Universal Health Services (UHS) 10-K 27 Feb 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014
			Class A	Class B	Class C	Class D
Document Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'	'	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'	'	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'	'	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'	'	'	'
Trading Symbol	'UHS	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES INC	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000352915	'	'	'	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	'	6,595,708	91,321,038	664,000	29,983
Entity Public Float	'	$6,000,000,000	'	'	'	'

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per 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
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$8,411,038	$7,688,071	$7,356,798
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,127,216	726,671	596,576
Net revenues	1,800,846	1,816,369	1,834,975	1,831,632	1,764,927	1,680,353	1,723,084	1,793,036	7,283,822	6,961,400	6,760,222
Operating charges:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,604,620	3,440,917	3,326,378
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,468,744	1,376,122	1,353,693
Supplies expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	821,089	799,621	805,489
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	337,172	302,426	287,211
Lease and rental expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	97,758	94,885	90,323
Transaction costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	5,716	0
Electronic health records incentive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-61,024	-30,038	0
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	29,170	0
Operating Expenses, Total	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,268,359	6,018,819	5,863,094
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,015,463	942,581	897,128
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	146,131	178,918	200,792
Income before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	869,332	763,663	696,336
Provision for income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	315,309	274,616	247,466
Net income	133,186	123,099	167,803	129,935	147,660	81,373	117,444	142,570	554,023	489,047	448,870
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	8,665	8,512	15,962	10,151	12,199	9,556	9,883	13,963	43,290	45,601	50,703
Net income attributable to UHS	$124,521	$114,587	$151,841	$119,784	$135,461	$71,817	$107,561	$128,607	$510,733	$443,446	$398,167
Basic earnings per share attributable to UHS	$1.27	$1.17	$1.55	$1.23	$1.39	$0.74	$1.11	$1.33	$5.21	$4.57	$4.09
Diluted earnings per share attributable to UHS	$1.24	$1.15	$1.53	$1.21	$1.39	$0.73	$1.10	$1.31	$5.14	$4.53	$4.04
Weighted average number of common shares-basic	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	98,033	96,821	97,199
Add: Other share equivalents	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,328	890	1,338
Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents-diluted	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	99,361	97,711	98,537

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (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
Net income	$133,186	$123,099	$167,803	$129,935	$147,660	$81,373	$117,444	$142,570	$554,023	$489,047	$448,870
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized derivative gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	16,963	6,677	-37,477
Amortization of terminated hedge	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-336	-336	-336
Minimum Pension Liability	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	14,657	4,986	-12,397
Other comprehensive income (loss) before tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	31,284	11,327	-50,210
Income tax (benefit) expense related to items of other comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	11,940	4,306	-19,174
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	19,344	7,021	-31,036
Comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	573,367	496,068	417,834
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	43,290	45,601	50,703
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$530,077	$450,467	$367,131

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$17,238	$23,471
Accounts receivable, net	1,116,961	1,067,197
Supplies	101,781	99,000
Deferred income taxes	119,903	104,461
Other current assets	76,446	87,936
Assets of facilities held for sale	0	25,431
Total current assets	1,432,329	1,407,496
Property and Equipment	'	'
Land	388,190	387,248
Buildings and improvements	3,593,055	3,366,146
Equipment	1,496,707	1,344,643
Property under capital lease	27,636	27,836
Property Equipment Gross	5,505,588	5,125,873
Accumulated depreciation	-2,249,733	-1,986,110
Property and equipment excluding construction in progress net	3,255,855	3,139,763
Construction-in-progress	186,314	242,472
Property Equipment, net	3,442,169	3,382,235
Other assets:	'	'
Goodwill	3,049,016	3,036,765
Deferred charges	57,881	75,888
Other	330,328	298,459
Other assets	3,437,225	3,411,112
Total assets	8,311,723	8,200,843
Current liabilities:	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	99,312	2,589
Accounts payable	276,911	247,033
Liabilities of facilities held for sale	0	850
Accrued liabilities	'	'
Compensation and related benefits	278,206	259,646
Interest	9,577	10,774
Taxes other than income	59,473	49,829
Other	329,282	322,275
Current federal and state income taxes	7,127	1,062
Total current liabilities	1,059,888	894,058
Other noncurrent liabilities	284,589	395,355
Long-term debt	3,209,762	3,727,431
Deferred income taxes	239,148	183,747
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	218,107	234,303
Equity:	'	'
Cumulative dividends	-225,531	-205,910
Retained earnings	3,499,337	2,962,433
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-24,810	-44,154
Universal Health Services, Inc. common stockholders' equity	3,249,979	2,713,345
Noncontrolling interest	50,250	52,604
Total Equity	3,300,229	2,765,949
Liabilities and Equity, Total	8,311,723	8,200,843
Class A	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Common Stock	66	66
Class B	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Common Stock	910	903
Class C	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Common Stock	7	7
Class D	'	'
Equity:	'	'
Common Stock	$0	$0

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Class A	'	'
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	12,000,000	12,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	6,595,708	6,625,708
Common Stock, shares outstanding	6,595,708	6,625,708
Class B	'	'
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	150,000,000	150,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	91,021,377	90,269,397
Common Stock, shares outstanding	91,021,377	90,269,397
Class C	'	'
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	1,200,000	1,200,000
Common Stock, shares issued	664,000	664,000
Common Stock, shares outstanding	664,000	664,000
Class D	'	'
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	29,999	31,948
Common Stock, shares outstanding	29,999	31,948

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (USD $)

Total

Redeemable Interest

Cumulative Dividends

UHS Common Stockholders' Equity

Class A Common

Class B Common

Class C Common

Class D Common

Capital in Excess of Par Value

Retained Earnings

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Noncontrolling Interest

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Balance at Dec. 31, 2010

'

$211,761

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2010

2,023,771

'

-128,049

1,978,772

67

897

7

0

0

2,125,989

-20,139

44,999

Common Stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issued/(converted) including tax benefits from exercise of stock options

12,633

'

'

12,633

-1

12

'

'

'

12,622

'

'

Repurchased

-60,482

'

'

-60,482

'

-16

'

'

'

-60,466

'

'

Restricted share-based compensation expense

1,957

'

'

1,957

'

'

'

'

'

1,957

'

'

Dividends paid

-19,466

'

-19,466

-19,466

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock option expense

15,807

'

'

15,807

'

'

'

'

'

15,807

'

'

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

-7,416

-31,016

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-7,416

Comprehensive income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

411,350

'

'

398,167

'

'

'

'

'

398,167

'

13,183

Net income

'

37,521

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization of terminated hedge (net of income tax effect of $120 in 2013, $120 in 2012 and $120 in 2011)

-216

'

'

-216

'

'

'

'

'

'

-216

'

Unrealized derivative gains and losses on cash flow hedges (net of income tax effect of $6390 in 2013, $2,528 in 2012 and $14,363 in 2011)

-23,114

'

'

-23,114

'

'

'

'

'

'

-23,114

'

Minimum pension liability (net of income tax effect of $5670 in 2013, $1,898 in 2012 and $4,691 in 2011)

-7,706

'

'

-7,706

'

'

'

'

'

'

-7,706

'

Subtotal-comprehensive income

380,314

'

'

367,131

'

'

'

'

'

398,167

-31,036

13,183

Subtotal-comprehensive income

'

37,521

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2011

'

218,266

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2011

2,347,118

'

-147,515

2,296,352

66

893

7

0

0

2,494,076

-51,175

50,766

Common Stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issued/(converted) including tax benefits from exercise of stock options

21,684

'

'

21,684

'

14

'

'

'

21,670

'

'

Repurchased

-19,154

'

'

-19,154

'

-4

'

'

'

-19,150

'

'

Restricted share-based compensation expense

2,308

'

'

2,308

'

'

'

'

'

2,308

'

'

Dividends paid

-58,395

'

-58,395

-58,395

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock option expense

20,083

'

'

20,083

'

'

'

'

'

20,083

'

'

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

-7,933

-18,961

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-7,933

Sale of minority ownership interests in majority owned businesses

-832

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-832

Comprehensive income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

454,049

'

'

443,446

'

'

'

'

'

443,446

'

10,603

Net income

'

34,998

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization of terminated hedge (net of income tax effect of $120 in 2013, $120 in 2012 and $120 in 2011)

-216

'

'

-216

'

'

'

'

'

'

-216

'

Unrealized derivative gains and losses on cash flow hedges (net of income tax effect of $6390 in 2013, $2,528 in 2012 and $14,363 in 2011)

4,149

'

'

4,149

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,149

'

Minimum pension liability (net of income tax effect of $5670 in 2013, $1,898 in 2012 and $4,691 in 2011)

3,088

'

'

3,088

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,088

'

Subtotal-comprehensive income

461,070

'

'

450,467

'

'

'

'

'

443,446

7,021

10,603

Subtotal-comprehensive income

'

34,998

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2012

234,303

234,303

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2012

2,765,949

'

-205,910

2,713,345

66

903

7

0

0

2,962,433

-44,154

52,604

Common Stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issued/(converted) including tax benefits from exercise of stock options

26,880

'

'

26,880

'

11

'

'

'

26,869

'

'

Repurchased

-27,201

'

'

-27,201

'

-4

'

'

'

-27,197

'

'

Restricted share-based compensation expense

664

'

'

664

'

'

'

'

'

664

'

'

Dividends paid

-19,621

'

-19,621

-19,621

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock option expense

25,835

'

'

25,835

'

'

'

'

'

25,835

'

'

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

-13,039

-48,290

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-13,039

Other

-511

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-511

Comprehensive income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

521,929

'

'

510,733

'

'

'

'

'

510,733

'

11,196

Net income

'

32,094

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization of terminated hedge (net of income tax effect of $120 in 2013, $120 in 2012 and $120 in 2011)

-216

'

'

-216

'

'

'

'

'

'

-216

'

Unrealized derivative gains and losses on cash flow hedges (net of income tax effect of $6390 in 2013, $2,528 in 2012 and $14,363 in 2011)

10,573

'

'

10,573

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,573

'

Minimum pension liability (net of income tax effect of $5670 in 2013, $1,898 in 2012 and $4,691 in 2011)

8,987

'

'

8,987

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,987

'

Subtotal-comprehensive income

541,273

'

'

530,077

'

'

'

'

'

510,733

19,344

11,196

Subtotal-comprehensive income

'

32,094

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2013

218,107

218,107

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Dec. 31, 2013

$3,300,229

'

($225,531)

$3,249,979

$66

$910

$7

$0

$0

$3,499,337

($24,810)

$50,250

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha1

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Amortization of terminated hedge, income tax effect	$120	$120	$120
Unrealized derivative gains and losses on cash flow hedges, income tax effect	6,390	6,390	14,363
Minimum pension liability, income tax effect	$5,670	$1,898	$4,691

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	$554,023	$489,047	$448,870
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation & amortization	337,356	308,690	295,861
Gains on sales of assets and businesses, net of losses	-3,114	-27,085	-452
Stock based compensation expense	27,783	22,518	18,225
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	0	29,170	0
Changes in assets & liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions and dispositions:	'	'	'
Accounts receivable	-49,708	-71,068	-134,838
Accrued interest	-1,197	152	-3,577
Accrued and deferred income taxes	34,861	-5,666	78,224
Other working capital accounts	26,234	28,554	-28,382
Other assets and deferred charges	8,984	30,976	37,160
Other	23,485	6,367	-1,387
Accrued insurance expense, net of commercial premiums paid	-3,821	62,660	83,612
Payments made in settlement of self-insurance claims	-70,645	-75,084	-82,633
Net cash provided by operating activities	884,241	799,231	710,683
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals	-358,493	-363,192	-285,682
Acquisition of property and businesses	-12,636	-527,847	-29,466
Proceeds received from sales of assets and businesses	37,482	149,311	67,592
Costs incurred for purchase and implementation of electronic health records application	-49,811	-54,362	-38,249
Return of deposit on terminated purchase agreement	0	6,500	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-383,458	-789,590	-285,805
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Reduction of long-term debt	-440,224	-849,647	-381,517
Additional borrowings	15,761	913,500	98,100
Financing costs	-231	-8,283	-23,608
Repurchase of common shares	-27,201	-19,154	-60,482
Dividends paid	-19,621	-58,395	-19,466
Issuance of common stock	5,708	5,435	4,779
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation	20,121	16,040	7,568
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests	-61,329	-26,895	-38,497
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-507,016	-27,399	-413,123
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-6,233	-17,758	11,755
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	23,471	41,229	29,474
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	17,238	23,471	41,229
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:	'	'	'
Interest paid	131,259	157,415	176,328
Income taxes paid, net of refunds	$259,896	$264,824	$163,029

Business_and_Summary_of_Signif

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	1) BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Services provided by our hospitals, all of which are operated by subsidiaries of ours include general and specialty surgery, internal medicine, obstetrics, emergency room care, radiology, oncology, diagnostic care, coronary care, pediatric services, pharmacy services and/or behavioral health services. We, through our subsidiaries, provide capital resources as well as a variety of management services to our facilities, including central purchasing, information services, finance and control systems, facilities planning, physician recruitment services, administrative personnel management, marketing and public relations.
	The more significant accounting policies follow:
	A) Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our majority-owned subsidiaries and partnerships controlled by us or our subsidiaries as the managing general partner. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	B) Revenue Recognition: We record revenues and related receivables for health care services at the time the services are provided. Medicare and Medicaid revenues represented 38% of our net patient revenues during 2013, 39% during 2012 and 41% during 2011. Revenues from managed care entities, including health maintenance organizations and managed Medicare and Medicaid programs accounted for 49% of our net patient revenues during each of 2013 and 2012 and 47% during 2011.
	We report net patient service revenue at the estimated net realizable amounts from patients and third-party payors and others for services rendered. We have agreements with third-party payors that provide for payments to us at amounts different from our established rates. Payment arrangements include prospectively determined rates per discharge, reimbursed costs, discounted charges and per diem payments. Estimates of contractual allowances under managed care plans are based upon the payment terms specified in the related contractual agreements. We closely monitor our historical collection rates, as well as changes in applicable laws, rules and regulations and contract terms, to assure that provisions are made using the most accurate information available. However, due to the complexities involved in these estimations, actual payments from payors may be different from the amounts we estimate and record.
	We estimate our Medicare and Medicaid revenues using the latest available financial information, patient utilization data, government provided data and in accordance with applicable Medicare and Medicaid payment rules and regulations. The laws and regulations governing the Medicare and Medicaid programs are extremely complex and subject to interpretation and as a result, there is at least a reasonable possibility that recorded estimates will change by material amounts in the near term. Certain types of payments by the Medicare program and state Medicaid programs (e.g. Medicare Disproportionate Share Hospital, Medicare Allowable Bad Debts and Inpatient Psychiatric Services) are subject to retroactive adjustment in future periods as a result of administrative review and audit and our estimates may vary from the final settlements. Such amounts are included in accounts receivable, net, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funding of both federal Medicare and state Medicaid programs are subject to legislative and regulatory changes. As such, we cannot provide any assurance that future legislation and regulations, if enacted, will not have a material impact on our future Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements. Adjustments related to the final settlement of these retrospectively determined amounts did not materially impact our results in 2013, 2012 or 2011.
	We provide care to patients who meet certain financial or economic criteria without charge or at amounts substantially less than our established rates. Because we do not pursue collection of amounts determined to qualify as charity care, they are not reported in net revenues or in accounts receivable, net. See additional disclosure below in Charity Care and Uninsured Discounts for our estimated uncompensated care provided and estimated cost of providing uncompensated care.
	C) Provision for Doubtful Accounts: Collection of receivables from third-party payers and patients is our primary source of cash and is critical to our operating performance. Our primary collection risks relate to uninsured patients and the portion of the bill which is the patient’s responsibility, primarily co-payments and deductibles. We estimate our provisions for doubtful accounts based on general factors such as payer mix, the agings of the receivables and historical collection experience. We routinely review accounts receivable balances in conjunction with these factors and other economic conditions which might ultimately affect the collectability of the patient accounts and make adjustments to our allowances as warranted. At our acute care hospitals, third party liability accounts are pursued until all payment and adjustments are posted to the patient account. For those accounts with a patient balance after third party liability is finalized or accounts for uninsured patients, the patient receives statements and collection letters. Patients that express an inability to pay are reviewed for potential sources of financial assistance including our charity care policy. If the patient is deemed unwilling to pay, the account is written-off as bad debt and transferred to an outside collection agency for additional collection effort.
	Uninsured patients that do not qualify as charity patients are extended an uninsured discount of a minimum of 30% of total charges. Our hospitals establish a partial reserve for self-pay accounts in the allowance for doubtful accounts for both unbilled balances and those that have been billed and are under 90 days old. All self-pay accounts are fully reserved at 90 days from the date of discharge. Third party liability accounts are fully reserved in the allowance for doubtful accounts when the balance ages past 180 days from the date of discharge. Potential charity accounts are fully reserved when it is determined the patient may be unable to pay.
	Our accounts receivable as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 includes amounts due from Illinois of approximately $49 million, $70 million and $54 million, respectively. Collection of the outstanding receivables continues to be delayed due to state budgetary and funding pressures. Approximately $28 million as of December 31, 2013, $51 million as of December 31, 2012 and $41 million as of December 31, 2011, of the receivables due from Illinois were outstanding in excess of 60 days, as of each respective date. In addition, our accounts receivable as of December 31, 2013 includes approximately $46 million due from Texas in connection with Medicaid supplemental payment programs the majority of which we expect to collect during the second quarter of 2014. Although the accounts receivable due from Illinois and Texas could remain outstanding for the foreseeable future, since we expect to eventually collect all amounts due to us (we have received $27 million of cash remittances from Illinois in January, 2014), no related reserves have been established in our consolidated financial statements. However, we can provide no assurance that we will eventually collect all amounts due to us from Illinois and/or Texas. Failure to ultimately collect all outstanding amounts due from these states would have an adverse impact on our future consolidated results of operations and cash flows.
	On a consolidated basis, we monitor our total self-pay receivables to ensure that the total allowance for doubtful accounts provides adequate coverage based on historical collection experience. Our accounts receivable are recorded net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $395 million and $311 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	D) Concentration of Revenues: Our five majority owned acute care hospitals in the Las Vegas, Nevada market contributed, on a combined basis, 14% of our consolidated net revenues in each of 2013 and 2012 and 15% in 2011. On a combined basis, our facilities in the McAllen/Edinburg, Texas market (consisting of three acute care facilities, a children’s hospital and a behavioral health facility) contributed 4% of our consolidated net revenues in each of 2013 and 2012 and 5% in 2011.
	E) Charity Care and Uninsured Discounts: A significant portion of the patients treated throughout our portfolio of acute care hospitals are uninsured patients which, in part, has resulted from an increase in the number of patients who are employed but do not have health insurance or who have policies with relatively high deductibles. Patients treated at our hospitals for non-elective services, who have gross income less than 400% of the federal poverty guidelines, are deemed eligible for charity care. The federal poverty guidelines are established by the federal government and are based on income and family size. Because we do not pursue collection of amounts that qualify as charity care, they are not reported in our net revenues or in our accounts receivable, net. We also provide discounts to uninsured patients (included in “uninsured discounts” amounts below) who do not qualify for Medicaid or charity care. Because we do not pursue collection of amounts classified as uninsured discounts, they are not reported in our net revenues or in our accounts receivable, net. In implementing the discount policy, we first attempt to qualify uninsured patients for governmental programs, charity care or any other discount program. If an uninsured patient does not qualify for these programs, the uninsured discount is applied.
	Uncompensated care:
	The following table shows the amounts recorded at our acute care hospitals for charity care and uninsured discounts, based on charges at established rates, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
			(dollar amounts in thousands)
			2013						2012						2011
			Amount			%			Amount			%			Amount		%
	Charity care		$	593,474			59	%	$	778,268			74	%	$	804,301		84	%
	Uninsured discounts			405,296			41	%		267,304			26	%		151,447		16	%
	Total uncompensated care		$	998,770			100	%	$	1,045,572			100	%	$	955,748		100	%
	In addition, the provision for doubtful accounts at our acute care hospitals were approximately $1.02 billion during 2013, $635 million during 2012 and $519 million during 2011.
	The estimated cost of providing uncompensated care:
	The estimated cost of providing uncompensated care, as reflected below, were based on a calculation which multiplied the percentage of operating expenses for our acute care hospitals to gross charges for those hospitals by the above-mentioned total uncompensated care amounts. The percentage of cost to gross charges is calculated based on the total operating expenses for our acute care facilities divided by gross patient service revenue for those facilities. An increase in the level of uninsured patients to our facilities and the resulting adverse trends in the provision for doubtful accounts and uncompensated care provided could have a material unfavorable impact on our future operating results.
			(amounts in thousands)
			2013			2012			2011
	Estimated cost of providing charity care		$	95,675		$	131,890		$	145,350
	Estimated cost of providing uninsured discounts related care			65,338			45,299			27,363
	Estimated cost of providing uncompensated care		$	161,013		$	177,189		$	172,713
	F) Accounting for Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Records Incentive Payments: In July 2010, the Department of Health and Human Services published final regulations implementing the health information technology provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The regulation defines the “meaningful use” of Electronic Health Records (“EHR”) and established the requirements for the Medicare and Medicaid EHR payment incentive programs. The implementation period for these new Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments started in federal fiscal year 2011 and can end as late as 2016 for Medicare and 2021 for the state Medicaid programs. We recognize income related to Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments using a gain contingency model that is based upon when our eligible hospitals have demonstrated “meaningful use” of certified EHR technology for the applicable period and the cost report information for the full cost report year that will determine the final calculation of the incentive payment is available.
	Medicare EHR incentive payments: Federal regulations require that Medicare EHR incentive payments be computed based on the Medicare cost report that begins in the federal fiscal period in which a hospital meets the applicable “meaningful use” requirements. Since the annual Medicare cost report periods for each of our acute care hospitals ends on December 31st, we will recognize Medicare EHR incentive income for each hospital during the fourth quarter of the year in which the facility meets the “meaningful use” criteria and during the fourth quarter of each applicable subsequent year.
	Medicaid EHR incentive payments: Medicaid EHR incentive payments are determined based upon prior period cost report information available at the time our hospitals met the “meaningful use” criteria. Therefore, the majority of the Medicaid EHR incentive income recognition occurred in the period in which the applicable hospitals were deemed to have met initial “meaningful use” criteria. Upon meeting subsequent fiscal year “meaningful use” criteria, our hospitals may become entitled to additional Medicaid EHR incentive payments which will be recognized as incentive income in future periods. Medicaid EHR incentive payments received prior to our hospitals meeting the “meaningful use” criteria were included in other current liabilities (as deferred EHR incentive income) in our consolidated balance sheet.
	G) Cash and Cash Equivalents: We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
	H) Property and Equipment: Property and equipment are stated at cost. Expenditures for renewals and improvements are charged to the property accounts. Replacements, maintenance and repairs which do not improve or extend the life of the respective asset are expensed as incurred. We remove the cost and the related accumulated depreciation from the accounts for assets sold or retired and the resulting gains or losses are included in the results of operations. Construction-in-progress includes both construction projects and equipment not yet placed into service.
	We capitalize interest expense on major construction projects while in progress. We capitalized interest on major construction projects and the development and implementation of electronic health records applications amounting to $4.9 million during 2013, $5.7 million during 2012 and $400,000 during 2011.
	Depreciation is provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of buildings and improvements (twenty to forty years) and equipment (three to fifteen years). Depreciation expense (excluding discontinued operations) was $285.6 million during 2013, $270.5 million during 2012 and $262.1 million during 2011.
	I) Long-Lived Assets: We review our long-lived assets, including intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. The assessment of possible impairment is based on our ability to recover the carrying value of our asset based on our estimate of its undiscounted future cash flow. If the analysis indicates that the carrying value is not recoverable from future cash flows, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value and an impairment loss is recognized. Fair values are determined based on estimated future cash flows using appropriate discount rates.
	J) Goodwill and Intangible Assets: Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis or sooner if the indicators of impairment arise. Our judgments regarding the existence of impairment indicators are based on market conditions and operational performance of each reporting unit. We have designated September 1st as our annual impairment assessment date and performed an impairment assessment as of September 1, 2013 which indicated no impairment of goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets. There were also no impairments during 2012 or 2011. Future changes in the estimates used to conduct the impairment review, including profitability and market value projections, could indicate impairment in future periods potentially resulting in a write-off of a portion or all of our goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets.
	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the two years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
			Acute Care			Behavioral			Total
			Services			Health			Consolidated
						Services
	Balance, January 1, 2012		$	389,484		$	2,238,118		$	2,627,602
	Goodwill acquired during the period			11,110			434,551			445,661
	Goodwill divested during the period			(17,450	)		(1,902	)		(19,352	)
	Adjustments to goodwill (a)			(448	)		(16,698	)		(17,146	)
	Balance, January 1, 2013			382,696			2,654,069			3,036,765
	Adjustments to goodwill (b)			315			11,936			12,251
	Balance, December 31, 2013		$	383,011		$	2,666,005		$	3,049,016
	(a)	The reduction to the Behavioral Health Services’ goodwill consists primarily of a reclassification to “assets of facilities held for sale” and represents the goodwill attributable to Peak Behavioral Health Services which we agreed to divest pursuant to our agreement with the Federal Trade Commission in connection with our acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012. Adjustments to prior year purchase price allocations for Acute Care and Behavioral Health Services are also included.
	(b)	The increase in the Behavioral Health Services’ goodwill consists primarily of an amount that was reclassified from other assets.
	K) Other Assets: Other assets consist primarily of amounts related to: (i) intangible assets acquired in connection with our acquisition of Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. (“PSI”) in November, 2010 and Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012, consisting of Medicare licenses, certificates of need and contracts to manage the operations of behavioral health services owned by third-parties (PSI only); (ii) prepaid fees for various software and other applications used by our hospitals; (iii) costs incurred in connection with the purchase and implementation of an electronic health records application for each of our acute care facilities; (iv) deposits; (v) investments in various businesses, including Universal Health Realty Income Trust; (vi) the invested assets related to a deferred compensation plan that is held by an independent trustee in a rabbi-trust and that has a related payable included in other noncurrent liabilities; (vii) the estimated future payments related to physician-related contractual commitments, as discussed below, and; (viii) other miscellaneous assets. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, were approximately $97 million and $99 million, respectively.
	L) Physician Guarantees and Commitments: As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, our accrued liabilities-other, and our other assets included $3 million, as of each respective date, of estimated future payments related to physician-related contractual commitments. The $3 million of potential future financial obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2013 are potential 2014 obligations.
	M) Self-Insured Risks: We provide for self-insured risks, primarily general and professional liability claims and workers’ compensation claims. Our estimated liability for self-insured professional and general liability claims is based on a number of factors including, among other things, the number of asserted claims and reported incidents, estimates of losses for these claims based on recent and historical settlement amounts, estimate of incurred but not reported claims based on historical experience, and estimates of amounts recoverable under our commercial insurance policies. All relevant information, including our own historical experience is used in estimating the expected amount of claims. While we continuously monitor these factors, our ultimate liability for professional and general liability claims could change materially from our current estimates due to inherent uncertainties involved in making this estimate. Our estimated self-insured reserves are reviewed and changed, if necessary, at each reporting date and changes are recognized currently as additional expense or as a reduction of expense. See Note 8 for discussion of adjustments to our prior year reserves for claims related to our self-insured general and professional liability and workers’ compensation liability.
	In addition, we also maintain self-insured employee benefits programs for employee healthcare and dental claims. The ultimate costs related to these programs include expenses for claims incurred and paid in addition to an accrual for the estimated expenses incurred in connection with claims incurred but not yet reported.
	N) Income Taxes: Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the amount of taxes payable or deductible in future years as a result of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements. We believe that future income will enable us to realize our deferred tax assets net of recorded valuation allowances relating to state net operating loss carry-forwards.
	We operate in multiple jurisdictions with varying tax laws. We are subject to audits by any of these taxing authorities. Our tax returns have been examined by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) through the year ended December 31, 2006. We believe that adequate accruals have been provided for federal, foreign and state taxes.
	See Note 6—Income Taxes, for additional disclosure.
	O) Other Noncurrent Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities include the long-term portion of our professional and general liability, workers’ compensation reserves, pension and deferred compensation liabilities, liability incurred in connection with split-dollar life insurance agreements on the lives of our chief executive officer and his wife and interest rate swap liabilities.
	P) Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Noncontrolling Interest: Outside owners hold noncontrolling, minority ownership interests of: (i) approximately 28% in our five acute care facilities located in Las Vegas, Nevada; (ii) 20% in an acute care facility located in Washington, D.C.; (iii) approximately 11% in an acute care facility located in Laredo, Texas, and; (iv) 20% in a behavioral health care facility located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The redeemable noncontrolling interest balances of $218 million and $234 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and the noncontrolling interest balances of $50 million and $53 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, consist primarily of the third-party ownership interests in these hospitals.
	In connection with the five acute care facilities located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the minority ownership interests of which are reflected as redeemable noncontrolling interests on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, the outside owners have certain “put rights”, that are currently exercisable, that if exercised, require us to purchase the minority member’s interests at fair market value. The put rights are exercisable upon the occurrence of: (i) certain specified financial conditions falling below established thresholds; (ii) breach of the management contract by the managing member (a subsidiary of ours), or; (iii) if the minority member’s ownership percentage is reduced to less than certain thresholds. In connection with the behavioral health care facility located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the minority ownership interest of which is also reflected as redeemable noncontrolling interests on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, the outside owner has a “put option” to put its entire ownership interest to us at any time. If exercised, the put option requires us to purchase the minority member’s interest at fair market value. As of December 31, 2013, we believe the fair market value of the minority ownership interests in these facilities, pursuant to the terms of the put options, approximates the book value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests.
	Q) Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive income or loss is comprised of net income, changes in unrealized gains or losses on derivative financial instruments and a pension liability.
The accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) component of stockholders’ equity includes: net unrealized gains and losses on effective cash flow hedges; and the net minimum pension liability of a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan which covers employees at one of our subsidiaries. See Note 10, “Pension Plan” for additional disclosure regarding the defined benefit pension plan.
The amounts recognized in AOCI for the two years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
		Net Unrealized			Minimum			Total
		Gains (Losses) on			Pension			AOCI
		Effective Cash			Liability
		Flow Hedges
Balance, January 1, 2012, net of income tax		$	(28,460	)	$	(22,715	)	$	(51,175	)
2012 activity:
Pre-tax amount			6,341			4,986			11,327
Income tax effect			(2,408	)		(1,898	)		(4,306	)
Change, net of income tax			3,933			3,088			7,021
Balance, January 1, 2013, net of income tax			(24,527	)		(19,627	)		(44,154	)
2013 activity:
Pre-tax amount			16,627			14,657			31,284
Income tax effect			(6,270	)		(5,670	)		(11,940	)
Change, net of income tax			10,357			8,987			19,344
Balance, December 31, 2013, net of income tax		$	(14,170	)	$	(10,640	)	$	(24,810	)
R) Accounting for Derivative Financial Investments and Hedging Activities: We manage our ratio of fixed to floating rate debt with the objective of achieving a mix that management believes is appropriate. To manage this risk in a cost-effective manner, we, from time to time, enter into interest rate swap agreements in which we agree to exchange various combinations of fixed and/or variable interest rates based on agreed upon notional amounts.
We account for our derivative and hedging activities using the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s (“FASB”) guidance which requires all derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, to be carried at fair value on the balance sheet. For derivative transactions designated as hedges, we formally document all relationships between the hedging instrument and the related hedged item, as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking each hedge transaction.
Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Cash flow hedges are accounted for by recording the fair value of the derivative instrument on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability, with a corresponding amount recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) within stockholders’ equity. Amounts are reclassified from AOCI to the income statement in the period or periods the hedged transaction affects earnings.
We use interest rate derivatives in our cash flow hedge transactions. Such derivatives are designed to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows related to the hedged liability. For derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, the ineffective portion of the change in expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized currently in the income statement.
Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Fair value hedges are accounted for by recording the changes in the fair value of both the derivative instrument and the hedged item in the income statement.
For hedge transactions that do not qualify for the short-cut method, at the hedge’s inception and on a regular basis thereafter, a formal assessment is performed to determine whether changes in the fair values or cash flows of the derivative instruments have been highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items and whether they are expected to be highly effective in the future.
S) Stock-Based Compensation: At December 31, 2013, we have a number of stock-based employee compensation plans. Pursuant to the FASB’s guidance, we expense the grant-date fair value of stock options and other equity-based compensation pursuant to the straight-line method over the stated vesting period of the award using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.
The expense associated with share-based compensation arrangements is a non-cash charge. In the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, share-based compensation expense is an adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities. The applicable FASB guidance requires that cash flows resulting from tax deductions in excess of compensation cost recognized be classified as financing cash flows.
T) Earnings Per Share: Basic earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year adjusted to give effect to common stock equivalents.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share, for the periods indicated:
		Twelve Months Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
Basic and diluted:
Net Income		$	554,023		$	489,047		$	448,870
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(43,290	)		(45,601	)		(50,703	)
Less: Net income attributable to unvested restricted share grants			(294	)		(497	)		(521	)
Net income attributable to UHS—basic and diluted		$	510,439		$	442,949		$	397,646
Basic earnings per share attributable to UHS:
Weighted average number of common shares—basic			98,033			96,821			97,199
Total basic earnings per share		$	5.21		$	4.57		$	4.09
Diluted earnings per share attributable to UHS:
Weighted average number of common shares			98,033			96,821			97,199
Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method			1,328			890			1,338
Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents—diluted			99,361			97,711			98,537
Total diluted earnings per share		$	5.14		$	4.53		$	4.04
The “Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method”, for all years presented above, excludes certain outstanding stock options applicable to each year since the effect would have been anti-dilutive. The excluded weighted-average stock options totaled 4,000 during 2013, 2.0 million during 2012, 1.4 million during 2011.
U) Fair Value of Financial Instruments: The fair values of our registered debt and investments are based on quoted market prices. The fair values of other long-term debt, including capital lease obligations, are estimated by discounting cash flows using period-end interest rates and market conditions for instruments with similar maturities and credit quality. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and short-term borrowings approximates their fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Accordingly, these items have been excluded from the fair value disclosures included elsewhere in these notes to consolidated financial statements.
V) Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires us 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 financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
W) Mergers and Acquisitions: The acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recorded at the date of acquisition at their respective fair values with limited exceptions. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Any excess of the purchase price (consideration transferred) over the estimated fair values of net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Transaction costs and costs to restructure the acquired company are expensed as incurred. The fair value of intangible assets, including Medicare Licenses, Certificates of Need, and certain contracts, is based on significant judgments made by our management, and accordingly, for significant items we typically obtain assistance from third party valuation specialists.
X) GPO Agreement/Minority Ownership Interest: During 2013, we entered into a new group purchasing organization agreement (“GPO”) and acquired a minority interest in the GPO for a nominal amount. In connection with the completion of an initial public offering of the stock of the GPO, during the fourth quarter of 2013, we received cash proceeds for the sale of a portion of our ownership interest, which were recorded as deferred income and included in liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2013. The deferred income will be recognized, on a pro rata basis, as a reduction to our supplies expense over the expected life of the GPO agreement. Also in connection with this GPO agreement and related minority interest ownership, we received shares of restricted stock in the GPO which vest ratably over a seven-year period, contingent upon our continued participation and minority ownership interest in the GPO. We will recognize the fair value of this restricted stock, as a reduction to our supplies expense, in our consolidated statements of income on a pro rata basis over the vesting period.
Y) Accounting Standards:
Reporting of Amounts Reclassified out of Other Comprehensive Income: In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued an Accounting Standards Update on reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2012, requires companies to provide information about amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component (the respective line items of the income statement). The adoption of this standard on January 1, 2013 had no impact on our financial position or overall results of operations.
Presentation and Disclosure of Patient Service Revenue, Provision for Bad Debts, and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts for Certain Health Care Entities: During the first quarter of 2012, we adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-07, “Health Care Entities (Topic 954): Presentation and Disclosure of Patient Service Revenue, Provision for Bad Debts, and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts for Certain Health Care Entities,” which required certain health care entities to change the presentation in their statement of operations by reclassifying the provision for bad debts associated with patient service revenue from an operating expense to a deduction from patient service revenue (net of contractual allowances and discounts). As a result, the provision for doubtful accounts for our acute care and behavioral health care facilities is reflected as a deduction from net revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income for each of the years presented herein. The adoption of this standard had no impact on our financial position or overall results of operations.
Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward Exists: In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued guidance regarding the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under certain circumstances, unrecognized tax benefits should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. The guidance is a change in financial statement presentation only and has no material impact in the consolidated financial results. The guidance is effective beginning January 1, 2014 on either a prospective or retrospective basis.

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures

Acquisitions and Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Acquisitions and Divestitures	'
	2) ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
	Year ended December 31, 2013:
	2013 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses:
	During 2013, we spent an aggregate of $13 million for the purchase of real property located in Pennsylvania, Nevada and Arizona. The aggregate net purchase price of these properties was allocated to property and equipment on our consolidated balance sheet.
	2013 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses:
	During 2013, we received an aggregate of $37 million in connection with the divestiture of Peak Behavioral Health Services (sold during the second quarter of 2013) and certain other assets and real property including three previously closed behavioral health care facilities. As discussed below in Discontinued Operations, we agreed to sell Peak Behavioral Health Services as part of our agreement with the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) in connection with our acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation (“Ascend”) in October of 2012. The aggregate pre-tax gain on these divestitures was approximately $3 million and in included in our 2013 consolidated results of operations.
	Year ended December 31, 2012:
	2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses:
	During 2012, we spent $528 million to acquire the following assets and businesses:
		•		spent $503 million to acquire 9 behavioral health care facilities from Ascend in October, 2012, and;
		•		spent $25 million in connection with the acquisition of physician practices and various real property.
	The aggregate net purchase price of the facilities was allocated to assets and liabilities based on their estimated fair values as follows:
			Amount
			(000s)
	Working capital, net		$	21,000
	Property & equipment			60,000
	Goodwill			446,000
	Other assets			9,000
	Income tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities			(1,000	)
	Other liabilities			(7,000	)
	Cash paid in 2012 for acquisitions		$	528,000
	Goodwill of the facilities acquired is computed, pursuant to the residual method, by deducting the fair value of the acquired assets and liabilities from the total purchase price. The factors that contribute to the recognition of goodwill, which may also influence the purchase price, include the following for each of the acquired facilities: (i) the historical cash flows and income levels; (ii) the reputations in their respective markets; (iii) the nature of the respective operations, and; (iv) the future cash flows and income growth projections.
	Assuming the acquisition of Ascend occurred on January 1, 2011, our 2011 unaudited pro forma net revenues would have been approximately $6.90 billion and our unaudited pro forma net income attributable to UHS and unaudited pro forma net income attributable to UHS per diluted share would have been $401 million and $4.06 per diluted share, respectively. The 2011 unaudited pro forma net income attributable to UHS and unaudited pro forma net income attributable to UHS per diluted share include the after-tax impact of the transaction costs incurred by us in connection with the acquisition of Ascend amounting to $5 million or $.06 per diluted share. Our 2012 unaudited pro forma net revenues would have been approximately $7.11 billion and our unaudited pro forma net income attributable to UHS and unaudited pro forma net income attributable to UHS per diluted share would have been $464 million and $4.74 per diluted share, respectively.
	During the period of October 10, 2012 through December 31, 2012, the facilities acquired from Ascend generated $42 million of net revenues which are included in our consolidated net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012. The aggregate effect of the earnings generated by these facilities since the date of acquisition, less the cost on the borrowings utilized to finance the acquisition, and less the above-mentioned transaction costs, was not material to our 2012 net income attributable to UHS and net income attributable to UHS per diluted share.
	2012 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses:
	During 2012, we received $149 million from the divestiture of assets and businesses, including the following:
		•		received $93 million for the sale of Auburn Regional Medical Center (“Auburn”), a 159-bed acute care hospital located in Auburn, Washington (sold in October of 2012);
		•		received $50 million for the sale of the Hospital San Juan Capestrano, a 108-bed acute care hospital located in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico (sold in January of 2012 pursuant to our below-mentioned agreement with the FTC in connection with our acquisition of PSI in November, 2010), and;
		•		received an aggregate of $6 million for the sale of the real property of two non-operating behavioral health facilities and our majority ownership interest in an outpatient surgery center located in Puerto Rico.
	Included in our 2012 consolidated results of operations was a $26 million pre-tax gain on the divestiture of Auburn. The divestiture of San Juan Capestrano (in January, 2012) did not have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations.
	Year ended December 31, 2011:
	2011 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses:
	During 2011, we spent $29 million on the acquisition of businesses and real property, including the following:
		•		the acquisition of administrative office buildings located in Pennsylvania, Tennessee and a multi-tenant office building located in Washington D.C.;
		•		a deposit in made connection with execution of a purchase agreement for an acute care hospital in Texas which has since been terminated and the deposit returned to us in 2012, and;
		•		the acquisition of a cardiology practice in Texas.
	The aggregate net cash expenditure related to the properties and/or businesses was allocated to assets and liabilities based on their estimated fair values as follows:
			Amount
			(000s)
	Property, plant & equipment		$	35,000
	Other assets/deposits			11,000
	Debt			(17,000	)
	Cash paid in 2011 for acquisitions and deposits		$	29,000
	2011 Divestitures of Assets and Businesses:
	During 2011, we received $68 million from the divestiture of assets and businesses, including the following:
		•		the sale of three behavioral healthcare facilities (one located in Delaware and two located in Nevada) pursuant to the below-mentioned agreement with the FTC in connection with our acquisition of PSI;
		•		sale of our majority ownership interest in a radiation oncology center located in Nevada, and;
		•		the real property of a closed acute care hospital.
	The aggregate pre-tax net gain on these divestitures did not have a material impact on our 2011 consolidated results of operations.
	Discontinued Operations:
	In connection with the receipt of antitrust clearance from the FTC in connection with our acquisition of Ascend in October of 2012, we agreed to certain conditions, including the divestiture of Peak Behavioral Health Services (“Peak”), a 104-bed behavioral health care facility located in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The divestiture of Peak was completed during the second quarter of 2013 for total cash proceeds of approximately $24 million resulting in a pre-tax gain of approximately $3 million which is included in our 2013 consolidated financial statements.
	In October of 2012, we completed the divestiture of Auburn, a 159-bed acute care hospital located in Auburn, Washington, for total cash proceeds of approximately $93 million. This divestiture resulted in a pre-tax gain of $26 million which was included in our 2012 consolidated financial statements.
	In connection with the receipt of antitrust clearance from the FTC in connection with our acquisition of PSI in November, 2010, we agreed to divest three former PSI facilities as well as one of our legacy behavioral health facilities in Puerto Rico. Pursuant to the terms of our agreement with the FTC, we divested:
		•		in July, 2011, the MeadowWood Behavioral Health System, a 58-bed facility located in New Castle, Delaware;
		•		in December, 2011, the Montevista Hospital (101-bed) and Red Rock Hospital (21-bed), both of which are located in Las Vegas, Nevada, and;
		•		in January, 2012, the Hospital San Juan Capestrano, a 108-bed facility located in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico.
	The operating results for Auburn, Peak and the three former PSI facilities located in Delaware and Nevada are reflected as discontinued operations during our period of ownership during each of the years presented herein. Since the aggregate income from discontinued operations before income tax expense for these facilities is not material to our consolidated financial statements, it is included as a reduction to other operating expenses. Assets and liabilities for Peak were reflected as “held for sale” on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2012.
	The following table shows the results of operations for Auburn and Peak and the former PSI facilities located in Delaware and Nevada, on a combined basis, which were reflected as discontinued operations during our period of ownership for each of the years presented herein (amounts in thousands):
			2013			2012			2011
	Net revenues		$	7,813		$	95,226		$	159,218
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes			932			(3,472	)		10,422
	Gain on divestiture			3,080			26,419			442
	Income from discontinued operations, before income tax expense			4,012			22,947			10,864
Income tax expense			(1,506	)		(8,688	)		(4,113	)
Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes		$	2,506		$	14,259		$	6,751

Financial_Instruments

Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Financial Instruments	'
	3) FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
	Fair Value Hedges:
	During 2013, 2012 and 2011, we had no fair value hedges outstanding.
	Cash Flow Hedges:
	We manage our ratio of fixed and floating rate debt with the objective of achieving a mix that management believes is appropriate. To manage this risk in a cost-effective manner, we, from time to time, enter into interest rate swap agreements in which we agree to exchange various combinations of fixed and/or variable interest rates based on agreed upon notional amounts. We account for our derivative and hedging activities using the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s (“FASB”) guidance which requires all derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, to be carried at fair value on the balance sheet. For derivative transactions designated as hedges, we formally document all relationships between the hedging instrument and the related hedged item, as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking each hedge transaction.
	Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Cash flow hedges are accounted for by recording the fair value of the derivative instrument on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability, with a corresponding amount recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) within shareholders’ equity. Amounts are reclassified from AOCI to the income statement in the period or periods the hedged transaction affects earnings. We use interest rate derivatives in our cash flow hedge transactions. Such derivatives are designed to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows related to the hedged liability. For derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, the ineffective portion of the change in expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized currently in the income statement.
	For hedge transactions that do not qualify for the short-cut method, at the hedge’s inception and on a regular basis thereafter, a formal assessment is performed to determine whether changes in the fair values or cash flows of the derivative instruments have been highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items and whether they are expected to be highly effective in the future.
	The fair value of interest rate swap agreements approximates the amount at which they could be settled, based on estimates obtained from the counterparties. We assess the effectiveness of our hedge instruments on a quarterly basis. We performed periodic assessments of the cash flow hedge instruments during 2013 and 2012 and determined the hedges to be highly effective. We also determined that any portion of the hedges deemed to be ineffective was de minimis and therefore there was no material effect on our consolidated financial position, operations or cash flows. The counterparties to the interest rate swap agreements expose us to credit risk in the event of nonperformance. However, at December 31, 2013, each swap agreement entered into by us was in a net liability position which would require us to make the net settlement payments to the counterparties. We do not anticipate nonperformance by our counterparties. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
	During 2011, we entered into a forward starting interest rate cap on a total notional amount of $450 million from December, 2011 to December, 2012 reducing to $400 million from December, 2012 to December, 2013 whereby we paid a premium of $740,000 in exchange for the counterparty agreeing to pay the difference between 7.00% and three-month LIBOR if the three-month LIBOR rate rises above 7.00% during the term of the cap. The three-month LIBOR never reached 7.00% during the term of the cap, which expired in December, 2013, and therefore no payment was made to us.
	We also entered into six forward starting interest rate swaps in 2011 whereby we pay a fixed rate on a total notional amount of $425 million and receive three-month LIBOR. Three of these swaps with a total notional amount of $225 million became effective in March, 2011 and will mature in May, 2015. The average fixed rate payable on these swaps is 1.91%. The three remaining interest rate swaps with total notional amounts of $75 million, $25 million and $100 million became effective in December, 2011 and have corresponding fixed rates of 1.32%, 1.96% and 2.50%. The $75 million and $25 million interest rate swaps matured in December, 2012 and December, 2013, respectively, and the $100 million interest rate swap is scheduled to mature in December, 2014.
	During 2010, we entered into four forward starting interest rate swaps whereby we pay a fixed rate on a total notional amount of $600 million and receive three-month LIBOR. Each of the four swaps became effective in December, 2011 and will mature in May, 2015. The average fixed rate payable on these swaps is 2.38%.
	During the fourth quarter of 2007, we entered into two interest rate swaps whereby we paid a fixed rate on a total notional principal amount of $150 million and received three-month LIBOR. Each of the two interest rate swaps, which are now expired, had an initial notional principal amount of $75 million. The fixed rate payable on one of the interest rate swaps was 4.87% and it matured in October, 2011. The fixed rate payable on the other interest rate swap, on which the notional principal amount reduced to $50 million in October, 2010, was 4.76% and it matured in October, 2012.
	We measure our interest rate swaps at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair value of our interest rate swaps is based primarily on quotes from banks. We consider those inputs to be “level 2” in the fair value hierarchy as outlined in the authoritative guidance for disclosures in connection with derivative instruments and hedging activities. The fair value of our interest rate swaps was a liability of $24 million at December 31, 2013, of which $19 million is included in other current liabilities and $5 million is included in other noncurrent liabilities on the accompanying balance sheet. At December 31, 2012, the fair value of our interest rate swaps was a liability of $41 million, substantially all of which is included in other noncurrent liabilities on the accompanying balance sheet.

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Long-Term Debt	'
	4) LONG-TERM DEBT
	A summary of long-term debt follows:
		December 31,
		2013			2012
		(amounts in thousands)
	Long-term debt:
	Notes payable and Mortgages payable (including obligations under capitalized leases of $6,633 in 2013 and $8,267 in 2012) and term loans with varying maturities through 2037; weighted average interest rates of 5.9% in each of 2013 and 2012 (see Note 7 regarding capitalized leases)	$	37,553		$	47,216
	Revolving credit and on-demand credit facility		25,500			163,500
	Term Loan A, net of unamortized discount of $3,340 in 2013 and $4,612 in 2012		935,308			983,438
	Term Loan B, net of unamortized discount of $6,473 in 2013 and $8,724 in 2012		543,527			737,176
	Term Loan A2		871,875			894,375
	Revenue bonds, interest at floating rates of 0.1% at December 31, 2013 and 0.2% at December 31, 2012, with varying maturities through 2015		5,300			5,300
	Accounts receivable securitization program		240,000			249,000
	7.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2016, including unamortized net premium of $11 in 2013 and $15 in 2012		400,011			400,015
	7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018		250,000			250,000
			3,309,074			3,730,020
	Less-Amounts due within one year		(99,312	)		(2,589	)
		$	3,209,762		$	3,727,431
	In May, 2013, we entered into a third amendment (the “Third Amendment”) to the credit agreement, dated as of November 15, 2010 (as amended from time to time, the “Credit Agreement”), which became effective that day, among UHS, the several banks and other financial institutions from time to time parties thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and the other agents party thereto. The Third Amendment provides for a reduction in the interest rates payable in connection with certain borrowings under the Credit Agreement. Upon the effectiveness of the Third Amendment, UHS replaced its existing $745.9 million senior secured Tranche B term loan with a new senior secured Tranche B-1 term loan in the same amount on substantially the same terms as the Tranche B term loan, other than lower interest rates. Borrowings under the Tranche B-1 term loan bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our election, one, two, three or six month LIBOR, plus an applicable margin of 2.25% or ABR plus an applicable margin of 1.25%. The minimum LIBOR and ABR rates for the Tranche B term loan of 1.0% and 2.0%, respectively, were eliminated.
	In September, 2012, we entered into a second amendment (“Second Amendment”) to our Credit Agreement which provided for: (i) a new $900 million Term Loan-A (“Term Loan A2”) at the same interest rates as our existing Term Loan A and a final maturity date of August 15, 2016; (ii) the extension of the maturity date on a substantial portion of our $800 million revolving credit facility commitment with $777 million of the commitment extended to mature on August 15, 2016 and the remaining $23 million commitment scheduled to mature on November 15, 2015 (there were no borrowings outstanding pursuant to our revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2013), and; (iii) the extension of the maturity date on a substantial portion of our Term Loan-A borrowings which, based upon the outstanding Term Loan-A borrowings as of December 31, 2013, $892 million is scheduled to mature on August 15, 2016 and the remaining $43 million is scheduled to mature on November 15, 2015. The Second Amendment also provides for increased flexibility for refinancing and certain other modifications but substantially all other terms of the Credit Agreement remain unchanged.
	In September, 2012, we used $700 million of the proceeds from the new Term Loan A2 facility to extinguish a portion of our higher priced, Term Loan-B facility. Pricing under the new Term Loan A2 facility was 1% lower than the Term Loan-B facility and did not include a LIBOR Floor whereas, at that time, the Term Loan-B facility had a 1% LIBOR Floor (which has since been eliminated as part of the above-mentioned Third Amendment in May, 2013). During the third quarter of 2012, in connection with the extinguishment of a portion of our Term Loan-B facility, we recorded a pre-tax charge of $29 million to write-off the related portion of the Term Loan-B deferred financing costs.
	The Credit Agreement, as amended, is a senior secured facility which, as of December 31, 2013, provided for an aggregate commitment amount of $3.16 billion, comprised of an $800 million revolving credit facility, a $939 million Term Loan-A facility, a $550 million Term Loan-B facility and a $872 million Term Loan-A2 facility. The revolving credit facility includes a $125 million sub-limit for letters of credit. The Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and our material subsidiaries and guaranteed by our material subsidiaries.
	Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at either (1) the ABR rate which is defined as the rate per annum equal to, at our election: the greatest of (a) the lender’s prime rate, (b) the weighted average of the federal funds rate, plus 0.5% and (c) one month LIBOR rate plus 1%, in each case, plus an applicable margin based upon our consolidated leverage ratio at the end of each quarter ranging from 0.50% to 1.25% for revolving credit, Term Loan-A and Term Loan-A2 borrowings and 1.25% for Term Loan B borrowings or (2) the one, two, three or six month LIBOR rate (at our election), plus an applicable margin based upon our consolidated leverage ratio at the end of each quarter ranging from 1.50% to 2.25% for revolving credit, Term Loan-A and Term Loan-A2 borrowings and 2.25% for Term Loan-B borrowings. The current applicable margins are 0.50% for ABR-based loans, 1.50% for LIBOR-based loans under the revolving credit, Term Loan-A and Term Loan-A2 facilities and 2.25% under the Term Loan-B facility.
	As of December 31, 2013, we had no borrowings outstanding pursuant to the terms of our $800 million revolving credit facility and we had $755 million of available borrowing capacity, net of $25 million of outstanding borrowings pursuant to a short-term, on-demand credit facility and $20 million of outstanding letters of credit.
	During 2013, we made scheduled principal payments of $72 million on the Term Loan-A and Term Loan A2 facilities. Quarterly installment payments (“Installment Payments”) are due on the Term Loan-A and Term Loan-A2 facilities which approximate $72 million in 2014, $77 million in 2015 and $46 million in 2016. The Installment Payments due on the Term Loan-A and Term Loan-A2 facilities during 2014 are classified as current maturities of long-term debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2013. Although no Installment Payments are due on the Term Loan-B facility, we made optional repayments of $196 million during the fourth quarter of 2013.
	In October, 2013 our $275 million accounts receivable securitization program (“Securitization”) with a group of conduit lenders and liquidity banks was amended to extend the maturity date to October 25, 2016 and reduce the interest rate spread and commitment fee. Substantially all of the patient-related accounts receivable of our acute care hospitals (“Receivables”) serve as collateral for the outstanding borrowings. We have accounted for this Securitization as borrowings. We maintain effective control over the Receivables since, pursuant to the terms of the Securitization, the Receivables are sold from certain of our subsidiaries to special purpose entities that are wholly-owned by us. The Receivables, however, are owned by the special purpose entities, can be used only to satisfy the debts of the wholly-owned special purpose entities, and thus are not available to us except through our ownership interest in the special purpose entities. The wholly-owned special purpose entities use the Receivables to collateralize the loans obtained from the group of third-party conduit lenders and liquidity banks. The group of third-party conduit lenders and liquidity banks do not have recourse to us beyond the assets of the wholly-owned special purpose entities that securitize the loans. At December 31, 2013, we had $240 million of outstanding borrowings and $35 million of additional capacity pursuant to the terms of our accounts receivable securitization program.
	Our $250 million, 7.00% senior unsecured notes (the “Unsecured Notes”) are scheduled to mature on October 1, 2018. The Unsecured Notes were issued on September 29, 2010 and registered in April, 2011. Interest on the Unsecured Note is payable semiannually in arrears on April 1st and October 1st of each year. The Unsecured Notes can be redeemed in whole at anytime subject to a make-whole call at treasury rate plus 50 basis points prior to October 1, 2014. They are also redeemable in whole or in part at a price of: (i) 103.5% on or after October 1, 2014; (ii) 101.75% on or after October 1, 2015, and; (iii) 100% on or after October 1, 2016. These Unsecured Notes are guaranteed by a group of subsidiaries (each of which is a 100% directly or indirectly owned subsidiary of Universal Health Services, Inc.) which fully and unconditionally guarantee the Unsecured Notes on a joint and several basis, subject to certain customary automatic release provisions.
	On June 30, 2006, we issued $250 million of senior notes which have a 7.125% coupon rate and mature on June 30, 2016 (the “7.125% Notes”). Interest on the 7.125% Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on June 30th and December 30th of each year. In June, 2008, we issued an additional $150 million of 7.125% Notes which formed a single series with the original 7.125% Notes issued in June, 2006. Other than their date of issuance and initial price to the public, the terms of the 7.125% Notes issued in June, 2008 are identical to and trade interchangeably with, the 7.125% Notes which were originally issued in June, 2006.
	In connection with the entering into of the Credit Agreement on November 15, 2010, and in accordance with the Indenture dated January 20, 2000 governing the rights of our existing notes, we entered into a supplemental indenture pursuant to which our 7.125% Notes (due in 2016) were equally and ratably secured with the lenders under the Credit Agreement with respect to the collateral for so long as the lenders under the Credit Agreement are so secured.
	The average amounts outstanding during each of years 2013, 2012 and 2011 under the current and prior Credit Agreements, demand notes and accounts receivable securitization programs was $2.9 billion, with corresponding interest rates of 2.2%, 2.9% and 3.4% including commitment and facility fees. The maximum amounts outstanding at any month-end were $3.00 billion in 2013, $3.06 billion in 2012 and $3.03 billion in 2011. The effective interest rate on our current and prior Credit Agreements, accounts receivable securitization programs, and demand notes, which includes the respective interest expense, commitment and facility fees, designated interest rate swaps expense and amortization of deferred financing costs and original issue discounts, was 3.6% in 2013, 4.5% in 2012 and 4.6% in 2011.
	Our Credit Agreement includes a material adverse change clause that must be represented at each draw. The Credit Agreement contains covenants that include a limitation on sales of assets, mergers, change of ownership, liens and indebtedness, transactions with affiliates and dividends; and requires compliance with financial covenants including maximum leverage and minimum interest coverage ratios. We are in compliance with all required covenants as of December 31, 2013.
	The carrying values of our debt at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were $3.3 billion and $3.7 billion, respectively. The fair values of our debt at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were $3.4 billion and $3.8 billion, respectively. The fair value of our debt was computed based upon quotes received from financial institutions. We consider these to be “level 2” in the fair value hierarchy as outlined in the authoritative guidance for disclosures in connection with debt instruments.
	Aggregate maturities follow:
		(000s)
	2014	$	99,312
	2015		139,261
	2016		2,804,569
	2017		1,798
	2018		251,893
	Later		12,241
	Total	$	3,309,074

Common_Stock

Common Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Common Stock	'
	5) COMMON STOCK
	Dividends
	Cash dividends of $.20 per share ($19.6 million in the aggregate) were declared and paid during 2013, $.60 per share ($58.4 million in the aggregate), including a $.40 per share special cash dividend ($38.9 million) were declared and paid during 2012 and $.20 per share ($19.5 million in the aggregate) were declared and paid during 2011. All classes of our common stock have similar economic rights.
	Stock Repurchase Programs
	In various prior years, our Board of Directors has approved stock repurchase programs authorizing us to purchase shares of our outstanding Class B Common Stock on the open market at prevailing market prices or in negotiated transactions off the market. There is no expiration date for our stock repurchase programs. The most recent approval occurred during 2007 at which time our Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to 10 million shares, a portion of which (as reflected below) remains available for purchase as of December 31, 2013.
	The following schedule provides information related to our stock repurchase programs for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013. All of the shares repurchased during 2013 and 2012 related to income tax withholding obligations resulting from the exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock grants. No shares were repurchased during 2013 or 2012 pursuant to our publicly announced stock repurchase program.
			Total			Total price			Total			Total price		Aggregate		Aggregate		Maximum
			number			paid for			number			paid for		number of		price paid for		number of
			of shares			shares			of shares			shares		shares		shares		shares that
			purchased			purchased as			purchased			purchased		purchased		purchased		may yet be
			as part of			part of			related to			related to				(in thousands)		purchased
			publicly			publicly			stock-based			stock-based						under the
			announced			announced			compensation			compensation						publicly
			programs			programs			plans (a.)			plans						announced
						(in thousands)						(in thousands)						program
	Balance as of January 1, 2011																		2,152,339
	2011			1,384,637		$	50,576			217,649		$	9,906		1,602,286	$	60,482		767,702
	2012			—			—			433,312		$	19,154		433,312	$	19,154		767,702
	2013			—			—			427,170		$	27,201		427,170	$	27,201		767,702
	Total for three year period ended December 31, 2013			1,384,637		$	50,576			1,078,131		$	56,261		2,462,768	$	106,837
	(a.)	During 2013, there were 427,170 shares repurchased at an average price of $63.68 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs. During 2012, there were 432,562 shares repurchased at an average price of $44.28 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs, and 750 shares repurchased at an average of $.01 per share related to restricted shares that were forfeited by former employees pursuant to the terms of our restricted stock purchase plan. During 2011, there were 217,649 shares repurchased at an average price of $45.51 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs.
	Stock-based Compensation Plans
	At December 31, 2013, we have a number of stock-based employee compensation plans. Pursuant to the FASB’s guidance, we expense the grant-date fair value of stock options and other equity-based compensation pursuant to the straight-line method over the stated vesting period of the award using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.
	The expense associated with share-based compensation arrangements is a non-cash charge. In the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, share-based compensation expense is an adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities and aggregated to $27.8 million in 2013, $22.5 million in 2012 and $18.2 million in 2011. In accordance with ASC 718, excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation are classified as cash inflows from financing activities on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Previously for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we included $16.0 million and $7.6 million, respectively, of excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation as net cash provided by operating activities as included in the change in accrued and deferred income taxes for each year. In our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, as included herein, those amounts are reflected as cash inflows from financing activities for each respective year. We assessed this misclassification and concluded that it was not material to our previously issued annual and quarterly Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. During 2013, we generated $20.1 million of excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation which are reflected as cash inflows from financing activities in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
	Compensation costs related to outstanding stock options were recognized as follows: (i) a pre-tax charge of $25.8 million ($16.1 million after-tax) during 2013; (ii) a pre-tax charge of $20.1 million ($12.5 million after-tax) during 2012, and; (iii) a pre-tax charge of $15.8 million ($9.8 million after-tax) during 2011. In addition, during the years ended 2013, 2012 and 2011, compensation costs of $1.4 million ($853,000 after-tax), $2.3 million ($1.4 million after-tax) and $2.0 million ($1.2 million after-tax), respectively, were recognized related to restricted stock.
	We adopted the 2005 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended in 2008 and 2010, (the “Stock Incentive Plan”) which replaced our Amended and Restated 1992 Stock Option Plan which expired in July of 2005. An aggregate of twenty-three million shares of Class B Common Stock has been reserved under the Stock Incentive Plan. There were 2,737,725; 2,621,161 and 2,473,500 stock options, net of cancellations, granted during 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The per option weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during 2013, 2012 and 2011, was $13.33, $10.73 and $11.62, respectively. Stock options to purchase Class B Common Stock have been granted to our officers, key employees and directors under our above referenced stock option plans. All stock options were granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value on the date of the grant. Options are exercisable ratably over a four-year period beginning one year after the date of the grant. All outstanding options expire five years after the date of the grant.
	The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following weighted average assumptions were derived from averaging the number of options granted during the most recent five-year period. The weighted-average assumptions reflected below were each based upon eighteen option grants.
	Year Ended December 31,		2013			2012			2011
	Volatility			36	%		33	%		29	%
	Interest rate			1	%		1	%		2	%
	Expected life (years)			3.6			3.5			3.5
	Forfeiture rate			11	%		10	%		9	%
	Dividend yield			0.5	%		0.6	%		0.7	%
	The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury zero coupon four year yield in effect at the time of grant. The expected life of the stock options granted was estimated using the historical behavior of employees. Expected volatility was based on historical volatility for a period equal to the stock option’s expected life. Expected dividend yield is based on our dividend yield at the time of grant.
	The table below summarizes our stock option activity during each of the last three years:
	Outstanding Options		Number			Average			Range
			of Shares			Option			(High-Low)
						Price
	Balance, January 1, 2011			6,594,950		$	25.16		$	32.28 -$16.22
	Granted			2,894,500		$	43.66		$	54.79 -$38.12
	Exercised			(1,563,255	)	$	26.38		$	32.28 -$16.22
	Cancelled			(367,250	)	$	32.6		$	46.97 -$16.22
	Balance, January 1, 2012			7,558,945		$	31.63		$	54.79 -$16.22
	Granted			2,966,850		$	37.01		$	44.83 -$36.95
	Exercised			(2,608,007	)	$	23.22		$	46.97 -$16.22
	Cancelled			(481,550	)	$	38		$	46.97 -$16.22
	Balance, January 1, 2013			7,436,238		$	36.31		$	54.79 -$16.22
	Granted			2,889,750		$	53.51		$	79.79 -$53.38
	Exercised			(2,288,666	)	$	32.27		$	54.79 -$16.22
	Cancelled			(416,364	)	$	43.93		$	53.38 -$16.22
	Balance, December 31, 2013			7,620,958		$	43.63		$	79.79 -$30.32
	Outstanding options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2013			1,756,128		$	35.6		$	46.97 -$30.32
	The following table provides information about unvested options for the year December 31, 2013:
			Shares			Weighted
						Average
						Grant Date
						Fair Value
	Unvested options as of January 1, 2013			5,250,926		$	10.74
	Granted			2,889,750		$	13.33
	Vested			(1,864,982	)	$	10.22
	Cancelled			(410,864	)	$	11.66
	Unvested options as of December 31, 2013			5,864,830		$	12.12
	The following table provides information about all outstanding options, and exercisable options, at December 31, 2013:
		Options			Options
		Outstanding			Exercisable
Number			7,620,958			1,756,128
Weighted average exercise price		$	43.64		$	35.6
Aggregate intrinsic value as of December 31, 2013		$	286,740,433		$	80,189,277
Weighted average remaining contractual life			2.9			1.6
The total in-the-money value of all stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $70.9 million, $54.4 million and $28.9 million, respectively.
The weighted average remaining contractual life for options outstanding and weighted average exercise price per share for exercisable options at December 31, 2013 were as follows:
		Options			Exercisable			Expected to Vest
		Outstanding			Options			Options (a)
Exercise Price		Shares			Weighted			Weighted			Shares		Weighted		Shares		Weighted
					Average			Average					Average				Average
					Exercise Price			Remaining					Exercise Price				Exercise Price
					Per Share			Contractual Life					Per Share				Per Share
								(in Years)
$30.32 – $36.95			3,183,583		$	35.14			2.4			1,259,453	$	32.45		1,716,901	$	36.91
$38.12 – $43.67			1,685,350			43.56			2.1			496,175		43.58		1,061,101		43.55
$44.83 – $53.38			2,724,525			53.36			4			500		46.97		2,430,648		53.36
$54.79 – $79.79			27,500			67.64			4			0		N/A		24,538		67.64
Total			7,620,958		$	43.63			2.9			1,756,128	$	35.6		5,233,188	$	46.04
(a)	Assumes a weighted average forfeiture rate of 10.8%.
In addition to the Stock Incentive Plan, we have the following stock incentive and purchase plans: (i) the 2010 Employees’ Restricted Stock Purchase Plan (“2010 Plan”), which replaced the Second Amended and Restated 2001 Employees’ Restricted Stock Purchase Plan (“2001 Plan”), which allows eligible participants to purchase shares of Class B Common Stock at par value, subject to certain restrictions, and; (ii) a 2005 Employee Stock Purchase Plan which allows eligible employees to purchase shares of Class B Common Stock at a ten percent discount. There were 90,587, 117,901 and 98,366 shares issued pursuant to the Employee Stock Purchase Plan during 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Compensation expense recorded in connection with this plan was $581,000, $533,000 and $461,000 during 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
We have reserved 6.0 million shares of Class B Common Stock for issuance under these various plans (excluding terminated plans) and have issued approximately 1.0 million shares, net of cancellations, pursuant to the terms of these plans (excluding terminated plans) as of December 31, 2013.
During 2013, pursuant to the 2010 Plan, the Compensation Committee (“Committee”) approved the issuance of 10,000 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at a weighted average price of $80.36 per share ($803,600 in the aggregate) to various employees. These shares are scheduled to vest ratably on the first, second, third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date. We recorded compensation expense of approximately $41,000 during 2013 in connection with this grant. The remaining expense associated with these awards (estimated at approximately $760,000 as of December 31, 2013) will be recorded over the remaining vesting periods of the awards, assuming the recipients remain employed by us.
During 2012, pursuant to the 2010 Plan, the Committee approved the issuance of 54,127 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at a weighted average price of $36.95 per share ($2.0 million in the aggregate) to our CEO and Chairman of the Board. These shares are scheduled to vest as follows: 50% on the first anniversary date of the grant, and 25% on each of the second and third anniversary dates of the grant, assuming our CEO remains employed by us. In the event that our CEO’s employment is terminated for reasons other than death, disability or retirement, any unvested shares will be forfeited, unless otherwise specified in a separation agreement between us and our CEO. 27,063 of these shares became fully vested during 2013. In connection with this grant, we recorded compensation expense of approximately $523,000 during 2013 and approximately $1 million during 2012. The remaining expense associated with these awards (estimated at approximately $500,000 as of December 31, 2013) will be recorded over the remaining vesting periods of the awards, assuming the recipient remain employed by us.
During 2011, pursuant to the 2010 Plan, the Committee approved the issuance of 21,500 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at a weighted average price of $53.21 per share ($1.1 million in the aggregate) to various employees, of which 10,000 of these shares became fully vested during 2013. During 2012, 750 of these shares became fully vested and 750 of these shares were cancelled. The remaining 10,000 shares are scheduled to vest on the third anniversary of the grant date. We recorded compensation expense of $354,000 during 2013, $370,000 during 2012 and $198,000 during 2011 in connection with these grants. The remaining expense associated with these awards (estimated at $183,000 as of December 31, 2013) will be recorded over the remaining vesting period of the awards, assuming the recipients remain employed by us.
The 2001 Plan, as described above, expired in March, 2010. Under this plan, we had 2.4 million shares of Class B Common Stock reserved for issuance and have issued approximately 1.2 million shares, net of cancellations, pursuant to the terms of this plan as of December 31, 2010, of which 39,831 became fully vesting during 2013, 62,044 became fully vested during 2012 and 78,133 became fully vested during 2011.
During the first quarter of 2010, pursuant to the 2001 Plan and prior to its expiration, the Committee approved the issuance of 49,472 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at $30.32 per share ($1.5 million in the aggregate) to our CEO and Chairman of the Board. These shares, which were issued pursuant to a provision in our CEO’s employment agreement, are scheduled to vest ratably on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary dates of the grant, assuming our CEO remains employed by us. In the event that our CEO’s employment is terminated by reason of disability, death, without proper cause or due to breach of the CEO’s employment agreement by us, the vesting of these awards will occur immediately. 12,368 of these shares became fully vested in each of 2013, 2012 and 2011. In connection with this grant, we recorded compensation expense of $375,000 in each of 2013, 2012 and 2011 and $355,000 during 2010, and the remaining expense associated with this award (estimated at $20,000 as of December 31, 2013) will be recorded over the remaining vesting period of the award.
During the first quarter of 2009, pursuant to the 2001 Plan, the Committee approved the issuance of 109,850 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at $20.26 per share ($2.2 million in the aggregate) to our CEO. These shares are scheduled to vest ratably on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary dates of the grant and are subject to the same conditions and terms as mentioned above in connection with the grant of restricted shares during the first quarter of 2010. 27,463 of these shares became fully vested in 2013, 27,462 of these shares became fully vested in each of 2012 and 2011 and 27,463 of these shares became fully vested in 2010. In connection with this grant, we recorded compensation expense of approximately $74,000 during 2013, $556,000 during each of 2012, 2011 and 2010 and $482,000 during 2009. This award was fully vested at December 31, 2013.
During the first quarter of 2008, pursuant to the 2001 Plan, the Committee approved the issuance of 62,190 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at $24.12 per share ($1.5 million in the aggregate) to our CEO. These shares were scheduled to vest ratably on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary dates of the grant and were subject to the same conditions and terms as mentioned above in connection with the grant of restricted shares during the first quarter of 2010. 15,548 and 15,546 of these shares became fully vesting during 2012 and 2011, respectively, and 15,548 of these shares became fully vested in each of 2010 and 2009. In connection with this grant, we recorded compensation expense of $15,000 during 2012 and $375,000 during 2011. This award was fully vested at December 31, 2012.
During the fourth quarter of 2007, pursuant to the 2001 Plan, the Committee approved the issuance of 61,362 restricted shares of our Class B Common Stock at $24.45 per share ($1.5 million in the aggregate) to our CEO. These shares were scheduled to vest ratably on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary dates of the grant and were subject to the same conditions and terms as mentioned above in connection with the grant of restricted shares during the first quarter of 2010. 15,341 of these shares became fully vested in each of 2011 and 2010 and 15,340 of these shares became fully vested in each of 2009 and 2008. In connection with this grant, we recorded compensation expense of $333,000 during 2011 and $375,000 during 2010. This award was fully vested at December 31, 2011.
Additionally, during 2007, pursuant to the 2001 Plan, the Committee approved the issuance of 22,250 restricted shares of our Class B Common stock at a weighted average of $29.62 per share ($659,000 in the aggregate) to various employees. These shares had various vesting schedules. We recorded compensation expense of $42,000 during 2012 and $120,000 during 2011, in connection with these grants. These awards were fully vested at December 31, 2012.
At December 31, 2013, 25,657,523 shares of Class B Common Stock were reserved for issuance upon conversion of shares of Class A, C and D Common Stock outstanding, for issuance upon exercise of options to purchase Class B Common Stock and for issuance of stock under other incentive plans. Class A, C and D Common Stock are convertible on a share for share basis into Class B Common Stock.
In connection with the long-term incentive plans described above, we recorded compensation expense of $2.0 million in 2013, $2.8 million in 2012 and $2.4 million in 2011. Including the compensation expense recognized related to outstanding stock options of $25.8 million in 2013, $20.1 million in 2012 and $15.8 million in 2011, we recorded a total stock compensation expense of $27.8 million in 2013, $22.5 million in 2012 and $18.2 million in 2011.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes	'
	6) INCOME TAXES
	Components of income tax expense/(benefit) are as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Current
	Federal	$	256,545		$	254,021		$	165,409
	Foreign		1,655			9,084			300
	State		28,490			39,076			22,901
			286,690			302,181			188,610
	Deferred
	Federal and foreign		25,341			(21,408	)		53,056
	State		3,278			(6,157	)		5,800
			28,619			(27,565	)		58,856
	Total	$	315,309		$	274,616		$	247,466
	Deferred taxes are required to be classified based on the financial statement classification of the related assets and liabilities which give rise to temporary differences. Deferred taxes result from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. The components of deferred taxes are as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Self-insurance reserves	$	87,483		$	112,587
	Compensation accruals		49,302			47,571
	State and foreign net operating loss carryforwards and other state and foreign deferred tax assets		57,204			54,874
	Other currently non-deductible accrued liabilities		24,587			29,934
	Net pension liability—OCI only		6,390			12,061
	Doubtful accounts and other reserves		33,905			17,562
	Other combined items—OCI only		9,018			15,282
			267,889			289,871
	Less: Valuation Allowance		(46,841	)		(44,511	)
	Net deferred income tax assets:		221,048			245,360
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Depreciable and amortizable assets		(337,669	)		(322,317	)
	Other deferred tax liabilities		(2,624	)		(2,329	)
	Net deferred income tax liabilities	$	(119,245	)	$	(79,286	)
	There was no material impact of deferred taxes recorded in conjunction with the acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation.
	The effective tax rates, as calculated by dividing the provision for income taxes by income before income taxes, were as follows for each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (dollar amounts in thousands):
		2013			2012			2011
	Provision for income taxes	$	315,309		$	274,616		$	247,466
	Income before income taxes		869,332			763,663			696,336
	Effective tax rate		36.3	%		36	%		35.5	%
	Impacting the effective tax rates during 2013, 2012 and 2011 were favorable discrete tax items of approximately $1 million recorded during each year to adjust the estimated liabilities for uncertain tax positions.
	A reconciliation between the federal statutory rate and the effective tax rate is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal statutory rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
	State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		2.5			3			2.9
	Nondeductible transaction costs		—			0.2			—
	Divestiture Gain		0.3			—			—
	Other items		0.4			0.1			0.4
	Impact of income attributable to noncontrolling interests		(1.9	)		(2.3	)		(2.8	)
	Effective tax rate		36.3	%		36	%		35.5	%
	Included in “Other current assets” on our Consolidated Balance Sheet are prepaid federal, foreign, and state income taxes amounting to approximately $5 million and $7 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The net deferred tax assets and liabilities are comprised as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
	Current deferred taxes
	Assets	$	121,097		$	105,639
	Liabilities		(1,194	)		(1,178	)
	Total deferred taxes-current		119,903			104,461
	Noncurrent deferred taxes
	Assets		103,221			142,065
	Liabilities		(342,369	)		(325,812	)
	Total deferred taxes-noncurrent		(239,148	)		(183,747	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	$	(119,245	)	$	(79,286	)
	The assets and liabilities classified as current relate primarily to the allowance for uncollectible patient accounts, compensation-related accruals and the current portion of the temporary differences related to self- insurance reserves. At December 31, 2013, state net operating loss carryforwards (expiring in years 2014 through 2033), and credit carryforwards available to offset future taxable income approximated $959 million, representing approximately $47 million in deferred state tax benefit (net of the federal benefit). At December 31, 2013, there were foreign net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $8 million expiring through 2021 representing approximately $3 million in deferred foreign tax benefit.
A valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Based on available evidence, it is more likely than not that certain of our state tax benefits will not be realized. Therefore, valuation allowances of approximately $44 million and $41 million have been reflected as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. During 2013, the valuation allowance on these state tax benefits increased by approximately $3 million due to additional net operating losses incurred. In addition, valuation allowances of approximately $3 million have been reflected as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 related to foreign net operating losses. There were no significant increases in valuation allowances as a result of the acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation.
We adopted the provisions of Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes effective January 1, 2007. During 2013 and 2012, the estimated liabilities for uncertain tax positions (including accrued interest and penalties) were increased less than $1 million due to tax positions taken in the current and prior years. During 2013, the estimated liabilities for uncertain tax positions (including accrued interest and penalties) were reduced due to the lapse of the statute of limitations resulting in a net income tax benefit of approximately $1 million. The balance at each of December 31, 2013 and 2012, if subsequently recognized, that would favorably affect the effective tax rate and the provision for income taxes is approximately $2 million and $4 million, respectively.
We recognize accrued interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions as part of the tax provision. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we have accrued interest and penalties of less than $1 million as of each date. The U.S. federal statute of limitations remains open for the 2010 and subsequent years. Foreign and U.S. state and local jurisdictions have statutes of limitations generally ranging for 3 to 4 years. The statute of limitations on certain jurisdictions could expire within the next twelve months. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change during the next 12 months, however, it is anticipated that any such change, if it were to occur, would not have a material impact on our results of operations.
The tabular reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 is as follows (amounts in thousands).
	As of December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Balance at January 1,	$	6,824		$	7,403		$	7,923
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		50			200			750
Additions for tax positions of prior years		283			386			419
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		(1,260	)		(1,165	)		(1,628	)
Settlements		(2,528	)		—			(61	)
Balance at December 31,	$	3,369		$	6,824		$	7,403

Lease_Commitments

Lease Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Lease Commitments	'
	7) LEASE COMMITMENTS
	Four of our hospital facilities are held under operating leases with Universal Health Realty Income Trust with terms expiring in 2014 and 2016 (see Note 9 for additional disclosure). We also lease the real property of certain facilities acquired by us in connection with the acquisition of PSI in November, 2010 and the acquisition of Ascend in October, 2012 (see Item 2. Properties for additional disclosure).
	A summary of property under capital lease follows (amounts in thousands):
		As of December 31,
		2013			2012
	Land, buildings and equipment	$	27,636		$	27,836
	Less: accumulated amortization		(27,382	)		(26,540	)
		$	254		$	1,296
	Future minimum rental payments under lease commitments with a term of more than one year as of December 31, 2013, are as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Year	Capital			Operating
		Leases			Leases
		(000s)
	2014	$	2,026		$	55,812
	2015		1,218			45,807
	2016		1,167			37,769
	2017		1,077			21,391
	2018		1,086			17,322
	Later years		4,030			128,636
	Total minimum rental	$	10,604		$	306,737
	Less: Amount representing interest		(3,971	)
	Present value of minimum rental commitments		6,633
	Less: Current portion of capital lease obligations		(774	)
	Long-term portion of capital lease obligations	$	5,859
	We incurred no additional capital lease obligations during 2013, 2012 or 2011. In the ordinary course of business, our facilities routinely lease equipment pursuant to new lease arrangements that will likely result in future lease and rental expense in excess of amounts indicated above.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	8) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	Professional and General Liability, Workers’ Compensation Liability and Property Insurance
	Professional and General Liability and Workers Compensation Liability:
	Effective January 1, 2008, most of our subsidiaries became self-insured for professional and general liability exposure up to $10 million per occurrence. Prior to our acquisition of Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. (“PSI”) in November, 2010, our subsidiaries purchased several excess policies through commercial insurance carriers which provide for coverage in excess of $10 million up to $200 million per occurrence and in the aggregate. However, we are liable for 10% of the claims paid pursuant to the commercially insured coverage in excess of $10 million up to $60 million per occurrence and in the aggregate.
	Prior to our acquisition in November, 2010, the PSI subsidiaries were commercially insured for professional and general liability insurance claims in excess of a $3 million self-insured retention to a limit of $75 million. PSI utilized its captive insurance company and that captive insurance company remains in place after our acquisition of PSI to manage the self-insured retention for all former PSI subsidiaries for claims incurred prior to January 1, 2011. The captive insurance company also continues to insure all professional and general liability claims, regardless of date incurred, for the former PSI subsidiaries located in Florida and Puerto Rico.
	Since our acquisition of PSI on November 15, 2010, the former PSI subsidiaries are self-insured for professional and general liability exposure up to $3 million per occurrence and our legacy subsidiaries (which are not former PSI subsidiaries) are self-insured for professional and general liability exposure up to $10 million per occurrence. Effective November, 2010, our subsidiaries (including the former PSI subsidiaries) were provided with several excess policies through commercial insurance carriers which provide for coverage in excess of the applicable per occurrence self-insured retention (either $3 million or $10 million) up to $250 million per occurrence and in the aggregate. We remain liable for 10% of the claims paid pursuant to the commercially insured coverage in excess of $10 million up to $60 million per occurrence and in the aggregate. The 9 behavioral health facilities acquired from Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012 have general and professional liability policies through commercial insurance carriers which provide for up to $20 million of aggregate coverage, subject to a $25,000 per occurrence deductible. These facilities, like our other facilities, are also provided excess coverage through commercial insurance carriers for coverage in excess of the underlying commercial policy limitations up to $250 million per occurrence and in the aggregate.
	Our estimated liability for self-insured professional and general liability claims is based on a number of factors including, among other things, the number of asserted claims and reported incidents, estimates of losses for these claims based on recent and historical settlement amounts, estimates of incurred but not reported claims based on historical experience, and estimates of amounts recoverable under our commercial insurance policies. While we continuously monitor these factors, our ultimate liability for professional and general liability claims could change materially from our current estimates due to inherent uncertainties involved in making this estimate. Given our significant self-insured exposure for professional and general liability claims, there can be no assurance that a sharp increase in the number and/or severity of claims asserted against us will not have a material adverse effect on our future results of operations.
	As of December 31, 2013, the total accrual for our professional and general liability claims was $206 million, of which $44 million is included in current liabilities. As of December 31, 2012, the total accrual for our professional and general liability claims was $279 million, of which $48 million is included in current liabilities.
	We recorded reductions to our professional and general liability self-insurance reserves (relating to prior years) amounting to $81 million during 2013, $27 million during 2012 and $11 million during 2011. The favorable change in our estimated future claims payments recorded during 2013, relating to years prior to 2013, were due primarily to: (i) an increased weighting given to company-specific metrics (to 100% from 75%), and decreased general industry metrics (to 0% from 25%), related to projected incidents per exposure, historical claims experience and loss development factors; (ii) historical data which measured the realized favorable impact of medical malpractice tort reform experienced in several states in which we operate, and; (iii) a decrease in claims related to certain higher risk specialties (such as obstetrical) due to a continuation of the company-wide patient safety initiative undertaken during the last several years. As the number of our facilities and our patient volumes have increased, thereby providing for a statistically significant data group, and taking into consideration our long-history of company-specific risk management programs and claims experience, our reserve analyses have included a greater emphasis on our historical professional and general liability experience which has developed favorably as compared to general industry trends. The favorable change recorded during 2012 resulted from favorable changes in our estimated future claims payments pursuant to a reserve analysis. The favorable change recorded during 2011 consisted primarily of third-party recoveries and reserve reductions in connection with PHICO–related claims which we became liable for upon PHICO’s (a former commercial insurance carrier) liquidation in 2002.
	As of December 31, 2013, the total accrual for our workers’ compensation liability claims was $64 million, of which $34 million is included in current liabilities. As of December 31, 2012, the total accrual for our workers’ compensation liability claims was $66 million, of which $35 million is included in current liabilities. The adjustments recorded during the last three years to our prior year reserves for workers’ compensation claims did not have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 or 2011.
	Property Insurance:
	We have commercial property insurance policies covering catastrophic losses, including windstorm damage, up to a $1 billion policy limit per occurrence, subject to a $250,000 deductible for the majority of our properties (the properties acquired from Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. are subject to a $50,000 deductible). Losses resulting from named windstorms are subject to deductibles between 3% and 5% of the declared total insurable value of the property. In addition, we have commercial property insurance policies covering catastrophic losses resulting from earthquake and flood damage, each subject to aggregated loss limits (as opposed to per occurrence losses). Our earthquake limit is $250 million, subject to a deductible of $250,000, except for facilities located within documented fault zones. Earthquake losses that affect facilities located in fault zones within the United States are subject to a $100 million limit and will have applied deductibles ranging from 1% to 5% of the declared total insurable value of the property. The earthquake limit in Puerto Rico is $25 million, subject to a $25,000 deductible. Non-critical flood losses have either a $250,000 or $500,000 deductible, based upon the location of the facility. Since certain of our facilities have been designated by our insurer as flood prone, we have elected to purchase policies from The National Flood Insurance Program to cover a substantial portion of the applicable deductible.
	Legal Proceedings
	We are subject to claims and suits in the ordinary course of business, including those arising from care and treatment afforded by our hospitals and are party to litigation, as outlined below.
	Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) and Other Government Investigations
	In September, 2010, we, along with many other companies in the healthcare industry, received a letter from the United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) advising of a False Claim Act investigation being conducted in connection with the implantation of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (“ICDs”) from 2003 to 2010 at several of our acute care facilities. The DOJ alleges that ICDs were implanted and billed by our facilities in contravention of a National Coverage Determination regarding these devices. We have established a reserve in connection with this matter which did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	In July, 2012, one of our subsidiaries, Peachford Behavioral Health System of Atlanta located in Atlanta, Georgia, received a subpoena from the OIG for the Department of Health and Human Services requesting various documents. We have provided all requested documents. During the fourth quarter of 2013, we were notified that the governmental agencies investigating this matter had declined to proceed.
	In February, 2013, the OIG served a subpoena requesting various documents from January, 2008 to the date of the subpoena directed at Universal Health Services, Inc. (“UHS”) concerning it and UHS of Delaware, Inc., and several UHS owned facilities including: Keys of Carolina, Old Vineyard Behavioral Health, The Meadows Psychiatric Center, Streamwood Behavioral Health, Hartgrove Hospital, Rock River Academy and Residential Treatment Center, Roxbury Treatment Center, Harbor Point Behavioral Health Center, f/k/a, The Pines Residential Treatment Center, including the Crawford, Brighton and Kempsville campuses, Wekiva Springs Center and River Point Behavioral Health. Prior to receiving this subpoena: (i) the Keys of Carolina and Old Vineyard received notification during the second half of 2012 from the United States Department of Justice of its intent to proceed with an investigation following requests for documents for the period of January, 2007 to October, 2012 from the North Carolina state Attorney General’s Office; (ii) Harbor Point Behavioral Health Center received a subpoena in December, 2012 from the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Virginia requesting various documents from July, 2006 to the date of the subpoena, and; (iii) The Meadows Psychiatric Center received a subpoena from the OIG in February, 2013 requesting certain documents from 2008 to the date of the subpoena. Unrelated to these matters, the Keys of Carolina was closed and the real property was sold in January, 2013. In April, 2013, the OIG served facility specific subpoenas on Wekiva Springs Center and River Point Behavioral Health requesting various documents from January, 2005 to the present. In June, 2013, the OIG served a subpoena on Coastal Harbor Health System in Savannah, Georgia requesting documents from January, 2009 to the date of the subpoena. In July, 2013, another subpoena was issued to Wekiva Springs Center and River Point Behavioral Health requesting additional records. We have been advised by the DOJ’s Criminal Frauds Section that they have received a referral from the DOJ Civil Division and have opened an investigation of River Point Behavioral Health and Wekiva Springs Center. In February, 2014, we were notified that the investigation conducted by the Criminal Frauds Section has been expanded to include the National Deaf Academy. At present, we are uncertain as to the focus, scope or extent of the investigations, liability of the facilities and/or potential financial exposure, if any, in connection with these matters.
	Matters Relating to PSI:
	The following matters pertain to PSI or former PSI facilities (owned by subsidiaries of Psychiatric Solutions, Inc.) which were in existence prior to the acquisition of PSI and for which we have assumed the defense as a result of our acquisition which was completed in November, 2010:
	Garden City Employees’ Retirement System v. PSI:
	This is a purported shareholder class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee against PSI and the former directors in 2009 alleging violations of federal securities laws. We intend to defend the case vigorously. Should we be deemed liable in this matter, we believe we would be entitled to commercial insurance recoveries for amounts paid by us, subject to certain limitations and deductibles. Included in our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, is an estimated reserve (current liability) and corresponding commercial insurance recovery (current asset) which did not have a material impact on our financial statements. Although we believe the commercial insurance recoveries are adequate to satisfy potential liability and related legal fees in connection with this matter, we can provide no assurance that the ultimate liability will not exceed the commercial insurance recoveries which would make us liable for the excess.
	Department of Justice Investigation of Friends Hospital:
	In October, 2010, Friends Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, received a subpoena from the DOJ requesting certain documents from the facility. The requested documents have been collected and provided to the DOJ for review and examination. Another subpoena was issued to the facility in July 2011 requesting additional documents, which have been collected and delivered to the DOJ. At present, we are uncertain as to the focus, scope or extent of the investigation, liability of the facility and/or potential financial exposure, if any, in connection with this matter.
	Department of Justice Investigation of Riveredge Hospital:
	In 2008, Riveredge Hospital in Chicago, Illinois received a subpoena from the DOJ requesting certain information from the facility. Additional requests for documents were also received from the DOJ in 2009 and 2010. The requested documents have been provided to the DOJ. At present, we are uncertain as to the focus, scope or extent of the investigation, liability of the facility and/or potential financial exposure, if any, in connection with this matter.
	Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services Recoupment Claims:
	The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (“DMAS”) has conducted audits at seven former PSI Residential Treatment Centers operated in the Commonwealth of Virginia to confirm compliance with provider rules under the state’s Medicaid Provider Services Manual (“Manual”). As a result of those audits, DMAS claims the facilities failed to comply with the requirements of the Manual and has requested repayment of Medicaid payments to those facilities. PSI had previously filed appeals to repayment demands at each facility which are currently pending. We had previously agreed to a settlement of this matter which was approved by Virginia state officials during the first quarter of 2014. The aggregate refund of Medicaid payments made to those facilities, as requested by DMAS, and the settlement amount is not material to our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	General:
	The healthcare industry is subject to numerous laws and regulations which include, among other things, matters such as government healthcare participation requirements, various licensure, certifications, and accreditations, reimbursement for patient services, and Medicare and Medicaid fraud and abuse. Government action has increased with respect to investigations and/or allegations concerning possible violations of fraud and abuse and false claims statutes and/or regulations by healthcare providers. Currently, and from time to time, some of our facilities are subjected to inquiries and/or actions and receive notices of potential non-compliance of laws and regulations from various federal and state agencies. Providers that are found to have violated these laws and regulations may be excluded from participating in government healthcare programs, subjected to potential licensure, certification, and/or accreditation revocation, subjected to fines or penalties or required to repay amounts received from the government for previously billed patient services. We monitor all aspects of our business and have developed a comprehensive ethics and compliance program that is designed to meet or exceed applicable federal guidelines and industry standards. Because the law in this area is complex and constantly evolving, governmental investigation or litigation may result in interpretations that are inconsistent with industry practices, including ours. Although we believe our policies, procedures and practices comply with governmental regulations, there is no assurance that we will not be faced with sanctions, fines or penalties in connection with such inquiries or actions, including with respect to the investigations and other matters discussed herein. Even if we were to ultimately prevail, such inquiries and/or actions could have a material adverse effect on us.
	The outcome of any current or future litigation or governmental or internal investigations, including the matters described above, cannot be accurately predicted, nor can we predict any resulting penalties, fines or other sanctions that may be imposed at the discretion of federal or state regulatory authorities. We record accruals for such contingencies to the extent that we conclude it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. No estimate of the possible loss or range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, if any, can be made at this time regarding the matters specifically described above because the inherently unpredictable nature of legal proceedings may be exacerbated by various factors, including, but not limited to: (i) the damages sought in the proceedings are unsubstantiated or indeterminate; (ii) discovery is not complete; (iii) the proceeding is in its early stages; (iv) the matters present legal uncertainties; (v) there are significant facts in dispute; (vi) there are a large number of parties, or; (vii) there is a wide range of potential outcomes. It is possible that the outcome of these matters could have a material adverse impact on our future results of operations, financial position, cash flows and, potentially, our reputation.
	In addition, various suits and claims arising against us in the ordinary course of business are pending. In the opinion of management, the outcome of such claims and litigation will not materially affect our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	In addition to our long-term debt obligations as discussed in Note 4-Long-Term Debt and our operating lease obligations as discussed in Note 7-Lease Commitments, we have various other contractual commitments outstanding as of December 31, 2013 as follows: (i) other combined estimated future purchase obligations of $261 million related to a long-term contract with third-parties consisting primarily of certain revenue cycle data processing services for our acute care facilities ($76 million), expected future costs to be paid to a third-party vendor in connection with the purchase, implementation and on-going operation of an electronic health records application for each of our acute care facilities ($149 million), purchase commitment expected to be incurred in 2014 related to certain equipment for our acute care hospitals ($33 million) and estimated minimum liabilities for physician commitments expected to be paid in the future ($3 million); (ii) estimated construction commitment of $153 million made to a third-party for construction of a new acute care hospital located in Henderson, Nevada, and; (iii) combined estimated future payments of $223 million related to our non-contributory, defined benefit pension plan ($205 million consisting of estimated payments through 2088) and other retirement plan liabilities ($17 million).
	As of December 31, 2013 we were party to certain off balance sheet arrangements consisting of standby letters of credit and surety bonds which totaled $85 million consisting of: (i) $69 million related to our self-insurance programs, and; (ii) $16 million of other debt and public utility guarantees.

Relationship_with_Universal_He

Relationship with Universal Health Realty Income Trust and Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Relationship with Universal Health Realty Income Trust and Related Party Transactions	'
	9) RELATIONSHIP WITH UNIVERSAL HEALTH REALTY INCOME TRUST AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
	Relationship with Universal Health Realty Income Trust:
	At December 31, 2013, we held approximately 6.1% of the outstanding shares of Universal Health Realty Income Trust (the “Trust”). We serve as Advisor to the Trust under an annually renewable advisory agreement pursuant to the terms of which we conduct the Trust’s day-to-day affairs, provide administrative services and present investment opportunities. In addition, certain of our officers and directors are also officers and/or directors of the Trust. Management believes that it has the ability to exercise significant influence over the Trust, therefore we account for our investment in the Trust using the equity method of accounting. We earned an advisory fee from the Trust, which is included in net revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, of approximately $2.4 million during 2013, $2.1 million during 2012 and $2.0 million during 2011.
	Our pre-tax share of income from the Trust was $842,000 during 2013, $1.2 million during 2012 and $4.6 million during 2011, and is included in net revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income for each year. Included in our share of the Trust’s income for 2012 and 2011 was approximately $500,000 in 2012 and $3.7 million in 2011 related to our share of the net favorable impact realized by the Trust in connection with: (i) gains on the sale of medical office buildings (in 2012 and 2011), and; (ii) gain on fair value recognition resulting from the Trust’s purchase of minority ownership interests in majority owned limited liability companies partially offset by a provision for asset impairment (in 2011).
	The carrying value of our investment in the Trust was $8.1 million and $9.3 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The market value of our investment in the Trust was $31.5 million at December 31, 2013 and $39.9 million at December 31, 2012, based on the closing price of the Trust’s stock on the respective dates.
	Total rent expense under the operating leases on the four hospital facilities with the Trust (as discussed below) was $16.4 million during 2013 and $16.3 million during each of 2012 and 2011. In addition, certain of our subsidiaries are tenants in several medical office buildings owned by limited liability companies in which the Trust holds either 100% of the ownership interest or various noncontrolling, majority ownership interests.
	The Trust commenced operations in 1986 by purchasing certain properties from us and immediately leasing the properties back to our respective subsidiaries. Most of the leases were entered into at the time the Trust commenced operations and provided for initial terms of 13 to 15 years with up to six additional 5-year renewal terms. Each lease also provided for additional or bonus rental, as discussed below. The base rents are paid monthly and the bonus rents are computed and paid on a quarterly basis, based upon a computation that compares current quarter revenue to a corresponding quarter in the base year. The leases with our subsidiaries are unconditionally guaranteed by us and are cross-defaulted with one another.
	Pursuant to the terms of the leases with the Trust, we have the option to renew the leases at the lease terms described above by providing notice to the Trust at least 90 days prior to the termination of the then current term. In addition, we have rights of first refusal to: (i) purchase the respective leased facilities during and for 180 days after the lease terms at the same price, terms and conditions of any third-party offer, or; (ii) renew the lease on the respective leased facility at the end of, and for 180 days after, the lease term at the same terms and conditions pursuant to any third-party offer. We also have the right to purchase the respective leased facilities at the end of the lease terms or any renewal terms at their appraised fair market value as well as purchase any or all of the four leased hospital properties at their appraised fair market value upon one month’s notice should a change of control of the Trust occur.
	The table below details the remaining renewal options and terms for each of our four hospital facilities leased from the Trust:
	Hospital Name		Type of Facility		Annual		End of Lease Term		Renewal
					Minimum				Term
					Rent				(years)
	McAllen Medical Center			Acute Care	$	5,485,000		December, 2016		15	(a)
	Wellington Regional Medical Center			Acute Care	$	3,030,000		December, 2016		15	(b)
	Southwest Healthcare System, Inland Valley Campus			Acute Care	$	2,648,000		December, 2016		15	(b)
	The Bridgeway			Behavioral Health	$	930,000		December, 2014		10	(c)
	(a)	We have three 5-year renewal options at existing lease rates (through 2031).
	(b)	We have one 5-year renewal options at existing lease rates (through 2021) and two 5-year renewal options at fair market value lease rates (2022 through 2031).
	(c)	We have two 5-year renewal options at fair market value lease rates (2015 through 2024).
	Other Related Party Transactions:
	In December, 2010, our Board of Directors approved the Company’s entering into supplemental life insurance plans and agreements on the lives of our chief executive officer (“CEO”) and his wife. As a result of these agreements, based on actuarial tables and other assumptions, during the life expectancies of the insureds, we would pay approximately $25 million in premiums, and certain trusts owned by our chief executive officer, would pay approximately $8 million in premiums. Based on the projected premiums mentioned above, and assuming the policies remain in effect until the death of the insureds, we will be entitled to receive death benefit proceeds of no less than $33 million representing the $25 million of aggregate premiums paid by us as well as the $8 million of aggregate premiums paid by the trusts. During 2013 we paid approximately $1.3 million in premium payments and during each of 2012 and 2011, we paid approximately $1.4 million in premium payments. These agreements did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements or results of operations during 2013, 2012 or 2011.
	A member of our Board of Directors and member of the Executive Committee is Of Counsel to the law firm used by us as our principal outside counsel. This Board member is also the trustee of certain trusts for the benefit of our CEO and his family. This law firm also provides personal legal services to our CEO.

Pension_Plan

Pension Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Plan	'
	10) PENSION PLAN
	We maintain contributory and non-contributory retirement plans for eligible employees. Our contributions to the contributory plan amounted to $29.9 million, $27.3 million and $21.7 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The non-contributory plan is a defined benefit pension plan which covers employees of one of our subsidiaries. The benefits are based on years of service and the employee’s highest compensation for any five years of employment. Our funding policy is to contribute annually at least the minimum amount that should be funded in accordance with the provisions of ERISA.
	The following table shows the reconciliation of the defined benefit pension plan as of December 31, 2013 and 2012:
		2013			2012
		(000s)
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	104,074		$	87,940
	Actual return (loss) on plan assets		8,037			13,824
	Employer contributions		0			7,786
	Benefits paid		(5,042	)		(4,946	)
	Administrative expenses		(600	)		(530	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	106,469		$	104,074
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	114,529		$	108,446
	Service cost		1,060			1,144
	Interest cost		4,528			4,659
	Benefits paid		(5,042	)		(4,946	)
	Actuarial (gain) loss		(11,517	)		5,226
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	103,558		$	114,529
	Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet:
	Other non-current assets	$	2,911		$	0
	Other non-current liabilities		0			10,455
	Total amounts recognized at end of year	$	2,911		$	10,455
		2013			2012			2011
		(000s)
	Components of net periodic cost (benefit)
	Service cost	$	1,060		$	1,144		$	1,162
	Interest cost		4,528			4,659			5,047
	Expected return on plan assets		(7,601	)		(7,301	)		(6,566	)
	Recognized actuarial loss		3,305			4,219			2,427
	Net periodic cost	$	1,292		$	2,721		$	2,070
		2013			2012
	Measurement Dates
	Benefit obligations		12/31/13			12/31/12
	Fair value of plan assets		12/31/13			12/31/12
		2013			2012
	Weighted average assumptions as of December 31
	Discount rate		4.95	%		4.05	%
	Rate of compensation increase		4	%		4	%
		2013			2012			2011
	Weighted-average assumptions for net periodic benefit cost calculations
	Discount rate		4.05	%		4.4	%		5.54	%
	Expected long-term rate at return on plan assets		7.5	%		8	%		8	%
	Rate of compensation increase		4	%		4	%		4	%
	The accumulated benefit obligation was $102.3 million and $112.7 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, the fair value of plan assets exceeded the accumulated benefit obligation by $4.1 million. As of December 31, 2012, the accumulated benefit obligation exceeded the fair value of plan assets by $8.6 million.
	We estimate that there will be a $1.1 million net loss amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income during 2014.
	The market values of our pension plan assets at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 by asset category are as follows:
	December 31, 2013	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Equities:
	U.S. Large Cap	$	8,600		$	—		$	8,600		$	—
	U.S. Mid Cap		2,740			—			2,740			—
	U.S. Small Cap		2,725			—			2,725			—
	International Developed		6,508			—			6,508			—
	Emerging Markets		4,154			—			4,154			—
	Fixed income:
	Core Fixed Income		23,222			—			23,222			—
	Long Duration Fixed Income		55,933			—			55,933			—
	Real Estate:
	REIT Fund		2,124			—			2,124			—
	Cash/Currency:
	Cash Equivalents		463			—			463			—
	Total market value	$	106,469		$	—		$	106,469		$	—
	December 31, 2012	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
Equities:
U.S. Large Cap	$	22,800		$	—		$	22,800		$	—
U.S. Mid Cap		1,566			—			1,566			—
U.S. Small-Mid Cap		7,738			—			7,738			—
U.S. Small Cap		1,583			—			1,583			—
International Developed		10,779			—			10,779			—
Emerging Markets		3,912			—			3,912			—
Fixed income:
Long Duration Fixed Income		51,355			—			51,355			—
Real Estate:
REIT Fund		3,904			—			3,904			—
Cash/Currency:
Cash Equivalents		437			—			437			—
Total market value	$	104,074		$	—		$	104,074		$	—
To develop the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption, we considered the historical returns and the future expectations for returns for each asset class, as well as the target asset allocation of the pension portfolio.
The following table shows expected benefit payments for the years ended December 31, 2013 through 2023 for our defined pension plan. There will be benefit payments under this plan beyond 2023.
Estimated Future Benefit Payments (000s)
2014	$	5,677
2015		5,966
2016		6,205
2017		6,407
2018		6,612
2019-2023		34,931
Total	$	65,798
	2013			2012
Plan Assets
Asset Category
Equity securities		23	%		47	%
Fixed income securities		74	%		49	%
Other		3	%		4	%
Total		100	%		100	%
Investment Policy, Guidelines and Objectives have been established for the defined benefit pension plan. The investment policy is in keeping with the fiduciary requirements under existing federal laws and managed in accordance with the Prudent Investor Rule. Total portfolio risk is regularly evaluated and compared to that of the plan’s policy target allocation and judged on a relative basis over a market cycle. The following asset allocation policy and ranges have been established in accordance with the overall risk and return objectives of the portfolio:
	As of 12/31/13			Permitted Range
Total Equity		23	%		30-Oct	%
Total Fixed Income		74	%		70-90	%
Other		3	%		0-10	%
In accordance with the investment policy, the portfolio will invest in high quality, large and small capitalization companies traded on national exchanges, and investment grade securities. The investment managers will not write or buy options for speculative purposes; securities may not be margined or sold short. The manager may employ futures or options for the purpose of hedging exposure, and will not purchase unregistered sectors, private placements, partnerships or commodities.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting	'
	11) SEGMENT REPORTING
	Our reportable operating segments consist of acute care hospital services and behavioral health care services. The “Other” segment column below includes centralized services including information services, purchasing, reimbursement, accounting, taxation, legal, advertising, design and construction and patient accounting as well as the operating results for our other operating entities including outpatient surgery and radiation centers. The chief operating decision making group for our acute care hospital services and behavioral health care services is comprised of our Chief Executive Officer, the President and the Presidents of each operating segment. The Presidents for each operating segment also manage the profitability of each respective segment’s various facilities. The operating segments are managed separately because each operating segment represents a business unit that offers different types of healthcare services or operates in different healthcare environments. The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. The corporate overhead allocations, as reflected below, are utilized for internal reporting purposes and are comprised of each period’s projected corporate-level operating expenses (excluding interest expense). The overhead expenses are captured and allocated directly to each segment, to the extent possible, with the non-directly allocated overhead expenses allocated based upon each segment’s respective percentage of total facility-based operating expenses.
	2013	Acute Care			Behavioral			Other			Total
		Hospital			Health						Consolidated
		Services			Services
		(Dollar amounts in thousands)
	Gross inpatient revenues	$	13,469,269		$	6,294,046			—		$	19,763,315
	Gross outpatient revenues	$	6,828,307		$	744,510		$	40,460		$	7,613,277
	Total net revenues	$	3,576,369		$	3,667,967		$	39,486		$	7,283,822
	Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	$	342,191		$	895,869		($	368,728	)	$	869,332
	Allocation of corporate overhead	($	184,444	)	($	89,447	)	$	273,891		$	0
	Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	$	157,747		$	806,422		($	94,837	)	$	869,332
	Total assets	$	3,125,626		$	4,966,182		$	219,915		$	8,311,723
	2012	Acute Care			Behavioral			Other			Total
		Hospital			Health						Consolidated
		Services			Services
		(Dollar amounts in thousands)
	Gross inpatient revenues	$	12,406,567		$	5,764,370			—		$	18,170,937
	Gross outpatient revenues	$	6,134,615		$	646,177		$	48,183		$	6,828,975
	Total net revenues	$	3,461,416		$	3,460,141		$	39,843		$	6,961,400
	Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	$	337,385		$	838,603		($	412,325	)	$	763,663
	Allocation of corporate overhead	($	162,056	)	($	84,597	)	$	246,653		$	0
	Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	$	175,329		$	754,006		($	165,672	)	$	763,663
	Total assets	$	2,984,169		$	4,979,965		$	236,709		$	8,200,843
	2011	Acute Care			Behavioral			Other			Total
		Hospital			Health						Consolidated
		Services			Services
		(Dollar amounts in thousands)
	Gross inpatient revenues	$	11,770,248		$	5,507,728			—		$	17,277,976
	Gross outpatient revenues	$	5,431,146		$	606,876		$	53,240		$	6,091,262
	Total net revenues	$	3,423,957		$	3,308,862		$	27,403		$	6,760,222
	Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	$	352,931		$	729,142		($	385,737	)	$	696,336
	Allocation of corporate overhead	($	131,225	)	($	62,710	)	$	193,935		$	0
	Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	$	221,706		$	666,432		($	191,802	)	$	696,336
	Total assets	$	2,782,102		$	4,373,379		$	509,764		$	7,665,245

Quarterly_Results

Quarterly Results	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Results	'
	12) QUARTERLY RESULTS (unaudited)
	The following tables summarize the quarterly financial data for the two years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	2013		First		Second		Third		Fourth		Total
			Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
			(amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Net revenues		$	1,831,632	$	1,834,975	$	1,816,369	$	1,800,846	$	7,283,822
	Net income		$	129,935	$	167,803	$	123,099	$	133,186	$	554,023
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		$	10,151	$	15,962	$	8,512	$	8,665	$	43,290
	Net income attributable to UHS		$	119,784	$	151,841	$	114,587	$	124,521	$	510,733
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Basic:
	Total basic earnings per share		$	1.23	$	1.55	$	1.17	$	1.27	$	5.21
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Diluted:
	Total diluted earnings per share		$	1.21	$	1.53	$	1.15	$	1.24	$	5.14
	The 2013 quarterly financial data presented above includes the following:
	First Quarter:
		•		an unfavorable $1.1 million pre-tax impact ($327,000, or $.01 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications.
	Second Quarter:
		•		an unfavorable $8.9 million pre-tax impact ($4.9 million, or $.05 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications;
		•		a favorable $65.0 million pre-tax impact reduction ($37.8 million, or $.38 per diluted share, net of taxes) to our professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to years prior to 2013, as discussed in Self-Insured Risks.
	Third Quarter:
		•		a favorable $8.4 million pre-tax impact ($5.1 million, or $.05 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications.
	Fourth Quarter:
		•		a favorable $19.4 million pre-tax impact ($11.8 million, or $.12 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications;
		•		a favorable $15.6 million pre-tax impact reduction ($9.2 million, or $.09 per diluted share, net of taxes) to our professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to years prior to 2013, as discussed in Self-Insured Risks.
	2012		First		Second		Third		Fourth		Total
			Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
			(amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Net revenues		$	1,793,036	$	1,723,084	$	1,680,353	$	1,764,927	$	6,961,400
	Net income		$	142,570	$	117,444	$	81,373	$	147,660	$	489,047
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests		$	13,963	$	9,883	$	9,556	$	12,199	$	45,601
	Net income attributable to UHS		$	128,607	$	107,561	$	71,817	$	135,461	$	443,446
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Basic:
	Total basic earnings per share		$	1.33	$	1.11	$	0.74	$	1.39	$	4.57
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Diluted:
	Total diluted earnings per share		$	1.31	$	1.1	$	0.73	$	1.39	$	4.53
	The 2012 quarterly financial data presented above includes the following:
	First Quarter:
		•		a favorable $30.2 million pre-tax impact ($18.8 million, or $.19 per diluted share, net of taxes) resulting from an agreement entered into with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (referred to collectively as “HHS”). This agreement, which was part of an industry-wide settlement with HHS related to litigation that was pending for several years contending that acute care hospitals in the U.S. were underpaid from the Medicare inpatient prospective payment system during a number of prior years;
		•		a favorable $7.0 million pre-tax impact ($4.3 million, or $.04 per diluted share, net of taxes) representing the 2011 portion of the net Medicaid supplemental reimbursements we expect to receive pursuant to the Oklahoma Supplemental Hospital Offset Payment Program;
		•		an aggregate unfavorable $8.3 million pre-tax impact ($5.1 million, or $.05 per diluted share, net of taxes) resulting from: (i) the revised Supplemental Security Income ratios utilized for calculating Medicare disproportionate share hospital reimbursements for federal fiscal years 2006 through 2009 ($2.4 million unfavorable after-tax impact), and; (ii) the write-off of receivables related to revenues recorded during 2011 at two of our acute care hospitals located in Florida resulting from reductions in certain county reimbursements due to reductions in federal matching Inter-Governmental Transfer funds ($2.7 million unfavorable after-tax impact).
	Second Quarter:
		•		an unfavorable $8.0 million pre-tax impact ($5.0 million, or $.05 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications;
		•		a favorable $5.5 million pre-tax impact ($3.4 million, or $.03 per diluted share, net of taxes) representing net Medicaid reimbursements related to prior years.
	Third Quarter:
		•		a favorable $2.2 million pre-tax impact ($1.3 million, or $.01 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications;
		•		an unfavorable $29.2 million pre-tax impact ($18.1 million, or $0.19 per diluted share, net of taxes) resulting from the write-off of deferred financing costs related to the portion of our Term Loan B credit facility that was extinguished during the third quarter of 2012.
	Fourth Quarter:
		•		a favorable $26.4 million pre-tax impact ($16.4 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, net of taxes) gain resulting from the sale of an acute care facility located in Auburn, Washington;
		•		a favorable $8.9 million pre-tax impact ($5.5 million, or $.06 per diluted share, net of taxes) recorded in connection with the implementation of EHR applications;
		•		a favorable $27.2 million pre-tax impact reduction ($15.5 million, or $.16 per diluted share, net of taxes) to our professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to years prior to 2012, as discussed in Self-Insured Risks.

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information	'
	13) SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION
	Certain of our senior notes are guaranteed by a group of subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”). The Guarantors, each of which is a 100% directly owned subsidiary of Universal Health Services, Inc., fully and unconditionally guarantee the senior notes on a joint and several basis, subject to certain customary release provisions.
	The following financial statements present condensed consolidating financial data for (i) Universal Health Services, Inc. (on a parent company only basis), (ii) the combined Guarantors, (iii) the combined non guarantor subsidiaries (all other subsidiaries), (iv) an elimination column for adjustments to arrive at the information for the parent company, Guarantors, and non guarantors on a consolidated basis, and (v) the parent company and our subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
	Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the parent company and the Guarantors using the equity method for this presentation. Results of operations of subsidiaries are therefore classified in the parent company’s and Guarantors’ investment in subsidiaries accounts. The elimination entries set forth in the following condensed consolidating financial statements eliminate distributed and undistributed income of subsidiaries, investments in subsidiaries, and intercompany balances and transactions between the parent, Guarantors, and non guarantors.
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	$	0		$	5,658,699		$	2,780,983		$	(28,644	)	$	8,411,038
	Less: Provision for doubtful accounts		0			657,106			470,110			0			1,127,216
	Net Revenues		0			5,001,593			2,310,873			(28,644	)		7,283,822
	Operating charges:
	Salaries, wages and benefits		0			2,573,205			1,031,415			0			3,604,620
	Other operating expenses		0			972,170			523,382			(26,808	)		1,468,744
	Supplies expense		0			510,078			311,011			0			821,089
	Depreciation and amortization		0			236,958			100,214			0			337,172
	Lease and rental expense		0			62,518			37,076			(1,836	)		97,758
	EHR incentive income		0			(43,027	)		(17,997	)		0			(61,024	)
			0			4,311,902			1,985,101			(28,644	)		6,268,359
	Income from operations		0			689,691			325,772			0			1,015,463
	Interest expense		139,793			3,365			2,973			0			146,131
	Interest (income) expense, affiliate		0			84,640			(84,640	)		0			0
	Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates		(597,020	)		(141,004	)		0			738,024			0
	Income before income taxes		457,227			742,690			407,439			(738,024	)		869,332
	Provision for income taxes		(53,506	)		262,346			106,469			0			315,309
	Net income		510,733			480,344			300,970			(738,024	)		554,023
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			43,290			0			43,290
	Net income attributable to UHS	$	510,733		$	480,344		$	257,680		$	(738,024	)	$	510,733
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	$	0		$	5,152,816		$	2,562,781		$	(27,526	)	$	7,688,071
	Less: Provision for doubtful accounts		0			411,538			315,133			0			726,671
	Net Revenues		0			4,741,278			2,247,648			(27,526	)		6,961,400
	Operating charges:
	Salaries, wages and benefits		0			2,452,187			988,730			0			3,440,917
	Other operating expenses		0			899,274			502,592			(25,744	)		1,376,122
	Supplies expense		0			496,848			302,773			0			799,621
	Depreciation and amortization		0			210,867			91,559			0			302,426
	Lease and rental expense		0			59,596			37,071			(1,782	)		94,885
	Transaction costs		0			5,716			0			0			5,716
	EHR incentive income		0			(14,284	)		(15,754	)		0			(30,038	)
	Costs related to extinguishment of debt		29,170			0			0			0			29,170
			29,170			4,110,204			1,906,971			(27,526	)		6,018,819
	Income from operations		(29,170	)		631,074			340,677			0			942,581
	Interest expense		172,467			3,749			2,702			0			178,918
	Interest (income) expense, affiliate		0			93,363			(93,363	)		0			0
	Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates		(567,906	)		(141,983	)		0			709,889			0
	Income before income taxes		366,269			675,945			431,338			(709,889	)		763,663
	Provision for income taxes		(77,177	)		237,072			114,721			0			274,616
	Net income		443,446			438,873			316,617			(709,889	)		489,047
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			45,601			0			45,601
	Net income attributable to UHS	$	443,446		$	438,873		$	271,016		$	(709,889	)	$	443,446
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	$	0		$	4,917,358		$	2,465,916		$	(26,476	)	$	7,356,798
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts		0			340,121			256,455			0			596,576
Net revenues		0			4,577,237			2,209,461			(26,476	)		6,760,222
Operating charges:
Salaries, wages and benefits		0			2,371,961			954,417			0			3,326,378
Other operating expenses		200			923,579			454,601			(24,687	)		1,353,693
Supplies expense		0			499,200			306,289			0			805,489
Depreciation and amortization		0			207,981			79,230			0			287,211
Lease and rental expense		0			60,768			31,344			(1,789	)		90,323
		200			4,063,489			1,825,881			(26,476	)		5,863,094
Income from operations		(200	)		513,748			383,580			0			897,128
Interest expense		195,404			3,212			2,176			0			200,792
Interest (income) expense, affiliate		0			87,205			(87,205	)		0			0
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates		(518,797	)		(157,009	)		0			675,806			0
Income before income taxes		323,193			580,340			468,609			(675,806	)		696,336
Provision for income taxes		(74,974	)		198,091			124,349			0			247,466
Net income		398,167			382,249			344,260			(675,806	)		448,870
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			50,703			0			50,703
Net income attributable to UHS	$	398,167		$	382,249		$	293,557		$	(675,806	)	$	398,167
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net income	$	510,733		$	480,344		$	300,970		$	(738,024	)	$	554,023
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized derivative gains on cash flow hedges		16,963			0			0			0			16,963
Amortization of terminated hedge		(336	)		0			0			0			(336	)
Minimum Pension Liability		14,657			14,657			0			(14,657	)		14,657
Other comprehensive income before tax		31,284			14,657			0			(14,657	)		31,284
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income		11,940			5,670			0			(5,670	)		11,940
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax		19,344			8,987			0			(8,987	)		19,344
Comprehensive income		530,077			489,331			300,970			(747,011	)		573,367
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			43,290			0			43,290
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	$	530,077		$	489,331		$	257,680		$	(747,011	)	$	530,077
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net income	$	443,446		$	438,873		$	316,617		$	(709,889	)	$	489,047
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized derivative gains on cash flow hedges		6,677			0			0			0			6,677
Amortization of terminated hedge		(336	)		0			0			0			(336	)
Minimum Pension Liability		4,986			4,986			0			(4,986	)		4,986
Other comprehensive income before tax		11,327			4,986			0			(4,986	)		11,327
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income		4,306			1,898			0			(1,898	)		4,306
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax		7,021			3,088			0			(3,088	)		7,021
Comprehensive income		450,467			441,961			316,617			(712,977	)		496,068
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			45,601			0			45,601
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	$	450,467		$	441,961		$	271,016		$	(712,977	)	$	450,467
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net income	$	398,167		$	382,249		$	344,260		$	(675,806	)	$	448,870
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized derivative gains on cash flow hedges		(37,477	)		0			0			0			(37,477	)
Amortization of terminated hedge		(336	)		0			0			0			(336	)
Minimum Pension Liability		(12,397	)		(12,397	)		0			12,397			(12,397	)
Other comprehensive income before tax		(50,210	)		(12,397	)		0			12,397			(50,210	)
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income		(19,174	)		(4,691	)		0			4,691			(19,174	)
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax		(31,036	)		(7,706	)		0			7,706			(31,036	)
Comprehensive income		367,131			374,543			344,260			(668,100	)		417,834
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			50,703			0			50,703
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	$	367,131		$	374,543		$	293,557		$	(668,100	)	$	367,131
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2013
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	0		$	7,990		$	9,248		$	0		$	17,238
Accounts receivable, net		0			799,898			317,063			0			1,116,961
Supplies		0			63,562			38,219			0			101,781
Deferred income taxes		76,719			43,184			0			0			119,903
Other current assets		0			63,786			12,660			0			76,446
Total current assets		76,719			978,420			377,190			0			1,432,329
Investments in subsidiaries		6,378,499			1,476,911			0			(7,855,410	)		0
Intercompany receivable		226,592			0			531,411			(758,003	)		0
Intercompany note receivable		0			0			982,568			(982,568	)		0
Property and equipment		0			4,093,914			1,597,988			0			5,691,902
Less: accumulated depreciation		0			(1,478,758	)		(770,975	)		0			(2,249,733	)
		0			2,615,156			827,013			0			3,442,169
Other assets:
Goodwill		0			2,552,190			496,826			0			3,049,016
Deferred charges		49,866			5,577			2,438			0			57,881
Other		8,411			251,365			70,552			0			330,328
	$	6,740,087		$	7,879,619		$	3,287,998		$	(9,595,981	)	$	8,311,723
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	97,403			916			993			0		$	99,312
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		28,099			837,354			87,996			0			953,449
Federal and state taxes		4,963			2,164			0			0			7,127
Total current liabilities		130,465			840,434			88,989			0			1,059,888
Intercompany payable		0			758,003			0			(758,003	)		0
Other noncurrent liabilities		7,591			199,104			77,894			0			284,589
Long-term debt		3,168,819			5,337			35,606			0			3,209,762
Intercompany note payable		0			982,568			0			(982,568	)		0
Deferred income taxes		183,233			55,915			0			0			239,148
Redeemable noncontrolling interests		0			0			218,107			0			218,107
UHS common stockholders’ equity		3,249,979			5,038,258			2,817,152			(7,855,410	)		3,249,979
Noncontrolling interest		0			0			50,250			0			50,250
Total equity		3,249,979			5,038,258			2,867,402			(7,855,410	)		3,300,229
	$	6,740,087		$	7,879,619		$	3,287,998		$	(9,595,981	)	$	8,311,723
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2012
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	0		$	11,949		$	11,522		$	0		$	23,471
Accounts receivable, net		7,154			741,983			318,060			0			1,067,197
Supplies		0			61,100			37,900			0			99,000
Deferred income taxes		61,364			43,555			322			(780	)		104,461
Other current assets		2,188			75,117			10,631			0			87,936
Current assets held for sale		0			0			25,431			0			25,431
Total current assets		70,706			933,704			403,866			(780	)		1,407,496
Investments in subsidiaries		5,781,479			1,326,920			0			(7,108,399	)		0
Intercompany receivable		644,105			0			360,538			(1,004,643	)		0
Intercompany note receivable		0			0			1,007,453			(1,007,453	)		0
Property and equipment		0			3,867,471			1,500,874			0			5,368,345
Less: accumulated depreciation		0			(1,288,975	)		(697,135	)		0			(1,986,110	)
		0			2,578,496			803,739			0			3,382,235
Other assets:
Goodwill		820			2,554,531			481,414			0			3,036,765
Deferred charges		67,831			5,839			2,218			0			75,888
Other		9,645			209,558			79,256			0			298,459
	$	6,574,586		$	7,609,048		$	3,138,484		$	(9,121,275	)	$	8,200,843
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	0			990			1,599			0		$	2,589
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		10,985			740,484			138,088			0			889,557
Current liabilities held for sale		0			0			850			0			850
Federal and state taxes		0			900			620			(458	)		1,062
Total current liabilities		10,985			742,374			141,157			(458	)		894,058
Intercompany payable		0			1,004,643			0			(1,004,643	)		0
Other noncurrent liabilities		46,048			243,478			105,829			0			395,355
Long-term debt		3,676,940			5,372			45,119			0			3,727,431
Intercompany note payable		0			1,007,453			0			(1,007,453	)		0
Deferred income taxes		127,268			56,801			0			(322	)		183,747
Redeemable noncontrolling interests		0			0			234,303			0			234,303
UHS common stockholders’ equity		2,713,345			4,548,927			2,559,472			(7,108,399	)		2,713,345
Noncontrolling interest		0			0			52,604			0			52,604
Total equity		2,713,345			4,548,927			2,612,076			(7,108,399	)		2,765,949
	$	6,574,586		$	7,609,048		$	3,138,484		$	(9,121,275	)	$	8,200,843
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	17,946		$	587,083		$	279,212		$	0		$	884,241
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals		0			(269,419	)		(89,074	)		0			(358,493	)
Acquisition of property and businesses		0			(8,094	)		(4,542	)		0			(12,636	)
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses		0			7,916			29,566			0			37,482
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application		0			(49,811	)		0			0			(49,811	)
Net cash used in investing activities		0			(319,408	)		(64,050	)		0			(383,458	)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Reduction of long-term debt		(429,996	)		(109	)		(10,119	)		0			(440,224	)
Additional borrowings		15,761			0			0			0			15,761
Financing costs		(231	)		0			0			0			(231	)
Repurchase of common shares		(27,201	)		0			0			0			(27,201	)
Dividends paid		(19,621	)		0			0			0			(19,621	)
Issuance of common stock		5,708			0			0			0			5,708
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation		20,121			0			0			0			20,121
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests		0			0			(61,329	)		0			(61,329	)
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net		417,513			(271,525	)		(145,988	)		0			0
Net cash used in financing activities		(17,946	)		(271,634	)		(217,436	)		0			(507,016	)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents		0			(3,959	)		(2,274	)		0			(6,233	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		0			11,949			11,522			0			23,471
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	0		$	7,990		$	9,248		$	0		$	17,238
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$	(37,648	)	$	594,606		$	242,273		$	0		$	799,231
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals		0			(312,190	)		(51,002	)		0			(363,192	)
Acquisition of property and businesses		0			(513,596	)		(14,251	)		0			(527,847	)
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses		0			142,667			6,644			0			149,311
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application		0			(54,362	)		0			0			(54,362	)
Return of Deposit on terminated purchase agreement		6,500			0			0			0			6,500
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		6,500			(737,481	)		(58,609	)		0			(789,590	)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Reduction of long-term debt		(843,002	)		0			(8,258	)		1,613			(849,647	)
Additional borrowings		913,500			1,613			0			(1,613	)		913,500
Financing costs		(8,283	)		0			0			0			(8,283	)
Repurchase of common shares		(19,154	)		0			0			0			(19,154	)
Dividends paid		(58,395	)		0			0			0			(58,395	)
Issuance of common stock		5,435			0			0			0			5,435
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation		16,040			0			0			0			16,040
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests		0			0			(26,895	)		0			(26,895	)
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net		25,007			119,990			(144,997	)		0			0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		31,148			121,603			(180,150	)		0			(27,399	)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		0			(21,272	)		3,514			0			(17,758	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		0			33,221			8,008			0			41,229
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	0		$	11,949		$	11,522		$	0		$	23,471
UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
(amounts in thousands)
	Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
							Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
													Amounts
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$	(12,558	)	$	518,462		$	204,779		$	0		$	710,683
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals		0			(226,848	)		(58,834	)		0			(285,682	)
Acquisition of property and businesses		0			0			(29,466	)		0			(29,466	)
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses		0			0			67,592			0			67,592
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application		0			(38,249	)		0			0			(38,249	)
Net cash used in investing activities		0			(265,097	)		(20,708	)		0			(285,805	)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Reduction of long-term debt		(382,060	)		(1,442	)		0			1,985			(381,517	)
Additional borrowings		98,100			0			1,985			(1,985	)		98,100
Financing costs		(23,608	)		0			0			0			(23,608	)
Repurchase of common shares		(60,482	)		0			0			0			(60,482	)
Dividends paid		(19,466	)		0			0			0			(19,466	)
Issuance of common stock		4,779			0			0			0			4,779
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation		7,568			0			0			0			7,568
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests		0			0			(38,497	)		0			(38,497	)
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net		387,727			(240,087	)		(147,640	)		0			0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		12,558			(241,529	)		(184,152	)		0			(413,123	)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		0			11,836			(81	)		0			11,755
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		0			21,385			8,089			0			29,474
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	0		$	33,221		$	8,008		$	0		$	41,229

Schedule_IIValuation_and_Quali

Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	'
	SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
	(amounts in thousands)
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable:		Balance at		Charges to		Acquisitions		Write-off of			Balance
			beginning		costs and		of business		uncollectible			at end
			of period		expenses				accounts			of period
	Year ended December 31, 2013		$	311,387	$	1,127,216	$	—	$	(1,043,568	)	$	395,035
	Year ended December 31, 2012		$	253,405	$	726,671	$	5,632	$	(674,321	)	$	311,387
	Year ended December 31, 2011 (a)		$	248,622	$	613,619	$	—	$	(608,836	)	$	253,405
	(a)	Included in the charges to costs and expenses in 2011 is $17.0 million related to facilities that were divested or recorded as held for sale during 2012.
	Valuation Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets:		Balance at		Charges to		Acquisitions		Write-off of			Balance
			beginning		costs and		of business		uncollectible			at end
			of period		expenses				accounts			of period
	Year ended December 31, 2013		$	44,511	$	2,330	$	—	$	—		$	46,841
	Year ended December 31, 2012		$	42,143	$	2,368	$	—	$	—		$	44,511
	Year ended December 31, 2011		$	32,352	$	10,904	$	—	$	(1,113	)	$	42,143

Business_and_Summary_of_Signif1

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Principles of Consolidation	'
	A) Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our majority-owned subsidiaries and partnerships controlled by us or our subsidiaries as the managing general partner. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Revenue Recognition	'
	B) Revenue Recognition: We record revenues and related receivables for health care services at the time the services are provided. Medicare and Medicaid revenues represented 38% of our net patient revenues during 2013, 39% during 2012 and 41% during 2011. Revenues from managed care entities, including health maintenance organizations and managed Medicare and Medicaid programs accounted for 49% of our net patient revenues during each of 2013 and 2012 and 47% during 2011.
	We report net patient service revenue at the estimated net realizable amounts from patients and third-party payors and others for services rendered. We have agreements with third-party payors that provide for payments to us at amounts different from our established rates. Payment arrangements include prospectively determined rates per discharge, reimbursed costs, discounted charges and per diem payments. Estimates of contractual allowances under managed care plans are based upon the payment terms specified in the related contractual agreements. We closely monitor our historical collection rates, as well as changes in applicable laws, rules and regulations and contract terms, to assure that provisions are made using the most accurate information available. However, due to the complexities involved in these estimations, actual payments from payors may be different from the amounts we estimate and record.
	We estimate our Medicare and Medicaid revenues using the latest available financial information, patient utilization data, government provided data and in accordance with applicable Medicare and Medicaid payment rules and regulations. The laws and regulations governing the Medicare and Medicaid programs are extremely complex and subject to interpretation and as a result, there is at least a reasonable possibility that recorded estimates will change by material amounts in the near term. Certain types of payments by the Medicare program and state Medicaid programs (e.g. Medicare Disproportionate Share Hospital, Medicare Allowable Bad Debts and Inpatient Psychiatric Services) are subject to retroactive adjustment in future periods as a result of administrative review and audit and our estimates may vary from the final settlements. Such amounts are included in accounts receivable, net, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funding of both federal Medicare and state Medicaid programs are subject to legislative and regulatory changes. As such, we cannot provide any assurance that future legislation and regulations, if enacted, will not have a material impact on our future Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements. Adjustments related to the final settlement of these retrospectively determined amounts did not materially impact our results in 2013, 2012 or 2011.
	We provide care to patients who meet certain financial or economic criteria without charge or at amounts substantially less than our established rates. Because we do not pursue collection of amounts determined to qualify as charity care, they are not reported in net revenues or in accounts receivable, net. See additional disclosure below in Charity Care and Uninsured Discounts for our estimated uncompensated care provided and estimated cost of providing uncompensated care.
Provision for Doubtful Accounts	'
	C) Provision for Doubtful Accounts: Collection of receivables from third-party payers and patients is our primary source of cash and is critical to our operating performance. Our primary collection risks relate to uninsured patients and the portion of the bill which is the patient’s responsibility, primarily co-payments and deductibles. We estimate our provisions for doubtful accounts based on general factors such as payer mix, the agings of the receivables and historical collection experience. We routinely review accounts receivable balances in conjunction with these factors and other economic conditions which might ultimately affect the collectability of the patient accounts and make adjustments to our allowances as warranted. At our acute care hospitals, third party liability accounts are pursued until all payment and adjustments are posted to the patient account. For those accounts with a patient balance after third party liability is finalized or accounts for uninsured patients, the patient receives statements and collection letters. Patients that express an inability to pay are reviewed for potential sources of financial assistance including our charity care policy. If the patient is deemed unwilling to pay, the account is written-off as bad debt and transferred to an outside collection agency for additional collection effort.
	Uninsured patients that do not qualify as charity patients are extended an uninsured discount of a minimum of 30% of total charges. Our hospitals establish a partial reserve for self-pay accounts in the allowance for doubtful accounts for both unbilled balances and those that have been billed and are under 90 days old. All self-pay accounts are fully reserved at 90 days from the date of discharge. Third party liability accounts are fully reserved in the allowance for doubtful accounts when the balance ages past 180 days from the date of discharge. Potential charity accounts are fully reserved when it is determined the patient may be unable to pay.
	Our accounts receivable as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 includes amounts due from Illinois of approximately $49 million, $70 million and $54 million, respectively. Collection of the outstanding receivables continues to be delayed due to state budgetary and funding pressures. Approximately $28 million as of December 31, 2013, $51 million as of December 31, 2012 and $41 million as of December 31, 2011, of the receivables due from Illinois were outstanding in excess of 60 days, as of each respective date. In addition, our accounts receivable as of December 31, 2013 includes approximately $46 million due from Texas in connection with Medicaid supplemental payment programs the majority of which we expect to collect during the second quarter of 2014. Although the accounts receivable due from Illinois and Texas could remain outstanding for the foreseeable future, since we expect to eventually collect all amounts due to us (we have received $27 million of cash remittances from Illinois in January, 2014), no related reserves have been established in our consolidated financial statements. However, we can provide no assurance that we will eventually collect all amounts due to us from Illinois and/or Texas. Failure to ultimately collect all outstanding amounts due from these states would have an adverse impact on our future consolidated results of operations and cash flows.
	On a consolidated basis, we monitor our total self-pay receivables to ensure that the total allowance for doubtful accounts provides adequate coverage based on historical collection experience. Our accounts receivable are recorded net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $395 million and $311 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Concentration of Revenues	'
	D) Concentration of Revenues: Our five majority owned acute care hospitals in the Las Vegas, Nevada market contributed, on a combined basis, 14% of our consolidated net revenues in each of 2013 and 2012 and 15% in 2011. On a combined basis, our facilities in the McAllen/Edinburg, Texas market (consisting of three acute care facilities, a children’s hospital and a behavioral health facility) contributed 4% of our consolidated net revenues in each of 2013 and 2012 and 5% in 2011.
Charity Care and Uninsured Discounts	'
	E) Charity Care and Uninsured Discounts: A significant portion of the patients treated throughout our portfolio of acute care hospitals are uninsured patients which, in part, has resulted from an increase in the number of patients who are employed but do not have health insurance or who have policies with relatively high deductibles. Patients treated at our hospitals for non-elective services, who have gross income less than 400% of the federal poverty guidelines, are deemed eligible for charity care. The federal poverty guidelines are established by the federal government and are based on income and family size. Because we do not pursue collection of amounts that qualify as charity care, they are not reported in our net revenues or in our accounts receivable, net. We also provide discounts to uninsured patients (included in “uninsured discounts” amounts below) who do not qualify for Medicaid or charity care. Because we do not pursue collection of amounts classified as uninsured discounts, they are not reported in our net revenues or in our accounts receivable, net. In implementing the discount policy, we first attempt to qualify uninsured patients for governmental programs, charity care or any other discount program. If an uninsured patient does not qualify for these programs, the uninsured discount is applied.
	Uncompensated care:
	The following table shows the amounts recorded at our acute care hospitals for charity care and uninsured discounts, based on charges at established rates, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
			(dollar amounts in thousands)
			2013						2012						2011
			Amount			%			Amount			%			Amount		%
	Charity care		$	593,474			59	%	$	778,268			74	%	$	804,301		84	%
	Uninsured discounts			405,296			41	%		267,304			26	%		151,447		16	%
	Total uncompensated care		$	998,770			100	%	$	1,045,572			100	%	$	955,748		100	%
	In addition, the provision for doubtful accounts at our acute care hospitals were approximately $1.02 billion during 2013, $635 million during 2012 and $519 million during 2011.
	The estimated cost of providing uncompensated care:
	The estimated cost of providing uncompensated care, as reflected below, were based on a calculation which multiplied the percentage of operating expenses for our acute care hospitals to gross charges for those hospitals by the above-mentioned total uncompensated care amounts. The percentage of cost to gross charges is calculated based on the total operating expenses for our acute care facilities divided by gross patient service revenue for those facilities. An increase in the level of uninsured patients to our facilities and the resulting adverse trends in the provision for doubtful accounts and uncompensated care provided could have a material unfavorable impact on our future operating results.
			(amounts in thousands)
			2013			2012			2011
	Estimated cost of providing charity care		$	95,675		$	131,890		$	145,350
	Estimated cost of providing uninsured discounts related care			65,338			45,299			27,363
	Estimated cost of providing uncompensated care		$	161,013		$	177,189		$	172,713
Accounting for Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Records Incentive Payments	'
	F) Accounting for Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Records Incentive Payments: In July 2010, the Department of Health and Human Services published final regulations implementing the health information technology provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The regulation defines the “meaningful use” of Electronic Health Records (“EHR”) and established the requirements for the Medicare and Medicaid EHR payment incentive programs. The implementation period for these new Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments started in federal fiscal year 2011 and can end as late as 2016 for Medicare and 2021 for the state Medicaid programs. We recognize income related to Medicare and Medicaid incentive payments using a gain contingency model that is based upon when our eligible hospitals have demonstrated “meaningful use” of certified EHR technology for the applicable period and the cost report information for the full cost report year that will determine the final calculation of the incentive payment is available.
	Medicare EHR incentive payments: Federal regulations require that Medicare EHR incentive payments be computed based on the Medicare cost report that begins in the federal fiscal period in which a hospital meets the applicable “meaningful use” requirements. Since the annual Medicare cost report periods for each of our acute care hospitals ends on December 31st, we will recognize Medicare EHR incentive income for each hospital during the fourth quarter of the year in which the facility meets the “meaningful use” criteria and during the fourth quarter of each applicable subsequent year.
	Medicaid EHR incentive payments: Medicaid EHR incentive payments are determined based upon prior period cost report information available at the time our hospitals met the “meaningful use” criteria. Therefore, the majority of the Medicaid EHR incentive income recognition occurred in the period in which the applicable hospitals were deemed to have met initial “meaningful use” criteria. Upon meeting subsequent fiscal year “meaningful use” criteria, our hospitals may become entitled to additional Medicaid EHR incentive payments which will be recognized as incentive income in future periods. Medicaid EHR incentive payments received prior to our hospitals meeting the “meaningful use” criteria were included in other current liabilities (as deferred EHR incentive income) in our consolidated balance sheet.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	G) Cash and Cash Equivalents: We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Property and Equipment	'
	H) Property and Equipment: Property and equipment are stated at cost. Expenditures for renewals and improvements are charged to the property accounts. Replacements, maintenance and repairs which do not improve or extend the life of the respective asset are expensed as incurred. We remove the cost and the related accumulated depreciation from the accounts for assets sold or retired and the resulting gains or losses are included in the results of operations. Construction-in-progress includes both construction projects and equipment not yet placed into service.
	We capitalize interest expense on major construction projects while in progress. We capitalized interest on major construction projects and the development and implementation of electronic health records applications amounting to $4.9 million during 2013, $5.7 million during 2012 and $400,000 during 2011.
	Depreciation is provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of buildings and improvements (twenty to forty years) and equipment (three to fifteen years). Depreciation expense (excluding discontinued operations) was $285.6 million during 2013, $270.5 million during 2012 and $262.1 million during 2011.
Long-Lived Assets	'
	I) Long-Lived Assets: We review our long-lived assets, including intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. The assessment of possible impairment is based on our ability to recover the carrying value of our asset based on our estimate of its undiscounted future cash flow. If the analysis indicates that the carrying value is not recoverable from future cash flows, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value and an impairment loss is recognized. Fair values are determined based on estimated future cash flows using appropriate discount rates.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	'
	J) Goodwill and Intangible Assets: Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis or sooner if the indicators of impairment arise. Our judgments regarding the existence of impairment indicators are based on market conditions and operational performance of each reporting unit. We have designated September 1st as our annual impairment assessment date and performed an impairment assessment as of September 1, 2013 which indicated no impairment of goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets. There were also no impairments during 2012 or 2011. Future changes in the estimates used to conduct the impairment review, including profitability and market value projections, could indicate impairment in future periods potentially resulting in a write-off of a portion or all of our goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets.
	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the two years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
			Acute Care			Behavioral			Total
			Services			Health			Consolidated
						Services
	Balance, January 1, 2012		$	389,484		$	2,238,118		$	2,627,602
	Goodwill acquired during the period			11,110			434,551			445,661
	Goodwill divested during the period			(17,450	)		(1,902	)		(19,352	)
	Adjustments to goodwill (a)			(448	)		(16,698	)		(17,146	)
	Balance, January 1, 2013			382,696			2,654,069			3,036,765
	Adjustments to goodwill (b)			315			11,936			12,251
	Balance, December 31, 2013		$	383,011		$	2,666,005		$	3,049,016
	(a)	The reduction to the Behavioral Health Services’ goodwill consists primarily of a reclassification to “assets of facilities held for sale” and represents the goodwill attributable to Peak Behavioral Health Services which we agreed to divest pursuant to our agreement with the Federal Trade Commission in connection with our acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012. Adjustments to prior year purchase price allocations for Acute Care and Behavioral Health Services are also included.
	(b)	The increase in the Behavioral Health Services’ goodwill consists primarily of an amount that was reclassified from other assets.
Other Assets	'
	K) Other Assets: Other assets consist primarily of amounts related to: (i) intangible assets acquired in connection with our acquisition of Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. (“PSI”) in November, 2010 and Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012, consisting of Medicare licenses, certificates of need and contracts to manage the operations of behavioral health services owned by third-parties (PSI only); (ii) prepaid fees for various software and other applications used by our hospitals; (iii) costs incurred in connection with the purchase and implementation of an electronic health records application for each of our acute care facilities; (iv) deposits; (v) investments in various businesses, including Universal Health Realty Income Trust; (vi) the invested assets related to a deferred compensation plan that is held by an independent trustee in a rabbi-trust and that has a related payable included in other noncurrent liabilities; (vii) the estimated future payments related to physician-related contractual commitments, as discussed below, and; (viii) other miscellaneous assets. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, were approximately $97 million and $99 million, respectively.
Physician Guarantees and Commitments	'
	L) Physician Guarantees and Commitments: As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, our accrued liabilities-other, and our other assets included $3 million, as of each respective date, of estimated future payments related to physician-related contractual commitments. The $3 million of potential future financial obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2013 are potential 2014 obligations.
Self-Insured Risks	'
	M) Self-Insured Risks: We provide for self-insured risks, primarily general and professional liability claims and workers’ compensation claims. Our estimated liability for self-insured professional and general liability claims is based on a number of factors including, among other things, the number of asserted claims and reported incidents, estimates of losses for these claims based on recent and historical settlement amounts, estimate of incurred but not reported claims based on historical experience, and estimates of amounts recoverable under our commercial insurance policies. All relevant information, including our own historical experience is used in estimating the expected amount of claims. While we continuously monitor these factors, our ultimate liability for professional and general liability claims could change materially from our current estimates due to inherent uncertainties involved in making this estimate. Our estimated self-insured reserves are reviewed and changed, if necessary, at each reporting date and changes are recognized currently as additional expense or as a reduction of expense. See Note 8 for discussion of adjustments to our prior year reserves for claims related to our self-insured general and professional liability and workers’ compensation liability.
	In addition, we also maintain self-insured employee benefits programs for employee healthcare and dental claims. The ultimate costs related to these programs include expenses for claims incurred and paid in addition to an accrual for the estimated expenses incurred in connection with claims incurred but not yet reported.
Income Taxes	'
	N) Income Taxes: Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the amount of taxes payable or deductible in future years as a result of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements. We believe that future income will enable us to realize our deferred tax assets net of recorded valuation allowances relating to state net operating loss carry-forwards.
	We operate in multiple jurisdictions with varying tax laws. We are subject to audits by any of these taxing authorities. Our tax returns have been examined by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) through the year ended December 31, 2006. We believe that adequate accruals have been provided for federal, foreign and state taxes.
	See Note 6—Income Taxes, for additional disclosure.
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	'
	O) Other Noncurrent Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities include the long-term portion of our professional and general liability, workers’ compensation reserves, pension and deferred compensation liabilities, liability incurred in connection with split-dollar life insurance agreements on the lives of our chief executive officer and his wife and interest rate swap liabilities.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Noncontrolling Interest	'
	P) Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Noncontrolling Interest: Outside owners hold noncontrolling, minority ownership interests of: (i) approximately 28% in our five acute care facilities located in Las Vegas, Nevada; (ii) 20% in an acute care facility located in Washington, D.C.; (iii) approximately 11% in an acute care facility located in Laredo, Texas, and; (iv) 20% in a behavioral health care facility located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The redeemable noncontrolling interest balances of $218 million and $234 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and the noncontrolling interest balances of $50 million and $53 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, consist primarily of the third-party ownership interests in these hospitals.
	In connection with the five acute care facilities located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the minority ownership interests of which are reflected as redeemable noncontrolling interests on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, the outside owners have certain “put rights”, that are currently exercisable, that if exercised, require us to purchase the minority member’s interests at fair market value. The put rights are exercisable upon the occurrence of: (i) certain specified financial conditions falling below established thresholds; (ii) breach of the management contract by the managing member (a subsidiary of ours), or; (iii) if the minority member’s ownership percentage is reduced to less than certain thresholds. In connection with the behavioral health care facility located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the minority ownership interest of which is also reflected as redeemable noncontrolling interests on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, the outside owner has a “put option” to put its entire ownership interest to us at any time. If exercised, the put option requires us to purchase the minority member’s interest at fair market value. As of December 31, 2013, we believe the fair market value of the minority ownership interests in these facilities, pursuant to the terms of the put options, approximates the book value of the redeemable noncontrolling interests.
Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	Q) Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive income or loss is comprised of net income, changes in unrealized gains or losses on derivative financial instruments and a pension liability.
	The accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) component of stockholders’ equity includes: net unrealized gains and losses on effective cash flow hedges; and the net minimum pension liability of a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan which covers employees at one of our subsidiaries. See Note 10, “Pension Plan” for additional disclosure regarding the defined benefit pension plan.
	The amounts recognized in AOCI for the two years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
			Net Unrealized			Minimum			Total
			Gains (Losses) on			Pension			AOCI
			Effective Cash			Liability
			Flow  Hedges
	Balance, January 1, 2012, net of income tax		$	(28,460	)	$	(22,715	)	$	(51,175	)
	2012 activity:
	Pre-tax amount			6,341			4,986			11,327
	Income tax effect			(2,408	)		(1,898	)		(4,306	)
	Change, net of income tax			3,933			3,088			7,021
	Balance, January 1, 2013, net of income tax			(24,527	)		(19,627	)		(44,154	)
	2013 activity:
	Pre-tax amount			16,627			14,657			31,284
	Income tax effect			(6,270	)		(5,670	)		(11,940	)
	Change, net of income tax			10,357			8,987			19,344
	Balance, December 31, 2013, net of income tax		$	(14,170	)	$	(10,640	)	$	(24,810	)
Accounting for Derivative Financial Investments and Hedging Activities	'
	R) Accounting for Derivative Financial Investments and Hedging Activities: We manage our ratio of fixed to floating rate debt with the objective of achieving a mix that management believes is appropriate. To manage this risk in a cost-effective manner, we, from time to time, enter into interest rate swap agreements in which we agree to exchange various combinations of fixed and/or variable interest rates based on agreed upon notional amounts.
	We account for our derivative and hedging activities using the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s (“FASB”) guidance which requires all derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, to be carried at fair value on the balance sheet. For derivative transactions designated as hedges, we formally document all relationships between the hedging instrument and the related hedged item, as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking each hedge transaction.
	Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Cash flow hedges are accounted for by recording the fair value of the derivative instrument on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability, with a corresponding amount recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) within stockholders’ equity. Amounts are reclassified from AOCI to the income statement in the period or periods the hedged transaction affects earnings.
	We use interest rate derivatives in our cash flow hedge transactions. Such derivatives are designed to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows related to the hedged liability. For derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, the ineffective portion of the change in expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized currently in the income statement.
	Derivative instruments designated in a hedge relationship to mitigate exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Fair value hedges are accounted for by recording the changes in the fair value of both the derivative instrument and the hedged item in the income statement.
	For hedge transactions that do not qualify for the short-cut method, at the hedge’s inception and on a regular basis thereafter, a formal assessment is performed to determine whether changes in the fair values or cash flows of the derivative instruments have been highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of the hedged items and whether they are expected to be highly effective in the future.
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	S) Stock-Based Compensation: At December 31, 2013, we have a number of stock-based employee compensation plans. Pursuant to the FASB’s guidance, we expense the grant-date fair value of stock options and other equity-based compensation pursuant to the straight-line method over the stated vesting period of the award using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.
	The expense associated with share-based compensation arrangements is a non-cash charge. In the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, share-based compensation expense is an adjustment to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities. The applicable FASB guidance requires that cash flows resulting from tax deductions in excess of compensation cost recognized be classified as financing cash flows.
Earnings Per Share	'
	T) Earnings Per Share: Basic earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year adjusted to give effect to common stock equivalents.
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share, for the periods indicated:
			Twelve Months Ended December 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Basic and diluted:
	Net Income		$	554,023		$	489,047		$	448,870
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(43,290	)		(45,601	)		(50,703	)
	Less: Net income attributable to unvested restricted share grants			(294	)		(497	)		(521	)
	Net income attributable to UHS—basic and diluted		$	510,439		$	442,949		$	397,646
	Basic earnings per share attributable to UHS:
	Weighted average number of common shares—basic			98,033			96,821			97,199
	Total basic earnings per share		$	5.21		$	4.57		$	4.09
	Diluted earnings per share attributable to UHS:
	Weighted average number of common shares			98,033			96,821			97,199
	Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method			1,328			890			1,338
	Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents—diluted			99,361			97,711			98,537
	Total diluted earnings per share		$	5.14		$	4.53		$	4.04
	The “Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method”, for all years presented above, excludes certain outstanding stock options applicable to each year since the effect would have been anti-dilutive. The excluded weighted-average stock options totaled 4,000 during 2013, 2.0 million during 2012, 1.4 million during 2011.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	U) Fair Value of Financial Instruments: The fair values of our registered debt and investments are based on quoted market prices. The fair values of other long-term debt, including capital lease obligations, are estimated by discounting cash flows using period-end interest rates and market conditions for instruments with similar maturities and credit quality. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and short-term borrowings approximates their fair values due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Accordingly, these items have been excluded from the fair value disclosures included elsewhere in these notes to consolidated financial statements.
Use of Estimates	'
	V) Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires us 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 financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Mergers and Acquisitions	'
	W) Mergers and Acquisitions: The acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recorded at the date of acquisition at their respective fair values with limited exceptions. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Any excess of the purchase price (consideration transferred) over the estimated fair values of net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Transaction costs and costs to restructure the acquired company are expensed as incurred. The fair value of intangible assets, including Medicare Licenses, Certificates of Need, and certain contracts, is based on significant judgments made by our management, and accordingly, for significant items we typically obtain assistance from third party valuation specialists.
GPO Agreement/Minority Ownership Interest	'
	X) GPO Agreement/Minority Ownership Interest: During 2013, we entered into a new group purchasing organization agreement (“GPO”) and acquired a minority interest in the GPO for a nominal amount. In connection with the completion of an initial public offering of the stock of the GPO, during the fourth quarter of 2013, we received cash proceeds for the sale of a portion of our ownership interest, which were recorded as deferred income and included in liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2013. The deferred income will be recognized, on a pro rata basis, as a reduction to our supplies expense over the expected life of the GPO agreement. Also in connection with this GPO agreement and related minority interest ownership, we received shares of restricted stock in the GPO which vest ratably over a seven-year period, contingent upon our continued participation and minority ownership interest in the GPO. We will recognize the fair value of this restricted stock, as a reduction to our supplies expense, in our consolidated statements of income on a pro rata basis over the vesting period.
Accounting Standards	'
	Y) Accounting Standards:
	Reporting of Amounts Reclassified out of Other Comprehensive Income: In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued an Accounting Standards Update on reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2012, requires companies to provide information about amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component (the respective line items of the income statement). The adoption of this standard on January 1, 2013 had no impact on our financial position or overall results of operations.
	Presentation and Disclosure of Patient Service Revenue, Provision for Bad Debts, and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts for Certain Health Care Entities: During the first quarter of 2012, we adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-07, “Health Care Entities (Topic 954): Presentation and Disclosure of Patient Service Revenue, Provision for Bad Debts, and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts for Certain Health Care Entities,” which required certain health care entities to change the presentation in their statement of operations by reclassifying the provision for bad debts associated with patient service revenue from an operating expense to a deduction from patient service revenue (net of contractual allowances and discounts). As a result, the provision for doubtful accounts for our acute care and behavioral health care facilities is reflected as a deduction from net revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income for each of the years presented herein. The adoption of this standard had no impact on our financial position or overall results of operations.
	Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward Exists: In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued guidance regarding the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under certain circumstances, unrecognized tax benefits should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. The guidance is a change in financial statement presentation only and has no material impact in the consolidated financial results. The guidance is effective beginning January 1, 2014 on either a prospective or retrospective basis.

Business_and_Summary_of_Signif2

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Uncompensated Care	'
	The following table shows the amounts recorded at our acute care hospitals for charity care and uninsured discounts, based on charges at established rates, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
			(dollar amounts in thousands)
			2013						2012						2011
			Amount			%			Amount			%			Amount		%
	Charity care		$	593,474			59	%	$	778,268			74	%	$	804,301		84	%
	Uninsured discounts			405,296			41	%		267,304			26	%		151,447		16	%
	Total uncompensated care		$	998,770			100	%	$	1,045,572			100	%	$	955,748		100	%
Estimated Cost of Providing Uncompensated Care	'
	The estimated cost of providing uncompensated care, as reflected below, were based on a calculation which multiplied the percentage of operating expenses for our acute care hospitals to gross charges for those hospitals by the above-mentioned total uncompensated care amounts. The percentage of cost to gross charges is calculated based on the total operating expenses for our acute care facilities divided by gross patient service revenue for those facilities. An increase in the level of uninsured patients to our facilities and the resulting adverse trends in the provision for doubtful accounts and uncompensated care provided could have a material unfavorable impact on our future operating results.
			(amounts in thousands)
			2013			2012			2011
	Estimated cost of providing charity care		$	95,675		$	131,890		$	145,350
	Estimated cost of providing uninsured discounts related care			65,338			45,299			27,363
	Estimated cost of providing uncompensated care		$	161,013		$	177,189		$	172,713
Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill	'
	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the two years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
			Acute Care			Behavioral			Total
			Services			Health			Consolidated
						Services
	Balance, January 1, 2012		$	389,484		$	2,238,118		$	2,627,602
	Goodwill acquired during the period			11,110			434,551			445,661
	Goodwill divested during the period			(17,450	)		(1,902	)		(19,352	)
	Adjustments to goodwill (a)			(448	)		(16,698	)		(17,146	)
	Balance, January 1, 2013			382,696			2,654,069			3,036,765
	Adjustments to goodwill (b)			315			11,936			12,251
	Balance, December 31, 2013		$	383,011		$	2,666,005		$	3,049,016
	(a)	The reduction to the Behavioral Health Services’ goodwill consists primarily of a reclassification to “assets of facilities held for sale” and represents the goodwill attributable to Peak Behavioral Health Services which we agreed to divest pursuant to our agreement with the Federal Trade Commission in connection with our acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012. Adjustments to prior year purchase price allocations for Acute Care and Behavioral Health Services are also included.
	(b)	The increase in the Behavioral Health Services’ goodwill consists primarily of an amount that was reclassified from other assets.
Amounts Recognized in AOCI	'
	The amounts recognized in AOCI for the two years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
			Net Unrealized			Minimum			Total
			Gains (Losses) on			Pension			AOCI
			Effective Cash			Liability
			Flow  Hedges
	Balance, January 1, 2012, net of income tax		$	(28,460	)	$	(22,715	)	$	(51,175	)
	2012 activity:
	Pre-tax amount			6,341			4,986			11,327
	Income tax effect			(2,408	)		(1,898	)		(4,306	)
	Change, net of income tax			3,933			3,088			7,021
	Balance, January 1, 2013, net of income tax			(24,527	)		(19,627	)		(44,154	)
	2013 activity:
	Pre-tax amount			16,627			14,657			31,284
	Income tax effect			(6,270	)		(5,670	)		(11,940	)
	Change, net of income tax			10,357			8,987			19,344
	Balance, December 31, 2013, net of income tax		$	(14,170	)	$	(10,640	)	$	(24,810	)
Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	'
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share, for the periods indicated:
			Twelve Months Ended December 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Basic and diluted:
	Net Income		$	554,023		$	489,047		$	448,870
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(43,290	)		(45,601	)		(50,703	)
	Less: Net income attributable to unvested restricted share grants			(294	)		(497	)		(521	)
	Net income attributable to UHS—basic and diluted		$	510,439		$	442,949		$	397,646
	Basic earnings per share attributable to UHS:
	Weighted average number of common shares—basic			98,033			96,821			97,199
	Total basic earnings per share		$	5.21		$	4.57		$	4.09
	Diluted earnings per share attributable to UHS:
	Weighted average number of common shares			98,033			96,821			97,199
	Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method			1,328			890			1,338
	Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents—diluted			99,361			97,711			98,537
	Total diluted earnings per share		$	5.14		$	4.53		$	4.04

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Results of Operations for Former PSI Facilities Reflected as Discontinued Operations	'
	The following table shows the results of operations for Auburn and Peak and the former PSI facilities located in Delaware and Nevada, on a combined basis, which were reflected as discontinued operations during our period of ownership for each of the years presented herein (amounts in thousands):
		2013			2012			2011
	Net revenues	$	7,813		$	95,226		$	159,218
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes		932			(3,472	)		10,422
	Gain on divestiture		3,080			26,419			442
	Income from discontinued operations, before income tax expense		4,012			22,947			10,864
	Income tax expense		(1,506	)		(8,688	)		(4,113	)
	Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	$	2,506		$	14,259		$	6,751
2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses	'
Net Purchase Price Allocation to Assets and Liabilities based on their Estimated Fair Value	'
	The aggregate net cash expenditure related to the properties and/or businesses was allocated to assets and liabilities based on their estimated fair values as follows:
		Amount
		(000s)
	Property, plant & equipment	$	35,000
	Other assets/deposits		11,000
	Debt		(17,000	)
	Cash paid in 2011 for acquisitions and deposits	$	29,000
2011 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses	'
Net Purchase Price Allocation to Assets and Liabilities based on their Estimated Fair Value	'
	The aggregate net purchase price of the facilities was allocated to assets and liabilities based on their estimated fair values as follows:
		Amount
		(000s)
	Working capital, net	$	21,000
	Property & equipment		60,000
	Goodwill		446,000
	Other assets		9,000
	Income tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities		(1,000	)
	Other liabilities		(7,000	)
	Cash paid in 2012 for acquisitions	$	528,000

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of Long-Term Debt	'
	A summary of long-term debt follows:
		December 31,
		2013			2012
		(amounts in thousands)
	Long-term debt:
	Notes payable and Mortgages payable (including obligations under capitalized leases of $6,633 in 2013 and $8,267 in 2012) and term loans with varying maturities through 2037; weighted average interest rates of 5.9% in each of 2013 and 2012 (see Note 7 regarding capitalized leases)	$	37,553		$	47,216
	Revolving credit and on-demand credit facility		25,500			163,500
	Term Loan A, net of unamortized discount of $3,340 in 2013 and $4,612 in 2012		935,308			983,438
	Term Loan B, net of unamortized discount of $6,473 in 2013 and $8,724 in 2012		543,527			737,176
	Term Loan A2		871,875			894,375
	Revenue bonds, interest at floating rates of 0.1% at December 31, 2013 and 0.2% at December 31, 2012, with varying maturities through 2015		5,300			5,300
	Accounts receivable securitization program		240,000			249,000
	7.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2016, including unamortized net premium of $11 in 2013 and $15 in 2012		400,011			400,015
	7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018		250,000			250,000
			3,309,074			3,730,020
	Less-Amounts due within one year		(99,312	)		(2,589	)
		$	3,209,762		$	3,727,431
Aggregate Maturities	'
	Aggregate maturities follow:
		(000s)
	2014	$	99,312
	2015		139,261
	2016		2,804,569
	2017		1,798
	2018		251,893
	Later		12,241
	Total	$	3,309,074

Common_Stock_Tables

Common Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Information Related to Stock Repurchase Programs	'
	The following schedule provides information related to our stock repurchase programs for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013. All of the shares repurchased during 2013 and 2012 related to income tax withholding obligations resulting from the exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock grants. No shares were repurchased during 2013 or 2012 pursuant to our publicly announced stock repurchase program.
			Total			Total price			Total			Total price		Aggregate		Aggregate		Maximum
			number			paid for			number			paid for		number of		price paid for		number of
			of shares			shares			of shares			shares		shares		shares		shares that
			purchased			purchased as			purchased			purchased		purchased		purchased		may yet be
			as part of			part of			related to			related to				(in thousands)		purchased
			publicly			publicly			stock-based			stock-based						under the
			announced			announced			compensation			compensation						publicly
			programs			programs			plans (a.)			plans						announced
						(in thousands)						(in thousands)						program
	Balance as of January 1, 2011																		2,152,339
	2011			1,384,637		$	50,576			217,649		$	9,906		1,602,286	$	60,482		767,702
	2012			—			—			433,312		$	19,154		433,312	$	19,154		767,702
	2013			—			—			427,170		$	27,201		427,170	$	27,201		767,702
	Total for three year period ended December 31, 2013			1,384,637		$	50,576			1,078,131		$	56,261		2,462,768	$	106,837
	(a.)	During 2013, there were 427,170 shares repurchased at an average price of $63.68 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs. During 2012, there were 432,562 shares repurchased at an average price of $44.28 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs, and 750 shares repurchased at an average of $.01 per share related to restricted shares that were forfeited by former employees pursuant to the terms of our restricted stock purchase plan. During 2011, there were 217,649 shares repurchased at an average price of $45.51 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs.
Weighted-Average Assumptions Fair Value of Option Grants	'
	The weighted-average assumptions reflected below were each based upon eighteen option grants.
	Year Ended December 31,		2013			2012			2011
	Volatility			36	%		33	%		29	%
	Interest rate			1	%		1	%		2	%
	Expected life (years)			3.6			3.5			3.5
	Forfeiture rate			11	%		10	%		9	%
	Dividend yield			0.5	%		0.6	%		0.7	%
Stock Option Activity	'
	The table below summarizes our stock option activity during each of the last three years:
	Outstanding Options		Number			Average			Range
			of Shares			Option			(High-Low)
						Price
	Balance, January 1, 2011			6,594,950		$	25.16		$	32.28 -$16.22
	Granted			2,894,500		$	43.66		$	54.79 -$38.12
	Exercised			(1,563,255	)	$	26.38		$	32.28 -$16.22
	Cancelled			(367,250	)	$	32.6		$	46.97 -$16.22
	Balance, January 1, 2012			7,558,945		$	31.63		$	54.79 -$16.22
	Granted			2,966,850		$	37.01		$	44.83 -$36.95
	Exercised			(2,608,007	)	$	23.22		$	46.97 -$16.22
	Cancelled			(481,550	)	$	38		$	46.97 -$16.22
	Balance, January 1, 2013			7,436,238		$	36.31		$	54.79 -$16.22
	Granted			2,889,750		$	53.51		$	79.79 -$53.38
	Exercised			(2,288,666	)	$	32.27		$	54.79 -$16.22
	Cancelled			(416,364	)	$	43.93		$	53.38 -$16.22
	Balance, December 31, 2013			7,620,958		$	43.63		$	79.79 -$30.32
	Outstanding options vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2013			1,756,128		$	35.6		$	46.97 -$30.32
Information about Unvested Options	'
	The following table provides information about unvested options for the year December 31, 2013:
			Shares			Weighted
						Average
						Grant Date
						Fair Value
	Unvested options as of January 1, 2013			5,250,926		$	10.74
	Granted			2,889,750		$	13.33
	Vested			(1,864,982	)	$	10.22
	Cancelled			(410,864	)	$	11.66
	Unvested options as of December 31, 2013			5,864,830		$	12.12
Information about all Outstanding Options and Exercisable Options	'
	The following table provides information about all outstanding options, and exercisable options, at December 31, 2013:
			Options			Options
			Outstanding			Exercisable
	Number			7,620,958			1,756,128
	Weighted average exercise price		$	43.64		$	35.6
	Aggregate intrinsic value as of December 31, 2013		$	286,740,433		$	80,189,277
	Weighted average remaining contractual life			2.9			1.6
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Options Outstanding and Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share for Exercisable Options	'
	The weighted average remaining contractual life for options outstanding and weighted average exercise price per share for exercisable options at December 31, 2013 were as follows:
			Options			Exercisable			Expected to Vest
			Outstanding			Options			Options (a)
	Exercise Price		Shares			Weighted			Weighted			Shares		Weighted		Shares		Weighted
						Average			Average					Average				Average
						Exercise Price			Remaining					Exercise Price				Exercise Price
						Per Share			Contractual Life					Per Share				Per Share
									(in Years)
	$30.32 – $36.95			3,183,583		$	35.14			2.4			1,259,453	$	32.45		1,716,901	$	36.91
	$38.12 – $43.67			1,685,350			43.56			2.1			496,175		43.58		1,061,101		43.55
	$44.83 – $53.38			2,724,525			53.36			4			500		46.97		2,430,648		53.36
	$54.79 – $79.79			27,500			67.64			4			0		N/A		24,538		67.64
	Total			7,620,958		$	43.63			2.9			1,756,128	$	35.6		5,233,188	$	46.04
	(a)	Assumes a weighted average forfeiture rate of 10.8%.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	'
	Components of income tax expense/(benefit) are as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Current
	Federal	$	256,545		$	254,021		$	165,409
	Foreign		1,655			9,084			300
	State		28,490			39,076			22,901
			286,690			302,181			188,610
	Deferred
	Federal and foreign		25,341			(21,408	)		53,056
	State		3,278			(6,157	)		5,800
			28,619			(27,565	)		58,856
	Total	$	315,309		$	274,616		$	247,466
Components of Deferred Taxes	'
	The components of deferred taxes are as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Self-insurance reserves	$	87,483		$	112,587
	Compensation accruals		49,302			47,571
	State and foreign net operating loss carryforwards and other state and foreign deferred tax assets		57,204			54,874
	Other currently non-deductible accrued liabilities		24,587			29,934
	Net pension liability—OCI only		6,390			12,061
	Doubtful accounts and other reserves		33,905			17,562
	Other combined items—OCI only		9,018			15,282
			267,889			289,871
	Less: Valuation Allowance		(46,841	)		(44,511	)
	Net deferred income tax assets:		221,048			245,360
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Depreciable and amortizable assets		(337,669	)		(322,317	)
	Other deferred tax liabilities		(2,624	)		(2,329	)
	Net deferred income tax liabilities	$	(119,245	)	$	(79,286	)
Effective Tax Rates Calculation	'
	The effective tax rates, as calculated by dividing the provision for income taxes by income before income taxes, were as follows for each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (dollar amounts in thousands):
		2013			2012			2011
	Provision for income taxes	$	315,309		$	274,616		$	247,466
	Income before income taxes		869,332			763,663			696,336
	Effective tax rate		36.3	%		36	%		35.5	%
Reconciliation Between Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Tax Rate	'
	A reconciliation between the federal statutory rate and the effective tax rate is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal statutory rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
	State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		2.5			3			2.9
	Nondeductible transaction costs		—			0.2			—
	Divestiture Gain		0.3			—			—
	Other items		0.4			0.1			0.4
	Impact of income attributable to noncontrolling interests		(1.9	)		(2.3	)		(2.8	)
	Effective tax rate		36.3	%		36	%		35.5	%
Net Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	The net deferred tax assets and liabilities are comprised as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
	Current deferred taxes
	Assets	$	121,097		$	105,639
	Liabilities		(1,194	)		(1,178	)
	Total deferred taxes-current		119,903			104,461
	Noncurrent deferred taxes
	Assets		103,221			142,065
	Liabilities		(342,369	)		(325,812	)
	Total deferred taxes-noncurrent		(239,148	)		(183,747	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	$	(119,245	)	$	(79,286	)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	'
	The tabular reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 is as follows (amounts in thousands).
		As of December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Balance at January 1,	$	6,824		$	7,403		$	7,923
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		50			200			750
	Additions for tax positions of prior years		283			386			419
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years		(1,260	)		(1,165	)		(1,628	)
	Settlements		(2,528	)		—			(61	)
	Balance at December 31,	$	3,369		$	6,824		$	7,403

Lease_Commitments_Tables

Lease Commitments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of Property Under Capital Lease	'
	A summary of property under capital lease follows (amounts in thousands):
		As of December 31,
		2013			2012
	Land, buildings and equipment	$	27,636		$	27,836
	Less: accumulated amortization		(27,382	)		(26,540	)
		$	254		$	1,296
Future Minimum Rental Payments Under Lease Commitments	'
	Future minimum rental payments under lease commitments with a term of more than one year as of December 31, 2013, are as follows (amounts in thousands):
	Year	Capital			Operating
		Leases			Leases
		(000s)
	2014	$	2,026		$	55,812
	2015		1,218			45,807
	2016		1,167			37,769
	2017		1,077			21,391
	2018		1,086			17,322
	Later years		4,030			128,636
	Total minimum rental	$	10,604		$	306,737
	Less: Amount representing interest		(3,971	)
	Present value of minimum rental commitments		6,633
	Less: Current portion of capital lease obligations		(774	)
	Long-term portion of capital lease obligations	$	5,859

Relationship_with_Universal_He1

Relationship with Universal Health Realty Income Trust and Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Remaining Renewal Options and Terms for Each of Four Hospital Facilities Leased from Trust	'
	The table below details the remaining renewal options and terms for each of our four hospital facilities leased from the Trust:
	Hospital Name		Type of Facility		Annual		End of Lease Term		Renewal
					Minimum				Term
					Rent				(years)
	McAllen Medical Center			Acute Care	$	5,485,000		December, 2016		15	(a)
	Wellington Regional Medical Center			Acute Care	$	3,030,000		December, 2016		15	(b)
	Southwest Healthcare System, Inland Valley Campus			Acute Care	$	2,648,000		December, 2016		15	(b)
	The Bridgeway			Behavioral Health	$	930,000		December, 2014		10	(c)
	(a)	We have three 5-year renewal options at existing lease rates (through 2031).
	(b)	We have one 5-year renewal options at existing lease rates (through 2021) and two 5-year renewal options at fair market value lease rates (2022 through 2031).
	(c)	We have two 5-year renewal options at fair market value lease rates (2015 through 2024).

Pension_Plan_Tables

Pension Plan (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Defined Benefit Pension Plan	'
	The following table shows the reconciliation of the defined benefit pension plan as of December 31, 2013 and 2012:
		2013			2012
		(000s)
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	104,074		$	87,940
	Actual return (loss) on plan assets		8,037			13,824
	Employer contributions		0			7,786
	Benefits paid		(5,042	)		(4,946	)
	Administrative expenses		(600	)		(530	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	106,469		$	104,074
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	114,529		$	108,446
	Service cost		1,060			1,144
	Interest cost		4,528			4,659
	Benefits paid		(5,042	)		(4,946	)
	Actuarial (gain) loss		(11,517	)		5,226
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	103,558		$	114,529
	Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet:
	Other non-current assets	$	2,911		$	0
	Other non-current liabilities		0			10,455
	Total amounts recognized at end of year	$	2,911		$	10,455
Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost (Benefit)	'
		2013			2012			2011
		(000s)
	Components of net periodic cost (benefit)
	Service cost	$	1,060		$	1,144		$	1,162
	Interest cost		4,528			4,659			5,047
	Expected return on plan assets		(7,601	)		(7,301	)		(6,566	)
	Recognized actuarial loss		3,305			4,219			2,427
	Net periodic cost	$	1,292		$	2,721		$	2,070
Measurement Dates	'
		2013			2012
	Measurement Dates
	Benefit obligations		12/31/13			12/31/12
	Fair value of plan assets		12/31/13			12/31/12
Weighted-average Assumptions for Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
		2013			2012
	Weighted average assumptions as of December 31
	Discount rate		4.95	%		4.05	%
	Rate of compensation increase		4	%		4	%
Weighted Average Assumptions	'
		2013			2012			2011
	Weighted-average assumptions for net periodic benefit cost calculations
	Discount rate		4.05	%		4.4	%		5.54	%
	Expected long-term rate at return on plan assets		7.5	%		8	%		8	%
	Rate of compensation increase		4	%		4	%		4	%
Market Values of Our Pension Plan Assets	'
	The market values of our pension plan assets at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 by asset category are as follows:
	December 31, 2013	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Equities:
	U.S. Large Cap	$	8,600		$	—		$	8,600		$	—
	U.S. Mid Cap		2,740			—			2,740			—
	U.S. Small Cap		2,725			—			2,725			—
	International Developed		6,508			—			6,508			—
	Emerging Markets		4,154			—			4,154			—
	Fixed income:
	Core Fixed Income		23,222			—			23,222			—
	Long Duration Fixed Income		55,933			—			55,933			—
	Real Estate:
	REIT Fund		2,124			—			2,124			—
	Cash/Currency:
	Cash Equivalents		463			—			463			—
	Total market value	$	106,469		$	—		$	106,469		$	—
	December 31, 2012	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Equities:
	U.S. Large Cap	$	22,800		$	—		$	22,800		$	—
	U.S. Mid Cap		1,566			—			1,566			—
	U.S. Small-Mid Cap		7,738			—			7,738			—
	U.S. Small Cap		1,583			—			1,583			—
	International Developed		10,779			—			10,779			—
	Emerging Markets		3,912			—			3,912			—
	Fixed income:
	Long Duration Fixed Income		51,355			—			51,355			—
	Real Estate:
	REIT Fund		3,904			—			3,904			—
	Cash/Currency:
	Cash Equivalents		437			—			437			—
	Total market value	$	104,074		$	—		$	104,074		$	—
Estimated Future Benefit	'
	There will be benefit payments under this plan beyond 2023.
	Estimated Future Benefit Payments (000s)
	2014	$	5,677
	2015		5,966
	2016		6,205
	2017		6,407
	2018		6,612
	2019-2023		34,931
	Total	$	65,798
Plan Assets	'
		2013			2012
	Plan Assets
	Asset Category
	Equity securities		23	%		47	%
	Fixed income securities		74	%		49	%
	Other		3	%		4	%
	Total		100	%		100	%
Asset Allocation Policy and Ranges Established in accordance with Overall Risk and Return Objectives of Portfolio	'
	The following asset allocation policy and ranges have been established in accordance with the overall risk and return objectives of the portfolio:
		As of 12/31/13			Permitted Range
	Total Equity		23	%		30-Oct	%
	Total Fixed Income		74	%		70-90	%
	Other		3	%		0-10	%

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting	'
	2013	Acute Care			Behavioral			Other			Total
		Hospital			Health						Consolidated
		Services			Services
		(Dollar amounts in thousands)
	Gross inpatient revenues	$	13,469,269		$	6,294,046			—		$	19,763,315
	Gross outpatient revenues	$	6,828,307		$	744,510		$	40,460		$	7,613,277
	Total net revenues	$	3,576,369		$	3,667,967		$	39,486		$	7,283,822
	Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	$	342,191		$	895,869		($	368,728	)	$	869,332
	Allocation of corporate overhead	($	184,444	)	($	89,447	)	$	273,891		$	0
	Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	$	157,747		$	806,422		($	94,837	)	$	869,332
	Total assets	$	3,125,626		$	4,966,182		$	219,915		$	8,311,723
	2012	Acute Care			Behavioral			Other			Total
		Hospital			Health						Consolidated
		Services			Services
		(Dollar amounts in thousands)
	Gross inpatient revenues	$	12,406,567		$	5,764,370			—		$	18,170,937
	Gross outpatient revenues	$	6,134,615		$	646,177		$	48,183		$	6,828,975
	Total net revenues	$	3,461,416		$	3,460,141		$	39,843		$	6,961,400
	Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	$	337,385		$	838,603		($	412,325	)	$	763,663
	Allocation of corporate overhead	($	162,056	)	($	84,597	)	$	246,653		$	0
	Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	$	175,329		$	754,006		($	165,672	)	$	763,663
	Total assets	$	2,984,169		$	4,979,965		$	236,709		$	8,200,843
	2011	Acute Care			Behavioral			Other			Total
		Hospital			Health						Consolidated
		Services			Services
		(Dollar amounts in thousands)
	Gross inpatient revenues	$	11,770,248		$	5,507,728			—		$	17,277,976
	Gross outpatient revenues	$	5,431,146		$	606,876		$	53,240		$	6,091,262
	Total net revenues	$	3,423,957		$	3,308,862		$	27,403		$	6,760,222
	Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	$	352,931		$	729,142		($	385,737	)	$	696,336
	Allocation of corporate overhead	($	131,225	)	($	62,710	)	$	193,935		$	0
	Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	$	221,706		$	666,432		($	191,802	)	$	696,336
	Total assets	$	2,782,102		$	4,373,379		$	509,764		$	7,665,245

Quarterly_Results_Tables

Quarterly Results (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of Quarterly Financial Data	'
	The following tables summarize the quarterly financial data for the two years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	2013	First		Second		Third		Fourth		Total
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
		(amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Net revenues	$	1,831,632	$	1,834,975	$	1,816,369	$	1,800,846	$	7,283,822
	Net income	$	129,935	$	167,803	$	123,099	$	133,186	$	554,023
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	10,151	$	15,962	$	8,512	$	8,665	$	43,290
	Net income attributable to UHS	$	119,784	$	151,841	$	114,587	$	124,521	$	510,733
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Basic:
	Total basic earnings per share	$	1.23	$	1.55	$	1.17	$	1.27	$	5.21
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Diluted:
	Total diluted earnings per share	$	1.21	$	1.53	$	1.15	$	1.24	$	5.14
	2012	First		Second		Third		Fourth		Total
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
		(amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Net revenues	$	1,793,036	$	1,723,084	$	1,680,353	$	1,764,927	$	6,961,400
	Net income	$	142,570	$	117,444	$	81,373	$	147,660	$	489,047
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	$	13,963	$	9,883	$	9,556	$	12,199	$	45,601
	Net income attributable to UHS	$	128,607	$	107,561	$	71,817	$	135,461	$	443,446
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Basic:
	Total basic earnings per share	$	1.33	$	1.11	$	0.74	$	1.39	$	4.57
	Earnings per share attributable to UHS-Diluted:
	Total diluted earnings per share	$	1.31	$	1.1	$	0.73	$	1.39	$	4.53

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli1

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income	'
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	$	0		$	5,658,699		$	2,780,983		$	(28,644	)	$	8,411,038
	Less: Provision for doubtful accounts		0			657,106			470,110			0			1,127,216
	Net Revenues		0			5,001,593			2,310,873			(28,644	)		7,283,822
	Operating charges:
	Salaries, wages and benefits		0			2,573,205			1,031,415			0			3,604,620
	Other operating expenses		0			972,170			523,382			(26,808	)		1,468,744
	Supplies expense		0			510,078			311,011			0			821,089
	Depreciation and amortization		0			236,958			100,214			0			337,172
	Lease and rental expense		0			62,518			37,076			(1,836	)		97,758
	EHR incentive income		0			(43,027	)		(17,997	)		0			(61,024	)
			0			4,311,902			1,985,101			(28,644	)		6,268,359
	Income from operations		0			689,691			325,772			0			1,015,463
	Interest expense		139,793			3,365			2,973			0			146,131
	Interest (income) expense, affiliate		0			84,640			(84,640	)		0			0
	Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates		(597,020	)		(141,004	)		0			738,024			0
	Income before income taxes		457,227			742,690			407,439			(738,024	)		869,332
	Provision for income taxes		(53,506	)		262,346			106,469			0			315,309
	Net income		510,733			480,344			300,970			(738,024	)		554,023
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			43,290			0			43,290
	Net income attributable to UHS	$	510,733		$	480,344		$	257,680		$	(738,024	)	$	510,733
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	$	0		$	5,152,816		$	2,562,781		$	(27,526	)	$	7,688,071
	Less: Provision for doubtful accounts		0			411,538			315,133			0			726,671
	Net Revenues		0			4,741,278			2,247,648			(27,526	)		6,961,400
	Operating charges:
	Salaries, wages and benefits		0			2,452,187			988,730			0			3,440,917
	Other operating expenses		0			899,274			502,592			(25,744	)		1,376,122
	Supplies expense		0			496,848			302,773			0			799,621
	Depreciation and amortization		0			210,867			91,559			0			302,426
	Lease and rental expense		0			59,596			37,071			(1,782	)		94,885
	Transaction costs		0			5,716			0			0			5,716
	EHR incentive income		0			(14,284	)		(15,754	)		0			(30,038	)
	Costs related to extinguishment of debt		29,170			0			0			0			29,170
			29,170			4,110,204			1,906,971			(27,526	)		6,018,819
	Income from operations		(29,170	)		631,074			340,677			0			942,581
	Interest expense		172,467			3,749			2,702			0			178,918
	Interest (income) expense, affiliate		0			93,363			(93,363	)		0			0
	Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates		(567,906	)		(141,983	)		0			709,889			0
	Income before income taxes		366,269			675,945			431,338			(709,889	)		763,663
	Provision for income taxes		(77,177	)		237,072			114,721			0			274,616
	Net income		443,446			438,873			316,617			(709,889	)		489,047
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			45,601			0			45,601
	Net income attributable to UHS	$	443,446		$	438,873		$	271,016		$	(709,889	)	$	443,446
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	$	0		$	4,917,358		$	2,465,916		$	(26,476	)	$	7,356,798
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts		0			340,121			256,455			0			596,576
Net revenues		0			4,577,237			2,209,461			(26,476	)		6,760,222
Operating charges:
Salaries, wages and benefits		0			2,371,961			954,417			0			3,326,378
Other operating expenses		200			923,579			454,601			(24,687	)		1,353,693
Supplies expense		0			499,200			306,289			0			805,489
Depreciation and amortization		0			207,981			79,230			0			287,211
Lease and rental expense		0			60,768			31,344			(1,789	)		90,323
		200			4,063,489			1,825,881			(26,476	)		5,863,094
Income from operations		(200	)		513,748			383,580			0			897,128
Interest expense		195,404			3,212			2,176			0			200,792
Interest (income) expense, affiliate		0			87,205			(87,205	)		0			0
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates		(518,797	)		(157,009	)		0			675,806			0
Income before income taxes		323,193			580,340			468,609			(675,806	)		696,336
Provision for income taxes		(74,974	)		198,091			124,349			0			247,466
Net income		398,167			382,249			344,260			(675,806	)		448,870
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			50,703			0			50,703
Net income attributable to UHS	$	398,167		$	382,249		$	293,557		$	(675,806	)	$	398,167
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income	'
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net income	$	510,733		$	480,344		$	300,970		$	(738,024	)	$	554,023
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Unrealized derivative gains on cash flow hedges		16,963			0			0			0			16,963
	Amortization of terminated hedge		(336	)		0			0			0			(336	)
	Minimum Pension Liability		14,657			14,657			0			(14,657	)		14,657
	Other comprehensive income before tax		31,284			14,657			0			(14,657	)		31,284
	Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income		11,940			5,670			0			(5,670	)		11,940
	Total other comprehensive income, net of tax		19,344			8,987			0			(8,987	)		19,344
	Comprehensive income		530,077			489,331			300,970			(747,011	)		573,367
	Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			43,290			0			43,290
	Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	$	530,077		$	489,331		$	257,680		$	(747,011	)	$	530,077
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net income	$	443,446		$	438,873		$	316,617		$	(709,889	)	$	489,047
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Unrealized derivative gains on cash flow hedges		6,677			0			0			0			6,677
	Amortization of terminated hedge		(336	)		0			0			0			(336	)
	Minimum Pension Liability		4,986			4,986			0			(4,986	)		4,986
	Other comprehensive income before tax		11,327			4,986			0			(4,986	)		11,327
	Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income		4,306			1,898			0			(1,898	)		4,306
	Total other comprehensive income, net of tax		7,021			3,088			0			(3,088	)		7,021
	Comprehensive income		450,467			441,961			316,617			(712,977	)		496,068
	Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			45,601			0			45,601
	Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	$	450,467		$	441,961		$	271,016		$	(712,977	)	$	450,467
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net income	$	398,167		$	382,249		$	344,260		$	(675,806	)	$	448,870
	Other comprehensive income (loss):
	Unrealized derivative gains on cash flow hedges		(37,477	)		0			0			0			(37,477	)
	Amortization of terminated hedge		(336	)		0			0			0			(336	)
	Minimum Pension Liability		(12,397	)		(12,397	)		0			12,397			(12,397	)
	Other comprehensive income before tax		(50,210	)		(12,397	)		0			12,397			(50,210	)
	Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income		(19,174	)		(4,691	)		0			4,691			(19,174	)
	Total other comprehensive income, net of tax		(31,036	)		(7,706	)		0			7,706			(31,036	)
	Comprehensive income		367,131			374,543			344,260			(668,100	)		417,834
	Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		0			0			50,703			0			50,703
	Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	$	367,131		$	374,543		$	293,557		$	(668,100	)	$	367,131
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet	'
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
	AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2013
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Assets
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	0		$	7,990		$	9,248		$	0		$	17,238
	Accounts receivable, net		0			799,898			317,063			0			1,116,961
	Supplies		0			63,562			38,219			0			101,781
	Deferred income taxes		76,719			43,184			0			0			119,903
	Other current assets		0			63,786			12,660			0			76,446
	Total current assets		76,719			978,420			377,190			0			1,432,329
	Investments in subsidiaries		6,378,499			1,476,911			0			(7,855,410	)		0
	Intercompany receivable		226,592			0			531,411			(758,003	)		0
	Intercompany note receivable		0			0			982,568			(982,568	)		0
	Property and equipment		0			4,093,914			1,597,988			0			5,691,902
	Less: accumulated depreciation		0			(1,478,758	)		(770,975	)		0			(2,249,733	)
			0			2,615,156			827,013			0			3,442,169
	Other assets:
	Goodwill		0			2,552,190			496,826			0			3,049,016
	Deferred charges		49,866			5,577			2,438			0			57,881
	Other		8,411			251,365			70,552			0			330,328
		$	6,740,087		$	7,879,619		$	3,287,998		$	(9,595,981	)	$	8,311,723
	Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
	Current liabilities:
	Current maturities of long-term debt	$	97,403			916			993			0		$	99,312
	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		28,099			837,354			87,996			0			953,449
	Federal and state taxes		4,963			2,164			0			0			7,127
	Total current liabilities		130,465			840,434			88,989			0			1,059,888
	Intercompany payable		0			758,003			0			(758,003	)		0
	Other noncurrent liabilities		7,591			199,104			77,894			0			284,589
	Long-term debt		3,168,819			5,337			35,606			0			3,209,762
	Intercompany note payable		0			982,568			0			(982,568	)		0
	Deferred income taxes		183,233			55,915			0			0			239,148
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests		0			0			218,107			0			218,107
	UHS common stockholders’ equity		3,249,979			5,038,258			2,817,152			(7,855,410	)		3,249,979
	Noncontrolling interest		0			0			50,250			0			50,250
	Total equity		3,249,979			5,038,258			2,867,402			(7,855,410	)		3,300,229
		$	6,740,087		$	7,879,619		$	3,287,998		$	(9,595,981	)	$	8,311,723
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
	AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2012
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Assets
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	0		$	11,949		$	11,522		$	0		$	23,471
	Accounts receivable, net		7,154			741,983			318,060			0			1,067,197
	Supplies		0			61,100			37,900			0			99,000
	Deferred income taxes		61,364			43,555			322			(780	)		104,461
	Other current assets		2,188			75,117			10,631			0			87,936
	Current assets held for sale		0			0			25,431			0			25,431
	Total current assets		70,706			933,704			403,866			(780	)		1,407,496
	Investments in subsidiaries		5,781,479			1,326,920			0			(7,108,399	)		0
	Intercompany receivable		644,105			0			360,538			(1,004,643	)		0
	Intercompany note receivable		0			0			1,007,453			(1,007,453	)		0
	Property and equipment		0			3,867,471			1,500,874			0			5,368,345
	Less: accumulated depreciation		0			(1,288,975	)		(697,135	)		0			(1,986,110	)
		0			2,578,496			803,739			0			3,382,235
Other assets:
Goodwill		820			2,554,531			481,414			0			3,036,765
Deferred charges		67,831			5,839			2,218			0			75,888
Other		9,645			209,558			79,256			0			298,459
	$	6,574,586		$	7,609,048		$	3,138,484		$	(9,121,275	)	$	8,200,843
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	0			990			1,599			0		$	2,589
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		10,985			740,484			138,088			0			889,557
Current liabilities held for sale		0			0			850			0			850
Federal and state taxes		0			900			620			(458	)		1,062
Total current liabilities		10,985			742,374			141,157			(458	)		894,058
Intercompany payable		0			1,004,643			0			(1,004,643	)		0
Other noncurrent liabilities		46,048			243,478			105,829			0			395,355
Long-term debt		3,676,940			5,372			45,119			0			3,727,431
Intercompany note payable		0			1,007,453			0			(1,007,453	)		0
Deferred income taxes		127,268			56,801			0			(322	)		183,747
Redeemable noncontrolling interests		0			0			234,303			0			234,303
UHS common stockholders’ equity		2,713,345			4,548,927			2,559,472			(7,108,399	)		2,713,345
Noncontrolling interest		0			0			52,604			0			52,604
Total equity		2,713,345			4,548,927			2,612,076			(7,108,399	)		2,765,949
	$	6,574,586		$	7,609,048		$	3,138,484		$	(9,121,275	)	$	8,200,843
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows	'
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net cash provided by operating activities	$	17,946		$	587,083		$	279,212		$	0		$	884,241
	Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
	Property and equipment additions, net of disposals		0			(269,419	)		(89,074	)		0			(358,493	)
	Acquisition of property and businesses		0			(8,094	)		(4,542	)		0			(12,636	)
	Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses		0			7,916			29,566			0			37,482
	Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application		0			(49,811	)		0			0			(49,811	)
	Net cash used in investing activities		0			(319,408	)		(64,050	)		0			(383,458	)
	Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
	Reduction of long-term debt		(429,996	)		(109	)		(10,119	)		0			(440,224	)
	Additional borrowings		15,761			0			0			0			15,761
	Financing costs		(231	)		0			0			0			(231	)
	Repurchase of common shares		(27,201	)		0			0			0			(27,201	)
	Dividends paid		(19,621	)		0			0			0			(19,621	)
	Issuance of common stock		5,708			0			0			0			5,708
	Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation		20,121			0			0			0			20,121
	Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests		0			0			(61,329	)		0			(61,329	)
	Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net		417,513			(271,525	)		(145,988	)		0			0
	Net cash used in financing activities		(17,946	)		(271,634	)		(217,436	)		0			(507,016	)
	Decrease in cash and cash equivalents		0			(3,959	)		(2,274	)		0			(6,233	)
	Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		0			11,949			11,522			0			23,471
	Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	0		$	7,990		$	9,248		$	0		$	17,238
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2012
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
														Amounts
	Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$	(37,648	)	$	594,606		$	242,273		$	0		$	799,231
	Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
	Property and equipment additions, net of disposals		0			(312,190	)		(51,002	)		0			(363,192	)
	Acquisition of property and businesses		0			(513,596	)		(14,251	)		0			(527,847	)
	Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses		0			142,667			6,644			0			149,311
	Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application		0			(54,362	)		0			0			(54,362	)
	Return of Deposit on terminated purchase agreement		6,500			0			0			0			6,500
	Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		6,500			(737,481	)		(58,609	)		0			(789,590	)
	Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
	Reduction of long-term debt		(843,002	)		0			(8,258	)		1,613			(849,647	)
	Additional borrowings		913,500			1,613			0			(1,613	)		913,500
	Financing costs		(8,283	)		0			0			0			(8,283	)
	Repurchase of common shares		(19,154	)		0			0			0			(19,154	)
	Dividends paid		(58,395	)		0			0			0			(58,395	)
	Issuance of common stock		5,435			0			0			0			5,435
	Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation		16,040			0			0			0			16,040
	Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests		0			0			(26,895	)		0			(26,895	)
	Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net		25,007			119,990			(144,997	)		0			0
	Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		31,148			121,603			(180,150	)		0			(27,399	)
	Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		0			(21,272	)		3,514			0			(17,758	)
	Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		0			33,221			8,008			0			41,229
	Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	0		$	11,949		$	11,522		$	0		$	23,471
	UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
	(amounts in thousands)
		Parent			Guarantors			Non			Consolidating			Total
								Guarantors			Adjustments			Consolidated
											Amounts
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$	(12,558	)	$	518,462		$	204,779		$	0		$	710,683
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals		0			(226,848	)		(58,834	)		0			(285,682	)
Acquisition of property and businesses		0			0			(29,466	)		0			(29,466	)
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses		0			0			67,592			0			67,592
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application		0			(38,249	)		0			0			(38,249	)
Net cash used in investing activities		0			(265,097	)		(20,708	)		0			(285,805	)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Reduction of long-term debt		(382,060	)		(1,442	)		0			1,985			(381,517	)
Additional borrowings		98,100			0			1,985			(1,985	)		98,100
Financing costs		(23,608	)		0			0			0			(23,608	)
Repurchase of common shares		(60,482	)		0			0			0			(60,482	)
Dividends paid		(19,466	)		0			0			0			(19,466	)
Issuance of common stock		4,779			0			0			0			4,779
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation		7,568			0			0			0			7,568
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests		0			0			(38,497	)		0			(38,497	)
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net		387,727			(240,087	)		(147,640	)		0			0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		12,558			(241,529	)		(184,152	)		0			(413,123	)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		0			11,836			(81	)		0			11,755
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		0			21,385			8,089			0			29,474
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	0		$	33,221		$	8,008		$	0		$	41,229

Business_and_Summary_of_Signif3

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Sep. 01, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

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

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

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, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jan. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

D

Acute Care Hospitals

Acute Care Hospitals

Acute Care Hospitals

Building Improvements

Building Improvements

Equipment

Equipment

Restricted Stock

Medicare And Medicaid

Medicare And Medicaid

Medicare And Medicaid

Care Entities

Care Entities

Care Entities

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada

Mcallen Edinburg Texas

Mcallen Edinburg Texas

Mcallen Edinburg Texas

Washington, District of Columbia

Laredo, Texas

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Illinois

Illinois

Illinois

Illinois

Texas

Facility

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Sales

Sales

Sales

Sales

Sales

Sales

Acute Care Facilities

Sales

Sales

Sales

Sales

Sales

Sales

Acute Care Facilities

Acute Care Facilities

Behavioral Health Care Facility

D

Subsequent Event

Summary Of Business And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of revenue

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

38.00%

39.00%

41.00%

49.00%

49.00%

47.00%

'

14.00%

14.00%

15.00%

4.00%

4.00%

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of uninsured discount extended for unqualified charity patients

'

30.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Establishment of partial reserve in the allowance for doubtful accounts for self-pay balances outstanding from the date of discharge, in days

'

90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Establishment of fully reserve for self-pay balances outstanding from the date of discharge, in days

'

90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Establishment of fully reserve in the allowance for doubtful accounts for third party liability accounts from the date of discharge, in days

'

180

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounts receivable

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$49,000,000

$70,000,000

$54,000,000

$27,000,000

$46,000,000

Receivables due outstanding in excess of 60 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

28,000,000

51,000,000

41,000,000

'

'

Receivables days in excess

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

60

'

'

'

'

Net of allowance for doubtful accounts

'

395,000,000

311,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Patients treated at hospitals for non elective services gross income less than federal poverty guidelines

'

400.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Provision for doubtful accounts

'

1,127,216,000

726,671,000

596,576,000

1,020,000,000

635,000,000

519,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capitalize interest expense

'

4,900,000

5,700,000

400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property and equipment, useful lives, maximum years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'20 years

'40 years

'3 years

'15 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Depreciation expense

'

285,600,000

270,500,000

262,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets

0

'

0

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization

'

97,000,000

99,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amount of estimated future payments related to physician-related contractual commitments

'

3,000,000

3,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amount of potential future financial obligations

'

3,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acute care facilities with outside owners holding non-controlling minority interest

'

5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of non-controlling, minority ownership interests held by outside owners

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

28.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

11.00%

20.00%

'

'

'

'

'

Redeemable non-controlling interest balances

'

218,000,000

234,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Non-controlling interest balances

'

$50,000,000

$53,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Anti-dilutive weighted average stock options excluded from computation of earnings per share

'

4,000

2,000,000

1,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock, vesting period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'7 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Uncompensated_Care_Detail

Uncompensated Care (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Health Care Trust Fund [Line Items]	'	'	'
Uncompensated care	$998,770	$1,045,572	$955,748
Uncompensated care, percentage	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Charity Care	'	'	'
Health Care Trust Fund [Line Items]	'	'	'
Uncompensated care	593,474	778,268	804,301
Uncompensated care, percentage	59.00%	74.00%	84.00%
Uninsured Discounts	'	'	'
Health Care Trust Fund [Line Items]	'	'	'
Uncompensated care	$405,296	$267,304	$151,447
Uncompensated care, percentage	41.00%	26.00%	16.00%

Estimated_Cost_of_Providing_Un

Estimated Cost of Providing Uncompensated Care (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Health Care Trust Fund [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated cost of providing uncompensated care	$161,013	$177,189	$172,713
Charity Care	'	'	'
Health Care Trust Fund [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated cost of providing uncompensated care	95,675	131,890	145,350
Uninsured Discounts	'	'	'
Health Care Trust Fund [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated cost of providing uncompensated care	$65,338	$45,299	$27,363

Summary_of_Changes_in_Carrying

Summary of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]	'		'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$3,036,765		$2,627,602
Goodwill acquired during the period	'		445,661
Goodwill divested during the period	'		-19,352
Adjustments to goodwill	12,251	[1]	-17,146	[2]
Goodwill, Ending Balance	3,049,016		3,036,765
Acute Care Services	'		'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'		'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	382,696		389,484
Goodwill acquired during the period	'		11,110
Goodwill divested during the period	'		-17,450
Adjustments to goodwill	315	[1]	-448	[2]
Goodwill, Ending Balance	383,011		382,696
Behavioral Health Services	'		'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'		'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	2,654,069		2,238,118
Goodwill acquired during the period	'		434,551
Goodwill divested during the period	'		-1,902
Adjustments to goodwill	11,936	[1]	-16,698	[2]
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$2,666,005		$2,654,069
[1]	The increase in the Behavioral Health Services' goodwill consists primarily of an amount that was reclassified from other assets.
[2]	The reduction to the Behavioral Health Services' goodwill consists primarily of a reclassification to "assets of facilities held for sale" and represents the goodwill attributable to Peak Behavioral Health Services which we agreed to divest pursuant to our agreement with the Federal Trade Commission in connection with our acquisition of Ascend Health Corporation in October, 2012. Adjustments to prior year purchase price allocations for Acute Care and Behavioral Health Services are also included.

Amounts_Recognized_in_AOCI_Det

Amounts Recognized in AOCI (Detail) (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]	'	'	'
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Effective Cash Flow Hedges, beginning balance	($24,527)	($28,460)	'
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Effective Cash Flow Hedges, Pre tax amount	16,627	6,341	'
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Effective Cash Flow Hedges, Income tax effect	-6,270	-2,408	'
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Effective Cash Flow Hedges, Change, net of income tax	10,357	3,933	'
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Effective Cash Flow Hedges, ending balance	-14,170	-24,527	-28,460
Minimum Pension Liability, beginning balance	-19,627	-22,715	'
Minimum Pension Liability, Pre tax amount	14,657	4,986	'
Minimum pension liability, income tax effect	-5,670	-1,898	-4,691
Minimum Pension Liability, Change, net of income tax	8,987	3,088	'
Minimum Pension Liability, ending balance	-10,640	-19,627	-22,715
Total AOCI, beginning balance	-44,154	-51,175	'
Total AOCI, Pre tax amount	31,284	11,327	-50,210
Total AOCI, Income tax effect	-11,940	-4,306	19,174
Total AOCI, Change, net of income tax	19,344	7,021	-31,036
Total AOCI, ending balance	($24,810)	($44,154)	($51,175)

Computation_of_Basic_and_Dilut

Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per 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
Basic and diluted:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$554,023	$489,047	$448,870
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-43,290	-45,601	-50,703
Less: Net income attributable to unvested restricted share grants	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-294	-497	-521
Net income attributable to UHS-basic and diluted	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$510,439	$442,949	$397,646
Weighted average number of common shares-basic	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	98,033	96,821	97,199
Total basic earnings per share	$1.27	$1.17	$1.55	$1.23	$1.39	$0.74	$1.11	$1.33	$5.21	$4.57	$4.09
Weighted average number of common shares	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	98,033	96,821	97,199
Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,328	890	1,338
Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents-diluted	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	99,361	97,711	98,537
Total diluted earnings per share	$1.24	$1.15	$1.53	$1.21	$1.39	$0.73	$1.10	$1.31	$5.14	$4.53	$4.04

Acquisitions_and_Divestitures_1

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jul. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Jan. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Jun. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Meadow Wood Behavioral Health System

Auburn Regional Medical Center

Hospital San Juan Capestrano

Monte Vista

Red Rock Hospital

Two Thousand Thirteen Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

Two Thousand Thirteen Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

2012 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

2012 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

2012 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

2012 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

2012 Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

Two Thousand Eleven Divestiture of Assets and Businesses

2013 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

2011 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses

Bed

Bed

Bed

Bed

Peak Behavioral Health Services

Peak Behavioral Health Services

Peak Behavioral Health Services

Auburn Regional Medical Center

Hospital San Juan Capestrano

Behavioral Health Care Facility

Ascend Health Corporation

Physician Practices and Various Real Property

Bed

Bed

Facility

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisition, cash paid

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$13,000,000

'

$528,000,000

'

$503,000,000

$25,000,000

$29,000,000

Net cash proceeds from divestiture of assets and businesses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

24,000,000

37,000,000

149,000,000

'

93,000,000

50,000,000

6,000,000

68,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate pre-tax net gain on the divestiture

3,080,000

26,419,000

442,000

'

26,000,000

'

'

'

3,000,000

3,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pro forma net revenues

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,110,000,000

6,900,000,000

'

'

'

Pro forma net income attributable to UHS

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

464,000,000

401,000,000

'

'

'

Pro forma net income attributable to UHS per diluted share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$4.74

$4.06

'

'

'

Transaction costs incurred

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,000,000

'

'

'

Transaction costs incurred, per diluted share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.06

'

'

'

Net revenues

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$42,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

Number of acute care hospital beds included in acquisition

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

159

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of non-operating behavioral health facilities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of beds

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

104

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of beds included in divestiture

'

'

'

58

'

108

101

21

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate_Net_Purchase_Price_o

Aggregate Net Purchase Price of Facilities Allocated to Assets and Liabilities Based on their Estimated Fair Values (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified				2012 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Working capital, net	'	'	'	$21,000
Property & equipment	'	'	'	60,000
Goodwill	3,049,016	3,036,765	2,627,602	446,000
Other assets	'	'	'	9,000
Income tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities	'	'	'	-1,000
Other liabilities	'	'	'	-7,000
Cash paid in 2012 for acquisitions	'	'	'	$528,000

Net_Purchase_Price_Allocation_

Net Purchase Price Allocation to Assets and Liabilities based on their Estimated Fair Value (Detail) (2011 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
2011 Acquisitions of Assets and Businesses	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Property, plant & equipment	$35,000
Other assets/deposits	11,000
Debt	-17,000
Cash paid in 2011 for acquisitions and deposits	$29,000

Results_of_Operations_for_Form

Results of Operations for Former PSI Facilities Reflected as Discontinued Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Acquisitions And Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net revenues	$7,813	$95,226	$159,218
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes	932	-3,472	10,422
Gain on divestiture	3,080	26,419	442
Income from discontinued operations, before income tax expense	4,012	22,947	10,864
Income tax expense	-1,506	-8,688	-4,113
Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	$2,506	$14,259	$6,751

Financial_Instruments_Addition

Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Fair Value Hedge

Fair Value Hedge

Fair Value Hedge

Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

One Point Nine One Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

One Point Three Two Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

One Point Nine Six Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Two Point Five Zero Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Two Point Three Eight Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Four Point Eight Seven Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Four Point Seven Six Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Derivative

Derivative

Other Current Liabilities

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

Interest Rate Cap from December Twenty Eleven to December Twenty Twelve

Interest Rate Cap from December Twenty Twelve to December Twenty Thirteen

Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

One Point Nine One Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

One Point Three Two Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

One Point Nine Six Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Two Point Five Zero Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Two Point Three Eight Percent Forward Starting Interest Rate Swaps

Derivative [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of hedges outstanding

'

'

$0

$0

$0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount of interest rate cash flow hedges

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

150,000,000

'

'

75,000,000

'

450,000,000

400,000,000

425,000,000

225,000,000

75,000,000

25,000,000

100,000,000

600,000,000

Derivative cap interest rate

7.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Premium paid on interest rate cap

740,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maturity date of interest rate cash flow hedges

1-Dec-13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Dec-12

1-Dec-13

1-Dec-14

1-May-15

'

'

'

'

'

1-Oct-11

1-Oct-12

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of additional forward starting interest rate swaps

'

'

'

'

'

6

4

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Average fixed rate payable on interest rate swap

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.91%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fixed rate payable on interest rate swap

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.32%

1.96%

2.50%

2.38%

'

'

'

'

'

4.87%

4.76%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of interest rate swaps

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reduction in the notional amount of interest rate swap

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of our interest rate swaps, liability

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$24,000,000

$41,000,000

'

$19,000,000

$5,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Summary_of_LongTerm_Debt_Detai

Summary of Long-Term Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Accounts receivable securitization program	$240,000	'
Long-term debt	3,309,074	3,730,020
Less-Amounts due within one year	-99,312	-2,589
Long-term debt, net	3,209,762	3,727,431
Notes Payable And Mortgages Payable	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes payable and Mortgages payable (including obligations under capitalized leases of $6,633 in 2013 and $8,267 in 2012) and term loans with varying maturities through 2037; weighted average interest rates of 5.9% in each of 2013 and 2012 (see Note 7 regarding capitalized leases)	37,553	47,216
Revolving Credit And Demand Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility amount outstanding	25,500	163,500
Term Loan A	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility amount outstanding	935,308	983,438
Term Loan B Facility	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility amount outstanding	543,527	737,176
Term Loan- A2	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Line of credit facility amount outstanding	871,875	894,375
Revenue Bonds	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Revenue bonds, interest at floating rates of 0.1% at December 31, 2013 and 0.2% at December 31, 2012, with varying maturities through 2015	5,300	5,300
Accounts Receivable Securitization Program	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Accounts receivable securitization program	240,000	249,000
7.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2016	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Senior Notes	400,011	400,015
7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Senior Notes	$250,000	$250,000

Summary_of_LongTerm_Debt_Paren

Summary of Long-Term Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Notes Payable And Mortgages Payable	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Obligations under capitalized leases	6,633	8,267
Weighted average interest	5.90%	5.90%
Term Loans With Varying Maturities	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt instruments, maturity date	'2037	'
Term Loan A	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Unamortized discount	3,340	4,612
Term Loan B Facility	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Unamortized discount	6,473	8,724
Revenue Bonds	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Interest at floating rates	0.10%	0.20%
Debt instruments, maturity date	'2015	'
7.125% Senior Secured Notes due 2016	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt instruments, maturity date	'2016	'
Senior notes, interest rate	7.13%	'
Unamortized net premium	11	15
7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes due 2018	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Senior notes, interest rate	7.00%	'
Debt instruments, maturity date	'2018	'

LongTerm_Debt_Additional_Infor

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Oct. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 29, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 29, 2010

Sep. 29, 2010

Sep. 29, 2010

Jun. 30, 2006

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2008

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Nov. 15, 2010

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

31-May-13

31-May-13

ABR-based loans

Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility

7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes

7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes

7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes

7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes

7.00% Senior Unsecured Notes

Senior Notes 7.125%

Senior Notes 7.125%

Senior Notes 7.125%

Credit Agreement And Securitization

Credit Agreement And Securitization

Credit Agreement And Securitization

Amendment of Credit Facility

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Term Loan- A2

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan A

Term Loan B Facility

Term Loan B Facility

Term Loan B Facility

Term Loan B Facility

Term Loan B Facility

Term Loan B Facility

Short Term on Demand Credit Facility

Term Loan-A and Term Loan A2 facilities

Term Loan-B facility

Tranche B-1 Term Loan

Tranche B-1 Term Loan

Debtor Optional Redemption Period 1

Debtor Optional Redemption Period 2

Debtor Optional Redemption Period 3

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

Amendment of Credit Facility

Amendment of Credit Facility

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

Amendment of Credit Facility

Amendment of Credit Facility

Amendment of Credit Facility

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

Amendment of Credit Facility

Amendment of Credit Facility

One Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

One Two Three Six Month Eurodollar Rate Plus Index Based Loans

Amendment of Credit Facility

Amendment of Credit Facility

Amendment of Credit Facility

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Maximum

Extended Maturity

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Extended Maturity

Minimum

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility, borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$900,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$800,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$745,900,000

'

Term loan interest rate description

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'Borrowings under the Tranche B-1 term loan bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our election, one, two, three or six month LIBOR, plus an applicable margin of 2.25% or ABR plus an applicable margin of 1.25%

'

Applicable margin percentage on LIBOR

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.25%

'

Applicable margin percentage on ABR

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.25%

'

Minimum LIBOR rate for term loan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

'

Minimum ABR rate for term loan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.00%

Line of credit facility, maturity date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Aug-16

'

15-Nov-15

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Nov-15

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Aug-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility amount outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,160,000,000

'

871,875,000

894,375,000

'

'

'

'

'

872,000,000

800,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

800,000,000

'

777,000,000

935,308,000

983,438,000

'

'

'

'

'

939,000,000

892,000,000

'

543,527,000

737,176,000

'

'

550,000,000

25,000,000

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility, available borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

755,000,000

23,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from the new term loan-A2 facility

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

700,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Variable interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Variable rate basis

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Costs related to extinguishment of debt

0

29,170,000

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

29,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Letters of credit, outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

125,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Rate adjustment to weighted average federal funds rate for credit facility borrowings

0.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Rate adjustment to one month Eurodollar rate on credit facility borrowings

1.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Consolidated leverage ratio

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.50%

1.25%

1.50%

2.25%

'

'

'

'

0.50%

1.25%

1.50%

2.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.50%

1.25%

1.50%

2.25%

'

'

'

'

'

1.25%

2.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Current applicable margins

'

'

'

'

0.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Scheduled principal payments made

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

72,000,000

'

'

'

Quarterly installment payments due in 2014

99,312,000

2,589,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

72,000,000

'

'

'

Quarterly installment payments due in 2015

139,261,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

77,000,000

'

'

'

Quarterly installment payments due in 2016

2,804,569,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

46,000,000

'

'

'

Repayment of credit facility

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

196,000,000

'

'

Accounts receivable securitization program credit facility, borrowing capacity

'

'

'

275,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounts receivable securitization program credit facility, amount outstanding

240,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounts receivable securitization program, additional capacity

'

'

'

'

'

35,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior notes, issued

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior notes, interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

7.00%

'

'

'

'

7.13%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior notes, maturity date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Oct-18

'

'

'

'

30-Jun-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unsecured Notes make-whole redemption price

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

103.50%

101.75%

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Treasury rate plus, basis points

'

'

'

'

'

'

50

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior notes, repayment terms

'

'

'

'

'

'

'Payable semiannually in arrears on April 1st and October 1st of each year

'

'

'

'

'Interest on the 7.125% Notes is payable semiannually in arrears on June 30th and December 30th of each year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility additional borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

150,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Average amounts outstanding under Credit Agreement, Prior Credit Agreement, demand notes and accounts receivable securitization programs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,900,000,000

2,900,000,000

2,900,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Effective interest rate

3.60%

4.50%

4.60%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.20%

2.90%

3.40%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum amounts outstanding at any month-end

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,000,000,000

3,060,000,000

3,030,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of debt

3,400,000,000

3,800,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt

$3,209,762,000

$3,727,431,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate_Maturities_Detail

Aggregate Maturities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal [Line Items]	'	'
2014	$99,312	$2,589
2015	139,261	'
2016	2,804,569	'
2017	1,798	'
2018	251,893	'
Later	12,241	'
Total	$3,309,074	$3,730,020

Common_Stock_Additional_Inform

Common Stock - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

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

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2009

Dec. 31, 2008

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2009

Mar. 31, 2009

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2009

Mar. 31, 2008

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2007

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

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Mar. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Special Cash Dividend

Stock Options

Stock Options

Stock Options

Stock Options

Stock Options

Stock Options

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2005 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2005 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2005 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

Long Term Incentive Plans

Long Term Incentive Plans

Long Term Incentive Plans

Stock Incentive Plan

Stock Incentive Plan

Stock Incentive Plan

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class B

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer

Various Employees

Various Employees

Various Employees

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2001 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

Stock Incentive Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

2010 Employees' Restricted Stock Purchase Plan

Fourth quarter of 2007 Issuance

Fourth quarter of 2007 Issuance

Fourth quarter of 2007 Issuance

Fourth quarter of 2007 Issuance

Fourth quarter of 2007 Issuance

First Quarter of 2009 Issuance

First Quarter of 2009 Issuance

First Quarter of 2009 Issuance

First Quarter of 2009 Issuance

First Quarter of 2009 Issuance

First Quarter of 2009 Issuance

First Quarter of 2008 Issuance

First Quarter of 2008 Issuance

First Quarter of 2008 Issuance

First Quarter of 2008 Issuance

First Quarter of 2008 Issuance

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") And Chairman Of The Board

Various Employees

Various Employees

Various Employees

Various Employees

First Anniversary

Second Anniversary

Third Anniversary

Third Anniversary of Grant Date

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

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Dividends declared and paid, per share

$0.20

$0.60

$0.20

$0.40

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Dividends declared and paid

$19,600,000

$58,400,000

$19,500,000

$38,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock repurchase programs authorized to purchase, shares

10,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Excess tax benefit from share based compensation

20,121,000

16,040,000

7,568,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation cost recognized

27,783,000

22,518,000

18,225,000

'

25,800,000

20,100,000

15,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

333,000

375,000

'

'

'

74,000

556,000

556,000

556,000

482,000

'

15,000

375,000

'

'

'

42,000

120,000

'

581,000

533,000

461,000

2,000,000

2,800,000

2,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

375,000

375,000

375,000

355,000

'

'

41,000

523,000

1,000,000

'

'

'

354,000

370,000

198,000

'

Compensation cost recognized, pre-tax charge

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,800,000

20,100,000

15,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation cost recognized, after-tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

16,100,000

12,500,000

9,800,000

853,000

1,400,000

1,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation cost recognized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,400,000

2,300,000

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares reserved

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,000,000

2,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

23,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock options granted during period (net of cancellations)

2,889,750

2,966,850

2,894,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,737,725

2,621,161

2,473,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted-average grant date fair value of option granted

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$13.33

$10.73

$11.62

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total in-the-money value of all stock options exercised during the year

70,900,000

54,400,000

28,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock issued under employee stock purchase plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

90,587

117,901

98,366

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of discount provided to eligible employees for purchase of shares under employee stock purchase plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock issued during period, net of cancellations

1,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issuance of restricted shares approved, shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

61,362

'

'

'

'

'

109,850

'

'

'

'

62,190

'

'

22,250

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

49,472

'

10,000

'

54,127

'

'

'

'

'

21,500

'

Restricted shares price, per share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$24.45

'

'

'

'

'

$20.26

'

'

'

'

$24.12

'

'

$29.62

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$30.32

'

$80.36

'

$36.95

'

'

'

'

'

$53.21

'

Issuance of restricted shares, value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

2,200,000

'

'

'

'

1,500,000

'

'

659,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,500,000

'

803,600

'

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

1,100,000

'

Estimated compensation cost

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$20,000

'

'

'

'

'

$760,000

$500,000

'

'

'

'

$183,000

'

'

'

Restricted Stock Purchase Plan, annual vesting percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

25.00%

25.00%

'

'

'

'

Fully vested shares

1,864,982

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

39,831

62,044

78,133

'

15,341

15,341

15,340

15,340

'

27,463

27,462

27,462

27,463

'

'

15,548

15,546

15,548

15,548

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

12,368

12,368

12,368

'

'

'

'

27,063

'

'

'

'

10,000

750

'

10,000

Number of shares cancelled

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750

'

'

Stock-based compensation plans expired

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2010-03

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issuance upon conversion of shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,657,523

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Schedule_of_Information_Relate

Schedule of Information Related to Stock Repurchase Programs (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2013
			Stock Repurchase Programs Twenty Ten	Stock Repurchase Programs Twenty Eleven		Stock Repurchase Programs Twenty Twelve		Stock Repurchase Programs Twenty Thirteen
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'		'	'		'		'
Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced programs	1,384,637		'	1,384,637		'		'
Total price paid for shares purchased as part of publicly announced programs	$50,576		'	$50,576		'		'
Total number of shares purchased related to stock-based compensation plans	1,078,131	[1]	'	217,649	[1]	433,312	[1]	427,170	[1]
Total price paid for shares purchased related to stock-based compensation plans	$56,261		'	$9,906		$19,154		$27,201
Aggregate number of shares purchased	2,462,768		'	1,602,286		433,312		427,170
Aggregate price paid for shares purchased	$106,837		'	$60,482		$19,154		$27,201
Maximum number of shares that may yet be purchased under the publicly announced program	'		2,152,339	767,702		767,702		767,702
[1]	During 2013, there were 427,170 shares repurchased at an average price of $63.68 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs. During 2012, there were 432,562 shares repurchased at an average price of $44.28 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs, and 750 shares repurchased at an average of $.01 per share related to restricted shares that were forfeited by former employees pursuant to the terms of our restricted stock purchase plan. During 2011, there were 217,649 shares repurchased at an average price of $45.51 per share related to income tax withholding obligations in connection with stock-based compensation programs.

Schedule_of_Information_Relate1

Schedule of Information Related to Stock Repurchase Programs (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Withholding Obligations	'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of shares repurchased	427,170	432,562	217,649
Shares repurchased at an average price	$63.68	$44.28	$45.51
Restricted Stock	'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of shares repurchased	'	750	'
Shares repurchased at an average price	'	$0.01	'

Assumptions_Used_in_BlackSchol

Assumptions Used in Black-Scholes Model to Determine Fair Value for Stock Option Awards Granted (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Volatility	36.00%	33.00%	29.00%
Interest rate	1.00%	1.00%	2.00%
Expected life (years)	'3 years 7 months 6 days	'3 years 6 months	'3 years 6 months
Forfeiture rate	11.00%	10.00%	9.00%
Dividend yield	0.50%	0.60%	0.70%

Summary_of_Option_Activities_D

Summary of Option Activities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Outstanding Option, Number of shares, beginning balance	7,436,238	7,558,945	6,594,950
Granted, Number of Shares	2,889,750	2,966,850	2,894,500
Exercised, Number of Shares	-2,288,666	-2,608,007	-1,563,255
Cancelled, Number of Shares	-416,364	-481,550	-367,250
Outstanding Option, Number of shares, ending balance	7,620,958	7,436,238	7,558,945
Outstanding Option, Average Option Price, beginning balance	$36.31	$31.63	$25.16
Outstanding options vested and exercisable, Number of Shares	1,756,128	'	'
Granted, Average Option Price	$53.51	$37.01	$43.66
Exercised, Average Option Price	$32.27	$23.22	$26.38
Cancelled, Average Option Price	$43.93	$38	$32.60
Outstanding Option, Average Option Price, ending balance	$43.63	$36.31	$31.63
Outstanding options vested and exercisable, Average option price	$35.60	'	'
32.28 -$16.22	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	'	'	$32.28
Range, Low	'	'	$16.22
54.79 -$38.12	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	'	'	$54.79
Range, Low	'	'	$38.12
46.97 -$16.22	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	'	$46.97	$46.97
Range, Low	'	$16.22	$16.22
54.79 -$16.22	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	$54.79	$54.79	$54.79
Range, Low	$16.22	$16.22	$16.22
44.83 -$36.95	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	'	$44.83	'
Range, Low	'	$36.95	'
79.79 -$53.38	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	$79.79	'	'
Range, Low	$53.38	'	'
53.38 -$16.22	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	$53.38	'	'
Range, Low	$16.22	'	'
79.79 -$30.32	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	$79.79	'	'
Range, Low	$30.32	'	'
46.97 -$30.32	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Range, High	$46.97	'	'
Range, Low	$30.32	'	'

Schedule_of_Information_about_

Schedule of Information about Unvested Options (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Unvested options, Shares, beginning balance	5,250,926
Granted, Shares	2,889,750
Vested, Shares	-1,864,982
Cancelled, Shares	-410,864
Unvested options, Shares, ending balance	5,864,830
Unvested options, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share, beginning balance	$10.74
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$13.33
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$10.22
Canceled, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share	$11.66
Unvested options, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share, ending balance	$12.12

Schedule_of_Information_about_1

Schedule of Information about All Outstanding Options and Exercisable Options (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number, Options Outstanding	7,620,958	7,436,238	7,558,945	6,594,950
Weighted average exercise price, Options Outstanding	$43.63	$36.31	$31.63	$25.16
Aggregate intrinsic value, Options Outstanding	$286,740,433	'	'	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life, Options Outstanding	'2 years 10 months 24 days	'	'	'
Number, Options Exercisable	1,756,128	'	'	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Options Exercisable	$35.60	'	'	'
Aggregate intrinsic value, Options Exercisable	$80,189,277	'	'	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life, Options Exercisable	'1 year 7 months 6 days	'	'	'

Schedule_of_Weighted_Average_R

Schedule of Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Options Outstanding and Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share for Exercisable Options (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Shares	7,620,958		7,436,238	7,558,945	6,594,950
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$43.63		$36.31	$31.63	$25.16
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	'2 years 10 months 24 days		'	'	'
Exercisable Options, Shares	1,756,128		'	'	'
Weighted average exercise price per share, Options Exercisable	$35.60		'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options , Shares	5,233,188	[1]	'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$46.04	[1]	'	'	'
Range One	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Range, Low	$30.32		'	'	'
Range, High	$36.95		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Shares	3,183,583		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$35.14		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	'2 years 4 months 24 days		'	'	'
Exercisable Options, Shares	1,259,453		'	'	'
Weighted average exercise price per share, Options Exercisable	$32.45		'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options , Shares	1,716,901	[1]	'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$36.91	[1]	'	'	'
Range Two	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Range, Low	$38.12		'	'	'
Range, High	$43.67		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Shares	1,685,350		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$43.56		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	'2 years 1 month 6 days		'	'	'
Exercisable Options, Shares	496,175		'	'	'
Weighted average exercise price per share, Options Exercisable	$43.58		'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options , Shares	1,061,101	[1]	'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$43.55	[1]	'	'	'
Range Three	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Range, Low	$44.83		'	'	'
Range, High	$53.38		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Shares	2,724,525		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$53.36		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	'4 years		'	'	'
Exercisable Options, Shares	500		'	'	'
Weighted average exercise price per share, Options Exercisable	$46.97		'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options , Shares	2,430,648	[1]	'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$53.36	[1]	'	'	'
Range Four	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Range, Low	$54.79		'	'	'
Range, High	$79.79		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Shares	27,500		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$67.64		'	'	'
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	'4 years		'	'	'
Exercisable Options, Shares	0		'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options , Shares	24,538	[1]	'	'	'
Expected to Vest Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$67.64	[1]	'	'	'
[1]	Assumes a weighted average forfeiture rate of 10.8%.

Schedule_of_Weighted_Average_R1

Schedule of Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Options Outstanding and Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share for Exercisable Options (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Weighted average forfeiture rate	10.80%

Components_of_Income_Tax_Expen

Components of Income Tax Expense Benefit (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit [Line Items]	'	'	'
Current, Federal	$256,545	$254,021	$165,409
Current, Foreign	1,655	9,084	300
Current, State	28,490	39,076	22,901
Current, Total	286,690	302,181	188,610
Deferred, Federal and foreign	25,341	-21,408	53,056
Deferred, State	3,278	-6,157	5,800
Deferred, Total	28,619	-27,565	58,856
Provision for income taxes	$315,309	$274,616	$247,466

Components_of_Deferred_Taxes_D

Components of Deferred Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Components of Deferred Tax Provision [Line Items]	'	'
Self-insurance reserves	$87,483	$112,587
Compensation accruals	49,302	47,571
State and foreign net operating loss carryforwards and other state and foreign deferred tax assets	57,204	54,874
Other currently non-deductible accrued liabilities	24,587	29,934
Net pension liability-OCI only	6,390	12,061
Doubtful accounts and other reserves	33,905	17,562
Other combined items-OCI only	9,018	15,282
Deferred income tax assets, Gross	267,889	289,871
Less: Valuation Allowance	-46,841	-44,511
Net deferred income tax assets:	221,048	245,360
Depreciable and amortizable assets	-337,669	-322,317
Other deferred tax liabilities	-2,624	-2,329
Net deferred income tax liabilities	($119,245)	($79,286)

Effective_Tax_Rates_Calculatio

Effective Tax Rates Calculation (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items	'	'	'
Provision for income taxes	$315,309	$274,616	$247,466
Income before income taxes	$869,332	$763,663	$696,336
Effective tax rate	36.30%	36.00%	35.50%

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Favorable discrete tax items	$1,000,000	$1,000,000	$1,000,000
Deferred federal and state tax benefit	5,000,000	7,000,000	'
Future taxable income, amount	959,000,000	'	'
Deferred state tax benefit (net of the federal benefit)	3,278,000	-6,157,000	5,800,000
Net operating losses	57,204,000	54,874,000	'
Deferred foreign tax benefit	3,000,000	'	'
Valuation allowances	46,841,000	44,511,000	'
Increase in estimated liabilities for uncertain tax positions	1,000,000	1,000,000	'
Decrease in estimated liabilities for uncertain tax positions due to the lapse of the statute of limitations	1,000,000	'	'
Impact of unrecognized tax benefits if recognized	2,000,000	4,000,000	'
Jurisdictions statutes of limitations expiration period	'12 months	'	'
Period of expiration of the statute of limitations for certain jurisdictions	'Within the next twelve months	'	'
Minimum	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Foreign and U.S. state and local jurisdictions have statutes of limitations, in years	3	'	'
Maximum	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accrued interest and penalties	1,000,000	1,000,000	'
Foreign and U.S. state and local jurisdictions have statutes of limitations, in years	4	'	'
State and Local Jurisdiction	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Deferred state tax benefit (net of the federal benefit)	47,000,000	'	'
Foreign Tax Authority	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net operating losses	8,000,000	'	'
Allowance in relation to state tax benefit	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Valuation allowances	44,000,000	41,000,000	'
Net Operating Losses	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Increase in valuation allowance	3,000,000	'	'
Foreign Net Operating Losses	'	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Increase in valuation allowance	$3,000,000	$3,000,000	'

Reconciliation_between_Federal

Reconciliation between Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Tax Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of Statutory Federal Tax Rate [Line Items]	'	'	'
Federal statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	2.50%	3.00%	2.90%
Nondeductible transaction costs	'	0.20%	'
Divestiture Gain	0.30%	'	'
Other items	0.40%	0.10%	0.40%
Impact of income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-1.90%	-2.30%	-2.80%
Effective tax rate	36.30%	36.00%	35.50%

Net_Deferred_Tax_Assets_and_Li

Net Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Current deferred taxes, Assets	$121,097	$105,639
Current deferred taxes, Liabilities	-1,194	-1,178
Total deferred taxes-current	119,903	104,461
Noncurrent deferred taxes, Assets	103,221	142,065
Noncurrent deferred taxes, Liabilities	-342,369	-325,812
Total deferred taxes-noncurrent	-239,148	-183,747
Net deferred income tax liabilities	($119,245)	($79,286)

Reconciliation_of_Unrecognized

Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance at January 1,	$6,824	$7,403	$7,923
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	50	200	750
Additions for tax positions of prior years	283	386	419
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	-1,260	-1,165	-1,628
Settlements	-2,528	'	-61
Balance at December 31,	$3,369	$6,824	$7,403

Lease_Commitments_Additional_I

Lease Commitments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
	Facility
Leases Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of hospital facilities	4	'	'
Additional capital lease obligations incurred	$0	$0	$0

Summary_of_Property_under_Capi

Summary of Property under Capital Lease (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Land, buildings and equipment	$27,636	$27,836
Less: accumulated amortization	-27,382	-26,540
Property under capital lease, Total	$254	$1,296

Future_Minimum_Rental_Payments

Future Minimum Rental Payments under Lease Commitments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Future Minimum Payments Under Non-Cancelable Operating Leases With Initial Terms Of One-Year Or More [Line Items]	'
Capital Leases, 2014	$2,026
Capital Leases, 2015	1,218
Capital Leases, 2016	1,167
Capital Leases, 2017	1,077
Capital Leases, 2018	1,086
Capital Leases, Later years	4,030
Capital Leases, Total minimum rental	10,604
Less: Amount representing interest	-3,971
Present value of minimum rental commitments	6,633
Less: Current portion of capital lease obligations	-774
Long-term portion of capital lease obligations	5,859
Operating Leases, 2014	55,812
Operating Leases, 2015	45,807
Operating Leases, 2016	37,769
Operating Leases, 2017	21,391
Operating Leases, 2018	17,322
Operating Leases, Later years	128,636
Operating Leases, Total minimum rental	$306,737

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 15, 2010

Nov. 15, 2010

Nov. 15, 2010

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, 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

Jan. 31, 2008

Nov. 15, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Oct. 30, 2012

Minimum

Maximum

Letters Of Credit And Surety Bonds

Revenue Cycle Data Processing Services

Electronic Health Records Application

Estimated Minimum Liabilities For Physician Commitments

Related to Certain Equipment

Construction Commitment

Self Insurance Programs

Other Debt Guarantees

Professional And General Liability

Professional And General Liability

Professional And General Liability

Location 2

Location 1

Puerto Rico

Wind Storms

Wind Storms

Earthquake

Earthquake

Earthquake

Earthquake

Flood

Flood

Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries

Psychiatric Solutions Inc

Psychiatric Solutions Inc

Psychiatric Solutions Inc

Legacy Subsidiaries

Behavioral Health Facilities Acquired from Ascend Health Corporation

Behavioral Health Facilities Acquired from Ascend Health Corporation

Behavioral Health Facilities Acquired from Ascend Health Corporation

Letters Of Credit And Surety Bonds

Letters Of Credit And Surety Bonds

Psi Subsidiaries

Psi Subsidiaries

Psi Subsidiaries

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Maximum

United States

United States

United States

Location 2

Location 1

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

General and Professional Liability Insurance Policies

General and Professional Liability Insurance Policies

General and Professional Liability Insurance Policies

General and Professional Liability Insurance Policies

General and Professional Liability Insurance Policies

Minimum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Self-insured for professional and general liability

$206,000,000

$279,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$10,000,000

'

$3,000,000

$75,000,000

$3,000,000

$10,000,000

'

$20,000,000

'

Purchased several excess policies through commercial insurance carriers per occurrence

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

Percentage of liability for claims paid under commercially insured coverage

'

'

10.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Liability for claims paid under commercially insured coverage

'

'

'

10,000,000

60,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Minimum Insurance Deductible

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000

50,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,000

'

'

Self-insured for professional and general liability, current

44,000,000

48,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reduction in professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to prior years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

81,000,000

27,000,000

11,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighting given to company-specific metrics

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

75.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

General industry metrics

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

25.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation liability claims

64,000,000

66,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation and related benefits

34,000,000

35,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commercial property insurance policies covering catastrophic losses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,000,000

'

1,000,000,000

250,000,000

100,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of insurance deductible

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.00%

5.00%

'

'

1.00%

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum insurance deductible

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

500,000

250,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Combined estimated future purchase obligations

261,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

76,000,000

149,000,000

3,000,000

33,000,000

153,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Combined estimated future payments related to non contributory

223,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Defined benefit pension plan estimated payments through 2088

205,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other retirement plan liabilities

17,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Off-balance sheet contingent obligation

'

'

'

'

'

$85,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

$69,000,000

$16,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Relationship_with_Universal_He2

Relationship with Universal Health Realty Income Trust and Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Lease renewal period, years	5	'	'
Notice period on renewal of lease	90	'	'
Period of rights of refusal to leased facilities	180	'	'
Minimum	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Lease initial terms	13	'	'
Maximum	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Lease initial terms	15	'	'
Chief Executive Officer	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated payments to acquire life insurance policies	$25,000,000	'	'
Payments to acquire life insurance policies	1,300,000	1,400,000	1,400,000
Chief Executive Officer | Minimum	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated death benefit proceeds	33,000,000	'	'
Chief Executive Officer | Trust Owned by Chief Executive Officer	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated payments to acquire life insurance policies	8,000,000	'	'
Relationship with Universal Health Realty Income Trust	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Trust outstanding shares held, percentage	6.10%	'	'
Advisory fee earned	2,400,000	2,100,000	2,000,000
Pre-tax share of income from the Trust	842,000	1,200,000	4,600,000
Share of income included in the share of trust	'	500,000	3,700,000
Carrying value of investment in Trust	8,100,000	9,300,000	'
Market value of investment in Trust	31,500,000	39,900,000	'
Rent expense under operating leases	$16,400,000	$16,300,000	$16,300,000
Non-controlling ownership interests by subsidiaries	100.00%	'	'

Remaining_Renewal_Options_and_

Remaining Renewal Options and Terms for Hospital Facilities Leased from Trust (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
McAllen Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Type of Facility	'Acute Care
Annual Minimum Rent	$5,485,000
End of Lease Term	'2016-12
Renewal Term (years)	'15 years	[1]
Wellington Regional Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Type of Facility	'Acute Care
Annual Minimum Rent	3,030,000
End of Lease Term	'2016-12
Renewal Term (years)	'15 years	[2]
Southwest Healthcare System, Inland Valley Campus	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Type of Facility	'Acute Care
Annual Minimum Rent	2,648,000
End of Lease Term	'2016-12
Renewal Term (years)	'15 years	[2]
The Bridgeway	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Type of Facility	'Behavioral Health
Annual Minimum Rent	$930,000
End of Lease Term	'2014-12
Renewal Term (years)	'10 years	[3]
[1]	We have three 5-year renewal options at existing lease rates (through 2031).
[2]	We have one 5-year renewal options at existing lease rates (through 2021) and two 5-year renewal options at fair market value lease rates (2022 through 2031).
[3]	We have two 5-year renewal options at fair market value lease rates (2015 through 2024).

Remaining_Renewal_Options_and_1

Remaining Renewal Options and Terms for Hospital Facilities Leased from Trust (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
	RenewalOptions
McAllen Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Number of renewal options at existing lease rates	3
Renewal options term at existing lease rates	'5 years
Wellington Regional Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Number of renewal options at existing lease rates	1
Renewal options term at existing lease rates	'5 years
Southwest Healthcare System, Inland Valley Campus	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Number of renewal options at existing lease rates	2
Renewal options term at existing lease rates	'5 years
The Bridgeway	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Number of renewal options at existing lease rates	2
Renewal options term at existing lease rates	'5 years
Maximum | McAllen Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at existing lease rates expiration year	'2031
Maximum | Wellington Regional Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at existing lease rates expiration year	'2021
Renewal options at fair market value lease rates expiration year	'2031
Maximum | Southwest Healthcare System, Inland Valley Campus	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at existing lease rates expiration year	'2021
Renewal options at fair market value lease rates expiration year	'2031
Maximum | The Bridgeway	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at fair market value lease rates expiration year	'2024
Minimum | Wellington Regional Medical Center	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at fair market value lease rates expiration year	'2022
Minimum | Southwest Healthcare System, Inland Valley Campus	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at fair market value lease rates expiration year	'2022
Minimum | The Bridgeway	'
Capital Leased Assets [Line Items]	'
Renewal options at fair market value lease rates expiration year	'2015

Pension_Plan_Additional_Inform

Pension Plan - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Amount of contributions to contributory plan	$29.90	$27.30	$21.70
Accumulated benefit obligation	102.3	112.7	'
Fair value of plan assets exceeded accumulated benefit obligation	4.1	8.6	'
Estimated net loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income over the next fiscal year	$1.10	'	'

Schedule_of_Reconciliation_of_

Schedule of Reconciliation of Defined Benefit Pension Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$104,074	$87,940	'
Actual return (loss) on plan assets	8,037	13,824	'
Employer contributions	0	7,786	'
Benefits paid	-5,042	-4,946	'
Administrative expenses	-600	-530	'
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	106,469	104,074	87,940
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	114,529	108,446	'
Service cost	1,060	1,144	1,162
Interest cost	4,528	4,659	5,047
Benefits paid	-5,042	-4,946	'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-11,517	5,226	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	103,558	114,529	108,446
Other non-current assets	2,911	0	'
Other non-current liabilities	0	10,455	'
Total amounts recognized at end of year	$2,911	$10,455	'

Components_of_Net_Periodic_Pen

Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost Benefit (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	$1,060	$1,144	$1,162
Interest cost	4,528	4,659	5,047
Expected return on plan assets	-7,601	-7,301	-6,566
Recognized actuarial loss	3,305	4,219	2,427
Net periodic cost	$1,292	$2,721	$2,070

Schedule_of_Measurement_Dates_

Schedule of Measurement Dates (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Benefit Obligation	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Measurement Dates	'12/31/2013	'12/31/2012
Fair Value Of Plan Assets	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Measurement Dates	'12/31/2013	'12/31/2012

Schedule_of_Weighted_Average_A

Schedule of Weighted Average Assumptions (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.95%	4.05%	'
Rate of compensation increase	4.00%	4.00%	'
Discount rate	4.05%	4.40%	5.54%
Expected long-term rate at return on plan assets	7.50%	8.00%	8.00%
Rate of compensation increase	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%

Schedule_of_Market_Values_of_P

Schedule of Market Values of Pension Plan Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	$106,469	$104,074	$87,940
Equity Securities | U.S. Large Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	8,600	22,800	'
Equity Securities | U.S. Mid Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	2,740	1,566	'
Equity Securities | U.S. Small-Mid Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	'	7,738	'
Equity Securities | U.S. Small Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	2,725	1,583	'
Equity Securities | International Developed	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	6,508	10,779	'
Equity Securities | Emerging Markets	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	4,154	3,912	'
Fixed Income Securities | Core Fixed Income	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	23,222	'	'
Fixed Income Securities | Long Duration Fixed Income	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	55,933	51,355	'
Fixed income securities | REIT Fund	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	2,124	3,904	'
Cash | Cash Equivalents	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	463	437	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	106,469	104,074	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities | U.S. Large Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	8,600	22,800	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities | U.S. Mid Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	2,740	1,566	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities | U.S. Small-Mid Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	'	7,738	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities | U.S. Small Cap	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	2,725	1,583	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities | International Developed	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	6,508	10,779	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Equity Securities | Emerging Markets	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	4,154	3,912	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Fixed Income Securities | Core Fixed Income	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	23,222	'	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Fixed Income Securities | Long Duration Fixed Income	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	55,933	51,355	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Fixed income securities | REIT Fund	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	2,124	3,904	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Cash | Cash Equivalents	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	$463	$437	'

Schedule_of_Estimated_Future_B

Schedule of Estimated Future Benefit Payments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	$5,677
2015	5,966
2016	6,205
2017	6,407
2018	6,612
2019-2023	34,931
Total	$65,798

Schedule_of_Plan_Assets_Catego

Schedule of Plan Assets Category (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Total	100.00%	100.00%
Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Asset Allocation	23.00%	47.00%
Fixed income securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Asset Allocation	74.00%	49.00%
Other	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Asset Allocation	3.00%	4.00%

Schedule_of_Asset_Allocation_P

Schedule of Asset Allocation Policy and Ranges for Overall Risk and Return Objectives of Portfolio (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Assets allocation	23.00%	'
Permitted Range, minimum	10.00%	'
Permitted Range, maximum	30.00%	'
Fixed Income Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Assets allocation	74.00%	'
Permitted Range, minimum	70.00%	'
Permitted Range, maximum	90.00%	'
Other	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Assets allocation	3.00%	4.00%
Permitted Range, minimum	0.00%	'
Permitted Range, maximum	10.00%	'

Segment_Reporting_Detail

Segment Reporting (Detail) (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]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gross inpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$19,763,315	$18,170,937	$17,277,976
Gross outpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,613,277	6,828,975	6,091,262
Total net revenues	1,800,846	1,816,369	1,834,975	1,831,632	1,764,927	1,680,353	1,723,084	1,793,036	7,283,822	6,961,400	6,760,222
Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	869,332	763,663	696,336
Allocation of corporate overhead	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	869,332	763,663	696,336
Total assets	8,311,723	'	'	'	8,200,843	'	'	'	8,311,723	8,200,843	7,665,245
Acute Care Hospital Services	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gross inpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,469,269	12,406,567	11,770,248
Gross outpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,828,307	6,134,615	5,431,146
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,576,369	3,461,416	3,423,957
Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	342,191	337,385	352,931
Allocation of corporate overhead	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-184,444	-162,056	-131,225
Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	157,747	175,329	221,706
Total assets	3,125,626	'	'	'	2,984,169	'	'	'	3,125,626	2,984,169	2,782,102
Behavioral Health Services	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gross inpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,294,046	5,764,370	5,507,728
Gross outpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	744,510	646,177	606,876
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,667,967	3,460,141	3,308,862
Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	895,869	838,603	729,142
Allocation of corporate overhead	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-89,447	-84,597	-62,710
Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	806,422	754,006	666,432
Total assets	4,966,182	'	'	'	4,979,965	'	'	'	4,966,182	4,979,965	4,373,379
Other	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Gross outpatient revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	40,460	48,183	53,240
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	39,486	39,843	27,403
Income (loss) before allocation of corporate overhead and income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-368,728	-412,325	-385,737
Allocation of corporate overhead	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	273,891	246,653	193,935
Income (loss) after allocation of corporate overhead and before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-94,837	-165,672	-191,802
Total assets	$219,915	'	'	'	$236,709	'	'	'	$219,915	$236,709	$509,764

Quarterly_Results_Detail

Quarterly Results (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per 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 [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues	$1,800,846	$1,816,369	$1,834,975	$1,831,632	$1,764,927	$1,680,353	$1,723,084	$1,793,036	$7,283,822	$6,961,400	$6,760,222
Net income	133,186	123,099	167,803	129,935	147,660	81,373	117,444	142,570	554,023	489,047	448,870
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	8,665	8,512	15,962	10,151	12,199	9,556	9,883	13,963	43,290	45,601	50,703
Net income attributable to UHS	$124,521	$114,587	$151,841	$119,784	$135,461	$71,817	$107,561	$128,607	$510,733	$443,446	$398,167
Earnings per basic share attributable to UHS:	$1.27	$1.17	$1.55	$1.23	$1.39	$0.74	$1.11	$1.33	$5.21	$4.57	$4.09
Earnings per diluted share attributable to UHS:	$1.24	$1.15	$1.53	$1.21	$1.39	$0.73	$1.10	$1.31	$5.14	$4.53	$4.04

Quarterly_Results_Additional_I

Quarterly Results - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Resulting from an agreement entered into with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

Oklahoma Supplemental Hospital Offset Payment Program

Implementation of EHR applications

Implementation of EHR applications

Implementation of EHR applications

Implementation of EHR applications

Implementation of EHR applications

Reimbursements related to prior years

EHR applications

EHR applications

EHR applications

EHR applications

Write-off of deferred financing costs

Sale of an acute care facility

Professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to years prior to 2012

Professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to years prior to 2013

Professional and general liability self-insurance reserves relating to years prior to 2013

Federal fiscal years 2006 through 2009

Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unfavorable pre-tax reduction

'

'

$8,900,000

$1,100,000

$8,000,000

$8,300,000

$2,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

$29,200,000

'

'

'

'

Unfavorable after-tax reduction

'

'

4,900,000

327,000

5,000,000

5,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

18,100,000

'

'

'

'

Tax reduction per diluted share

$0.19

$0.04

$0.05

$0.01

$0.05

$0.05

'

$0.03

$0.12

$0.05

$0.06

$0.01

$0.19

$0.17

$0.16

$0.09

$0.38

Favorable pre-tax reduction

30,200,000

7,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

5,500,000

19,400,000

8,400,000

8,900,000

2,200,000

'

26,400,000

27,200,000

15,600,000

65,000,000

Favorable after-tax reduction

18,800,000

4,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

3,400,000

11,800,000

5,100,000

5,500,000

1,300,000

'

16,400,000

15,500,000

9,200,000

37,800,000

Unfavorable after tax impact related to acute care hospital construction

'

'

'

'

'

$2,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli2

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information - Additional Information (Detail) (Guarantors)	Dec. 31, 2013
Guarantors	'
Supplementary Information [Line Items]	'
Percentage of ownership interests	100.00%

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli3

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income (Detail) (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 Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$8,411,038	$7,688,071	$7,356,798
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,127,216	726,671	596,576
Net revenues	1,800,846	1,816,369	1,834,975	1,831,632	1,764,927	1,680,353	1,723,084	1,793,036	7,283,822	6,961,400	6,760,222
Operating charges:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,604,620	3,440,917	3,326,378
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,468,744	1,376,122	1,353,693
Supplies expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	821,089	799,621	805,489
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	337,172	302,426	287,211
Lease and rental expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	97,758	94,885	90,323
Transaction costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	5,716	0
EHR incentive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-61,024	-30,038	0
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	29,170	0
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,268,359	6,018,819	5,863,094
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,015,463	942,581	897,128
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	146,131	178,918	200,792
Interest (income) expense, affiliate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Income before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	869,332	763,663	696,336
Provision for income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	315,309	274,616	247,466
Net income	133,186	123,099	167,803	129,935	147,660	81,373	117,444	142,570	554,023	489,047	448,870
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	8,665	8,512	15,962	10,151	12,199	9,556	9,883	13,963	43,290	45,601	50,703
Net income attributable to UHS	124,521	114,587	151,841	119,784	135,461	71,817	107,561	128,607	510,733	443,446	398,167
Parent	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Operating charges:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	200
Supplies expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Lease and rental expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Transaction costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
EHR incentive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	'
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	29,170	'
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	29,170	200
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	-29,170	-200
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	139,793	172,467	195,404
Interest (income) expense, affiliate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-597,020	-567,906	-518,797
Income before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	457,227	366,269	323,193
Provision for income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-53,506	-77,177	-74,974
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	510,733	443,446	398,167
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	510,733	443,446	398,167
Guarantors	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5,658,699	5,152,816	4,917,358
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	657,106	411,538	340,121
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5,001,593	4,741,278	4,577,237
Operating charges:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,573,205	2,452,187	2,371,961
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	972,170	899,274	923,579
Supplies expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	510,078	496,848	499,200
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	236,958	210,867	207,981
Lease and rental expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	62,518	59,596	60,768
Transaction costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5,716	'
EHR incentive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-43,027	-14,284	'
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,311,902	4,110,204	4,063,489
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	689,691	631,074	513,748
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,365	3,749	3,212
Interest (income) expense, affiliate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	84,640	93,363	87,205
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-141,004	-141,983	-157,009
Income before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	742,690	675,945	580,340
Provision for income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	262,346	237,072	198,091
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	480,344	438,873	382,249
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	480,344	438,873	382,249
Non Guarantors	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,780,983	2,562,781	2,465,916
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	470,110	315,133	256,455
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,310,873	2,247,648	2,209,461
Operating charges:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,031,415	988,730	954,417
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	523,382	502,592	454,601
Supplies expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	311,011	302,773	306,289
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	100,214	91,559	79,230
Lease and rental expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	37,076	37,071	31,344
Transaction costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
EHR incentive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-17,997	-15,754	'
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,985,101	1,906,971	1,825,881
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	325,772	340,677	383,580
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,973	2,702	2,176
Interest (income) expense, affiliate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-84,640	-93,363	-87,205
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Income before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	407,439	431,338	468,609
Provision for income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	106,469	114,721	124,349
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	300,970	316,617	344,260
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	43,290	45,601	50,703
Net income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	257,680	271,016	293,557
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues before provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-28,644	-27,526	-26,476
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-28,644	-27,526	-26,476
Operating charges:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Salaries, wages and benefits	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Other operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-26,808	-25,744	-24,687
Supplies expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Lease and rental expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,836	-1,782	-1,789
Transaction costs	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
EHR incentive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	'
Costs related to extinguishment of debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-28,644	-27,526	-26,476
Income from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Interest expense, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Interest (income) expense, affiliate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Equity in net income of consolidated affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	738,024	709,889	675,806
Income before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-738,024	-709,889	-675,806
Provision for income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-738,024	-709,889	-675,806
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($738,024)	($709,889)	($675,806)

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli4

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Comprehensive Income (Detail) (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
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	$133,186	$123,099	$167,803	$129,935	$147,660	$81,373	$117,444	$142,570	$554,023	$489,047	$448,870
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized derivative gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	16,963	6,677	-37,477
Amortization of terminated hedge	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-336	-336	-336
Minimum Pension Liability	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	14,657	4,986	-12,397
Other comprehensive income (loss) before tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	31,284	11,327	-50,210
Income tax (benefit) expense related to items of other comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	11,940	4,306	-19,174
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	19,344	7,021	-31,036
Comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	573,367	496,068	417,834
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	43,290	45,601	50,703
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	530,077	450,467	367,131
Parent	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	510,733	443,446	398,167
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized derivative gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	16,963	6,677	-37,477
Amortization of terminated hedge	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-336	-336	-336
Minimum Pension Liability	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	14,657	4,986	-12,397
Other comprehensive income (loss) before tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	31,284	11,327	-50,210
Income tax (benefit) expense related to items of other comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	11,940	4,306	-19,174
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	19,344	7,021	-31,036
Comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	530,077	450,467	367,131
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	530,077	450,467	367,131
Guarantors	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	480,344	438,873	382,249
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized derivative gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Amortization of terminated hedge	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Minimum Pension Liability	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	14,657	4,986	-12,397
Other comprehensive income (loss) before tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	14,657	4,986	-12,397
Income tax (benefit) expense related to items of other comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5,670	1,898	-4,691
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	8,987	3,088	-7,706
Comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	489,331	441,961	374,543
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	489,331	441,961	374,543
Non Guarantors	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	300,970	316,617	344,260
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized derivative gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Amortization of terminated hedge	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Minimum Pension Liability	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss) before tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Income tax (benefit) expense related to items of other comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	300,970	316,617	344,260
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	43,290	45,601	50,703
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	257,680	271,016	293,557
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-738,024	-709,889	-675,806
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized derivative gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Amortization of terminated hedge	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Minimum Pension Liability	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-14,657	-4,986	12,397
Other comprehensive income (loss) before tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-14,657	-4,986	12,397
Income tax (benefit) expense related to items of other comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-5,670	-1,898	4,691
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-8,987	-3,088	7,706
Comprehensive income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-747,011	-712,977	-668,100
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Comprehensive income attributable to UHS	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($747,011)	($712,977)	($668,100)

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli5

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$17,238	$23,471	$41,229	$29,474
Accounts receivable, net	1,116,961	1,067,197	'	'
Supplies	101,781	99,000	'	'
Deferred income taxes	119,903	104,461	'	'
Other current assets	76,446	87,936	'	'
Current assets held for sale	0	25,431	'	'
Total current assets	1,432,329	1,407,496	'	'
Investments in subsidiaries	0	0	'	'
Intercompany receivable	0	0	'	'
Intercompany note receivable	0	0	'	'
Property and equipment	5,691,902	5,368,345	'	'
Less: accumulated depreciation	-2,249,733	-1,986,110	'	'
Property Equipment, net	3,442,169	3,382,235	'	'
Other assets:	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	3,049,016	3,036,765	2,627,602	'
Deferred charges	57,881	75,888	'	'
Other	330,328	298,459	'	'
Total assets	8,311,723	8,200,843	7,665,245	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	99,312	2,589	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	953,449	889,557	'	'
Current liabilities held for sale	0	850	'	'
Federal and state taxes	7,127	1,062	'	'
Total current liabilities	1,059,888	894,058	'	'
Intercompany payable	0	0	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	284,589	395,355	'	'
Long-term debt	3,209,762	3,727,431	'	'
Intercompany note payable	0	0	'	'
Deferred income taxes	239,148	183,747	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	218,107	234,303	'	'
UHS common stockholders' equity	3,249,979	2,713,345	'	'
Noncontrolling interest	50,250	52,604	'	'
Total equity	3,300,229	2,765,949	2,347,118	2,023,771
Liabilities and Equity, Total	8,311,723	8,200,843	'	'
Parent	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0	0
Accounts receivable, net	0	7,154	'	'
Supplies	0	0	'	'
Deferred income taxes	76,719	61,364	'	'
Other current assets	0	2,188	'	'
Current assets held for sale	'	0	'	'
Total current assets	76,719	70,706	'	'
Investments in subsidiaries	6,378,499	5,781,479	'	'
Intercompany receivable	226,592	644,105	'	'
Intercompany note receivable	0	0	'	'
Property and equipment	0	0	'	'
Less: accumulated depreciation	0	0	'	'
Property Equipment, net	0	0	'	'
Other assets:	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	0	820	'	'
Deferred charges	49,866	67,831	'	'
Other	8,411	9,645	'	'
Total assets	6,740,087	6,574,586	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	97,403	0	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	28,099	10,985	'	'
Current liabilities held for sale	'	0	'	'
Federal and state taxes	4,963	0	'	'
Total current liabilities	130,465	10,985	'	'
Intercompany payable	0	0	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	7,591	46,048	'	'
Long-term debt	3,168,819	3,676,940	'	'
Intercompany note payable	0	0	'	'
Deferred income taxes	183,233	127,268	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0	'	'
UHS common stockholders' equity	3,249,979	2,713,345	'	'
Noncontrolling interest	0	0	'	'
Total equity	3,249,979	2,713,345	'	'
Liabilities and Equity, Total	6,740,087	6,574,586	'	'
Guarantors	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	7,990	11,949	33,221	21,385
Accounts receivable, net	799,898	741,983	'	'
Supplies	63,562	61,100	'	'
Deferred income taxes	43,184	43,555	'	'
Other current assets	63,786	75,117	'	'
Current assets held for sale	'	0	'	'
Total current assets	978,420	933,704	'	'
Investments in subsidiaries	1,476,911	1,326,920	'	'
Intercompany receivable	0	0	'	'
Intercompany note receivable	0	0	'	'
Property and equipment	4,093,914	3,867,471	'	'
Less: accumulated depreciation	-1,478,758	-1,288,975	'	'
Property Equipment, net	2,615,156	2,578,496	'	'
Other assets:	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	2,552,190	2,554,531	'	'
Deferred charges	5,577	5,839	'	'
Other	251,365	209,558	'	'
Total assets	7,879,619	7,609,048	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	916	990	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	837,354	740,484	'	'
Current liabilities held for sale	'	0	'	'
Federal and state taxes	2,164	900	'	'
Total current liabilities	840,434	742,374	'	'
Intercompany payable	758,003	1,004,643	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	199,104	243,478	'	'
Long-term debt	5,337	5,372	'	'
Intercompany note payable	982,568	1,007,453	'	'
Deferred income taxes	55,915	56,801	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0	'	'
UHS common stockholders' equity	5,038,258	4,548,927	'	'
Noncontrolling interest	0	0	'	'
Total equity	5,038,258	4,548,927	'	'
Liabilities and Equity, Total	7,879,619	7,609,048	'	'
Non Guarantors	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	9,248	11,522	8,008	8,089
Accounts receivable, net	317,063	318,060	'	'
Supplies	38,219	37,900	'	'
Deferred income taxes	0	322	'	'
Other current assets	12,660	10,631	'	'
Current assets held for sale	'	25,431	'	'
Total current assets	377,190	403,866	'	'
Investments in subsidiaries	0	0	'	'
Intercompany receivable	531,411	360,538	'	'
Intercompany note receivable	982,568	1,007,453	'	'
Property and equipment	1,597,988	1,500,874	'	'
Less: accumulated depreciation	-770,975	-697,135	'	'
Property Equipment, net	827,013	803,739	'	'
Other assets:	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	496,826	481,414	'	'
Deferred charges	2,438	2,218	'	'
Other	70,552	79,256	'	'
Total assets	3,287,998	3,138,484	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	993	1,599	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	87,996	138,088	'	'
Current liabilities held for sale	'	850	'	'
Federal and state taxes	0	620	'	'
Total current liabilities	88,989	141,157	'	'
Intercompany payable	0	0	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	77,894	105,829	'	'
Long-term debt	35,606	45,119	'	'
Intercompany note payable	0	0	'	'
Deferred income taxes	0	0	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	218,107	234,303	'	'
UHS common stockholders' equity	2,817,152	2,559,472	'	'
Noncontrolling interest	50,250	52,604	'	'
Total equity	2,867,402	2,612,076	'	'
Liabilities and Equity, Total	3,287,998	3,138,484	'	'
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'	'
Current assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0	0
Accounts receivable, net	0	0	'	'
Supplies	0	0	'	'
Deferred income taxes	0	-780	'	'
Other current assets	0	0	'	'
Current assets held for sale	'	0	'	'
Total current assets	0	-780	'	'
Investments in subsidiaries	-7,855,410	-7,108,399	'	'
Intercompany receivable	-758,003	-1,004,643	'	'
Intercompany note receivable	-982,568	-1,007,453	'	'
Property and equipment	0	0	'	'
Less: accumulated depreciation	0	0	'	'
Property Equipment, net	0	0	'	'
Other assets:	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	0	0	'	'
Deferred charges	0	0	'	'
Other	0	0	'	'
Total assets	-9,595,981	-9,121,275	'	'
Current liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	0	0	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	0	0	'	'
Current liabilities held for sale	'	0	'	'
Federal and state taxes	0	-458	'	'
Total current liabilities	0	-458	'	'
Intercompany payable	-758,003	-1,004,643	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	0	0	'	'
Long-term debt	0	0	'	'
Intercompany note payable	-982,568	-1,007,453	'	'
Deferred income taxes	0	-322	'	'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	0	0	'	'
UHS common stockholders' equity	-7,855,410	-7,108,399	'	'
Noncontrolling interest	0	0	'	'
Total equity	-7,855,410	-7,108,399	'	'
Liabilities and Equity, Total	($9,595,981)	($9,121,275)	'	'

Supplemental_Condensed_Consoli6

Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash flows (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	$884,241	$799,231	$710,683
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals	-358,493	-363,192	-285,682
Acquisition of property and businesses	-12,636	-527,847	-29,466
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses	37,482	149,311	67,592
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application	-49,811	-54,362	-38,249
Return of deposit on terminated purchase agreement	0	6,500	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-383,458	-789,590	-285,805
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Reduction of long-term debt	-440,224	-849,647	-381,517
Additional borrowings	15,761	913,500	98,100
Financing costs	-231	-8,283	-23,608
Repurchase of common shares	-27,201	-19,154	-60,482
Dividends paid	-19,621	-58,395	-19,466
Issuance of common stock	5,708	5,435	4,779
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation	20,121	16,040	7,568
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests	-61,329	-26,895	-38,497
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	0	0	0
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-507,016	-27,399	-413,123
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-6,233	-17,758	11,755
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	23,471	41,229	29,474
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	17,238	23,471	41,229
Parent	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	17,946	-37,648	-12,558
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals	0	0	0
Acquisition of property and businesses	0	0	0
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses	0	0	0
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application	0	0	0
Return of deposit on terminated purchase agreement	'	6,500	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	0	6,500	0
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Reduction of long-term debt	-429,996	-843,002	-382,060
Additional borrowings	15,761	913,500	98,100
Financing costs	-231	-8,283	-23,608
Repurchase of common shares	-27,201	-19,154	-60,482
Dividends paid	-19,621	-58,395	-19,466
Issuance of common stock	5,708	5,435	4,779
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation	20,121	16,040	7,568
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	417,513	25,007	387,727
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-17,946	31,148	12,558
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	0	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	0	0	0
Guarantors	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	587,083	594,606	518,462
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals	-269,419	-312,190	-226,848
Acquisition of property and businesses	-8,094	-513,596	0
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses	7,916	142,667	0
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application	-49,811	-54,362	-38,249
Return of deposit on terminated purchase agreement	'	0	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-319,408	-737,481	-265,097
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Reduction of long-term debt	-109	0	-1,442
Additional borrowings	0	1,613	0
Financing costs	0	0	0
Repurchase of common shares	0	0	0
Dividends paid	0	0	0
Issuance of common stock	0	0	0
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation	0	0	0
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	-271,525	119,990	-240,087
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-271,634	121,603	-241,529
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-3,959	-21,272	11,836
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	11,949	33,221	21,385
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	7,990	11,949	33,221
Non Guarantors	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	279,212	242,273	204,779
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals	-89,074	-51,002	-58,834
Acquisition of property and businesses	-4,542	-14,251	-29,466
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses	29,566	6,644	67,592
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application	0	0	0
Return of deposit on terminated purchase agreement	'	0	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-64,050	-58,609	-20,708
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Reduction of long-term debt	-10,119	-8,258	0
Additional borrowings	0	0	1,985
Financing costs	0	0	0
Repurchase of common shares	0	0	0
Dividends paid	0	0	0
Issuance of common stock	0	0	0
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation	0	0	0
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests	-61,329	-26,895	-38,497
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	-145,988	-144,997	-147,640
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-217,436	-180,150	-184,152
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-2,274	3,514	-81
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	11,522	8,008	8,089
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	9,248	11,522	8,008
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	0	0	0
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'	'
Property and equipment additions, net of disposals	0	0	0
Acquisition of property and businesses	0	0	0
Proceeds received from sale of assets and businesses	0	0	0
Costs incurred for purchase and development of electronic health records application	0	0	0
Return of deposit on terminated purchase agreement	'	0	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'	'
Reduction of long-term debt	0	1,613	1,985
Additional borrowings	0	-1,613	-1,985
Financing costs	0	0	0
Repurchase of common shares	0	0	0
Dividends paid	0	0	0
Issuance of common stock	0	0	0
Excess income tax benefits related to stock based compensation	0	0	0
Profit distributions to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Changes in intercompany balances with affiliates, net	0	0	0
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	0	0	0
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	0	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$0	$0	$0

Valuation_and_Qualifying_Accou

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	'	'		'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Balance at beginning of period	$311,387	$253,405	[1]	$248,622	[1]
Charges to costs and expenses	1,127,216	726,671		613,619	[1]
Acquisitions of business	'	5,632		'
Write-off of uncollectible accounts	-1,043,568	-674,321		-608,836	[1]
Balance at end of period	395,035	311,387		253,405	[1]
Valuation Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets	'	'		'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Balance at beginning of period	44,511	42,143		32,352
Charges to costs and expenses	2,330	2,368		10,904
Write-off of uncollectible accounts	'	'		-1,113
Balance at end of period	$46,841	$44,511		$42,143
[1]	Included in the charges to costs and expenses in 2011 is $17.0 million related to facilities that were divested or recorded as held for sale during 2012.

Valuation_and_Qualifying_Accou1

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Cost and expenses related to facilities	$17