EXHIBIT 23.1

                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 333-60387) of HealthCare Financial Partners, Inc. of our report dated 
February 11, 1999, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of 
HealthCare Financial Partners, Inc. included in this Form 10-K for the year 
ended December 31, 1998.

                                                           /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Washington, D.C.
March 30, 1999