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 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