Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Summary of Major Components of Other Operating Expenses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Taxes and insurance	$ 34,243	$ 35,306
Transition services agreements and allocations from Parent	16,282	16,257
Repairs and maintenance	11,443	11,236
Utilities	6,665	7,155
Other miscellaneous operating expenses	20,732	16,895
Total other operating expenses	163,424	164,463
Purchased Services [Member]
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Professional fees	45,596	44,438
Medical Specialist Fees [Member]
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Professional fees	$ 28,463	24,350
Community Health Systems, Inc [Member] | Management Fees From Parent [Member]
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Other operating expenses		$ 8,826