [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	1	'	'
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, average lag period from occurrence to settlement	'5 years	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, settled claims as percent of total liability	1.00%	'	'
Maximum [Member] | Triad professional and general liability self-insured claims after December 31, 2006 [Member]	'	'	'
Malpractice Insurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Malpractice loss contingency, self-insured retention	$5	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_4

Commitments and Contingencies (Contingencies Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Government settlement and related costs	$101,500,000	'	'
Pending Litigation [Member] | Legal Matters Where Negative Outcome is Known or Probable [Member]	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Government settlement and related costs	101,500,000	'	'
Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value	118,717,000	22,612,000	10,562,000
Legal Fees	8,500,000	12,500,000	'
U.S. ex re. Baker vs. Community Health Systems, Inc. [Member] | Pending Litigation [Member] | Litigation Matters Where Negative Outcome Is Reasonably Possible [Member]	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of hospitals involved in litigation	3	'	'
Department of Justice Investigations of Medicare Short-Stay Admissions from Emergency Departments [Member] | Pending Litigation [Member] | Legal Matters Where Negative Outcome is Known or Probable [Member]	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Government settlement and related costs	$101,500,000	'	'
Class Action Shareholder Federal Securities Cases [Member] | Pending Litigation [Member] | Litigation Matters For Which An Outcome Cannot Be Assessed [Member]	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of legal cases filed	3	'	'
Shareholder Derivative Actions [Member] | Pending Litigation [Member] | Litigation Matters For Which An Outcome Cannot Be Assessed [Member]	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of legal cases filed	3	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_5

Commitments and Contingencies (Schedule of the Reconciliation of Accrued Liability Balances for Probable Contingencies) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]	'	'
Government settlement and related costs	$101,500	'
Pending Litigation [Member] | Legal Matters Where Negative Outcome is Known or Probable [Member]	'	'
Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward]	'	'
Beginning Balance	22,612	10,562
Government settlement and related costs	101,500	'
Other legal settlements	4,654	27,538
Cash Payments	-10,049	-15,488
Ending Balance	$118,717	$22,612

Subsequent_Events_Narrative_De

Subsequent Events (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

Feb. 05, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

Jan. 27, 2014

Aug. 17, 2012

Jan. 27, 2014

Jan. 27, 2014

Jan. 27, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Jan. 27, 2014

item

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan A [Member]

Credit Facility, New Term Loan A due 2019 [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan B, Initial Funding [Member]

Credit Facility, Term Loan D due 2021 [Member]

Credit Facility, Incremental Term Loan E due 2017 [Member]

Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans [Member]

Credit Facility, Revolving Credit Loans maturing 2019, New [Member]

Senior Secured Notes at 5.125, Due 2021 [Member]

Senior Secured Notes at 5.125, Due 2021 [Member]

Senior Notes at 6.875, Due 2022 [Member]

Senior Notes at 6.875, Due 2022 [Member]

Term Loans [Member]

Term Loans [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Sharon Regional Health System [Member]

Sharon Regional Health System [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Line of Credit [Member]

Line of Credit [Member]

Senior Secured Notes [Member]

Senior Secured Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

item

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

Subsequent Event [Member]

item

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Health Management Associates, Inc. [Member]

Subsequent Event [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition

'

'

27-Jan-14

'

'

5-Feb-14

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price

'

$7,600,000,000

'

'

$70,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt

'

3,700,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross, Per Share

'

'

'

$10.50

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Contingent Value Right, Number Per Share

'

'

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination Consideration Transferred Equity Interests Issued, Per Share

'

'

'

0.06942

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Contingent Value Right, Amount Per Share

'

'

'

$1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

1,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months

166,894,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

152,050,000

112,800,000

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two

654,867,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

147,336,000

162,800,000

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three

488,902,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

484,836,000

162,800,000

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four

3,287,695,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,265,862,000

1,822,000,000

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five

1,603,565,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

496,000,000

Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five

3,231,114,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,521,000,000

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000,000

'

'

4,602,000,000

1,677,000,000

'

'

'

1,000,000,000

'

3,000,000,000

'

'

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.13%

'

6.88%

'

'

Extinguishment of Debt, Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

$637,500,000

'

$1,600,000,000

$59,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Aug-21

'

1-Feb-22

'

'

'

Number of licensed beds

19,632

'

'

'

251

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Unaud2

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Schedule of Quarterly Financial Data) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Sep. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2012		Mar. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Net operating revenues	$3,191,255	$3,174,416	$3,191,254	$3,262,031	$3,229,399		$3,163,577		$3,196,097		$3,243,663		$12,818,956		$12,832,736		$11,707,730
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	88,331	34,827	74,195	148,768	125,969		90,575		159,213		146,089		346,121		521,846		484,457
Income from continuing operations	62,001	27,853	53,245	99,344	88,108		62,665		106,977		100,070		242,443		357,820		342,864
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	-9,739	-6,255	-6,160	-3,021	-2,482		-3,907		-4,810		-818		-25,175		-12,017		-65,241
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$28,181	$4,095	$29,753	$79,174	$62,574		$44,233		$83,359		$75,474		$141,203		$265,640		$201,948
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders (1):	'	'	'	'	'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Continuing operations	$0.41	$0.11	$0.39	$0.90	$0.72	[1]	$0.54	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$0.86	[1]	$1.80	[1]	$3.11	[1]	$2.97	[1]
Discontinued operations	($0.10)	($0.07)	($0.07)	($0.03)	($0.03)	[1]	($0.04)	[1]	($0.05)	[1]	($0.01)	[1]	($0.27)	[1]	($0.13)	[1]	($0.73)	[1]
Net income	$0.30	$0.04	$0.32	$0.87	$0.70	[1]	$0.50	[1]	$0.94	[1]	$0.85	[1]	$1.52	[1]	$2.98	[1]	$2.24	[1]
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. common stockholders (1):	'	'	'	'	'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Continuing operations	$0.40	$0.11	$0.38	$0.89	$0.72	[1]	$0.53	[1]	$0.98	[1]	$0.86	[1]	$1.77	[1]	$3.09	[1]	$2.95	[1]
Discontinued operations	($0.10)	($0.07)	($0.07)	($0.03)	($0.03)	[1]	($0.04)	[1]	($0.05)	[1]	($0.01)	[1]	($0.27)	[1]	($0.13)	[1]	($0.72)	[1]
Net income	$0.30	$0.04	$0.32	$0.86	$0.69	[1]	$0.49	[1]	$0.93	[1]	$0.85	[1]	$1.51	[1]	$2.96	[1]	$2.23	[1]
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding:	'	'	'	'	'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Basic	93,372,398	93,259,027	92,866,370	91,002,615	89,882,380		89,259,950		89,147,472		88,674,779		92,633,332		89,242,949		89,966,933
Diluted	94,703,458	94,483,596	94,109,368	91,998,993	90,828,119		90,009,113		89,530,639		88,852,704		93,815,013		89,806,937		90,666,348
[1]	Total per share amounts may not add due to rounding.

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli2

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Financial Information [Abstract]	'
Percentage of owned domestic subsidiaries which guaranteed senior notes	100.00%

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli3

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$14,852,625	$14,746,759	$13,380,581
Provision for bad debts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,033,669	1,914,023	1,672,851
Net operating revenues	3,191,255	3,174,416	3,191,254	3,262,031	3,229,399	3,163,577	3,196,097	3,243,663	12,818,956	12,832,736	11,707,730
Operating costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,107,391	5,992,046	5,467,420
Supplies	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,975,236	1,952,918	1,811,814
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,816,633	2,805,938	2,458,280
Government settlement and related costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	101,500	'	'
Electronic health records incentive reimbursement	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-162,042	-122,696	-62,881
Rent	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	278,885	264,415	246,218
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	771,356	713,892	643,368
Total operating costs and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	11,888,959	11,606,513	10,564,219
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	929,997	1,226,223	1,143,511
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	613,122	620,957	642,526
Loss (gain) from early extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,295	115,453	66,019
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-42,641	-42,033	-49,491
Impairment of long-lived assets	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	12,100	10,000	'
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	88,331	34,827	74,195	148,768	125,969	90,575	159,213	146,089	346,121	521,846	484,457
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	103,678	164,026	141,593
Income from continuing operations	62,001	27,853	53,245	99,344	88,108	62,665	106,977	100,070	242,443	357,820	342,864
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-20,613	-12,017	-14,739
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-4,562	'	-47,930
Loss on sale, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-2,572
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	-9,739	-6,255	-6,160	-3,021	-2,482	-3,907	-4,810	-818	-25,175	-12,017	-65,241
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	217,268	345,803	277,623
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	76,065	80,163	75,675
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	28,181	4,095	29,753	79,174	62,574	44,233	83,359	75,474	141,203	265,640	201,948
Parent Company [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-141,203	-265,640	-201,948
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Subsidiary Issuer [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-14,923	-9,653	'
Net operating revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-14,923	-9,653	'
Operating costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	240	603	'
Total operating costs and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	240	603	'
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-15,163	-10,256	'
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-4,749	58,726	87,095
Loss (gain) from early extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,295	115,453	66,019
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-138,906	-348,878	-287,903
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	127,197	164,443	134,789
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-14,006	-101,197	-67,159
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	141,203	265,640	201,948
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	9,487,566	9,413,925	8,489,187
Provision for bad debts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,394,111	1,292,852	1,137,662
Net operating revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	8,093,455	8,121,073	7,351,525
Operating costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,591,443	3,552,225	3,213,478
Supplies	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,284,542	1,281,193	1,165,970
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,824,811	1,828,771	1,595,918
Government settlement and related costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	101,500	'	'
Electronic health records incentive reimbursement	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-104,922	-78,419	-43,959
Rent	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	158,541	149,089	134,862
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	521,557	472,919	413,587
Total operating costs and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,377,472	7,205,778	6,479,856
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	715,983	915,295	871,669
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	554,861	503,484	494,185
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-85,859	-150,606	-65,846
Impairment of long-lived assets	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	12,100	10,000	'
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	234,881	552,417	443,330
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	85,208	199,423	160,045
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	149,673	352,994	283,285
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-12,980	-5,438	-1,950
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-4,562	'	'
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-17,542	-5,438	-1,950
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	132,131	347,556	281,335
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	132,131	347,556	281,335
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating revenues (net of contractual allowances and discounts)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5,379,982	5,342,487	4,891,394
Provision for bad debts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	639,558	621,171	535,189
Net operating revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,740,424	4,721,316	4,356,205
Operating costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,515,948	2,439,821	2,253,942
Supplies	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	690,694	671,725	645,844
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	991,582	976,564	862,362
Electronic health records incentive reimbursement	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-57,120	-44,277	-18,922
Rent	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	120,344	115,326	111,356
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	249,799	240,973	229,781
Total operating costs and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,511,247	4,400,132	4,084,363
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	229,177	321,184	271,842
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	63,010	58,747	61,246
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	166,167	262,437	210,596
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	32,476	65,800	48,707
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	133,691	196,637	161,889
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss from operations of entities sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-7,633	-6,579	-12,789
Impairment of hospitals sold or held for sale	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-47,930
Loss on sale, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-2,572
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-7,633	-6,579	-63,291
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	126,058	190,058	98,598
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	76,065	80,163	75,675
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	49,993	109,895	22,923
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	323,327	723,091	506,206
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-323,327	-723,091	-506,206
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-323,327	-723,091	-506,206
Discontinued operations, net of taxes:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-323,327	-723,091	-506,206
Net income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($323,327)	($723,091)	($506,206)

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli4

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'
Net income	$217,268	$345,803	$277,623
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of income taxes	60,304	46,409	55,145
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes	2,181	3,012	-960
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components, net of income taxes	15,320	-10,252	-7,737
Other comprehensive income (loss)	77,805	39,169	46,448
Comprehensive income	295,073	384,972	324,071
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	76,065	80,163	75,675
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	219,008	304,809	248,396
Parent Company [Member]	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'
Net income	141,203	265,640	201,948
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of income taxes	60,304	46,409	55,145
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes	2,181	3,012	-960
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components, net of income taxes	15,320	-10,252	-7,737
Other comprehensive income (loss)	77,805	39,169	46,448
Comprehensive income	219,008	304,809	248,396
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	219,008	304,809	248,396
Subsidiary Issuer [Member]	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'
Net income	141,203	265,640	201,948
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of income taxes	60,304	46,409	55,145
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes	2,181	3,012	-960
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components, net of income taxes	15,320	-10,252	-7,737
Other comprehensive income (loss)	77,805	39,169	46,448
Comprehensive income	219,008	304,809	248,396
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	219,008	304,809	248,396
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'
Net income	132,131	347,556	281,335
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes	2,181	3,012	-960
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components, net of income taxes	15,320	-10,252	-7,737
Other comprehensive income (loss)	17,501	-7,240	-8,697
Comprehensive income	149,632	340,316	272,638
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	149,632	340,316	272,638
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'
Net income	126,058	190,058	98,598
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Comprehensive income	126,058	190,058	98,598
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	76,065	80,163	75,675
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	49,993	109,895	22,923
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]	'	'	'
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)	'	'	'
Net income	-323,327	-723,091	-506,206
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Net change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of income taxes	-60,304	-46,409	-55,145
Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of income taxes	-4,362	-6,024	1,920
Amortization and recognition of unrecognized pension cost components, net of income taxes	-30,640	20,504	15,474
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-95,306	-31,929	-37,751
Comprehensive income	-418,633	-755,020	-543,957
Comprehensive income attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	($418,633)	($755,020)	($543,957)

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli5

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$373,403	$387,813	$129,865	$299,169
Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	2,322,555	2,034,085	'	'
Supplies	371,315	362,159	'	'
Prepaid income taxes	107,077	49,888	'	'
Deferred income taxes	101,372	117,045	'	'
Prepaid expenses and taxes	126,972	124,768	'	'
Other current assets	345,269	343,384	'	'
Total current assets	3,747,963	3,419,142	'	'
Property and equipment, net	7,050,651	7,074,417	'	'
Goodwill	4,424,425	4,388,429	4,245,136	'
Other assets, net	1,894,256	1,724,347	'	'
Total assets	17,117,295	16,606,335	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	166,894	89,902	'	'
Accounts payable	949,115	819,643	'	'
Deferred income taxes	3,183	'	'	'
Accrued interest	111,891	110,702	'	'
Accrued liabilities	1,226,834	1,123,551	'	'
Total current liabilities	2,457,917	2,143,798	'	'
Long-term debt	9,286,489	9,451,380	'	'
Deferred income taxes	906,101	808,489	'	'
Other long-term liabilities	976,908	1,038,481	'	'
Total liabilities	13,627,415	13,442,148	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated subsidiaries	358,410	367,666	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'	'	'
Preferred stock	'	'	'	'
Common stock	960	929	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	1,255,855	1,138,274	'	'
Treasury stock, at cost	-6,678	-6,678	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	-67,505	-145,310	-184,479	'
Retained earnings	1,885,195	1,743,992	'	'
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	3,067,827	2,731,207	'	'
Noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated subsidiaries	63,643	65,314	'	'
Total equity	3,131,470	2,796,521	2,464,445	2,250,377
Total liabilities and equity	17,117,295	16,606,335	'	'
Parent Company [Member]	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Prepaid income taxes	107,077	49,888	'	'
Deferred income taxes	101,372	117,045	'	'
Total current assets	208,449	166,933	'	'
Intercompany receivable	579,793	406,534	'	'
Net investment in subsidiaries	3,193,971	2,974,965	'	'
Total assets	3,982,213	3,548,432	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Deferred income taxes	3,183	'	'	'
Accrued liabilities	4,178	7,580	'	'
Total current liabilities	7,361	7,580	'	'
Deferred income taxes	906,101	808,489	'	'
Other long-term liabilities	924	1,156	'	'
Total liabilities	914,386	817,225	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'	'	'
Common stock	960	929	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	1,255,855	1,138,274	'	'
Treasury stock, at cost	-6,678	-6,678	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	-67,505	-145,310	'	'
Retained earnings	1,885,195	1,743,992	'	'
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	3,067,827	2,731,207	'	'
Total equity	3,067,827	2,731,207	'	'
Total liabilities and equity	3,982,213	3,548,432	'	'
Subsidiary Issuer [Member]	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Prepaid expenses and taxes	112	115	'	'
Total current assets	112	115	'	'
Intercompany receivable	9,540,603	9,837,904	'	'
Other assets, net	144,148	165,236	'	'
Net investment in subsidiaries	9,335,210	8,686,242	'	'
Total assets	19,020,073	18,689,497	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	152,050	75,679	'	'
Accounts payable	19	74	'	'
Accrued interest	111,330	110,091	'	'
Total current liabilities	263,399	185,844	'	'
Long-term debt	8,718,379	9,079,392	'	'
Intercompany payable	6,225,192	5,639,928	'	'
Other long-term liabilities	619,135	809,372	'	'
Total liabilities	15,826,105	15,714,536	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	1,175,265	1,176,342	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	-67,505	-145,310	'	'
Retained earnings	2,086,208	1,943,929	'	'
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	3,193,968	2,974,961	'	'
Total equity	3,193,968	2,974,961	'	'
Total liabilities and equity	19,020,073	18,689,497	'	'
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	238,336	271,559	8,920	208,835
Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	865,714	654,894	'	'
Supplies	256,130	250,316	'	'
Prepaid expenses and taxes	97,940	85,383	'	'
Other current assets	264,053	249,962	'	'
Total current assets	1,722,173	1,512,114	'	'
Intercompany receivable	4,529,246	3,723,120	'	'
Property and equipment, net	4,656,968	4,593,286	'	'
Goodwill	2,532,570	2,527,041	'	'
Other assets, net	1,453,248	1,357,771	'	'
Net investment in subsidiaries	4,029,631	3,427,182	'	'
Total assets	18,923,836	17,140,514	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	12,458	11,094	'	'
Accounts payable	734,398	579,001	'	'
Accrued interest	124	295	'	'
Accrued liabilities	870,532	752,949	'	'
Total current liabilities	1,617,512	1,343,339	'	'
Long-term debt	50,856	53,186	'	'
Intercompany payable	13,059,089	11,693,119	'	'
Other long-term liabilities	671,166	675,290	'	'
Total liabilities	15,398,623	13,764,934	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'	'	'
Common stock	1	1	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	1,274,420	1,283,499	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	-11,425	-28,927	'	'
Retained earnings	2,262,217	2,121,007	'	'
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	3,525,213	3,375,580	'	'
Total equity	3,525,213	3,375,580	'	'
Total liabilities and equity	18,923,836	17,140,514	'	'
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	135,067	116,254	120,945	90,334
Patient accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	1,456,841	1,379,191	'	'
Supplies	115,185	111,843	'	'
Prepaid expenses and taxes	28,920	39,270	'	'
Other current assets	81,216	93,422	'	'
Total current assets	1,817,229	1,739,980	'	'
Intercompany receivable	3,811,213	3,262,823	'	'
Property and equipment, net	2,393,683	2,481,131	'	'
Goodwill	1,891,855	1,861,388	'	'
Other assets, net	828,233	829,114	'	'
Total assets	10,742,213	10,174,436	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	2,386	3,129	'	'
Accounts payable	214,698	240,568	'	'
Accrued interest	437	316	'	'
Accrued liabilities	352,124	363,022	'	'
Total current liabilities	569,645	607,035	'	'
Long-term debt	517,254	318,802	'	'
Intercompany payable	8,264,665	7,822,313	'	'
Other long-term liabilities	217,056	180,437	'	'
Total liabilities	9,568,620	8,928,587	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated subsidiaries	358,410	367,666	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'	'	'
Common stock	2	2	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	594,989	690,929	'	'
Retained earnings	156,549	121,938	'	'
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	751,540	812,869	'	'
Noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated subsidiaries	63,643	65,314	'	'
Total equity	815,183	878,183	'	'
Total liabilities and equity	10,742,213	10,174,436	'	'
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Intercompany receivable	-18,460,855	-17,230,381	'	'
Other assets, net	-531,373	-627,774	'	'
Net investment in subsidiaries	-16,558,812	-15,088,389	'	'
Total assets	-35,551,040	-32,946,544	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Intercompany payable	-27,548,946	-25,155,360	'	'
Other long-term liabilities	-531,373	-627,774	'	'
Total liabilities	-28,080,319	-25,783,134	'	'
Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity:	'	'	'	'
Common stock	-3	-3	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	-3,044,674	-3,150,770	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	78,930	174,237	'	'
Retained earnings	-4,504,974	-4,186,874	'	'
Total Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders' equity	-7,470,721	-7,163,410	'	'
Total equity	-7,470,721	-7,163,410	'	'
Total liabilities and equity	($35,551,040)	($32,946,544)	'	'

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli6

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$1,088,719	$1,280,120	$1,261,908
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Acquisitions of facilities and other related equipment	-43,743	-322,315	-415,360
Purchases of property and equipment	-613,992	-768,790	-776,713
Proceeds from disposition of hospitals and other ancillary operations	'	'	173,387
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	6,409	5,897	11,160
Increase in other investments	-339,942	-297,994	-188,249
Net cash used in investing activities	-991,268	-1,383,202	-1,195,775
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	110,660	20,858	18,910
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll tax withholding requirements	-14,896	-9,314	-13,311
Stock buy-back	-27,133	'	-85,790
Deferred financing costs	-13,199	-141,219	-19,352
Excess tax benefit relating to stock-based compensation	6,715	3,973	5,290
Payment of special dividend to stockholders	'	-22,535	'
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint ventures	289	535	1,229
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint ventures	-9,304	-44,287	-13,022
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint ventures	-75,583	-68,344	-56,094
Borrowings under credit agreements	1,194,575	3,975,866	578,236
Issuance of long-term debt	'	3,825,000	1,000,000
Proceeds from receivables facility	338,000	350,000	'
Repayments of long-term indebtedness	-1,621,985	-7,529,503	-1,651,533
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-111,861	361,030	-235,437
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-14,410	257,948	-169,304
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	387,813	129,865	299,169
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	373,403	387,813	129,865
Parent Company [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	-78,754	-55,122	-41,780
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	110,660	20,858	18,910
Repurchase of restricted stock shares for payroll tax withholding requirements	-14,896	-9,314	-13,311
Stock buy-back	-27,133	'	-85,790
Excess tax benefit relating to stock-based compensation	6,715	3,973	5,290
Payment of special dividend to stockholders	'	-22,535	'
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	3,408	62,140	116,681
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	78,754	55,122	41,780
Subsidiary Issuer [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	21,281	-71,683	-111,001
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Increase in other investments	'	10,000	-10,000
Net cash used in investing activities	'	10,000	-10,000
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Deferred financing costs	-13,199	-141,219	-19,352
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	274,075	-124,560	209,056
Borrowings under credit agreements	1,170,000	3,955,000	560,000
Issuance of long-term debt	'	3,825,000	1,000,000
Repayments of long-term indebtedness	-1,452,157	-7,452,538	-1,628,703
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-21,281	61,683	121,001
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	871,489	1,156,708	918,947
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Acquisitions of facilities and other related equipment	-11,894	-309,731	-370,243
Purchases of property and equipment	-491,863	-540,816	-440,754
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	3,540	2,756	2,283
Increase in other investments	-275,149	-231,326	-129,852
Net cash used in investing activities	-775,366	-1,079,117	-938,566
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	-124,384	189,076	-175,332
Borrowings under credit agreements	23,710	20,866	18,236
Repayments of long-term indebtedness	-28,672	-24,894	-23,200
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-129,346	185,048	-180,296
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-33,223	262,639	-199,915
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	271,559	8,920	208,835
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	238,336	271,559	8,920
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	274,703	250,217	495,742
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Acquisitions of facilities and other related equipment	-31,849	-12,584	-45,117
Purchases of property and equipment	-122,129	-227,974	-335,959
Proceeds from disposition of hospitals and other ancillary operations	'	'	173,387
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	2,869	3,141	8,877
Increase in other investments	-64,793	-76,668	-48,397
Net cash used in investing activities	-215,902	-314,085	-247,209
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from noncontrolling investors in joint ventures	289	535	1,229
Redemption of noncontrolling investments in joint ventures	-9,304	-44,287	-13,022
Distributions to noncontrolling investors in joint ventures	-75,583	-68,344	-56,094
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	-153,099	-126,656	-150,405
Borrowings under credit agreements	865	'	2,145
Proceeds from receivables facility	338,000	350,000	'
Repayments of long-term indebtedness	-141,156	-52,071	-1,775
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-39,988	59,177	-217,922
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	18,813	-4,691	30,611
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	116,254	120,945	90,334
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	135,067	116,254	120,945
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Borrowings under credit agreements	'	'	-2,145
Repayments of long-term indebtedness	'	'	$2,145

Schedule_of_Qualifying_and_Val1

Schedule of Qualifying and Valuation Accounts (Details) (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member]	'	'	'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Valuation allowance, beginning balance	$2,190,762	$1,876,303	$1,629,814
Acquisitions and dispositions	'	'	-28,954
Charged to costs and expenses	2,033,669	1,914,023	1,672,851
Write-offs	-1,786,577	-1,599,564	-1,397,408
Valuation allowance, ending balance	$2,437,854	$2,190,762	$1,876,303