Contingencies (Schedule of Pre-Tax Charges in Connection with Lawsuits) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Contingencies [Abstract]
Professional fees and other related costs in connection with specific lawsuits	$ 1,558	$ 6,082	$ 3,006	$ 12,256

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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Namespace Prefix:	cyh_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration