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                                                                   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 April 1, 1999, 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, 1998.




ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Houston, Texas
April 8, 1999