HCA Inc. (HCA) is one of the leading health care services companies in the United States. At September 30, 2006, these affiliates owned and operated 172 hospitals, 95 freestanding surgery centers and facilities which provided extensive outpatient and ancillary services. Affiliates of HCA are also partners in joint ventures that own and operate seven hospitals and nine freestanding surgery centers which are accounted for using the equity method. The Company's facilities are located in 21 states, England and Switzerland. The 182 hospital total includes seven hospitals (six general, acute care hospitals and one rehabilitation hospital) owned by joint ventures in which an affiliate of HCA is a partner, and these joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method.