Thomas Frist Jr's Biography

Thomas F. Frist Jr. is a renowned American businessman, physician, and billionaire philanthropist, best known as the co-founder of Hospital Corporation of America (HCA Healthcare), one of the largest private healthcare providers in the world. Born on August 12, 1938, in Nashville, Tennessee, Dr. Frist followed in his father's footsteps by pursuing a career in medicine, earning both his bachelor's and medical degrees from Vanderbilt University. In 1968, together with his father, Dr. Thomas Frist Sr., and Jack Massey, he launched HCA, revolutionizing the American healthcare landscape through hospital management and innovation. Over the decades, HCA grew exponentially, making Frist one of the wealthiest individuals in the United States with a current net worth estimated at $23 billion as of 2024. Despite his immense success, Frist has kept a low public profile, focusing his energies on healthcare advancement, philanthropy, and supporting educational initiatives. His leadership and vision have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Nashville Business Hall of Fame and the Healthcare Hall of Fame. Known for his quote, “Health care is not just a business—it's a calling,” Frist remains a respected figure in both the medical and business communities. While he has faced industry controversies, particularly federal probes into HCA during the 1990s, he was never personally implicated. Frist continues to be a pivotal influence in healthcare and philanthropy, and is recognized as a major benefactor in Tennessee and beyond.