Exhibit 23.3

              CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-4 No. 333-41953) of Health Management Associates, Inc. and in the related
Prospectus of our report dated October 23, 1998, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements and schedule of Health Management Associates,
Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended September 30,
1998.


                                                             ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Atlanta, Georgia
December 18, 1998


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