Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Pre tax charges in connection with lawsuits
Professional fees and other related costs	$ 15,317	$ 0	$ 0

Professional fees and other related costs incurred in connection with the Tenet acquisition lawsuit, government investigations and shareholder lawsuits of possible improper claims submitted to Medicare and Medicaid.

No definition available.

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Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration