EXHIBIT 23.1

               Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the
Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-54238) pertaining to the Triad
Hospitals, Inc. Executive Stock Purchase Plan and to the incorporation by
reference therein of our report dated February 14, 2001, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements of Triad Hospitals, Inc. included in its
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.

                                     /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Dallas, Texas
May 9, 2001