1
                                                                   Exhibit 23.1

                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
pertaining to the Paracelsus Healthcare Corporation 1996 Stock Incentive Plan,
as amended (Form S-8 No. 33-10299) and pertaining to various stock option plans
of Paracelsus Healthcare Corporation (Form S-8 No. 33-12331) of our report
dated March 31, 1998, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and
schedule of Paracelsus Healthcare Corporation included in the Annual Report
(Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997.



/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Houston, Texas
March 31, 1998