| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 27, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEMS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001108109 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 27, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-15925 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-3893191 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4000 Meridian Boulevard |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Franklin |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TN |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 37067 |
| City Area Code | (615) |
| Local Phone Number | 465-7000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | CYH |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
