Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Basic and Diluted:
Net income attributable to UHS	$ 151,841	$ 107,561	$ 271,625	$ 236,168
Less: Net income attributable to unvested restricted share grants	(88)	(126)	(157)	(294)
Net income attributable to UHS - basic and diluted	$ 151,753	$ 107,435	$ 271,468	$ 235,874
Weighted average number of common shares - basic	98,033	96,691	97,872	96,642
Net effect of dilutive stock options and grants based on the treasury stock method	1,178	1,038	1,019	1,118
Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents - diluted	99,211	97,729	98,891	97,760
Earnings per basic share attributable to UHS	$ 1.55	$ 1.11	$ 2.77	$ 2.44
Earnings per diluted share attributable to UHS	$ 1.53	$ 1.10	$ 2.75	$ 2.41