Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Summary of Major Components of Other Operating Expenses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Taxes and insurance	$ 27,251	$ 33,631	$ 62,861	$ 100,313
Repairs and maintenance	9,188	8,962	28,041	27,659
Utilities	6,420	6,559	16,961	18,274
Other miscellaneous operating expenses	17,855	16,430	50,920	55,384
Other operating expenses	139,671	143,716	383,414	440,910
Purchased Services [Member]
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Professional fees	41,975	37,955	121,399	116,537
Medical Specialist Fees [Member]
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Professional fees	25,428	26,078	76,652	79,459
Community Health Systems, Inc [Member]
Other Operating Expenses [Line Items]
Transition services agreements	$ 11,554	$ 14,101	$ 26,580	$ 43,284