NASHVILLE, Tenn. - HCA (NYSE: HCA) today announced a donation of $1 million to the American Red Cross for disaster relief for victims of Hurricane Katrina. The company previously announced a donation of $1 million to the HCA Hope Fund for direct relief to its affected employees in the area.

"Hurricane Katrina is one of the most devastating natural disasters this country has seen," said Jack O. Bovender, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of HCA. "The magnitude of impact is only now becoming clear and beyond the already incredible efforts of our employees and affiliated physicians, we believe it important to reach out and support broader efforts."

HCA has four hospitals in Louisiana and Mississippi that have been directly affected by the hurricane. Garden Park Medical Center in Gulfport, Miss. and Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington, La. were damaged, but are operational. Tulane University Hospital and Clinic in New Orleans and Lakeside Hospital in Metairie, La. are being evacuated.

The affected hospitals have approximately 3,800 employees, who will remain on payroll indefinitely. The company will, if they desire, relocate them and provide them with employment at other HCA affiliated facilities across the country.

All references to "Company" and "HCA" as used throughout this document refer to HCA Inc. and its affiliates.

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