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Exhibit 23
Consent of Independent Auditors
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-8) pertaining to the 2000 Equity Incentive Plan of HCA - The Healthcare
Company of our report dated February 11, 2000, with respect to the consolidated
financial statements of HCA - The Healthcare Company (formerly Columbia/HCA
Healthcare Corporation) 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
October 18, 2000
Nashville, Tennessee
