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EXHIBIT 23.1
We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the
Registration Statement (Form S-3) and related Prospectus of Beverly Enterprises,
Inc. for the shelf registration of debt securities, preferred stock, common
stock and warrants and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report
dated February 17, 2000, with respect to the consolidated financial statements
and schedule of Beverly Enterprises, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form
10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1999, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG, LLP
December 21, 2000
Fort Smith, Arkansas
