Acquisitions (Revs and Earnings) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net (loss) earnings	$ 54,939	$ 44,628
Less: Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests	40,163	32,935
Net (loss) earnings attributable to AmSurg Corp. common shareholders	14,776	11,693
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenues	215	549
Net (loss) earnings	74	139
Less: Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests	35	85
Net (loss) earnings attributable to AmSurg Corp. common shareholders	$ 39	$ 54