Spin-Off of Quorum Health Corporation (Schedule of Operating Results included in Consolidated Statement of Income) (Details) - Quorum Health Corporation [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
(Loss) income from operations before income taxes	$ (12)	$ 21	$ 14
Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	1	3
(Loss) income from operations before income taxes attributable to Community Health Systems, Inc. stockholders	$ (13)	$ 18	$ 14