| Document and Entity Information Document and Entity Information | Nov. 05, 2019 |
| Cover page. | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 5, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | DAVITA INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-14106 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 51-0354549 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2000 16th Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Denver, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80202 |
| City Area Code | 720 |
| Local Phone Number | 631-2100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | DVA |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000927066 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
