Document:

<PAGE>

                                                                    EXHIBIT 10.1

                     AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT

     THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT, dated as of April 27, 2001 (as
amended, modified, restated or supplemented from time to time, the "Credit
                                                                    ------
Agreement"), is by and among TRIAD HOSPITALS, INC., a Delaware corporation
---------
("THI" or the "Borrower"), the Lenders (as defined herein), MERRILL LYNCH & CO.,
  ---          --------
as Syndication Agent (the "Syndication Agent"), BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., as
                           -----------------
Administrative Agent for the Lenders (in such capacity, the "Administrative
                                                             --------------
Agent"), and MERRILL LYNCH & CO. and BANC OF AMERICA SECURITIES LLC, as Co-Lead
-----
Arrangers and Co-Book-Runners and THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK and CITICORP USA,
INC., as Co-Documentation Agents (together with the Syndication Agent and the
Administrative Agent, the "Agents").

                              W I T N E S S E T H

     WHEREAS, the Borrower has requested that the Lenders provide $1.20 billion
in credit facilities for the purposes hereinafter set forth; and

     WHEREAS, the Lenders have agreed to make the requested credit facilities
available to the Borrower on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth;

     NOW, THEREFORE, IN CONSIDERATION of the premises and other good and
valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

                                   SECTION 1

                                  DEFINITIONS

1.1  Definitions.
     -----------

     As used in this Credit Agreement, the following terms shall have the
meanings specified below unless the context otherwise requires:

     "Acquisition," by any Person, means the acquisition by such Person of (i)
      -----------
assets, property and/or operations of another Person or (ii) the Capital Stock
of another Person, if such Person would be a Subsidiary after giving effect to
such acquisition, in each case whether or not involving a merger or
consolidation with such other Person.

     "Administrative Agent" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in the
      --------------------
heading hereof, together with any successors or assigns.

     "Administrative Agent Fee Letter" means the letter agreement dated as of
      -------------------------------
the date hereof between the Borrower and the Administrative Agent.
<PAGE>

                                      -2-

     "Affiliate" means, with respect to any Person, any other Person (i)
      ---------
directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect
common control with such Person or (ii) directly or indirectly owning or holding
five percent (5%) or more of the Capital Stock in such Person.  For purposes of
this definition, "control" when used with respect to any Person means the power
to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly,
whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise;
and the terms "controlling" and "controlled" have meanings correlative to the
foregoing.

     "Agency Services Address" means the notice address for the Administrative
      -----------------------
Agent set forth in Section 12.1 or such other address as may be identified by
written notice from the Administrative Agent to the Borrower.

     "Aggregate Revolving Committed Amount" means the aggregate amount of
      ------------------------------------
Revolving Commitments in effect from time to time, as referenced in Section
2.1(a), being initially TWO HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS ($250,000,000),
subject to reduction pursuant to Section 3.4.

     "Applicable Lending Office" means, for each Lender, the office of such
      -------------------------
Lender (or of an Affiliate of such Lender) as such Lender may from time to time
specify to the Administrative Agent and the Borrower by written notice as the
office by which its Eurodollar Loans are made and maintained.

     "Applicable Percentage" means, for any day, (I) initially (A) with respect
      ---------------------
to Eurodollar Loans under the (i) Revolving Facility, 3.00% per annum; (ii) Term
Loan A Facility, 3.00% per annum; (iii) Asset Sale Facility, 3.00% per annum;
and (iv) Term Loan B Facility, 3.00% per annum; (B) with respect to Base Rate
Loans under the (i) Revolving Facility, 2.00% per annum; (ii) Term Loan A
Facility, 2.00% per annum; (iii) Asset Sale Facility, 2.00% per annum; and (iv)
Term Loan B Facility, 2.00% per annum; and (C) with respect to the Commitment
Fee, 0.50% per annum, and (II) notwithstanding the foregoing, on and after the
date which is the latest of (A) if the Interim Loan is drawn down, the date of
issuance of Take-out Securities generating gross proceeds to the Borrower of at
least $400.0 million, (B) the repayment in full of the Asset Sale Facility and
(C) the first date after the Closing Date on which the Borrower delivers
financial statements and a computation of the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio
for the first fiscal quarter ended at least six (6) months after the Closing
Date in accordance with this Agreement (the "Trigger Date"), the Applicable
                                             ------------
Percentages for the Revolving Facility and the Term Loan A Facility shall be
subject to the rates per annum set forth below opposite the applicable
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio then in effect, it being understood that (i)
the Applicable Percentage for Base Rate Loans shall be the percentage set forth
under the column "Base Rate Loans," (ii) the Applicable Percentage for
Eurodollar Loans shall be the percentage set forth under the column "Eurodollar
Loans" and (iii) the Commitment Fee shall be the percentage set forth under the
column "Commitment Fee."
<PAGE>

                                      -3-

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                Revolving Loans and
                                                                               Tranche A Term Loans
                                                                               --------------------
   Consolidated Total                                         Eurodollar           Base Rate           Commitment
     Leverage Ratio                                              Loans               Loans                 Fee
     --------------                                              -----               -----                 ---
<S>                                                              <C>                 <C>                  <C>
greater than 4.00:1.0                                            3.00%               2.00%                .50%
greater than or equal to 3.50:1.0 but less than 4.00:1.0         2.75%               1.75%                .50%
greater than or equal to 3.0:1.0 but less than 3.50:1.0          2.25%               1.25%                .50%
less than 3.0:1.0                                                2.00%               1.00%                .50%
</TABLE>

     The Applicable Percentage shall be determined and adjusted, if appropriate,
quarterly on the date (each a "Rate Determination Date") five (5) Business Days
                               -----------------------
after the date by which the annual and quarterly compliance certificates and
related financial statements and information are required in accordance with the
provisions of Sections 8.1(a), (b) and (c) (the "Required Financial
                                                 ------------------
Information"), as appropriate; provided that notwithstanding the foregoing, in
                               --------
the event an annual or quarterly compliance certificate and related financial
statements and information are not delivered timely to the Agency Services
Address by the date required by Sections 8.1(a), (b) and (c), as appropriate,
the Applicable Percentages shall be based on the highest (most expensive)
pricing level until such time as an appropriate compliance certificate and
related financial statements and information are delivered, whereupon the
applicable pricing level shall be adjusted based on the information contained in
such compliance certificate and related financial statements and information.

     Subject to the qualifications set forth above, each Applicable Percentage
shall be effective from a Rate Determination Date until the next such Rate
Determination Date.  The Administrative Agent shall determine the appropriate
Applicable Percentages in the pricing matrix promptly upon receipt of the
quarterly or annual compliance certificate and related financial information and
shall promptly notify the Borrower and the Lenders of any change thereof.  Such
determinations by the Administrative Agent shall be conclusive absent manifest
error.  Adjustments in the Applicable Percentages shall be effective as to
existing Extensions of Credit as well as new Extensions of Credit made
thereafter.

     "Approved Asset Disposition" shall mean the sale or other disposition by
      --------------------------
any member of the Consolidated Group of (i) all or a portion of the assets of,
or all or a portion of the Capital Stock of, QHR and (ii) up to the first nine
(9) facilities sold or disposed of by any member of the Consolidated Group after
the Closing Date; provided, however, that if QHR is disposed of in a transaction
                  --------  -------
permitted pursuant to Section 9.7, then any cash received by the Borrower or a
member of the Consolidated Group or QHR in connection with, or as contemplated
by, such disposition, shall constitute Net Proceeds of an Approved Asset
Disposition for purposes of the prepayment provisions of Section 3.3 (other than
with respect to working capital needs).

     "Approved Fund" shall mean, with respect to any Lender that is a fund or
      -------------
commingled investment vehicle that invests in loans, any other fund that invests
in loans and is managed or advised by the same investment advisor of such Lender
or by an Affiliate of such investment advisor.
<PAGE>

                                      -4-

     "Asset Disposition" shall mean and include (i) the sale, lease, including a
      -----------------
sale and leaseback arrangement, or other disposition of any property or asset by
a member of the Consolidated Group (including the Capital Stock of a
Subsidiary), and (ii) receipt by any member of the Consolidated Group of any
cash insurance proceeds or condemnation award payable by reason of theft, loss,
physical destruction or damage, taking or similar event with respect to any of
its property or assets, but for purposes hereof shall not include, in any event,
(A) the sale of inventory in the ordinary course of business, (B) the sale,
lease or other disposition of machinery and equipment which is no longer used or
useful in the conduct of business or which is worn out, (C) a sale or
disposition which would constitute an Equity Transaction hereunder, (D) a sale,
lease, transfer or disposition of property or assets to a Domestic Credit Party;
provided, however, that to the extent such property or assets constitute
--------  -------
Collateral, such sale, lease, transfer or disposition of property or assets
shall comply with the applicable provisions of this Credit Agreement and the
Collateral Documents and shall continue to be subject to the Lien of the
Collateral Documents, (E) use or operating agreements or short-term operating
leases entered into by a Credit Party as owner or lessor with respect to
personal property in the ordinary course of business and on market terms;
provided, however, that to the extent such personal property constitutes
--------  -------
Collateral, such operating agreements or short-term operating leases shall
comply with the applicable provisions of this Credit Agreement and the
Collateral Documents and shall continue to be subject to the Lien of the
Collateral Documents, (F) the existing leases of Overland Park Regional Medical
Center and Independence Regional Health Center and the related ambulatory
surgical centers (provided that any exercise of a put or call option (or other
purchase option) thereunder shall be deemed an Asset Disposition), (G) operating
leases of office space in the ordinary course of business and on market terms;
provided, however, that to the extent such office space relates to real property
--------  -------
constituting Collateral, such operating leases shall comply with the applicable
provisions of this Credit Agreement and the Collateral Documents and shall
continue to be subject to the Lien of the Collateral Documents, (H) operating
leases of real property in the ordinary course of business and on market terms;
provided, however, that to the extent such real property constitutes Collateral,
--------  -------
such operating leases shall comply with the applicable provisions of this Credit
Agreement and the Collateral Documents and shall continue to be subject to the
Lien of the Collateral Documents, (I) operating leases of equipment and
machinery deemed in good faith by a Credit Party to be temporarily surplus and
on market terms; provided, however, that to the extent such equipment and
                 --------  -------
machinery constitute Collateral, such operating leases shall comply with the
applicable provisions of this Credit Agreement and the Collateral Documents and
shall continue to be subject to the Lien of the Collateral Documents and (J) for
purposes of Section 9.5, but not for purposes of Section 3.3, any sale, lease or
other disposition (or any series of related sales, leases or other dispositions)
of any Property which has an aggregate fair market value of less than $1.0
million.

     "Asset Sale Lenders" means Lenders holding Asset Sale Loan Commitments, as
      ------------------
identified on Schedule 2.1, and their successors and assigns.
              ------------

     "Asset Sale Loan" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section
      ---------------
2.1(d).

     "Asset Sale Loan Commitment" means, with respect to each Asset Sale Lender,
      --------------------------
the commitment of such Lender to make Asset Sale Loan advances in an aggregate
principal amount up to such Asset Sale Lender's Asset Sale Loan Committed Amount
(and for purposes of making determinations of
<PAGE>

                                      -5-

Required Lenders and for purposes of calculations referred to in Section
12.6(b), the principal amount outstanding on the Asset Sale Loan).

     "Asset Sale Loan Commitment Percentage" means, for each Asset Sale Lender,
      -------------------------------------
a fraction (expressed as a percentage) the numerator of which is the amount of
the Asset Sale Loan Commitment of such Lender at such time and the denominator
of which is the aggregate amount of the Asset Sale Loan Commitment at such time.
The initial Asset Sale Loan Commitment Percentages are set out on Schedule 2.1.
                                                                  ------------

     "Asset Sale Loan Committed Amount" means, collectively, the aggregate
      --------------------------------
amount of all of the Asset Sale Loan Commitments and, individually, the amount
of each Asset Sale Lender's Asset Sale Loan Commitment as specified on Schedule
                                                                       --------
2.1, as such amounts may be reduced from time to time in accordance with the
---
provisions hereof.

     "Asset Sale Loan Maturity Date" means the date that is twenty-four (24)
      -----------------------------
months after the initial funding date.

     "Asset Sale Note" or "Asset Sale Notes" means the promissory notes of the
      ---------------      ----------------
Borrower in favor of each of the Asset Sale Lenders (or nominees thereof)
evidencing the Asset Sale Loan in substantially the form attached as Schedule
                                                                     --------
2.5-2, individually or collectively, as appropriate, as such promissory notes
-----
may be amended, modified, supplemented, extended or renewed from time to time.

     "Bank of America" means Bank of America, N. A. and its successors.
      ---------------

     "Bankruptcy Code" means the Bankruptcy Code in Title 11 of the United
      ---------------
States Code, as amended, modified, succeeded or replaced from time to time.

     "Bankruptcy Event" means, with respect to any Person, the occurrence of any
      ----------------
of the following with respect to such Person: (i) a court or governmental agency
having jurisdiction in the premises shall enter a decree or order for relief in
respect of such Person in an involuntary case under any applicable bankruptcy,
insolvency or other similar law now or hereafter in effect, or appointing a
receiver, liquidator, assignee, custodian, trustee, sequestrator (or similar
official) of such Person or for any substantial part of its Property or ordering
the winding up or liquidation of its affairs; or (ii) there shall be commenced
against such Person an involuntary case under any applicable bankruptcy,
insolvency or other similar law now or hereafter in effect, or any case,
proceeding or other action for the appointment of a receiver, liquidator,
assignee, custodian, trustee, sequestrator (or similar official) of such Person
or for any substantial part of its Property or for the winding up or liquidation
of its affairs, and such involuntary case or other case, proceeding or other
action shall remain undismissed, undischarged or unbonded for a period of sixty
(60) consecutive days; or (iii) such Person shall commence a voluntary case
under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law now or
hereafter in effect, or consent to the entry of an order for relief in an
involuntary case under any such law, or consent to the appointment or taking
possession by a receiver, liquidator, assignee, custodian, trustee, sequestrator
(or similar official) of such Person or for any substantial part of its Property
or make any general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or (iv) such Person
shall be unable to, or shall admit in writing its inability to, pay its debts
generally as they become due.
<PAGE>

                                      -6-

     "Base Rate" means, for any day, the rate per annum equal to the higher of
      ---------
(a) the Federal Funds Rate for such day plus one-half of one percent (0.5%) and
(b) the rate of interest publicly announced from time to time by Bank of America
in Charlotte, North Carolina as its reference rate (the "Reference Rate") for
                                                         --------------
such day.  The Reference Rate is a rate set by Bank of America based upon
various factors including Bank of America's costs and desired return, general
economic conditions and other factors, and is used as a reference point for
pricing some loans, which may be priced at, above, or below such announced rate.
Any change in the Base Rate due to a change in the Reference Rate or the Federal
Funds Rate shall be effective on the effective date of such change in the
Reference Rate or Federal Funds Rate.

     "Base Rate Loan" means any Loan bearing interest at a rate determined by
      --------------
reference to the Base Rate.

     "Borrower" has the meaning given such term in the preamble hereto.
      --------

     "Borrower Pledge Agreement" means the pledge agreement substantially in the
      -------------------------
form of Schedule 7.20(c) attached hereto given by the Borrower to the
Administrative Agent to secure the Borrower's obligations under the Credit
Documents, as amended and modified.

     "Borrower Security Agreement" means the security agreement substantially in
      ---------------------------
the form of Schedule 7.20(a) attached hereto given by the Borrower to the
Administrative Agent to secure the Borrower's obligations under the Credit
Documents, as amended and modified.

     "Business Day" means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on
      ------------
which commercial banks in Charlotte, North Carolina or New York, New York are
authorized or required by law to close, except that, when used in connection
                                        ------ ----
with a Eurodollar Loan, such day shall also be a day on which dealings between
banks are carried on in Dollar deposits in London, England.

     "Capital Lease" means, as applied to any Person, any lease of any Property
      -------------
(whether real, personal or mixed) by that Person as lessee which, in accordance
with GAAP, is or should be accounted for as a capital lease on the balance sheet
of that Person.

     "Capital Stock" means (i) in the case of a corporation, capital stock, (ii)
      -------------
in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests,
participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of capital
stock, (iii) in the case of a partnership, partnership interests (whether
general or limited), (iv) in the case of a limited liability company, membership
interests and (v) any other interest or participation that confers on a Person
the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or distributions of
assets of, the issuing Person.

     "Cash Equivalents" means (a) securities issued or directly and fully
      ----------------
guaranteed or insured by the United States or any agency or instrumentality
thereof (provided that the full faith and credit of the United States is pledged
in support thereof) having maturities of not more than twelve (12) months from
the date of acquisition, (b) Dollar denominated time deposits and certificates
of deposit of (i) any Lender, (ii) any domestic commercial bank of recognized
standing having capital and surplus in excess of $500.0 million or (iii) any
bank whose short-term commercial paper rating from S&P is at least A-1
<PAGE>

                                      -7-

or the equivalent thereof or from Moody's is at least P-1 or the equivalent
thereof (any such bank being an "Approved Bank"), in each case with maturities
of not more than 270 days from the date of acquisition, (c) commercial paper and
variable or fixed rate notes issued by any Approved Bank (or by the parent
company thereof) or any variable rate notes issued by, or guaranteed by, any
domestic corporation rated A-1 (or the equivalent thereof) or better by S&P or
P-1 (or the equivalent thereof) or better by Moody's and maturing within six (6)
months of the date of acquisition, (d) repurchase agreements entered into by any
Person with a bank or trust company (including any of the Lenders) or recognized
securities dealer having capital and surplus in excess of $500.0 million for
direct obligations issued by or fully guaranteed by the United States in which
such Person shall have a perfected first priority security interest (subject to
no other Liens) and having, on the date of purchase thereof, a fair market value
of at least 100% of the amount of the repurchase obligations and (e)
Investments, classified in accordance with GAAP as current assets, in money
market investment programs registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, which are administered by reputable financial institutions having
capital of at least $500.0 million and the portfolios of which are limited to
Investments of the character described in the foregoing subdivisions (a) through
(d).

     "Change of Control" means any of the following events:  (a) any Person or
      -----------------
two or more Persons acting in concert shall have acquired beneficial ownership,
directly or indirectly, of, or shall have acquired by contract or otherwise, or
shall have entered into a contract or arrangement that, upon consummation, will
result in its or their acquisition of or control over, Voting Stock of the
Borrower (or other securities convertible into such Voting Stock) representing
30% or more of the combined voting power of all Voting Stock of the Borrower, or
(b) during any period of up to twenty-four (24) consecutive months, commencing
after the Closing Date, individuals who at the beginning of such 24 month period
were directors of the Borrower (together with any new director whose election by
the Borrower's Board of Directors or whose nomination for election by the
Borrower's shareholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the
directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of
such period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so
approved) cease for any reason to constitute a majority of the directors of the
Borrower then in office.  As used herein, "beneficial ownership" shall have the
meaning provided in Rule 13d-3 of the Securities and Exchange Commission under
the Securities Exchange Act.

     "Closing Date" means April 27, 2001.
      ------------

     "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any
      ----
successor statute thereto, as interpreted by the rules and regulations issued
thereunder, in each case as in effect from time to time.  References to sections
of the Code shall be construed also to refer to any successor sections.

     "Collateral" means a collective reference to the collateral which is
      ----------
identified in, and at any time will be covered by, the Collateral Documents.

     "Collateral Documents" means a collective reference to the Security
      --------------------
Agreements, the Pledge Agreements, the Mortgages and such other Collateral
Documents executed and delivered pursuant to Sections 8.12 and 8.13 hereof and
such other documents executed and delivered in connection with the
<PAGE>

                                      -8-

attachment and perfection of the Administrative Agent's security interests and
liens arising thereunder, including without limitation, UCC financing statements
and patent and trademark filings.

     "Commitment Fee" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section
      --------------
3.5(a).

     "Commitment Period" means the period from and including the Closing Date to
      -----------------
but not including the earlier of (i) the Revolving Commitment Termination Date,
or (ii) the date on which the Revolving Commitments terminate in accordance with
the provisions of this Credit Agreement.

     "Commitments" means any of the Revolving Commitments, the LOC Commitments,
      -----------
the Swingline Commitments, the Asset Sale Loan Commitments and/or the Term Loan
Commitments.

     "Committed Amount" means any of the Revolving Committed Amount, the LOC
      ----------------
Committed Amount, the Swingline Committed Amount, the Asset Sale Loan Committed
Amount and/or the Term Loan Committed Amounts.

     "Consolidated Capital Expenditures" means, for any period, without
      ---------------------------------
duplication, all expenditures (whether paid in cash or other consideration)
during such period that, in accordance with GAAP, are or should be included in
additions to property, plant and equipment or similar items reflected in the
consolidated statement of cash flows for such period; provided, that
                                                      --------
Consolidated Capital Expenditures shall not include, for purposes hereof, (i)
expenditures of proceeds of insurance settlements, condemnation awards and other
settlements in respect of lost, destroyed, damaged or condemned assets,
equipment or other property to the extent such expenditures are made to replace
or repair such lost, destroyed, damaged or condemned assets, equipment or other
property or otherwise to acquire assets or properties useful in the business of
the members of the Consolidated Group, or (ii) any portion of the purchase price
in connection with a Permitted Acquisition which would otherwise constitute a
capital expenditure under GAAP.

     "Consolidated EBITDA" means, for any period for the Consolidated Group, the
      -------------------
sum of (i) Consolidated Net Income plus (ii) to the extent deducted in
                                   ----
determining net income, (A) Consolidated Interest Expense, (B) taxes, (C)
depreciation and amortization, (D) ESOP expense, (E) non-recurring, non-cash
charges and adjustments, in either case related to impairment of long-lived
assets (including the effect of the conversion of the Kansas City leases and any
sale or closing of other facilities), (F) minority interests (to the extent
distributions are not required to be made and are not made in respect thereof)
and (G) other non-cash extraordinary items, in each case on a consolidated basis
determined in accordance with GAAP, subject to adjustment on a Pro Forma Basis.

     "Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio" means, for any period, the ratio
      ----------------------------------------
of Consolidated EBITDA to Consolidated Fixed Charges for the period of four (4)
consecutive fiscal quarters ending as of such day.

     "Consolidated Fixed Charges" means, for any period for the Consolidated
      --------------------------
Group, the sum of (i) the cash portion of Consolidated Interest Expense for such
period, (ii) cash taxes paid for such period, (iii) scheduled current maturities
of Consolidated Total Funded Debt (including, for purposes hereof, mandatory
commitment reductions, sinking fund payments, payments in respect of the
principal
<PAGE>

                                      -9-

component under Capital Leases and the like relating thereto, but excluding, for
purposes hereof, the scheduled maturity of the Asset Sale Loan) for the period
of four (4) consecutive fiscal quarters beginning the day after the date of
determination and (iv) Consolidated Maintenance Capital Expenditures for such
period, in each case on a consolidated basis determined in accordance with GAAP,
subject, however, to adjustment on a Pro Forma Basis. Except as otherwise
expressly provided, the applicable period shall be for the four (4) consecutive
fiscal quarters ending as of the date of determination.

     "Consolidated Group" means the Borrower and its Subsidiaries after giving
      ------------------
effect to the Quorum Acquisition.

     "Consolidated Interest Expense" means, for any period for the Consolidated
      -----------------------------
Group, all interest expense (net of credits under Hedging Agreements), including
the amortization of debt discount and premium, the interest component under
Capital Leases and the implied interest component under Securitization
Transactions, in each case on a consolidated basis determined in accordance with
GAAP, subject, however, to adjustment on a Pro Forma Basis.  Except as expressly
provided otherwise, the applicable period shall be for the four (4) consecutive
fiscal quarters ending as of the date of determination.

     "Consolidated Interest Expense Coverage Ratio" means, for any period, the
      --------------------------------------------
ratio of Consolidated EBITDA to the cash portion of Consolidated Interest
Expense for the period of four (4) consecutive fiscal quarters ending as of such
day.

     "Consolidated Maintenance Capital Expenditures" means $125.0 million for
      ---------------------------------------------
any four (4) fiscal quarter period ending on or before December 31, 2001 and
$100.0 million for any four (4) fiscal quarter period thereafter.

     "Consolidated Net Income" means, for any period for the Consolidated Group,
      -----------------------
net income (or loss) determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
Except as otherwise expressly provided, the applicable period shall be for the
four (4) consecutive fiscal quarters ending as of the date of determination.

     "Consolidated Net Worth" means, as of any date for the Consolidated Group,
      ----------------------
consolidated shareholder's equity or net worth as determined accordance with
GAAP.

     "Consolidated Senior Funded Debt" means Consolidated Total Funded Debt
      -------------------------------
secured by one or more Liens other than Consolidated Subordinated Debt.

     "Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio" means, as of the last day of each
      ----------------------------------
fiscal quarter, the ratio of (i) Consolidated Senior Funded Debt on such day to
(ii) Consolidated EBITDA for the period of four (4) consecutive fiscal quarters
ending as of such day.

     "Consolidated Subordinated Debt" means Subordinated Debt of the
      ------------------------------
Consolidated Group determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
<PAGE>

                                      -10-

     "Consolidated Tangible Net Worth" means, as of any date for the
      -------------------------------
Consolidated Group, Consolidated Net Worth minus intangible assets as determined
                                           -----
in accordance with GAAP.

     "Consolidated Total Funded Debt" means Funded Debt of the Consolidated
      ------------------------------
Group determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.

     "Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio" means, for the Consolidated Group as of
      ---------------------------------
the last day of each fiscal quarter, the ratio of (A) Consolidated Total Funded
Debt on such day to (B) Consolidated EBITDA for the period of four (4)
consecutive fiscal quarters ending as of such day.

     "Continue," "Continuation" and "Continued" shall refer to the continuation
      --------    ------------       ---------
pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof of a Eurodollar Loan from one Interest Period to
the next Interest Period.

     "Contractual Obligation" means, as to any Person, any provision of any
      ----------------------
security issued or guaranteed by such Person or of any material agreement,
instrument or undertaking to which such Person is a party or by which it or any
of its property is bound.

     "Controlled Subsidiary" has the meaning given such term in Section 9.12.
      ---------------------

     "Convert," "Conversion" and "Converted" shall refer to a conversion
      -------    ----------       ---------
pursuant to Section 3.2 or Sections 3.7 through 3.12, inclusive, of a Base Rate
Loan into a Eurodollar Loan.

     "Credit Documents" means a collective reference to this Credit Agreement,
      ----------------
the Notes, the Guaranty Agreements, the LOC Documents, each Guaranty Joinder
Agreement, the Fee Letter, the Collateral Documents and all other related
agreements and documents issued or delivered hereunder or thereunder or pursuant
hereto or thereto (in each case as the same may be amended, modified, restated,
supplemented, extended, renewed or replaced from time to time), and "Credit
                                                                     ------
Document" means any one of them.
--------

     "Credit Parties" means a collective reference to the Borrower and the
      --------------
Guarantors, and "Credit Party" means any one of them.
                 ------------

     "Debt Transaction" means, with respect to any member of the Consolidated
      ----------------
Group, any sale, issuance, placement, guaranty, assumption or collateralization
of Funded Debt, whether or not evidenced by promissory note or other written
evidence of indebtedness and whether or not convertible into securities not
constituting Funded Debt, except for Funded Debt permitted to be incurred
pursuant to Section 9.1(a) through (g).

     "Default" means any event, act or condition which with notice or lapse of
      -------
time, or both, would constitute an Event of Default.

     "Defaulting Lender" means, at any time, any Lender that (a) has failed to
      -----------------
make a Loan or purchase a Participation Interest required pursuant to the terms
of this Credit Agreement within one (1) Business Day of when due, (b) other than
as set forth in (a) above, has failed to pay to the Administrative Agent or any
Lender an amount owed by such Lender pursuant to the terms of this Credit
Agreement
<PAGE>

                                      -11-

within one (1) Business Day of when due, unless such amount is subject to a good
faith dispute or (c) has been deemed insolvent or has become subject to a
bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding or with respect to which (or with respect to
any of the assets of which) a receiver, trustee or similar official has been
appointed.

     "Designated Controlled Subsidiary" shall have the meaning assigned to such
      --------------------------------
term in Section 9.12.

     "Dollars" or "$" means dollars in lawful currency of the United States.
      -------      -

     "Domestic Credit Party" means any Credit Party which is incorporated or
      ---------------------
organized under the laws of any State of the United States or the District of
Columbia.

     "Domestic Subsidiary" means any Subsidiary which is incorporated or
      -------------------
organized under the laws of any State of the United States or the District of
Columbia.

     "Eligible Assignee" means (i) a Lender; (ii) an Affiliate of a Lender or
      -----------------
any fund that makes purchases, holds or invests in bank loans or similar
extensions of credit and is managed or advised by a Lender (or an Affiliate of a
Lender) or an investment advisor (or an Affiliate of an investment advisor) to a
Lender; and (iii) any other Person approved by the Administrative Agent, the
Syndication Agent and the Borrower (such approval by the Administrative Agent,
the Syndication Agent or the Borrower not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed
and such approval to be deemed given by the Borrower if no objection is received
by the assigning Lender and the Administrative Agent and the Syndication Agent
from the Borrower within two (2) Business Days after notice of such proposed
assignment has been provided by the assigning Lender to the Borrower), unless an
Event of Default has occurred and is continuing at the time any assignment is
effected in accordance with Section 12.3, in which case no approval from the
Borrower, Administrative Agent or Syndication Agent shall be required; provided,
                                                                       --------
however, that neither the Borrower nor an Affiliate of the Borrower shall
-------
qualify as an Eligible Assignee.

     "Eligible Real Property" means, with respect to any member of the
      ----------------------
Consolidated Group, including any Person that becomes a member of the
Consolidated Group after the Closing Date as contemplated by Section 8.12, any
real property which (i) is located in the United States or (to the extent deemed
material by the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders in its or their
sole reasonable discretion) located outside of the United States, (ii) is owned
or (to the extent deemed material by the Administrative Agent or the Required
Lenders in its or their sole reasonable discretion) leased by such member of the
Consolidated Group and (iii) is not Excluded Property.

     "Environmental Laws" means any and all applicable federal, state, local and
      ------------------
foreign statutes, laws, regulations, ordinances, rules, judgments, orders,
decrees, permits, concessions, grants, franchises, licenses, agreements and
other governmental restrictions relating to the environment or to emissions,
discharges, releases or threatened releases of Materials of Environmental
Concern into the environment including, without limitation, ambient air, surface
water, ground water, or land, or otherwise relating to the manufacture,
processing, distribution, use, treatment, storage, disposal, transport, or
handling of Materials of Environmental Concern.
<PAGE>

                                      -12-

     "Equity Transaction" means, with respect to any member of the Consolidated
      ------------------
Group, any issuance or sale of shares of its capital stock or other equity
interest, other than an issuance (i) in connection with a conversion of debt
securities to equity and (ii) in connection with exercise by a present or former
employee, officer or director under a stock incentive plan, stock option plan or
other equity-based compensation plan or arrangement.

     "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
      -----
amended, and any successor statute thereto, as interpreted by the rules and
regulations thereunder, all as the same may be in effect from time to time.
References to sections of ERISA shall be construed also to refer to any
successor sections.

     "ERISA Affiliate" means an entity which, at the relevant time, is under
      ---------------
common control with any member of the Consolidated Group within the meaning of
Section 4001(a)(14) of ERISA, or is a member of a group which includes any
member of the Consolidated Group and which is treated as a single employer under
Section 414(b) or (c) of the Code.

     "ERISA Event" means (i) with respect to any Single Employer Plan or
      -----------
Multiple Employer Plan, the occurrence of a Reportable Event or the substantial
cessation of operations (within the meaning of Section 4062(e) of ERISA); (ii)
the withdrawal by any member of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate
from a Multiple Employer Plan during a plan year in which it was a substantial
employer (as such term is defined in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA), or the
termination of a Multiple Employer Plan; (iii) the distribution of a notice of
intent to terminate or the actual termination of a Plan pursuant to Section
4041(a)(2) or 4041A of ERISA; (iv) the institution of proceedings to terminate
or the actual termination of a Plan by the PBGC under Section 4042 of ERISA; (v)
any event or condition which could reasonably constitute grounds under Section
4042 of ERISA for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to
administer, any Plan; (vi) the complete or partial withdrawal of any member of
the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate from a Multiemployer Plan; (vii)
the conditions for imposition of a lien under Section 302(f) of ERISA exist with
respect to any Single Employer Plan or Multiple Employer Plan; or (viii) the
adoption of an amendment to any Plan requiring the provision of security to such
Plan pursuant to Section 307 of ERISA.

     "ESOP" means the employee stock ownership plan of THI.
      ----

     "Eurodollar Loan" means any Loan that bears interest at a rate based upon
      ---------------
the Eurodollar Rate.

     "Eurodollar Rate" means, for any Eurodollar Loan for any Interest Period
      ---------------
therefor, the rate per annum (rounded upwards, if necessary, to the nearest
1/100 of 1%) determined by the Administrative Agent to be equal to the quotient
obtained by dividing (a) the Interbank Offered Rate for such Eurodollar Loan for
such Interest Period by (b) 1 minus the Eurodollar Reserve Requirement for such
Eurodollar Loan for such Interest Period.

     "Eurodollar Reserve Requirement" means, at any time, the maximum rate at
      ------------------------------
which reserves (including, without limitation, any marginal, special,
supplemental, or emergency reserves) are required to be maintained under
regulations issued from time to time by the Board of Governors of the Federal
Reserve System (or any successor) by member banks of the Federal Reserve System
against "Eurocurrency
<PAGE>

                                      -13-

liabilities" (as such term is used in Regulation D). Without limiting the effect
of the foregoing, the Eurodollar Reserve Requirement shall reflect any other
reserves required to be maintained by such member banks with respect to (i) any
category of liabilities which includes deposits by reference to which the
Eurodollar Rate is to be determined, or (ii) any category of extensions of
credit or other assets which include Eurodollar Loans. The Eurodollar Rate shall
be adjusted automatically on and as of the effective date of any change in the
Eurodollar Reserve Requirement.

     "Event of Default" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section
      ----------------
10.1.

     "Excess Cash Flow" means for the relevant period, (A) the sum of (i)
      ----------------
Consolidated EBITDA for such period (calculated by (x) adding back the cash
component of all extraordinary or non-recurring items of income (other than from
sales of assets not in the ordinary course of business) to the extent excluded
in calculating Consolidated EBITDA and (y) deducting the cash component of all
extraordinary or non-recurring items of expense (other than from sales of assets
not in the ordinary course of business) to the extent excluded in calculating
Consolidated EBITDA); (ii) any net decrease in Working Capital during such
period (except to the extent attributable to assets or Persons subject to an
Asset Disposition); and (iii) cash received from the proceeds of any life
insurance or "key man" policies during such period, minus (B) the sum of,
                                                    -----
without duplication (i) Consolidated Interest Expense to the extent paid in cash
for such period; (ii) the sum of all scheduled principal payments on any
Indebtedness (including Capital Leases and Term Loans pursuant to Sections
2.4(c), (d), (e) and (f) hereof of the Consolidated Group made during such
period from internally generated funds, all voluntary prepayments of Term Loans
made during such period from internally generated funds and all prepayments of
Revolving Loans made during such period from internally generated funds to the
extent accompanied by a permanent reduction in the Revolving Commitment; (iii)
cash Consolidated Capital Expenditures made during such period by the
Consolidated Group to the extent funded from internally generated funds; (iv)
all cash income taxes actually paid to any Governmental Authority by the
Consolidated Group during such period (other than any taxes relating to sales of
assets not in the ordinary course of business); (v) cash paid during such period
for any Permitted Acquisition, in each case to the extent made from internally
generated funds; and (vi) any net increases in Working Capital during such
period (except to the extent attributable to assets or Persons subject to an
Asset Disposition during such period).

     "Excess Proceeds" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section
      ---------------
8.6(b).

     "Existing Controlled Subsidiary" shall have the meaning assigned to such
      ------------------------------
term in Section 9.12.

     "Excluded Property" means, with respect to any member of the Consolidated
      -----------------
Group, including any Person that becomes a member of the Consolidated Group
after the Closing Date as contemplated by Section 8.12, any Property of such
member of the Consolidated Group (i) which, subject to the terms of Section 9.11
and Section 9.15, is subject to a Lien of the type described in clause (ix) of
the definition of "Permitted Liens" pursuant to documents which prohibit such
member of the Consolidated Group from granting any other Liens in such Property,
(ii) which is listed on Schedule 8.13 or (iii) which has a fair market value of
                        -------------
less than $3.0 million.
<PAGE>

                                      -14-

     "Executive Officer" of any Person means any of the chief executive officer,
      -----------------
chief operating officer, president, vice president, chief financial officer or
treasurer of such Person.

     "Exempt Subsidiary" has the meaning given such term in Section 8.12.
      -----------------

     "Existing Indebtedness" means (i) with respect to the Borrower, its senior
      ---------------------
credit facility and all commitments to make extensions of credit to the Borrower
and (ii) with respect to Quorum, all indebtedness, including all commitments to
make extensions of credit to Quorum, and all obligations in respect of the
outstanding preferred stock of Quorum, in each case (i) and (ii) as existing or
outstanding, as the case may be, immediately prior to the Closing Date.

     "Existing Letters of Credit" means those Letters of Credit outstanding on
      --------------------------
the Closing Date and identified on Schedule 2.6(b).
                                   ---------------

     "Extension of Credit" means, as to any Lender, the making of, or
      -------------------
participation in, a Loan by such Lender (including Continuations and Conversions
thereof other than a Conversion of a Eurodollar Loan into a Base Rate Loan) or
the issuance or extension of, or participation in, a Letter of Credit.

     "Federal Funds Rate" means, for any day, the rate per annum (rounded
      ------------------
upwards, if necessary, to the nearest 1/100 of 1%) equal to the weighted average
of the rates on overnight Federal funds transactions with members of the Federal
Reserve System arranged by Federal funds brokers on such day, as published by
the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on the Business Day next succeeding such
day; provided that (a) if such day is not a Business Day, the Federal Funds Rate
     --------
for such day shall be such rate on such transactions on the next preceding
Business Day as so published on the next succeeding Business Day, and (b) if no
such rate is so published on such next succeeding Business Day, the Federal
Funds Rate for such day shall be the average rate charged to the Administrative
Agent (in its individual capacity) on such day on such transactions as
determined by the Administrative Agent.

     "Fee Letter" means that certain letter agreement, dated as of March 5,
      ----------
2001, among Merrill Lynch Capital Corporation, Bank of America, N.A., Banc of
America Securities LLC and Banc of America Bridge LLC and the Borrower, as
amended, modified, restated or supplemented from time to time.

     "Fees" means all fees payable pursuant to Section 3.5.
      ----

     "Foreign Credit Party" means a Credit Party which is not a Domestic Credit
      --------------------
Party.

     "Foreign Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary which is not a Domestic Subsidiary.
      ------------------

     "Funded Debt" means, with respect to any Person, without duplication, (i)
      -----------
all obligations of such Person for borrowed money, (ii) all obligations of such
Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or similar instruments, or upon
which interest payments are customarily made, (iii) all purchase money
Indebtedness (including for purposes hereof, indebtedness and obligations in
respect of conditional sale or title retention arrangements described in clause
(c) of the definition of "Indebtedness" and obligations in respect of the
deferred purchase price of property or services described in clause (d) of the
<PAGE>

                                      -15-

definition of "Indebtedness") of such Person, including without limitation the
principal portion of all obligations of such Person under Capital Leases, (iv)
all Guaranty Obligations of such Person with respect to Funded Debt of another
Person, (v) the maximum available amount of all standby letters of credit or
acceptances issued or created for the account of such Person, (vi) all Funded
Debt of another Person secured by a Lien on any Property of such Person, whether
or not such Funded Debt has been assumed, provided that for purposes hereof the
                                          --------
amount of such Funded Debt shall be limited to the amount of such Funded Debt as
to which there is recourse to such Person or the fair market value of the
property which is subject to the Lien, if less, (vii) the outstanding attributed
principal amount under any Securitization Transaction, and (viii) the principal
balance outstanding under Synthetic Leases.  The Funded Debt of any Person shall
include the Funded Debt of any partnership or joint venture in which such Person
is a general partner or joint venturer, but only to the extent to which there is
recourse to such Person for the payment of such Funded Debt.

     "GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States
      ----
applied on a consistent basis and subject to the terms of Section 1.3.

     "Governmental Authority" means any Federal, state, local or foreign court
      ----------------------
or governmental agency, authority, instrumentality or regulatory body.

     "Guarantor Pledge Agreement" means the pledge agreement  substantially in
      --------------------------
the form of Schedule 7.20(d) attached hereto given by the pledgors identified
therein to the Administrative Agent to secure the obligations of the Guarantors
under the Credit Documents, as amended and modified.

     "Guarantor Security Agreement" means the security agreement substantially
      ----------------------------
in the form of Schedule 7.20(b) attached hereto given by the Guarantors to the
Administrative Agent to secure the obligations of the Guarantors under the
Credit Documents, as amended and modified.

     "Guarantors" means each Subsidiary of the Borrower listed on Schedule
      ----------                                                  --------
1.1(a) hereto and each other Person which provides a guaranty of the obligations
------
of the Borrower under the Credit Documents, in each case together with their
successors and permitted assigns, and "Guarantor" means any one of them;
                                       ---------
provided, however, that upon the release, in accordance with the terms of the
--------  -------
Credit Documents, of any Guarantor's guaranty of such obligations, such
Guarantor shall cease to be a Guarantor hereunder.

     "Guaranty Agreement" means the guaranty agreement substantially in the form
      ------------------
attached hereto on Schedule 5.1(a) given by the Guarantors to the Administrative
Agent with respect to the obligations of the Borrower under the Credit
Documents, as amended and modified.

     "Guaranty Joinder Agreement" means a Guaranty Joinder Agreement
      --------------------------
substantially in the form of Schedule 1 to the Guaranty Agreement, executed and
                             ----------
delivered by a new Guarantor in accordance with the provisions of Section 8.12.

     "Guaranty Obligations" means, with respect to any Person, without
      --------------------
duplication, any obligations of such Person (other than endorsements in the
ordinary course of business of negotiable instruments for deposit or collection)
guaranteeing or intended to guarantee any Indebtedness of any other Person in
any
<PAGE>

                                      -16-

manner, whether direct or indirect, and including without limitation any
obligation, whether or not contingent, (i) to purchase any such Indebtedness or
any Property constituting security therefor, (ii) to advance or provide funds or
other support for the payment or purchase of any such Indebtedness or to
maintain working capital, solvency or other balance sheet condition of such
other Person (including without limitation keep well agreements, maintenance
agreements, comfort letters or similar agreements or arrangements) for the
benefit of any holder of Indebtedness of such other Person, (iii) to lease or
purchase Property, securities or services primarily for the purpose of assuring
the holder of such Indebtedness, or (iv) to otherwise assure or hold harmless
the holder of such Indebtedness against loss in respect thereof. The amount of
any Guaranty Obligation hereunder shall (subject to any limitations set forth
therein) be deemed to be an amount equal to the outstanding principal amount (or
maximum principal amount, if larger) of the Indebtedness in respect of which
such Guaranty Obligation is made.

     "HCA" means HCA - The Healthcare Company, a Delaware corporation, and its
      ---
successors and assigns.

     "Hedging Agreements" means (a) any interest rate protection agreement,
      ------------------
including, for any Person, an interest rate swap, cap or collar agreement or
similar arrangement between such Person and one or more financial institutions
providing for the transfer or mitigation of interest risks either generally or
under specific contingencies or any foreign currency exchange agreement or (b)
any cash management agreement, account services agreement, treasury services
agreement, custodial/global account agreement or similar agreement (and any
indemnity or other agreements related thereto).

     "Indebtedness" means, with respect to any Person, without duplication, (a)
      ------------
all obligations of such Person for borrowed money, (b) all obligations of such
Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or similar instruments, or upon
which interest payments are customarily made, (c) all obligations of such Person
under conditional sale or other title retention agreements relating to Property
purchased by such Person (other than customary reservations or retentions of
title under agreements with suppliers entered into in the ordinary course of
business), (d) all obligations of such Person issued or assumed as the deferred
purchase price of Property or services purchased by such Person (other than
trade debt incurred in the ordinary course of business and due within six (6)
months of the incurrence thereof) which would appear as liabilities on a balance
sheet of such Person, (e) all obligations of such Person under take-or-pay or
similar arrangements or under commodities agreements, (f) all Indebtedness of
others secured by (or for which the holder of such Indebtedness has an existing
right, contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) any Lien on, or payable out of
the proceeds of production from, Property owned or acquired by such Person,
whether or not the obligations secured thereby have been assumed, (g) all
Guaranty Obligations of such Person with respect to Indebtedness of another
Person, (h) the principal portion of all obligations of such Person under
Capital Leases, (i) all obligations of such Person under Hedging Agreements, (j)
the maximum amount of all standby letters of credit issued or bankers'
acceptances facilities created for the account of such Person and, without
duplication, all drafts drawn thereunder (to the extent unreimbursed), (k) all
preferred Capital Stock issued by such Person and which by the terms thereof
could be (at the request of the holders thereof or otherwise) subject to
mandatory sinking fund payments, repurchase, redemption or other acceleration
(other than as a result of a Change of Control or an Asset Disposition that does
not in fact result in a redemption of such preferred Capital Stock) at any time
during the period ending one year after the term of the Credit Agreement, (l)
the principal
<PAGE>

                                      -17-

portion of all obligations of such Person under Synthetic Leases, (m) the
Indebtedness of any partnership or unincorporated joint venture in which such
Person is a general partner or a joint venturer and (n) with respect to any
member of the Consolidated Group, the outstanding attributed principal amount
under any Securitization Transaction.

     "Interbank Offered Rate" means, for any Eurodollar Loan for any Interest
      ----------------------
Period therefor, the rate per annum (rounded upwards, if necessary, to the
nearest 1/100 of 1%) appearing on Telerate Page 3750 (or any successor page) as
the London interbank offered rate for deposits in Dollars at approximately 11:00
A.M. (London time) two (2) Business Days prior to the first day of such Interest
Period for a term comparable to such Interest Period.  If for any reason such
rate is not available, the term "Interbank Offered Rate" shall mean, for any
Eurodollar Loan for any Interest Period therefor, the rate per annum (rounded
upwards, if necessary, to the nearest 1/100 of 1%) appearing on Reuters Screen
LIBO Page as the London interbank offered rate for deposits in Dollars at
approximately 11:00 A.M. (London time) two (2) Business Days prior to the first
day of such Interest Period for a term comparable to such Interest Period;
provided, however, if more than one rate is specified on Reuters Screen LIBO
--------  -------
Page, the applicable rate shall be the arithmetic mean of all such rates
(rounded upwards, if necessary, to the nearest 1/100 of 1%).

     "Interest Payment Date" means (i) as to any Base Rate Loan, the last day of
      ---------------------
each March, June, September and December and the Revolving Commitment
Termination Date, the Asset Sale Loan Maturity Date and the date of the final
principal amortization installment on each Term Loan, as applicable, and (ii) as
to any Eurodollar Loan and Swingline Loan, the last day of each Interest Period
for such Loan, the date of repayment of principal of such Loan and on the
Revolving Commitment Termination Date, the Asset Sale Loan Maturity Date and the
date of the final principal amortization installment on each Term Loan, as
applicable, and in addition where the applicable Interest Period is more than
three (3) months, then also on the date three (3) months from the beginning of
the Interest Period, and each three (3) months thereafter; provided, however,
                                                           --------  -------
that if the Interim Loan is drawn down, interest shall be paid not less
frequently than interest is paid on the Interim Loan and in any event at least
fifteen (15) days prior to payment of interest on the Interim Loan.  If an
Interest Payment Date falls on a date which is not a Business Day, such Interest
Payment Date shall be deemed to be the next succeeding Business Day.

     "Interest Period" means (i) as to any Eurodollar Loan, a period of one,
      ---------------
two, three, six  or, if available from all Lenders, nine or twelve months'
duration, as the Borrower may elect, commencing in each case on the date of the
borrowing (including Conversions, extensions and renewals) and (ii) as to any
Swingline Loan, a period of such duration as the Borrower may request and the
Swingline Lender may agree in accordance with the provisions of Section
2.2(a)(iii), commencing in each case, on the date of borrowing; provided,
                                                                --------
however, (A) if any Interest Period would end on a day which is not a Business
-------
Day, such Interest Period shall be extended to the next succeeding Business Day
(except that in the case of Eurodollar Loans where the next succeeding Business
Day falls in the next succeeding calendar month, then on the next preceding
Business Day), (B) (i) in the case of Loans comprising Revolving Loans, no
Interest Period shall
<PAGE>

                                      -18-

extend beyond the Revolving Commitment Termination Date, (ii) in the case of
Loans comprising the Asset Sale Loan, no Interest Period shall extend beyond the
Asset Sale Loan Maturity Date and (iii) in the case of Loans comprising the Term
Loans, no Interest Period shall extend beyond any principal amortization payment
date unless, and to the extent that, the portion of the applicable Term Loan
comprised of Eurodollar Loans expiring prior to the applicable principal
amortization payment date plus the portion of the applicable Term Loan comprised
of Base Rate Loans equals or exceeds the principal amortization payment then
due, and (C) in the case of Eurodollar Loans, where an Interest Period begins on
a day for which there is no numerically corresponding day in the calendar month
in which the Interest Period is to end, such Interest Period shall end on the
last day of such calendar month.

     "Interim Loan" means a loan of up to $400.0 million to be provided to the
      ------------
Borrower in the event the Borrower is unable to sell the Senior Notes prior to
the Closing Date.

     "Investment" in any Person means (a) the acquisition (whether for cash,
      ----------
property, services, assumption of Indebtedness, securities or otherwise) of
Capital Stock, bonds, notes, debentures, partnership, joint ventures or other
ownership interests or other securities of such other Person or (b) any deposit
with, or advance, loan or other extension of credit to, such Person (other than
deposits made in connection with the purchase of equipment or other assets in
the ordinary course of business) or (c) any other capital contribution to or
investment in such Person, including, without limitation, any Guaranty
Obligations (including any support for a letter of credit issued on behalf of
such Person) incurred for the benefit of such Person, but excluding any
Restricted Payment to such Person.

     "Issuing Lender" means Bank of America.
      --------------

     "Issuing Lender Fees" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      -------------------
Section 3.5(b)(ii).

     "Lead Arrangers" means Merrill Lynch & Co. and Banc of America Securities
      --------------
LLC.

     "Lenders" means each of the Persons identified as a "lender" on the
      -------
signature pages hereto, and their successors and assigns.

     "Letter of Credit" means any Existing Letter of Credit and any standby
      ----------------
letter of credit issued by the Issuing Lender for the account of the Borrower in
accordance with the terms of Section 2.1(b).

     "Letter of Credit Fee" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      --------------------
Section 3.5(b)(i).

     "Licenses" means all licenses, permits and other grants of authority
      --------
obtained or required to be obtained from any Governmental Authorities in
connection with the management or operation of the business, or the ownership,
lease, license or use of any Property, of any member of the Consolidated Group.

     "Lien" means any mortgage, pledge, hypothecation, assignment, deposit
      ----
arrangement, security interest, encumbrance, lien (statutory or otherwise),
preference, priority or charge of any kind (including any agreement to give any
of the foregoing, any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any
financing or similar statement or notice filed under the Uniform Commercial Code
as adopted and in effect in the relevant jurisdiction or other similar recording
or notice statute, and any lease in the nature thereof).
<PAGE>

                                      -19-

     "Loan" or "Loans" means the Revolving Loans, the Swingline Loans, the Asset
      ----      -----
Sale Loan and/or the Term Loans, and the Base Rate Loans, Eurodollar Loans and
Quoted Rate Swingline Loans comprising such Loans.

     "LOC Commitment" means the commitment of the Issuing Lender to issue
      --------------
Letters of Credit in an aggregate face amount at any time outstanding (together
with the amounts of any unreimbursed drawings thereon) of up to the LOC
Committed Amount.

     "LOC Committed Amount" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      --------------------
Section 2.1(b).

     "LOC Documents" means, with respect to any Letter of Credit, such Letter of
      -------------
Credit, any amendments thereto, any documents delivered in connection therewith,
any application therefor, and any agreements, instruments, guarantees or other
documents (whether general in application or applicable only to such Letter of
Credit) governing or providing for (i) the rights and obligations of the parties
concerned or at risk or (ii) any collateral security for such obligations.

     "LOC Obligations" means, at any time, the sum of (i) the maximum amount
      ---------------
which is, or at any time thereafter may become, available to be drawn under
Letters of Credit then outstanding, assuming compliance with all requirements
for drawings referred to in such Letters of Credit plus (ii) the aggregate
                                                   ----
amount of all drawings under Letters of Credit honored by the Issuing Lender but
not theretofore reimbursed.

     "Material Adverse Effect" means a material adverse effect on (i) the
      -----------------------
condition (financial or otherwise), operations, business, assets, liabilities or
prospects of the Consolidated Group taken as a whole, (ii) the ability of any
member of the Consolidated Group to perform any material obligation under the
Credit Documents to which it is a party or (iii) the material rights, benefits
and remedies of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders under the Credit
Documents.

     "Materials of Environmental Concern" means any gasoline or petroleum
      ----------------------------------
(including crude oil or any fraction thereof) or petroleum products or any
hazardous or toxic substances, materials or wastes, defined or regulated as such
in or under any Environmental Laws, including, without limitation, asbestos,
polychlorinated biphenyls and urea-formaldehyde insulation.

     "Merger Agreement" means that certain agreement dated October 18, 2000
      ----------------
whereby THI agreed to acquire all of the capital stock of Quorum and in
connection therewith to merge THH with and into THI.

     "Moody's" means Moody's Investors Service, Inc., or any successor or
      -------
assignee of the business of such company in the business of rating securities.

     "Mortgage" shall mean an agreement, including, but not limited to, a fee or
      --------
leasehold mortgage, deed of trust or any other document acceptable to the Lead
Arrangers, creating and evidencing a Lien on a Mortgaged Property in favor of
the Administrative Agent, which shall be substantially in the form of Schedule
                                                                      --------
7.20(f), with such schedules and including such additional provisions and other
-------
deviations from such Schedule 7.20(f) or form as shall be necessary to conform
                     ----------------
such document to applicable Requirements
<PAGE>

                                      -20-

of Law or as shall be customary under such applicable Requirements of Law, as
the same may at any time be amended in accordance with the terms thereof and
hereof.

     "Mortgaged Properties" shall mean each of the parcels of real property
      --------------------
identified on Schedule 7.21(a-1) hereto and any other real property made subject
              ------------------
to a Mortgage pursuant to Sections 8.12 and 8.13 hereof.

     "Multiemployer Plan" means a Plan which is a "multiemployer plan" as
      ------------------
defined in Section 3(37) or 4001(a)(3) of ERISA.

     "Multiple Employer Plan" means a Plan (other than a Multiemployer Plan)
      ----------------------
which any member of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate and at least
one employer other than the members of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA
Affiliate are contributing sponsors.

     "Net Proceeds" means gross cash proceeds (including any cash received by
      ------------
way of deferred payment pursuant to a promissory note, receivable or otherwise,
but only as and when received) received in connection with an Asset Disposition,
Equity Transaction or Debt Transaction, net of (i) reasonable transaction costs,
including in the case of an Equity Transaction or a Debt Transaction,
underwriting discounts and commissions and in the case of an Asset Disposition
occurring in connection with a claim under an insurance policy, costs incurred
in connection with adjustment and settlement of the claim, (ii) estimated taxes
payable in connection therewith, (iii) in the case of an Asset Disposition or
Debt Transaction, any amounts payable in respect of Funded Debt, including
without limitation principal, interest, premiums and penalties, which is secured
by, or otherwise related to, any property or asset which is the subject thereof
to the extent that such Funded Debt and any payments in respect thereof are paid
with a portion of the proceeds therefrom and (iv) in the case of an Asset
Disposition, the amount of any reserves necessary for post-closing adjustments
(including indemnification payments), as determined by the Borrower in its
reasonable discretion, provided that to the extent such reserves are not applied
                       --------
to, and in the Borrower's reasonable discretion are no longer necessary with
respect to, such post-closing adjustments, such reserves shall thereupon become
Net Proceeds.

     "Note" or "Notes" means any of the Revolving Notes, the Asset Sale Notes
      ----      -----
and/or the Term Notes.

     "Notice of Borrowing" means a written notice of borrowing in substantially
      -------------------
the form of Schedule 2.2(a)(i), as required by Section 2.2(a)(i), Section
            ------------------
2.2(a)(iii), Section 2.2(a)(iv) or Section 2.2(a)(v).

     "Notice of Continuation/Conversion" means the written notice of
      ---------------------------------
Continuation or Conversion in substantially the form of Schedule 3.2, as
                                                        ------------
required by Section 3.2.

     "Obligations" means, collectively, the Revolving Loans, the Swingline
      -----------
Loans, the LOC Obligations, the Asset Sale Loan and the Term Loans, including
principal, interest, fees, indemnities and other amounts payable under the
Credit Documents, and whether or not allowed as a claim in any bankruptcy
proceeding.
<PAGE>

                                      -21-

     "Operating Lease" means, as applied to any Person, any lease (including,
      ---------------
without limitation, leases which may be terminated by the lessee at any time) of
any Property (whether real, personal or mixed) which is not a Capital Lease
other than any such lease in which that Person is the lessor.

     "Other Taxes" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section 3.11.
      -----------

     "Participation Interest" means the purchase by a Lender of a participation
      ----------------------
in LOC Obligations as provided in Section 2.6(c), in Swingline Loans as provided
in Section 2.7 and in Loans as provided in Section 3.14.

     "PBGC" means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation established pursuant
      ----
to Subtitle A of Title IV of ERISA and any successor thereof.

     "Permitted Acquisition" means any Acquisition by a member of the
      ---------------------
Consolidated Group, provided that (i) consideration paid is not greater than the
fair market value thereof, (ii) the party or property which is the subject of
such Acquisition shall be in the same or similar line of business as the members
of the Consolidated Group which are parties thereto, (iii) in the case of a
merger or consolidation, and in other cases where appropriate, the board of
directors or other governing body of the other party which is the subject of the
transaction of merger or consolidation shall have approved the Acquisition, (iv)
the Borrower shall have delivered to the Administrative Agent a Pro Forma
Compliance Certificate demonstrating that, upon giving effect to such
Acquisition on a Pro Forma Basis, the Borrower shall be in compliance with all
of the covenants set forth in Section 8.11, (v) if the Acquisition involves an
interest in a partnership and a requirement that a member of the Consolidated
Group be a general partner, the general partner shall be a newly formed special
purpose Subsidiary of the Borrower, (vi) after giving effect to the Acquisition,
there shall be at least $50.0 million of availability under the Revolving
Commitments hereunder, (vii) the aggregate consideration paid in connection with
such Acquisitions (including cash consideration and the fair value of any non-
cash consideration and indebtedness assumed) shall not exceed $100.0 million in
the aggregate in any fiscal year (plus up to $50.0 million of Net Proceeds from
                                  ----
Asset Dispositions that may be applied to Permitted Acquisitions pursuant to
Section 3.3(b)(ii)(B) minus the amount expended pursuant to clause (xi) of the
                      -----
definition of Permitted Investments in the twelve (12) months preceding any such
Acquisition) and (viii) in the case of an asset swap, the Borrower shall have
delivered to the Administrative Agent a certificate of an Executive Officer, in
detail reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, demonstrating that,
upon giving effect to such asset swap on a Pro Forma Basis, Consolidated Funded
Debt will not be greater than, and Consolidated EBITDA will not be less than,
prior to the asset swap.

     "Permitted Investments" means Investments which are (i) cash and Cash
      ---------------------
Equivalents; (ii) accounts receivable created, acquired or made in the ordinary
course of business and payable or dischargeable in accordance with customary
trade terms; (iii) Investments consisting of Capital Stock, obligations,
securities or other property received in settlement of accounts receivable
(created in the ordinary course of business) from bankrupt obligors; (iv)
Investments existing as of the Closing Date and set forth in Schedule 9.6; (v)
                                                             ------------
advances or loans to directors, officers and employees that do not exceed $5.0
million in the aggregate at any one time outstanding; (vi) advances or loans to
customers and suppliers in the ordinary course of business that do not exceed
$5.0 million in the aggregate at any one time
<PAGE>

                                      -22-

outstanding; (vii) Investments by members of the Consolidated Group in their
Subsidiaries and Affiliates existing on the Closing Date; (viii) Investments by
members of the Consolidated Group in and to Domestic Credit Parties (other than
Controlled Subsidiaries); (ix) Investments which constitute Permitted
Acquisitions; (x) loans made in connection with the purchase of common stock of
THI pursuant to any Plan (including ESOP) and loans made in connection with the
purchase of common stock of THI pursuant to THI's executive stock purchase plan
of up to $25.0 million in the aggregate at any time outstanding; (xi)
Investments consisting of the purchase of all of the minority equity interests
of any third party investor in a Subsidiary of the Borrower, provided, however,
that with the exception of the Acquisition of the entire minority interest of
any such Subsidiary, such Investment shall not constitute a payment of a direct
or indirect dividend to such third party investor; (xii) Investments which
constitute Restricted Payments made pursuant to Section 9.7, (xiii) Investments
in any Exempt Subsidiary existing on the date of designation of such Subsidiary
as an Exempt Subsidiary (and any renewal or replacement thereof in an amount no
greater than, and on terms and conditions no less favorable than, that being
renewed or replaced), (xiv) Investments by Exempt Subsidiaries in Exempt
Subsidiaries, (xv) Investments made in a Governmental Authority in connection
with the Vicksburg Financing; (xvi) Investments by members of the Consolidated
Group (other than Exempt Subsidiaries) made in any Exempt Subsidiary after the
date it is designated as an Exempt Subsidiary provided that on the date such
Investment is made (and after giving effect to such Investment), the aggregate
assets of all Exempt Subsidiaries do not exceed 16% of the consolidated assets
of the Consolidated Group and (xvii) Investments of a nature not contemplated in
the foregoing subsections in an amount not to exceed at any time ten percent
(10%) of Consolidated Tangible Net Worth at such time.

     "Permitted Liens" means:
      ---------------

            (i) Liens in favor of the Administrative Agent to secure the
     obligations of the Credit Parties under the Credit Documents;

            (ii) Liens in favor of a Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender pursuant
     to a Hedging Agreement permitted hereunder, but only (A) to the extent such
     Liens secure obligations under such agreements permitted under Section 9.1,
     (B) to the extent such Liens are on the same collateral as to which the
     Lenders hereunder also have a Lien, and (C) so long as the obligations
     under such Hedging Agreement and the loans and obligations hereunder and
     under the other Credit Documents shall share pari passu in the collateral
                                                  ----------
     subject to such Liens;

            (iii)  Liens (other than Liens created or imposed under ERISA) for
     taxes, assessments or governmental charges or levies not yet due or Liens
     for taxes being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings for
     which adequate reserves determined in accordance with GAAP have been
     established (and as to which the Property subject to any such Lien is not
     yet subject to foreclosure, sale or loss on account thereof);

            (iv) statutory Liens of landlords and Liens of carriers,
     warehousemen, mechanics, materialmen and suppliers and other Liens imposed
     by law or pursuant to customary reservations or retentions of title arising
     in the ordinary course of business, provided that such Liens secure only
                                         --------
     amounts not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, are unfiled and no
     other
<PAGE>

                                      -23-

     action has been taken to enforce the same or are being contested in good
     faith by appropriate proceedings for which adequate reserves determined in
     accordance with GAAP have been established (and as to which the Property
     subject to any such Lien is not yet subject to foreclosure, sale or loss on
     account thereof);

            (v) Liens (other than Liens created or imposed under ERISA) incurred
     or deposits made by any member of the Consolidated Group in the ordinary
     course of business in connection with workers' compensation, unemployment
     insurance and other types of social security, or to secure the performance
     of tenders, statutory obligations, bids, leases, government contracts,
     performance and return-of-money bonds and other similar obligations
     (exclusive of obligations for the payment of borrowed money);

            (vi) Liens incurred or deposits made by any member of the
     Consolidated Group in connection with any self-retention of medical
     malpractice liability by such members of the Consolidated Group with
     respect to medical malpractice which are required by providers of medical
     malpractice insurance to the members of the Consolidated Group;

            (vii)  Liens in connection with attachments or judgments (including
     judgment or appeal bonds) provided that the judgments secured shall, within
                               --------
     thirty (30) days after the entry thereof, have been discharged or execution
     thereof stayed pending appeal, or shall have been discharged within thirty
     (30) days after the expiration of any such stay;

            (viii)  easements, rights-of-way, covenants, restrictions (including
     zoning restrictions), defects or irregularities in title and other similar
     charges or encumbrances not, in any material respect, impairing the use of
     the Property for its intended purposes;

            (ix) Liens on Property of any Person securing purchase money and
     sale/leaseback Indebtedness (including Capital Leases and Synthetic Leases)
     of such Person to the extent permitted under Section 9.1(c), provided that
                                                                  --------
     any such Lien attaches only to the Property financed or leased and such
     Lien attaches concurrently with or within ninety (90) days after the
     acquisition or construction thereof;

            (x) leases or subleases granted to others not interfering in any
     material respect with the business of any member of the Consolidated Group;

            (xi) any interest or title of a lessor under, and Liens arising from
     UCC financing statements (or equivalent filings, registrations or
     agreements in foreign jurisdictions) relating to, leases permitted by this
     Credit Agreement;

            (xii)  Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities arising as
     a matter of law to secure payment of customs duties in connection with the
     importation of goods;

            (xiii)  Liens created or deemed to exist in connection with a
     Securitization Transaction permitted hereunder (including any related
     filings of any UCC financing statements), but
<PAGE>

                                      -24-

     only to the extent that any such Lien relates to the applicable
     Securitization Receivables actually sold, contributed, financed or
     otherwise conveyed or pledged pursuant to such transaction;

            (xiv)  Liens deemed to exist in connection with Investments in
     repurchase agreements which constitute Permitted Investments;

            (xv) normal and customary rights of setoff upon deposits of cash in
     favor of banks or other depository institutions;

            (xvi)  Liens of a collection bank arising under Section 4-210 of the
     Uniform Commercial Code on items in the course of collection;

            (xvii)  Liens created in connection with the mortgage of real
     property granted by Vicksburg Healthcare, LLC in connection with the
     Vicksburg Financing; and

            (xviii)  Liens existing as of the Closing Date and set forth on
     Schedule 7.8; provided that (a) no such Lien shall at any time be extended
     ------------  --------
     to or cover any Property other than the Property subject thereto on the
     Closing Date and (b) the principal amount of the Indebtedness secured by
     such Liens shall not be extended, renewed, refunded or refinanced.

     "Person" means any individual, partnership, joint venture, firm,
      ------
corporation, limited liability company, association, trust or other enterprise
(whether or not incorporated) or any Governmental Authority.

     "Plan" means any employee benefit plan (as defined in Section 3(3) of
      ----
ERISA) which is covered by ERISA and with respect to which any member of the
Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate is (or, if such plan were terminated
at such time, would under Section 4069 of ERISA be deemed to be) an "employer"
within the meaning of Section 3(5) of ERISA.

     "Pledge Agreements" means collectively, the Borrower Pledge Agreement and
      -----------------
the Guarantor Pledge Agreement.

     "Pro Forma Basis" means, for purposes of calculating (utilizing the
      ---------------
principles set forth in the second paragraph of Section 1.3) the applicable
pricing level under the definition of "Applicable Percentage" and determining
compliance with each of the financial covenants set forth in Section 8.11, that
the referenced transaction shall be deemed to have occurred as of the first day
of the four (4) fiscal-quarter period ending as of the most recent fiscal
quarter end preceding the date of such transaction with respect to which the
Administrative Agent has received the Required Financial Information.  As used
herein, "transaction" shall mean (i) any merger or consolidation permitted under
         -----------
Section 9.4, (ii) any Asset Disposition permitted under Section 9.5, (iii) any
Acquisition permitted under the definition of "Permitted Acquisition" or (iv)
any merger, consolidation, Asset Disposition or Acquisition occurring in any
applicable period prior to the Closing Date.  In connection with any calculation
of the financial covenants set forth in Section 8.11 upon giving effect to a
transaction on a Pro Forma Basis:
<PAGE>

                                      -25-

          (A) for purposes of any such calculation in respect of any such Asset
     Disposition, (1) income statement items (whether positive or negative)
     attributable to the Property disposed of in such Asset Disposition shall be
     excluded and (2) any Indebtedness which is retired in connection with such
     Asset Disposition shall be excluded and deemed to have been retired as of
     the first day of the applicable period; and

          (B) for purposes of any such calculation in respect of any such merger
     or consolidation or any such Acquisition, (1) any Indebtedness incurred by
     any member of the Consolidated Group in connection with such transaction
     (x) shall be deemed to have been incurred as of the first day of the
     applicable period and (y) if such Indebtedness has a floating or formula
     rate, shall have an implied rate of interest for the applicable period for
     purposes of this definition determined by utilizing the rate which is or
     would be in effect with respect to such Indebtedness as at the relevant
     date of determination, and (2) income statement items (whether positive or
     negative) attributable to the Property acquired in such transaction or
     pursuant to the Acquisition comprising such transaction, as applicable,
     shall be included beginning as of the first day of the applicable period.

     "Pro Forma Compliance Certificate" means a certificate of an Executive
      --------------------------------
Officer of the Borrower delivered to the Administrative Agent in connection with
(i) any incurrence, assumption or retirement of Indebtedness permitted under
Section 9.1, (ii) any merger or consolidation permitted under Section 9.4, (iii)
any Asset Disposition permitted under Section 9.5 or (iv) any Acquisition
permitted under the definition of "Permitted Acquisition," as applicable, and
containing reasonably detailed calculations, upon giving effect to the
applicable transaction on a Pro Forma Basis, of the Consolidated Fixed Charge
Coverage Ratio, the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio, the Consolidated Senior
Leverage Ratio and Consolidated Net Worth as of the most recent fiscal quarter
end preceding the date of the applicable transaction with respect to which the
Administrative Agent shall have received the Required Financial Information.

     "Property" means any interest in any kind of property or asset, whether
      --------
real, personal or mixed, or tangible or intangible.

     "QHR" means Quorum Health Resources LLC, as it exists on the date of the
      ---
Quorum Acquisition, and as it is developed consistent with the business it
conducts on such date, and any business or assets reasonably related or
ancillary thereto.

     "QHR Disposition" means the sale or contribution in connection with the
      ---------------
formation of a joint venture, directly or indirectly, of all or a portion of the
assets, business or membership interests of QHR (or any successors thereto) as
it exists on the Closing Date, as it is developed consistent with the business
it conducts on the Closing Date, and of any business or assets reasonably
related or ancillary thereto, consummated within 12 months after the Closing
Date; provided however, that no such transaction shall be permitted (i) if any
member of the Consolidated Group shall have invested more than $10 million in
QHR since the Closing Date (net of reduction in such investments); (ii) unless
the Borrower or a Guarantor shall have received consideration of at least $50
million in cash or Cash Equivalents plus the aggregate amount of Investments
made in QHR since the Closing Date by any member of the
<PAGE>

                                      -26-

Consolidated Group; and (iii) if any joint venture created in connection with
such transaction is a Subsidiary immediately after consummation of such
transaction.

     "Quorum" means Quorum Health Group, Inc.
      ------

     "Quorum Acquisition" means the acquisition by THI of Quorum by the merger
      ------------------
of Quorum with and into THI pursuant to the Merger Agreement.

     "Quorum Properties" shall mean each of the parcels of real property
      -----------------
identified on Schedule 7.21(a-2) hereto.
              ------------------

     "Quoted Rate" means, with respect to a Quoted Rate Swingline Loan, the
      -----------
fixed or floating percentage rate per annum, if any, offered by the Swingline
Lender and accepted by the Borrower.

     "Quoted Rate Swingline Loan" means a Swingline Loan bearing interest at the
      --------------------------
Quoted Rate.

     "Rate Determination Date" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      -----------------------
the definition of "Applicable Percentage."

     "Refinancing" means the refinancing by the Borrower of the Existing
      -----------
Indebtedness.

     "Register" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section 12.3(c).
      --------

     "Regulation D, T, U, or X" means Regulation D, T, U or X, respectively, of
      ------------------------
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System as from time to time in
effect and any successor to all or a portion thereof.

     "Replaced Lender" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section
      ---------------
3.17.

     "Replacement Lender" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      ------------------
Section 3.17.

     "Reportable Event" means any of the events set forth in Section 4043(c) of
      ----------------
ERISA, other than those events as to which the notice requirement has been
waived by regulation.

     "Required Financial Information" means the annual and quarterly compliance
      ------------------------------
certificates and related financial statements and information required by the
provisions of Sections 8.1(a), (b) and (c), as referenced in the definition of
"Applicable Percentage."

     "Required Lenders" means, at any time, Lenders having more than fifty
      ----------------
percent (50%) of the aggregate Commitments or, if the Commitments have been
terminated, Lenders having more than fifty percent (50%) of the aggregate
principal amount of the Obligations outstanding (taking into account in each
case Participation Interests or obligation to participate therein); provided
                                                                    --------
that the Commitments of, and outstanding principal amount of Obligations (taking
into account Participation Interests therein) owing to, a Defaulting Lender
shall be excluded for purposes hereof in making a determination of Required
Lenders.
<PAGE>

                                      -27-

     "Requirement of Law" means, as to any Person, the certificate of
      ------------------
incorporation and by-laws or other organizational or governing documents of such
Person, and any law, treaty, rule, regulation or ordinance (including, without
limitation, Environmental Laws) or determination of an arbitrator or a court or
other Governmental Authority, in each case applicable to or binding upon such
Person or to which any of its material Property is subject.

     "Restricted Payment" means (i) any dividend or other payment or
      ------------------
distribution, direct or indirect, on account of any shares of any class of
Capital Stock of any member of the Consolidated Group, now or hereafter
outstanding (including without limitation any payment in connection with any
dissolution, merger, consolidation or disposition involving any member of the
Consolidated Group), or to the holders, in their capacity as such, of any shares
of any class of Capital Stock of any member of the Consolidated Group, now or
hereafter outstanding (other than dividends or distributions payable in the same
class of Capital Stock of the applicable Person or to any Credit Party (directly
or indirectly through Subsidiaries)), (ii) any redemption, retirement, sinking
fund or similar payment, purchase or other acquisition for value, direct or
indirect, of any shares of any class of Capital Stock of any member of the
Consolidated Group, now or hereafter outstanding other than Investments made
pursuant to clause (xi) of the definition of Permitted Investments, and (iii)
any payment made to retire, or to obtain the surrender of, any outstanding
warrants, options or other rights to acquire shares of any class of Capital
Stock of any member of the Consolidated Group, now or hereafter outstanding;
provided, however, that payments to existing shareholders of Quorum pursuant to
the terms of the Merger Agreement as in effect on the Closing Date made on or
after the Closing Date shall not constitute Restricted Payments, hereunder.

     "Revolving Commitment" means, with respect to each Revolving Lender, the
      --------------------
commitment of such Revolving Lender to make Revolving Loans in an aggregate
principal amount at any time outstanding of up to such Revolving Lender's
Revolving Committed Amount, as such amount may be reduced from time to time in
accordance with the provisions hereof.

     "Revolving Commitment Percentage" means, for each Revolving Lender, a
      -------------------------------
fraction (expressed as a percentage) the numerator of which is the Revolving
Commitment of such Revolving Lender at such time and the denominator of which is
the Aggregate Revolving Committed Amount at such time.  The initial Revolving
Commitment Percentages are set out on Schedule 2.1.
                                      ------------

     "Revolving Commitment Termination Date" means the date six (6) years
      -------------------------------------
following the Closing Date.

     "Revolving Committed Amount" means, collectively, the aggregate amount of
      --------------------------
all of the Revolving Commitments and, individually, the amount of each Revolving
Lender's Revolving Commitment as specified in Schedule 2.1.
                                              ------------

     "Revolving Lenders" means Lenders holding Revolving Commitments, as
      -----------------
identified on Schedule 2.1, and their successors and assigns.
              ------------

     "Revolving Loans" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section
      ---------------
2.1(a).

     "Revolving Note" or "Revolving Notes" means the promissory notes of the
      --------------      ---------------
Borrower in favor of each of the Revolving Lenders (or nominees thereof)
evidencing the Revolving Loans and Swingline
<PAGE>

                                      -28-

Loans in substantially the form attached as Schedule 2.5-1, individually or
collectively, as appropriate, as such promissory notes may be amended, modified,
supplemented, extended, renewed or replaced from time to time.

     "Revolving Obligations" means, collectively, the Revolving Loans, Swingline
      ---------------------
Loans and LOC Obligations.

     "S&P" means Standard & Poor's Ratings Group, a division of The McGraw Hill
      ---
Companies, Inc., or any successor or assignee of the business of such division
in the business of rating securities.

     "Sale and Leaseback Transaction" means any arrangement pursuant to which
      ------------------------------
any member of the Consolidated Group, directly or indirectly, becomes liable as
lessee, guarantor or other surety with respect to any lease, whether an
Operating Lease or a Capital Lease, of any Property (a) which such member of the
Consolidated Group has sold or transferred (or is to sell or transfer) to, or
arranged the purchase by, a Person which is not a member of the Consolidated
Group or (b) which such member of the Consolidated Group intends to use for
substantially the same purpose as any other Property which has been sold or
transferred (or is to be sold or transferred) by such member of the Consolidated
Group to another Person which is not a member of the Consolidated Group in
connection with such lease.

     "Securities Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
      -----------------------
amended.

     "Securitization Transaction" means any financing transaction or series of
      --------------------------
financing transactions that have been or may be entered into by a member of the
Consolidated Group pursuant to which such member of the Consolidated Group may
sell, convey or otherwise transfer to (i) a Subsidiary or affiliate (a
"Securitization Subsidiary"), or (ii) any other Person, or may grant a security
--------------------------
interest in, any accounts receivable, notes receivable, rights to future lease
payments or residuals or other similar rights to payment (the "Securitization
                                                               --------------
Receivables") (whether such Securitization Receivables are then existing or
-----------
arising in the future) of such member of the Consolidated Group, and any assets
related thereto, including without limitation, all security interests in
merchandise or services financed thereby, the proceeds of such Securitization
Receivables, and other assets which are customarily sold or in respect of which
security interests are customarily granted in connection with securitization
transactions involving such assets.

     "Security Agreements" means a collective reference to the Borrower Security
      -------------------
Agreement and the Guarantor Security Agreement.

     "Senior Debt" means Indebtedness of a member of the Consolidated Group
      -----------
which is not contractually subordinated to any other Indebtedness of a member of
the Consolidated Group.

     "Senior Notes" means the unsecured senior notes of the Borrower to be
      ------------
issued and sold in an unregistered offering in an aggregate principal amount of
$600.0 million in lieu of drawing down the Interim Loan.

     "Senior Secured Credit Facilities" means the Tranche A Term Loan, the
      --------------------------------
Tranche B Term Loan, the Asset Sale Loan and the Revolving Loans.
<PAGE>

                                      -29-

     "Senior Subordinated Notes" means those 11% Senior Subordinated Notes of
      -------------------------
the Borrower due 2009 issued pursuant to the terms of that Indenture dated as of
May 11, 1999 with CitiCorp USA, Inc. as Trustee, in each case as amended and
modified.

     "Single Employer Plan" means any Plan which is covered by Title IV of
      --------------------
ERISA, but which is not a Multiemployer Plan or a Multiple Employer Plan.

     "Subordinated Debt" means (i) the Senior Subordinated Notes and (ii) any
      -----------------
other Indebtedness of a member of the Consolidated Group which by its terms is
expressly subordinated in right of payment to the prior payment of the loans and
obligations under the Credit Agreement and the other Credit Documents on the
terms and conditions and evidenced by documentation satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent and the Required Lenders.

     "Subsidiary" means, as to any Person at any time, (a) any corporation more
      ----------
than 50% of whose Capital Stock of any class or classes having by the terms
thereof ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the directors of such
corporation (irrespective of whether or not at such time, any class or classes
of such corporation shall have or might have voting power by reason of the
happening of any contingency) is at such time owned by such Person directly or
indirectly through Subsidiaries, and (b) any partnership, association, joint
venture or other entity of which such Person directly or indirectly through
Subsidiaries owns at such time more than 50% of the Capital Stock; provided that
no Plan (including ESOP) shall be considered a Subsidiary of THI.

     "Swingline Commitment" means the commitment of the Swingline Lender to make
      --------------------
Swingline Loans in an aggregate principal amount at any time outstanding up to
the Swingline Committed Amount and the commitment of the Revolving Lenders to
purchase participation interests in the Swingline Loans up to their respective
Revolving Commitment Percentage as provided in Section 2.1(c), as such amounts
may be reduced from time to time in accordance with the provisions hereof.

     "Swingline Committed Amount" means the amount of the Swingline Lender's
      --------------------------
Commitment as specified in Section 2.1(c).

     "Swingline Lender" means Bank of America.
      ----------------

     "Swingline Loan" means a swingline revolving loan made by the Swingline
      --------------
Lender pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.1(c).

     "Synthetic Lease" means any synthetic lease, tax retention operating lease,
      ---------------
off-balance sheet loan or similar off-balance sheet financing product where such
transaction is considered borrowed money indebtedness for tax purposes but is
classified as an Operating Lease under GAAP.

     "Take-out Securities" means debt securities issued and sold by the
      -------------------
Borrower, the proceeds of which are used to repay the Interim Loan, if funded,
in accordance with the terms of the documents governing the Interim Loan.
<PAGE>

                                      -30-

     "Tax Sharing Agreement" means the Tax Sharing and Indemnification
      ---------------------
Agreement, dated as of May 11, 1999, by and among HCA, THI and LifePoint
Hospitals, Inc.

     "Taxes" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section 3.11.
      -----

     "Term Lenders" means Lenders holding Term Loan Commitments, as identified
      ------------
on Schedule 2.1, and their successors and assigns.
   ------------

     "Term Loan Commitment Percentage" means the Tranche A Term Loan Commitment
      -------------------------------
Percentage and/or the Tranche B Term Loan Commitment Percentage, as appropriate.

     "Term Loan Commitments" means the Tranche A Term Loan Commitments and the
      ---------------------
Tranche B Term Loan Commitments.

     "Term Loan Committed Amounts" means the Tranche A Term Loan Committed
      ---------------------------
Amount, and/or the Tranche B Term Loan Committed Amount.

     "Term Loans" means the Tranche A Term Loan and the Tranche B Term Loan.
      ----------

     "Term Notes" means, collectively, the Tranche A Term Notes and Tranche B
      ----------
Term Notes.

     "THH" means Triad Hospitals Holdings, Inc.
      ---

     "THI" means Triad Hospitals, Inc.
      ---

     "Tranche A Term Lenders" means Lenders holding Tranche A Term Loan
      ----------------------
Commitments, as identified on Schedule 2.1, and their successors and assigns.
                              ------------

     "Tranche A Term Loan" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      -------------------
Section 2.1(e).

     "Tranche A Term Loan Commitment" means, with respect to each Tranche A Term
      ------------------------------
Lender, the commitment of such Tranche A Term Lender to make a Tranche A Term
Loan advance equal to such Tranche A Term Lender's Tranche A Term Loan Committed
Amount (and for purposes of making determinations of Required Lenders and for
purposes of calculations referred to in Section 12.6(b), the principal amount
outstanding on the Tranche A Term Loan).

     "Tranche A Term Loan Commitment Percentage" means, for each Tranche A Term
      -----------------------------------------
Lender, a fraction (expressed as a percentage) the numerator of which is the
amount of the Tranche A Term Loan Commitment of such Lender at such time and the
denominator of which is the aggregate amount of the Tranche A Term Loan
Commitment at such time.  The initial Tranche A Term Loan Commitment Percentages
are set out on Schedule 2.1.
               ------------

     "Tranche A Term Loan Committed Amount" means, collectively, the aggregate
      ------------------------------------
amount of all of the Tranche A Term Loan Commitments and, individually, the
amount of each Tranche A Term Lender's
<PAGE>

                                      -31-

Tranche A Term Loan Commitment as specified on Schedule 2.1, as such amounts may
be reduced from time to time in accordance with the provisions hereof.

     "Tranche A Term Note" or "Tranche A Term Notes" means the promissory notes
      -------------------      --------------------
of the Borrower in favor of each of the Tranche A Term Lenders (or nominees
thereof) evidencing the Tranche A Term Loan in substantially the form attached
as Schedule 2.5-3, individually or collectively, as appropriate, as such
   --------------
promissory notes may be amended, modified, supplemented, extended or renewed
from time to time.

     "Tranche B Term Lenders" means Lenders holding Tranche B Term Loan
      ----------------------
Commitments, as identified on Schedule 2.1, and their successors and assigns.
                              ------------

     "Tranche B Term Loan" shall have the meaning assigned to such term in
      -------------------
Section 2.1(f).

     "Tranche B Term Loan Commitment" means, with respect to each Tranche B Term
      ------------------------------
Lender, the commitment of such Tranche B Term Lender to make a Tranche B Term
Loan advance equal to such Tranche B Term Lender's Tranche B Term Loan Committed
Amount (and for purposes of making determinations of Required Lenders hereunder
after the Closing Date and for purposes of making calculations referred to in
Section 12.6(b), the aggregate principal amount of the Tranche B Term Loan).

     "Tranche B Term Loan Commitment Percentage" means, for each Tranche B Term
      -----------------------------------------
Lender, a fraction (expressed as a percentage) the numerator of which is the
amount of the Tranche B Term Loan Commitment of such Lender at such time and the
denominator of which is the aggregate amount of the Tranche B Term Loan
Commitment at such time.  The initial Tranche B Term Loan Commitment Percentages
are set out on Schedule 2.1.
               ------------

     "Tranche B Term Loan Committed Amount" means, collectively, the aggregate
      ------------------------------------
amount of all of the Tranche B Term Loan Commitments and, individually, the
amount of each Tranche B Term Lender's Tranche B Term Loan Commitment as
specified on Schedule 2.1, as such amounts may be reduced from time to time in
             ------------
accordance with the provisions hereof.

     "Tranche B Term Note" or "Tranche B Term Notes" means the promissory notes
      -------------------      --------------------
of the Borrower in favor of each of the Tranche B Term Lenders (or nominees
thereof) evidencing the Tranche B Term Loan in substantially the form attached
as Schedule 2.5-4, individually or collectively, as appropriate, as such
   --------------
promissory notes may be amended, modified, supplemented, extended or renewed
from time to time.

     "Transactions" means, collectively, (i) the Quorum Acquisition, (ii) the
      ------------
issuance by the Borrower of its Common Stock in partial consideration for the
Quorum Acquisition pursuant to the Merger Agreement, (iii) the issuance and sale
of the Senior Notes (or the drawdown of the Interim Loan in lieu thereof), (iv)
the Refinancing and (v) the entering into of this Credit Agreement by the
parties hereto and the borrowings hereunder.

     "UCC" means the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect on the date hereof in
      ---
the State of New York; provided, however, that if by reason of mandatory
                       --------  -------
provisions of law, the perfection or the effect of the perfection or non-
perfection of the security interest in any item or portion of the Collateral is
governed by the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in a jurisdiction other
than the State of New York,
<PAGE>

                                      -32-

"UCC" shall mean the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in such other
jurisdiction for purposes of the provisions hereof relating to such perfection
or effect of perfection or non-perfection.

     "Vicksburg Financing" means a transaction between and among members of the
      -------------------
Consolidated Group and a Governmental Authority of the State of Mississippi
relating to the tax-advantaged construction of healthcare facilities in
Vicksburg, Mississippi, which involves a member of the Consolidated Group
acquiring evidences of indebtedness of such Governmental Authority approximately
equivalent to the amount of a secured loan made to Vicksburg Healthcare, LLC by
such Governmental Authority.

     "Voting Stock" means, with respect to any Person, Capital Stock issued by
      ------------
such Person the holders of which are ordinarily, in the absence of
contingencies, entitled to vote for the election of directors (or persons
performing similar functions) of such Person, even though the right so to vote
has been suspended by the happening of such a contingency.

     "Wholly Owned Subsidiary" of any Person means any Subsidiary 100% of whose
      -----------------------
Voting Stock is at the time owned by such Person directly or indirectly through
other Wholly Owned Subsidiaries.

     "Working Capital" means an amount determined for the Consolidated Group
      ---------------
equal to the sum of all current assets (other than cash and Cash Equivalents)
less the sum of all current liabilities (other than the current portion of long-
term Indebtedness).

1.2  Computation of Time Periods.
     ---------------------------

     For purposes of computation of periods of time hereunder, the word "from"
means "from and including" and the words "to" and "until" each mean "to but
excluding."

1.3  Accounting Terms.
     ----------------

     Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all accounting terms used
herein shall be interpreted, and all financial statements and certificates and
reports as to financial matters required to be delivered to the Lenders
hereunder shall be prepared, in accordance with GAAP applied on a consistent
basis.  All calculations made for the purposes of determining compliance with
this Credit Agreement shall (except as otherwise expressly provided herein) be
made by application of GAAP applied on a basis consistent with the most recent
annual or quarterly financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 8.1 (or,
prior to the delivery of the first financial statements pursuant to Section 8.1,
consistent with the annual audited financial statements referenced in Section
7.1(i) hereof); provided, however, if (a) the Borrower shall object to
                --------  -------
determining such compliance on such basis at the time of delivery of such
financial statements due to any change in GAAP or the rules promulgated with
respect thereto after the Closing Date or (b) the Administrative Agent or the
Required Lenders shall so object, in either case in writing within sixty (60)
days after delivery of such financial statements, then such calculations shall
continue to be made on a basis consistent with the most recent financial
statements delivered by the Borrower to the Lenders until the Borrower and the
Required Lenders otherwise agree.

     Notwithstanding the above, the parties hereto acknowledge and agree that,
for purposes of all calculations made under the financial covenants set forth in
Section 8.11 (including without limitation
<PAGE>

                                      -33-

for purposes of the definitions of "Applicable Percentage" and "Pro Forma Basis"
hereunder), (i) in connection with any Asset Disposition permitted under Section
9.5, (A) income statement items (whether positive or negative) attributable to
the Property disposed of shall be excluded to the extent relating to any period
occurring prior to the date of such transaction and (B) Indebtedness which is
retired shall be excluded and deemed to have been retired as of the first day of
the applicable period and (ii) in connection with any merger or consolidation
permitted under Section 9.4, any Acquisition referred to in the definition of
"Permitted Acquisition", or the Quorum Acquisition, (A) income statement items
(whether positive or negative) attributable to any Person or Property acquired
in any such transaction shall, to the extent not otherwise included in such
income statement items for the members of the Consolidated Group in accordance
with GAAP or in accordance with any defined terms set forth herein, be included
to the extent relating to any period applicable in such calculations and (B) any
Indebtedness incurred or assumed in connection with such transaction shall be
deemed to have been incurred or assumed on the first day of the applicable
period.

                                   SECTION 2

                               CREDIT FACILITIES

2.1  Commitments.
     -----------

     (a)  Revolving Commitment.  During the Commitment Period, subject to the
          --------------------
terms and conditions hereof, each Revolving Lender severally agrees to make
revolving loans (the "Revolving Loans") to the Borrower in the amount of such
                      ---------------
Revolving Lender's Revolving Commitment Percentage of such Revolving Loans for
the purposes hereinafter set forth; provided that (i) with regard to the
                                    --------
Revolving Lenders collectively, the aggregate principal amount of Revolving
Obligations at any time shall not exceed TWO HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS
($250,000,000), subject to reduction pursuant to Section 3.4 (the "Aggregate
                                                                   ---------
Revolving Committed Amount") and (ii) with regard to each Revolving Lender
--------------------------
individually, such Revolving Lender's Revolving Commitment Percentage of
Revolving Obligations at any time shall not exceed such Revolving Lender's
Revolving Committed Amount.  Revolving Loans may consist of Base Rate Loans or
Eurodollar Loans, or a combination thereof, as the Borrower may request, and may
be repaid and reborrowed in accordance with the provisions hereof.

     (b)  Letter of Credit Sublimit Commitment.  During the Commitment Period,
          ------------------------------------
subject to the terms and conditions hereof and of the LOC Documents, if any, and
such other terms and conditions which the Issuing Lender may reasonably require,
the Issuing Lender shall issue, and the Revolving Lenders shall participate
severally in, such standby Letters of Credit as the Borrower may request, in
form acceptable to the Issuing Lender, for the purposes hereinafter set forth;
provided that (i) the aggregate amount of LOC Obligations shall not exceed FIFTY
--------
MILLION DOLLARS ($50,000,000) at any time (the "LOC Committed Amount"), (ii)
                                                --------------------
with regard to the Revolving Lenders collectively, the aggregate principal
amount of Revolving Obligations at any time shall not exceed the Aggregate
Revolving Committed Amount and (iii) with regard to each Revolving Lender
individually, such Revolving Lender's Revolving Commitment Percentage of
Revolving Obligations at any time shall not exceed such Revolving Lender's
Revolving Committed Amount. Letters of Credit issued hereunder shall have an
<PAGE>

                                      -34-

expiry date not more than one (1) year from the date of issuance or extension,
and may not extend beyond the date five (5) Business Days prior to the Revolving
Commitment Termination Date.

     (c)  Swingline Sublimit Commitment. During the Commitment Period, subject
          -----------------------------
to the terms and conditions hereof, the Swingline Lender agrees to make certain
revolving loans (the "Swingline Loans") to the Borrower; provided that (i) the
                      ---------------                    --------
aggregate principal amount of Swingline Loans shall not exceed TWENTY MILLION
DOLLARS ($20,000,000) (the "Swingline Committed Amount"), (ii) with regard to
                            --------------------------
the Revolving Lenders collectively, the aggregate principal amount of Revolving
Obligations at any time shall not exceed the Aggregate Revolving Committed
Amount and (iii) with regard to each Revolving Lender individually, such
Revolving Lender's Revolving Commitment Percentage of Revolving Obligations at
any time shall not exceed such Revolving Lender's Revolving Committed Amount.
Swingline Loans may consist of Base Rate Loans or Quoted Rate Swingline Loans,
or a combination thereof, as the Borrower may request, and may be repaid and
reborrowed in accordance with the provisions hereof.

     (d)  Asset Sale Loan Commitment.  On the Closing Date, subject to the terms
          --------------------------
and conditions hereof, each Asset Sale Lender severally agrees to make its Asset
Sale Loan Commitment Percentage of an asset sale loan (the "Asset Sale Loan") in
                                                            ---------------
the aggregate principal amount of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS
($150,000,000) to the Borrower for the purposes hereinafter set forth.  The
Asset Sale Loan may be comprised of Base Rate Loans or Eurodollar Loans, or a
combination thereof, as the Borrower may request.  Amounts repaid on the Asset
Sale Loan may not be reborrowed.

     (e)  Tranche A Term Loan Commitment.  On the Closing Date, subject to the
          ------------------------------
terms and conditions hereof, each Tranche A Term Lender severally agrees to make
its Tranche A Term Loan Commitment Percentage of a term loan (the "Tranche A
                                                                   ---------
Term Loan") in the aggregate principal amount of TWO HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION
---------
DOLLARS ($250,000,000) to the Borrower for the purposes hereinafter set forth.
The  Tranche A Term Loan may be comprised of Base Rate Loans or Eurodollar
Loans, or a combination thereof, as the Borrower may request.  Amounts repaid on
the Tranche A Term Loan may not be reborrowed.

     (f)  Tranche B Term Loan Commitment.  On the Closing Date, subject to the
          ------------------------------
terms and conditions hereof, each Tranche B Term Lender severally agrees to make
its Tranche B Term Loan Commitment Percentage of a term loan (the "Tranche B
                                                                   ---------
Term Loan") in the aggregate principal amount of FIVE HUNDRED FIFTY MILLION
---------
DOLLARS ($550,000,000) to the Borrower for the purposes hereinafter set forth.
The Tranche B Term Loan may be comprised of Base Rate Loans or Eurodollar Loans,
or a combination thereof, as the Borrower may request.  Amounts repaid on the
Tranche B Term Loan may not be reborrowed.

2.2  Method of Borrowing.
     -------------------

     (a)  Notice of Request for Extensions of Credit.  The Borrower shall
          ------------------------------------------
request an Extension of Credit hereunder by written notice (or telephone notice
promptly confirmed in writing) as follows:

            (i) Revolving Loans.  In the case of Revolving Loans, to the
                ---------------
     Administrative Agent not later than 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina
     time) on the Business Day prior to the
<PAGE>

                                      -35-

     date of the requested borrowing in the case of Base Rate Loans, and on the
     third Business Day prior to the date of the requested borrowing in the case
     of Eurodollar Loans. Each such request for borrowing shall be irrevocable
     and shall specify (A) that a Revolving Loan is requested, (B) the date of
     the requested borrowing (which shall be a Business Day), (C) the aggregate
     principal amount to be borrowed, and (D) whether the borrowing shall be
     comprised of Base Rate Loans, Eurodollar Loans or a combination thereof,
     and if Eurodollar Loans are requested, the Interest Period(s) therefor. A
     form of Notice of Borrowing is attached as Schedule 2.2(a)(i). The
     Administrative Agent shall give notice to each Revolving Lender promptly
     upon receipt of each Notice of Borrowing pursuant to this Section
     2.2(a)(i), the contents thereof and each such Revolving Lender's share of
     any borrowing to be made pursuant thereto.

            (ii) Letters of Credit.  In the case of Letters of Credit, to the
                 -----------------
     Issuing Lender with a copy to the Administrative Agent not later than 11:00
     A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina time) on the third Business Day prior to
     the date of the requested issuance or extension (or such shorter period as
     may be agreed by the Issuing Lender).  Each such request for issuance or
     extension of a Letter of Credit shall be irrevocable and shall specify,
     among other things, (A) that a Letter of Credit is requested, (B) the date
     of the requested issuance or extension, (C) the type, amount, expiry date
     and terms on which the Letter of Credit is to be issued or extended, and
     (D) the beneficiary.  A form of Notice of Request for Letter of Credit is
     attached as Schedule 2.2(a)(ii).
                 -------------------

            (iii)  Swingline Loans.  In the case of Swingline Loans, to the
                   ---------------
     Swingline Lender not later than 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina time)
     on the Business Day of the requested borrowing.  Each such request for
     borrowing shall be irrevocable and shall specify (A) that a Swingline Loan
     is requested, (B) the date of the requested borrowing (which shall be a
     Business Day), (C) the aggregate principal amount to be borrowed, and (D)
     the interest rate option and maturity requested therefor.  A form of Notice
     of Borrowing is attached as Schedule 2.2(a)(i).  Each Swingline Loan shall
                                 ------------------
     have a maturity date as the Borrower may request and the Swingline Lender
     may agree.

            (iv) Asset Sale Loan.  In the case of the Asset Sale Loan, to the
                 ---------------
     Administrative Agent not later than 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina
     time) on the Business Day prior to the Closing Date in the case of Base
     Rate Loans, and on the third Business Day prior to the Closing Date in the
     case of Eurodollar Loans.  Each such request for borrowing shall be
     irrevocable and shall specify (A) that the Asset Sale Loan is requested,
     (B) the aggregate principal amount to be borrowed, and (C) whether the
     borrowing shall be comprised of Base Rate Loans, Eurodollar Loans or a
     combination thereof, and if Eurodollar Loans are requested, the Interest
     Period(s) therefor.  A form of Notice of Borrowing is attached as Schedule
                                                                       --------
     2.2(a)(i).  The Administrative Agent shall give notice to each Asset Sale
     ---------
     Lender promptly upon receipt of each Notice of Borrowing pursuant to this
     Section 2.2(a)(iv), the contents thereof and each such Asset Sale Lender's
     share of any borrowing to be made pursuant thereto.

            (v) Term Loans.  In the case of the Term Loans, to the
                ----------
     Administrative Agent not later than 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina
     time) on the Business Day prior to the Closing
<PAGE>

                                      -36-

     Date in the case of Base Rate Loans, and on the third Business Day prior to
     the Closing Date in the case of Eurodollar Loans. Each such request for
     borrowing shall be irrevocable and shall specify (A) that a Term Loan is
     requested and the respective Tranche thereof, (B) the aggregate principal
     amount to be borrowed, and (C) whether the borrowing shall be comprised of
     Base Rate Loans, Eurodollar Loans or a combination thereof, and if
     Eurodollar Loans are requested, the Interest Period(s) therefor. A form of
     Notice of Borrowing is attached as Schedule 2.2(a)(i). The Administrative
     Agent shall give notice to each Term Lender promptly upon receipt of each
     Notice of Borrowing pursuant to this Section 2.2(a)(v), the contents
     thereof and each such Term Lender's share of any borrowing to be made
     pursuant thereto.

     (b)  Minimum Amounts.  Each Loan advance shall be in a minimum principal
          ---------------
amount of $1.0 million, in the case of Eurodollar Loans, or $1.0 million (or the
remaining Committed Amount, if less), in the case of Base Rate Loans, and
integral multiples of $250,000 in excess thereof.  Each Swingline Loan advance
shall be in a minimum principal amount of $500,000 and integral multiples of
$100,000 in excess thereof.

     (c)  Information Not Provided.  If in connection with any such request for
          ------------------------
an Extension of Credit, the Borrower shall fail to specify (i) an applicable
Interest Period in the case of a Eurodollar Loan, the Borrower shall be deemed
to have requested an Interest Period of one (1) month, or (ii) the type of loan
requested in the case of Revolving Loans, the Asset Sale Loan, the Term Loan or
the Swingline Loan, the Borrower shall be deemed to have requested a Base Rate
Loan.

     (d)  Maximum Number of Eurodollar Loans.  In connection with any request
          ----------------------------------
for an Extension of Credit, (i) the Revolving Loans may be comprised of no more
than ten (10) Eurodollar Loans outstanding at any time, (ii) the Asset Sale Loan
may be comprised of no more than five (5) Eurodollar Loans outstanding at any
time, (iii) the Tranche A Term Loan may be comprised of no more than five (5)
Eurodollar Loans outstanding at any time, and (iv) the Tranche B Term Loan may
be comprised of no more than five (5) Eurodollar Loans outstanding at any time.
For purposes hereof, Eurodollar Loans with separate or different Interest
Periods will be considered as separate Eurodollar Loans even if their Interest
Periods expire on the same date.

2.3  Interest.
     --------

     Subject to Section 3.1, the Loans hereunder shall bear interest at a per
annum rate, payable in arrears on each applicable Interest Payment Date (or at
such other times as may be specified herein), as follows:

          (a)  Base Rate Loans.  During such periods as the Loans shall be
               ---------------
     comprised of Base Rate Loans, the sum of the Base Rate plus the Applicable
     Percentage;

          (b)  Eurodollar Loans.  During such periods as the Loans shall be
               ----------------
     comprised of Eurodollar Loans, the sum of the Eurodollar Rate plus the
     Applicable Percentage; and

          (c)  Quoted Rate Swingline Loans.  During such periods as the
               ---------------------------
     Swingline Loans shall be comprised of Quoted Rate Swingline Loans, the
     Quoted Rate.
<PAGE>

                                      -37-

2.4  Repayment.
     ---------

     (a)  Revolving Loans.  The principal amount of all Revolving Loans shall be
          ---------------
due and payable in full on the Revolving Commitment Termination Date.

     (b)  Swingline Loans.  The principal amount of all Swingline Loans shall be
          ---------------
due and payable on the earlier of (A) the maturity date agreed to by the
Swingline Lender and the Borrower with respect to such Loan, or (B) the
Revolving Commitment Termination Date.

     (c)  Asset Sale Loan. The principal amount of the Asset Sale Loan shall be
          ---------------
due and payable in full on the Asset Sale Loan Maturity Date.

     (d)  Tranche A Term Loan.  The principal amount of the Tranche A Term Loan
          -------------------
shall be due and payable beginning on December 31, 2001, as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Principal                                               Principal
                                 Amortization                                            Amortization
Date                               Payment                 Date                            Payment
----                               -------                 ----                            -------
<S>                               <C>                 <C>                               <C>
December 31, 2001                 $ 2,500,000         September 30, 2004                $ 20,000,000
March 31, 2002                    $ 2,500,000         December 31, 2004                 $ 25,000,000
June 30, 2002                     $ 2,500,000         March 31, 2005                    $ 25,000,000
September 30, 2002                $ 2,500,000         June 30, 2005                     $  6,250,000
December 31, 2002                 $15,000,000         September 30, 2005                $  6,250,000
March 31, 2003                    $15,000,000         December 31, 2005                 $  6,250,000
June 30, 2003                     $15,000,000         March 31, 2006                    $  6,250,000
September 30, 2003                $15,000,000         June 30, 2006                     $  6,250,000
December 31, 2003                 $20,000,000         September 30, 2006                $  6,250,000
March 31, 2004                    $20,000,000         December 31, 2006                 $  6,250,000
June 30, 2004                     $20,000,000         March 31, 2007                    $  6,250,000
                                                      Total                             $250,000,000
</TABLE>

     (e)  Tranche B Term Loan.  The principal amount of the Tranche B Term Loan
          -------------------
will amortize, beginning on December 31, 2001, as follows:
<PAGE>

                                      -38-

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Principal                                               Principal
                                 Amortization                                            Amortization
Date                               Payment                 Date                            Payment
----                               -------                 ----                            -------
<S>                               <C>                 <C>                               <C>
December 31, 2001                 $1,500,000          March 31, 2005                    $  1,500,000
March 31, 2002                    $1,500,000          June 30, 2005                     $ 15,000,000
June 30, 2002                     $1,500,000          September 30, 2005                $ 15,000,000
September 30, 2002                $1,500,000          December 31, 2005                 $ 15,000,000
December 31, 2002                 $1,500,000          March 31, 2006                    $ 15,000,000
March 31, 2003                    $1,500,000          June 30, 2006                     $ 18,750,000
June 30, 2003                     $1,500,000          September 30, 2006                $ 18,750,000
September 30, 2003                $1,500,000          December 31, 2006                 $ 18,750,000
December 31, 2003                 $1,500,000          March 31, 2007                    $ 18,750,000
March 31, 2004                    $1,500,000          June 30, 2007                     $ 65,670,000
June 30, 2004                     $1,500,000          September 30, 2007                $ 65,670,000
September 30, 2004                $1,500,000          December 31, 2007                 $ 65,670,000
December 31, 2004                 $1,500,000          March 31, 2008                    $ 65,670,000
                                                      June 30, 2008                     $ 65,670,000
                                                      September 30, 2008                $ 65,650,000
                                                                                        ____________
                                                                Total                   $550,000,000
</TABLE>

     (f) The amount set forth in clauses (d) and (e) above are subject to
adjustment pursuant to Section 3.3 hereof.

2.5  Notes.
     -----

     The Revolving Loans and Swingline Loans shall be evidenced by the Revolving
Notes.  The Asset Sale Loan shall be evidenced by the Asset Sale Notes.  The
Term Loans shall be evidenced by the Term Notes.

2.6  Additional Provisions Relating to Letters of Credit.
     ---------------------------------------------------

     (a)  Reports.  The Issuing Lender will provide to the Administrative Agent
          -------
at least monthly, and more frequently upon request, a detailed summary report on
its Letters of Credit and the activity thereon, in form and substance acceptable
to the Administrative Agent.  In addition, the Issuing Lender will provide to
the Administrative Agent for dissemination to the Revolving Lenders at least
quarterly, and more frequently upon request, a detailed summary report on its
Letters of Credit and the activity thereon, including, among other things, the
Credit Party for whose account the Letter of Credit is issued, the beneficiary,
the face amount, and the expiry date.  The Issuing Lender will provide copies of
the Letters of Credit to the Administrative Agent and the Revolving Lenders
promptly upon request.

     (b)  Participation.  Each Revolving Lender, with respect to the Existing
          -------------
Letters of Credit, hereby purchases a participation interest in such Existing
Letters of Credit, and with respect to Letters
<PAGE>

                                      -39-

of Credit issued on or after the Closing Date, upon issuance of a Letter of
Credit, shall be deemed to have purchased without recourse a risk participation
from the Issuing Lender in such Letter of Credit and the obligations arising
thereunder, in each case in an amount equal to its pro rata share of the
obligations under such Letter of Credit (based on the respective Revolving
Commitment Percentages of the Revolving Lenders) and shall absolutely,
unconditionally and irrevocably assume, as primary obligor and not as surety,
and be obligated to pay to the Issuing Lender therefor and discharge when due,
its pro rata share of the obligations arising under such Letter of Credit.
Without limiting the scope and nature of each Revolving Lender's participation
in any Letter of Credit, to the extent that the Issuing Lender has not been
reimbursed as required hereunder or under any such Letter of Credit, each
Revolving Lender shall pay to the Issuing Lender its pro rata share of such
unreimbursed drawing in same day funds on the day of notification by the Issuing
Lender of an unreimbursed drawing pursuant to the provisions of subsection (d)
hereof. The obligation of each Revolving Lender to so reimburse the Issuing
Lender shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not be affected by the
occurrence of a Default, an Event of Default or any other occurrence or event.
Any such reimbursement shall not relieve or otherwise impair the obligation of
the Borrower to reimburse the Issuing Lender under any Letter of Credit,
together with interest as hereinafter provided.

     (c)  Reimbursement.  In the event of any drawing under any Letter of
          -------------
Credit, the Issuing Lender will promptly notify the Borrower.  Unless the
Borrower shall immediately notify the Issuing Lender that the Borrower intends
to otherwise reimburse the Issuing Lender for such drawing, the Borrower shall
be deemed to have requested that the Revolving Lenders make a Revolving Loan in
the amount of the drawing as provided in subsection (d) hereof on the related
Letter of Credit, the proceeds of which will be used to satisfy the related
reimbursement obligations.  The Borrower promises to reimburse the Issuing
Lender on the day of drawing under any Letter of Credit (either with the
proceeds of a Revolving Loan obtained hereunder or otherwise) in same day funds.
If the Borrower shall fail to reimburse the Issuing Lender as provided
hereinabove, the unreimbursed amount of such drawing shall bear interest at a
per annum rate equal to the Base Rate plus the sum of (i) the Applicable
Percentage and (ii) two percent (2%).  The Borrower's reimbursement obligations
hereunder shall be absolute and unconditional under all circumstances
irrespective of any rights of setoff, counterclaim or defense to payment the
Borrower may claim or have against the Issuing Lender, the Administrative Agent,
the Lenders, the beneficiary of the Letter of Credit drawn upon or any other
Person, including without limitation any defense based on any failure of the
Borrower or any other Credit Party to receive consideration or the legality,
validity, regularity or unenforceability of the Letter of Credit.  The Issuing
Lender will promptly notify the other Revolving Lenders of the amount of any
unreimbursed drawing and each Revolving Lender shall promptly pay to the
Administrative Agent for the account of the Issuing Lender in Dollars and in
immediately available funds, the amount of such Revolving Lender's Revolving
Commitment Percentage of such unreimbursed drawing.  Such payment shall be made
on the day such notice is received by such Revolving Lender from the Issuing
Lender if such notice is received at or before 12:00 Noon (Charlotte, North
Carolina time) otherwise such payment shall be made at or before 11:00 A.M.
(Charlotte, North Carolina time) on the Business Day next succeeding the day
such notice is received.  If such Revolving Lender does not pay such amount to
the Issuing Lender in full upon such request, such Revolving Lender shall, on
demand, pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Issuing Lender
interest on the unpaid amount during the period from the date of such drawing
until such Revolving Lender pays such amount to the Issuing Lender in full at a
rate per annum equal to, if paid
<PAGE>

                                      -40-

within two (2) Business Days of the date that such Revolving Lender is required
to make payments of such amount pursuant to the preceding sentence, the Federal
Funds Rate and thereafter at a rate equal to the Base Rate. Each Revolving
Lender's obligation to make such payment to the Issuing Lender, and the right of
the Issuing Lender to receive the same, shall be absolute and unconditional,
shall not be affected by any circumstance whatsoever and without regard to the
termination of this Credit Agreement or the Commitments hereunder, the existence
of a Default or Event of Default or the acceleration of the obligations of the
Borrower hereunder and shall be made without any offset, abatement, withholding
or reduction whatsoever. Simultaneously with the making of each such payment by
a Revolving Lender to the Issuing Lender, such Revolving Lender shall,
automatically and without any further action on the part of the Issuing Lender
or such Revolving Lender, acquire a participation in an amount equal to such
payment (excluding the portion of such payment constituting interest owing to
the Issuing Lender) in the related unreimbursed drawing portion of the LOC
Obligation and in the interest thereon and in the related LOC Documents, and
shall have a claim against the Borrower with respect thereto.

     (d)  Repayment with Revolving Loans.  On any day on which the Borrower
          ------------------------------
shall have requested, or been deemed to have requested, a Revolving Loan advance
to reimburse a drawing under a Letter of Credit, the Administrative Agent shall
give notice to the Revolving Lenders that a Revolving Loan has been requested or
deemed requested by the Borrower to be made in connection with a drawing under a
Letter of Credit, in which case a Revolving Loan advance comprised of Base Rate
Loans (or Eurodollar Loans to the extent the Borrower has complied with the
procedures of Section 2.2(a)(i) with respect thereto) shall be immediately made
to the Borrower by all Revolving Lenders (notwithstanding any termination of the
Commitments pursuant to Section 10.2) pro rata based on the respective Revolving
                                      --- ----
Commitment Percentages of the Revolving Lenders (determined before giving effect
to any termination of the Commitments pursuant to Section 10.2) and the proceeds
thereof shall be paid directly to the Issuing Lender for application to the
respective LOC Obligations.  Each such Revolving Lender hereby irrevocably
agrees to make its pro rata share of each such Revolving Loan immediately upon
                   --------
any such request or deemed request in the amount, in the manner and on the date
specified in the preceding sentence notwithstanding (i) the amount of such
                                    ---------------
borrowing may not comply with the minimum amount for advances of Revolving Loans
otherwise required hereunder, (ii) whether any conditions specified in Section
5.2 are then satisfied, (iii) whether a Default or an Event of Default then
exists, (iv) failure for any such request or deemed request for Revolving Loan
to be made by the time otherwise required hereunder, (v) whether the date of
such borrowing is a date on which Revolving Loans are otherwise permitted to be
made hereunder or (vi) any termination of the Commitments relating thereto
immediately prior to or contemporaneously with such borrowing.  In the event
that any Revolving Loan cannot for any reason be made on the date otherwise
required above (including, without limitation, as a result of the commencement
of a proceeding under the Bankruptcy Code with respect to the Borrower or any
Credit Party), then each such Revolving Lender hereby agrees that it shall
forthwith purchase (as of the date such borrowing would otherwise have occurred,
but adjusted for any payments received from the Borrower on or after such date
and prior to such purchase) from the Issuing Lender such participation in the
outstanding LOC Obligations as shall be necessary to cause each such Revolving
Lender to share in such LOC Obligations ratably (based upon the respective
Commitment Percentages of the Revolving Lenders (determined before giving effect
to any termination of the Commitments pursuant to Section 10.2)), provided that
                                                                  --------
in the event such payment is not made on the day of drawing, such Revolving
Lender shall pay in addition to the Issuing Lender interest on the amount of its
unfunded Participation
<PAGE>

                                      -41-

Interest at a rate equal to, if paid within two (2) Business Days of the date of
drawing, the Federal Funds Rate, and thereafter at the Base Rate.

     (e)  Designation of Other Credit Parties as Account Parties.
          ------------------------------------------------------
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Credit Agreement,
including without limitation Section 2.2(a)(ii) hereof, a Letter of Credit
issued hereunder may contain a statement to the effect that such Letter of
Credit is issued for the account of a Credit Party, provided that
notwithstanding such statement, the Borrower shall be the actual account party
for all purposes of this Credit Agreement for such Letter of Credit and such
statement shall not affect the Borrower's reimbursement obligations hereunder
with respect to such Letter of Credit.

     (f)  Renewal, Extension.  The renewal or extension of any Letter of Credit
          ------------------
shall, for purposes hereof, be treated in all respects the same as the issuance
of a new Letter of Credit hereunder.

     (g)  Uniform Customs and Practices.  The Issuing Lender may have the
          -----------------------------
Letters of Credit be subject to The Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary
Credits, as published as of the date of issue by the International Chamber of
Commerce (the "UCP"), in which case the UCP may be incorporated therein and
               ---
deemed in all respects to be a part thereof.

     (h)  Indemnification; Nature of Issuing Lender's Duties.
          --------------------------------------------------

            (i) In addition to its other obligations under this Section 2.6, the
     Borrower hereby agrees to protect, indemnify, pay and save the Issuing
     Lender harmless from and against any and all claims, demands, liabilities,
     damages, losses, costs, charges and expenses (including reasonable
     attorneys' fees) that the Issuing Lender may incur or be subject to as a
     consequence, direct or indirect, of (A) the issuance of any Letter of
     Credit or (B) the failure of the Issuing Lender to honor a drawing under a
     Letter of Credit as a result of any act or omission, whether rightful or
     wrongful, of any present or future de jure or de facto government or
     governmental authority (all such acts or omissions, herein called
     "Government Acts").
     ----------------

            (ii) As between the Borrower and the Issuing Lender, the Borrower
     shall assume all risks of the acts, omissions or misuse of any Letter of
     Credit by the beneficiary thereof.  The Issuing Lender shall not be
     responsible:  (A) for the form, validity, sufficiency, accuracy,
     genuineness or legal effect of any document submitted by any party in
     connection with the application for and issuance of any Letter of Credit,
     even if it should in fact prove to be in any or all respects invalid,
     insufficient, inaccurate, fraudulent or forged; (B) for the validity or
     sufficiency of any instrument transferring or assigning or purporting to
     transfer or assign any Letter of Credit or the rights or benefits
     thereunder or proceeds thereof, in whole or in part, that may prove to be
     invalid or ineffective for any reason; (C) for errors, omissions,
     interruptions or delays in transmission or delivery of any messages, by
     mail, cable, telegraph, telex or otherwise, whether or not they be in
     cipher; (D) for any loss or delay in the transmission or otherwise of any
     document required in order to make a drawing under a Letter of Credit or of
     the proceeds thereof; and (E) for any consequences arising from causes
     beyond the control of the Issuing
<PAGE>

                                      -42-

     Lender, including, without limitation, any Government Acts. None of the
     above shall affect, impair, or prevent the vesting of the Issuing Lender's
     rights or powers hereunder.

            (iii)  In furtherance and extension and not in limitation of the
     specific provisions hereinabove set forth, any action taken or omitted by
     the Issuing Lender, under or in connection with any Letter of Credit or the
     related certificates, if taken or omitted in good faith, shall not put such
     Issuing Lender under any resulting liability to the Borrower or any other
     Credit Party.  It is the intention of the parties that this Credit
     Agreement shall be construed and applied to protect and indemnify the
     Issuing Lender against any and all risks involved in the issuance of the
     Letters of Credit, all of which risks are hereby assumed by the Borrower
     (on behalf of itself and each of the other Credit Parties), including,
     without limitation, any and all Government Acts.  The Issuing Lender shall
     not, in any way, be liable for any failure by the Issuing Lender or anyone
     else to pay any drawing under any Letter of Credit as a result of any
     Government Acts or any other cause beyond the control of the Issuing
     Lender.

            (iv) Nothing in this subsection (h) is intended to limit the
     reimbursement obligations of the Borrower contained in subsection (d)
     above.  The obligations of the Borrower under this subsection (h) shall
     survive the termination of this Credit Agreement.  No act or omissions of
     any current or prior beneficiary of a Letter of Credit shall in any way
     affect or impair the rights of the Issuing Lender to enforce any right,
     power or benefit under this Credit Agreement.

            (v) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this
     subsection (h), the Borrower shall have no obligation to indemnify the
     Issuing Lender in respect of any liability incurred by the Issuing Lender
     (A) arising solely out of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the
     Issuing Lender, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction, or (B)
     caused by the Issuing Lender's failure to pay under any Letter of Credit
     after presentation to it of a request strictly complying with the terms and
     conditions of such Letter of Credit, as determined by a court of competent
     jurisdiction, unless such payment is prohibited by any law, regulation,
     court order or decree.

     (i)  Responsibility of Issuing Lender. It is expressly understood and
          --------------------------------
agreed that the obligations of the Issuing Lender hereunder to the Lenders are
only those expressly set forth in this Credit Agreement and that the Issuing
Lender shall be entitled to assume that the conditions precedent set forth in
Section 5.2 have been satisfied unless it shall have acquired actual knowledge
that any such condition precedent has not been satisfied; provided, however,
                                                          --------  -------
that nothing set forth in this Section 2.6 shall be deemed to prejudice the
right of any Lender to recover from the Issuing Lender any amounts made
available by such Lender to the Issuing Lender pursuant to this Section 2.6 in
the event that it is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction that the
payment with respect to a Letter of Credit constituted gross negligence or
willful misconduct on the part of the Issuing Lender.

     (j)  Conflict with LOC Documents.  Solely as among the parties hereto, in
          ---------------------------
the event of any conflict between this Credit Agreement and any LOC Document
(including any letter of credit application), this Credit Agreement shall
control.
<PAGE>

                                      -43-

2.7  Additional Provisions Relating to Swingline Loans.
     -------------------------------------------------

     The Swingline Lender may, at any time, in its sole discretion, by written
notice to the Borrower and the Revolving Lenders, demand repayment of its
Swingline Loans by way of a Revolving Loan advance, in which case the Borrower
shall be deemed to have requested a Revolving Loan advance comprised solely of
Base Rate Loans in the amount of such Swingline Loans; provided, however, that
                                                       --------  -------
any such demand shall be deemed to have been given one (1) Business Day prior to
the Revolving Commitment Termination Date and on the date of the occurrence of
any Event of Default described in Section 10.1 and upon acceleration of the
indebtedness hereunder and the exercise of remedies in accordance with the
provisions of Section 10.2.  Each Revolving Lender hereby irrevocably agrees to
make its Revolving Commitment Percentage of each such Revolving Loan in the
amount, in the manner and on the date specified in the preceding sentence
notwithstanding (I) the amount of such borrowing may not comply with the minimum
---------------
amount for advances of Revolving Loans otherwise required hereunder, (II)
whether any conditions specified in Section 5.2 are then satisfied, (III)
whether a Default or an Event of Default then exists, (IV) failure of any such
request or deemed request for Revolving Loan to be made by the time otherwise
required hereunder, (V) whether the date of such borrowing is a date on which
Revolving Loans are otherwise permitted to be made hereunder or (VI) any
termination of the Commitments relating thereto immediately prior to or
contemporaneously with such borrowing.  In the event that any Revolving Loan
cannot for any reason be made on the date otherwise required above (including,
without limitation, as a result of the commencement of a proceeding under the
Bankruptcy Code with respect to the Borrower or any other Credit Party), then
each Revolving Lender hereby agrees that it shall forthwith purchase (as of the
date such borrowing would otherwise have occurred, but adjusted for any payments
received from the Borrower on or after such date and prior to such purchase)
from the Swingline Lender such Participation Interests in the outstanding
Swingline Loans as shall be necessary to cause each such Revolving Lender to
share in such Swingline Loans ratably based upon its Revolving Commitment
Percentage of the Revolving Committed Amount (determined before giving effect to
any termination of the Commitments pursuant to Section 3.4), provided that (A)
                                                             --------
all interest payable on the Swingline Loans shall be for the account of the
Swingline Lender until the date as of which the respective Participation
Interest is funded and (B) at the time any purchase of Participation Interests
pursuant to this sentence is actually made, the purchasing Revolving Lender
shall be required to pay to the Swingline Lender, to the extent not paid to the
Swingline Lender by the Borrower in accordance with the terms of Section 2.4(b),
interest on the principal amount of Participation Interests purchased for each
day from and including the day upon which such borrowing would otherwise have
occurred to but excluding the date of payment for such Participation Interests,
at the rate equal to the Federal Funds Rate.

                                   SECTION 3

                 OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO CREDIT FACILITIES

3.1  Default Rate.
     ------------

     Upon the occurrence, and during the continuance, of an Event of Default,
(i) the principal of and, to the extent permitted by law, interest on the Loans
and any other amounts owing hereunder or
<PAGE>

                                      -44-

under the other Credit Documents shall bear interest, payable on demand, at a
per annum rate 2% greater than the rate which would otherwise be applicable (or
if no rate is applicable, whether in respect of interest, fees or other amounts,
then the Base Rate plus the then effective Applicable Percentage for Base Rate
Loans plus 2%) and (ii) Letter of Credit Fees shall accrue at a per annum
rate 2% greater than the rate which would otherwise be applicable.

3.2  Continuation and Conversion.
     ---------------------------

     The Borrower shall have the option, on any Business Day, to extend existing
Loans into a subsequent permissible Interest Period or to convert Loans into
Loans of another interest rate type; provided, however, that (i) except as
                                     --------  -------
provided in Section 3.8, Eurodollar Loans may be converted into Base Rate Loans
or extended as Eurodollar Loans for new Interest Periods only on the last day of
the Interest Period applicable thereto, (ii) without the consent of the Required
Lenders, Eurodollar Loans may be extended, and Base Rate Loans may be converted
into Eurodollar Loans, only if the conditions precedent set forth in Section 5.2
are satisfied on the date of Continuation or Conversion, (iii) Loans extended
as, or converted into, Eurodollar Loans shall be subject to the terms of the
definition of "Interest Period" and shall be in such minimum amounts as provided
in Section 2.2(b), (iv) no more than ten (10) Eurodollar Loans which comprise
Revolving Loans, no more than five (5) Eurodollar Loans which comprise the Asset
Sale Loan, no more than five (5) Eurodollar Loans which comprise the Tranche A
Term Loan and no more than five (5) Eurodollar Loans which comprise the Tranche
B Term Loan shall be outstanding hereunder at any time (it being understood
that, for purposes hereof, Eurodollar Loans with different Interest Periods
shall be considered as separate Eurodollar Loans, even if they begin on the same
date, although borrowings, Continuations and Conversions may, in accordance with
the provisions hereof, be combined at the end of existing Interest Periods to
constitute a new Eurodollar Loan with a single Interest Period) and (v) any
request for Continuation or Conversion of a Eurodollar Loan which shall fail to
specify an Interest Period shall be deemed to be a request for an Interest
Period of one (1) month.  Each such Continuation or Conversion shall be effected
by the Borrower by giving a Notice of Extension/Conversion (or telephonic notice
promptly confirmed in writing) to the office of the Administrative Agent
specified in Schedule 2.1, or at such other office as the Administrative Agent
             ------------
may designate in writing, prior to 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina time)
on the Business Day of, in the case of the Conversion of a Eurodollar Loan into
a Base Rate Loan, and on the third Business Day prior to, in the case of the
Continuation of a Eurodollar Loan as, or Conversion of a Base Rate Loan into, a
Eurodollar Loan, the date of the proposed Continuation or Conversion, specifying
the date of the proposed Continuation or Conversion, the Loans to be so
Continued or Converted, the types of Loans into which such Loans are to be
Converted and, if appropriate, the applicable Interest Periods with respect
thereto.  Each request for Continuation or Conversion shall be irrevocable and
shall constitute a representation and warranty by the Borrower of the matters
specified in subsections (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) of Section 5.2.  In the
event the Borrower fails to request Continuation or Conversion of any Eurodollar
Loan in accordance with this Section, or any such Conversion or Continuation is
not permitted or required by this Section, then such Eurodollar Loan shall be
automatically Converted into a Base Rate Loan at the end of the Interest Period
applicable thereto.  The Administrative Agent shall give each Lender notice as
promptly as practicable of any such proposed extension or conversion affecting
any Loan.
<PAGE>

                                      -45-

3.3  Prepayments.
     -----------

     (a)  Voluntary Prepayments.  The Loans may be repaid in whole or in part
          ---------------------
without premium or penalty (except, in the case of Eurodollar Loans, breakage
costs related to prepayments not made on the last day of the relevant interest
period) and partial prepayments shall be minimum principal amounts of $1.0
million (except Swingline Loans, which  may be prepaid in minimum principal
amounts of $500,000), and in integral multiples of $250,000 in excess thereof.

     (b)  Mandatory Prepayments.
          ---------------------

            (i) Revolving Committed Amount.  If at any time, (A) the aggregate
                --------------------------
     principal amount of Revolving Obligations shall exceed the Aggregate
     Revolving Committed Amount, (B) the aggregate amount of LOC Obligations
     shall exceed the LOC Committed Amount or (C) the aggregate principal amount
     of Swingline Loans shall exceed the Swingline Committed Amount, the
     Borrower shall immediately make payment on the Revolving Loans, on the
     Swingline Loans and/or to a cash collateral account in respect of the LOC
     Obligations, in an amount sufficient to eliminate the excess.

            (ii)  Asset Dispositions.
                  ------------------

            (A) Approved Asset Dispositions.  The Loans shall be prepaid as
                ---------------------------
hereafter provided in an amount equal to the Net Proceeds received from any
Approved Asset Disposition in an amount initially equal to (i) one hundred
percent (100%) of such Net Proceeds until the Asset Sale Loan is paid in full
and (ii) after the Asset Sale Loan has been paid in full, (x) if the
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is greater than or equal to 3.25:1.0 (as of
the end of the fiscal quarter immediately preceding the date of such Approved
Asset Disposition), seventy-five percent (75%) of such Net Proceeds, (y) if the
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is greater than or equal to 2.75:1.00 but less
than 3.25:1.0 (as of the fiscal quarter immediately preceding the date of such
Approved Asset Disposition), fifty percent (50%) of such Net Proceeds, and (z)
if the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is less than 2.75:1.0 (as of the end of
the fiscal quarter immediately preceding the date of such Approved Asset
Disposition), zero percent (0%) of such Net Proceeds; provided, that payment of
                                                      --------
such Net Proceeds need not be made until such time as the aggregate amount
payable hereunder shall be at least $1.0 million at any time; provided, further,
                                                              --------  -------
all such Net Proceeds not initially applied to prepay Loans pursuant to this
Section 3.3(b)(ii)(A) shall be subject to the provisions of 3.3(b)(ii)(B) as if
such Net Proceeds were received from an Asset Disposition not constituting an
Approved Asset Disposition.  If any such Approved Asset Disposition involves
Collateral and the Net Proceeds thereof are greater than $35.0 million in the
aggregate, such Net Proceeds shall be held by the Administrative Agent in a
collateral account, which may include Cash Equivalents, pending application in
accordance with the provisions hereof.

          (B) Other Asset Dispositions.  The Loans shall be prepaid as hereafter
              ------------------------
provided in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Net Proceeds
received from any Asset Disposition other than Approved Asset Dispositions to
the extent that either (1) the Asset Sale Loan has not been paid in full or (2)
if the Asset Sale Loan has been paid in full (including pursuant to the
preceding clause (1)) (A) such Net Proceeds are not (x) reinvested in the same
or similar property or assets or (y)
<PAGE>

                                      -46-

applied as consideration for a Permitted Acquisition in an amount not to exceed
$50.0 million in any fiscal year within twelve (12) months of the date of such
Asset Disposition, and (B) the aggregate amount of such Net Proceeds not
reinvested or applied in accordance with the foregoing clause (A) shall exceed
$10.0 million in any fiscal year; provided that payment of the Net Proceeds
which exceed the foregoing threshold amount need not be made until such time as
the aggregate amount payable in excess of such threshold shall be at least $1.0
million at any time. If any such Asset Disposition involves Collateral and the
Net Proceeds thereof are greater than $35.0 million in the aggregate, such Net
Proceeds shall be held by the Administrative Agent in a collateral account,
which may include Cash Equivalents, pending application in accordance with the
provisions hereof. The members of the Consolidated Group will account for
amounts delivered over to them and the uses to which the proceeds are put and
make payments as may be required in accordance with the provisions hereof.

            (iii)  Debt Transactions.  The Loans shall be prepaid as hereafter
                   -----------------
     provided in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Net
     Proceeds received from any Debt Transaction; provided that if the Interim
                                                  --------
     Loan shall be outstanding, the Net Proceeds of the Take-out Securities
     shall be applied first to repay all outstanding amounts thereof.

            (iv) Equity Transactions.  The Loans shall be prepaid as hereafter
                 -------------------
     provided in an amount equal to (i) one hundred percent (100%) of the Net
     Proceeds received from any Equity Transaction until the Asset Sale Loan is
     paid in full, and (ii) fifty percent (50%) of such Net Proceeds after the
     Asset Sale Loan is paid in full; provided that if the Interim Loan shall be
                                      --------
     outstanding, such Net Proceeds shall be applied first to repay all
     outstanding amounts thereof.

            (v) Excess Cash Flow.  Not later than ninety-five (95) days after
                ----------------
     the end of each fiscal year of the Borrower commencing with the fiscal year
     ended December 31, 2001, the Loans shall be prepaid as hereafter provided
     in an amount equal to 75% (50% after the Asset Sale Loan has been repaid in
     full) of Excess Cash Flow for such fiscal year when the Consolidated Total
     Leverage Ratio at the end of such fiscal year is equal to or greater than
     3.25:1.0 (as evidenced in an Officers' Certificate delivered to the
     Administrative Agent and the Lenders).

     (c)  Application.
          -----------

            (i) Voluntary Prepayments.  Voluntary prepayments on the Revolving
                ---------------------
     Obligations shall be applied as specified by the Borrower in minimum
     principal amounts of $1,000,000 without premium or penalty.  Voluntary
     prepayments on the Asset Sale Loan or the Term Loans shall be applied first
     to the Asset Sale Loan until paid in full, and thereafter, ratably to the
     Tranche A Term Loan and the Tranche B Term Loan (based on the aggregate
     principal amount of Term Loans then outstanding) until paid in full, and
     thereafter, to the Revolving Obligations (with a corresponding reduction in
     the Revolving Committed Amount in an amount equal to all amounts applied to
     the Revolving Obligations pursuant to this Section 3.3(c)(i)).  Any payment
     to (x) the Tranche A Term Loan shall be applied ratably to the remaining
     scheduled principal amortization payments thereunder, and (y) the Tranche B
     Term Loan shall be applied ratably to the remaining scheduled principal
     amortization payments in respect thereof first among the last four (4)
     quarterly installments thereof as set forth in Sections 2.4(e) and (f)
     respectively and second to the remaining installments
<PAGE>

                                      -47-

     in inverse order of maturity. Within the parameters of the applications set
     forth above, voluntary prepayments shall be applied first to Base Rate
     Loans and then to Eurodollar Loans and Quoted Rate Swingline Loans in
     direct order of Interest Period maturities.

          (ii)  Mandatory Prepayments.
                ---------------------

          (A) Prepayments in Respect of Asset Dispositions.  Mandatory
              --------------------------------------------
prepayments made under subsection (b)(ii)(A) in respect of Approved Asset
Dispositions shall be applied first to the Asset Sale Loan until paid in full,
and thereafter, ratably to the Tranche A Term Loan and the Tranche B Term Loan
(in each case ratably to the remaining scheduled  principal amortization
installments thereof) until paid in full, and thereafter, to the Revolving
Obligations (with a corresponding permanent reduction in the Revolving Committed
Amount in an amount equal to all amounts applied to the Revolving Obligations
pursuant to this Section 3.3(c)(ii)(A)).  Mandatory prepayments made under
subsection (b)(ii)(B) in respect of other Asset Dispositions shall be applied
first to the Asset Sale Loan until paid in full, then shall be applied ratably
to the Tranche A Term Loan and the Tranche B Term Loan (in each case ratably to
the remaining principal amortization installments thereof) until paid in full,
and thereafter ratably to the remaining Obligations hereunder (based, in the
case of the Revolving Obligations, on the Revolving Commitments, and with a
corresponding permanent reduction in the Revolving Committed Amount in an amount
equal to all such amounts applied to the Revolving Obligations pursuant to this
Section 3.3(c)(ii)(A)).  Within the parameters of the applications set forth
above, mandatory prepayments shall be applied first to Base Rate Loans and then
to Eurodollar Loans and Quoted Rate Swingline Loans in direct order of Interest
Period maturities.

          (B) Prepayments in Respect of Debt Transactions, Equity Transactions
              ----------------------------------------------------------------
or Excess Cash Flow.  Mandatory prepayments made under subsection (b)(iii) in
-------------------
respect of Debt Transactions, under subsection (b)(iv) in respect of Equity
Transactions or under subsection (b)(v) in respect of Excess Cash Flow  shall be
applied first to the Asset Sale Loan until paid in full, and thereafter, ratably
to the Tranche A Term Loan and the Tranche B Term Loan (in each case ratably to
the remaining principal amortization installments thereof) until paid in full,
and thereafter, to the Revolving Obligations (with a corresponding permanent
reduction in the Revolving Committed Amount in an amount equal to all amounts
applied to the Revolving Obligations pursuant to this Section 3.3(c)(ii)(B)).
Within the parameters of the applications set forth above, mandatory prepayments
shall be applied first to Base Rate Loans and then to Eurodollar Loans and
Quoted Rate Swingline Loans in direct order of Interest Period maturities.

          (iii)  Availability.  Amounts prepaid on the Revolving Obligations
                 ------------
     may, subject to the terms and conditions hereof, be reborrowed.  Amounts
     prepaid on the Asset Sale Loan and the Term Loans may not be reborrowed.

3.4  Reduction and Termination of Revolving Commitments.
     --------------------------------------------------

     (a)  Voluntary Reduction of Revolving Commitments.  The Revolving
          --------------------------------------------
Commitments may be terminated or permanently reduced in whole or in part upon
three (3) Business Days' prior written notice to the Administrative Agent,
provided that (i) after giving effect to any voluntary reduction the aggregate
--------
amount of Revolving Obligations shall not exceed the Aggregate Revolving
Committed Amount,
<PAGE>

                                      -48-

as reduced, and (ii) partial reductions shall be in a minimum principal amount
of $5.0 million, and in integral multiples of $1.0 million in excess thereof.

     (b)  Mandatory Reduction of Revolving Commitments.  On any date that the
          --------------------------------------------
Revolving Obligations are required to be prepaid pursuant to the terms of
Section 3.3(b), the Revolving Commitments automatically shall be permanently
reduced by the amount of such required prepayment.  In addition, for each fiscal
year of the Borrower set forth below the Aggregate Revolving Committed Amount
shall not exceed:

Fiscal Year 2001                                         $250,000,000
Fiscal Year 2002                                         $250,000,000
Fiscal Year 2003                                         $250,000,000
Fiscal Year 2004                                         $225,000,000
Fiscal Year 2005 and thereafter                          $200,000,000

     (c)  Termination of Revolving Commitments.  The Revolving Commitments
          ------------------------------------
hereunder shall terminate on the Revolving Commitment Termination Date.

3.5  Fees.
     ----

     (a)  Commitment Fee.  In consideration of the Revolving Commitments,
          --------------
hereunder, the Borrower agrees to pay to the Administrative Agent for the
ratable benefit of the Revolving Lenders a commitment fee (the "Commitment Fee")
                                                                --------------
for the period from the Closing Date to the Revolving Commitment Termination
Date equal to the Applicable Percentage per annum on the actual daily unused
amount of the Revolving Committed Amount for the applicable period.  The
Commitment Fee shall be payable quarterly in arrears on the 15th day following
the last day of each calendar quarter for the immediately preceding quarter (or
portion thereof) beginning with the first such date to occur after the Closing
Date and on the Revolving Commitment Termination Date.  For purposes of
computation of the Commitment Fee, Swingline Loans shall not be counted toward
or considered usage under the Revolving Committed Amount of any Revolving Lender
other than the Swingline Lender.

     (b)  Letter of Credit Fees.
          ---------------------

            (i) Letter of Credit Issuance Fee.  In consideration of the issuance
                -----------------------------
     of standby Letters of Credit hereunder, the Borrower promises to pay to the
     Administrative Agent for the account of each Revolving Lender a fee (the
     "Letter of Credit Fee") on such Revolving Lender's Revolving Commitment
     ---------------------
     Percentage of the actual daily maximum amount available to be drawn under
     each such standby Letter of Credit computed at a per annum rate for each
     day from the date of issuance to the date of expiration equal to the
     Applicable Percentage for Revolving Loans which are Eurodollar Loans.  The
     Letter of Credit Fee shall be payable quarterly in arrears on the 15th day
     following the last day of each calendar quarter for the immediately
     preceding quarter (or portion thereof) beginning with the first such date
     to occur after the Closing Date and on the Revolving Commitment Termination
     Date.
<PAGE>

                                      -49-

            (ii) Issuing Lender Fees.  In addition to the Letter of Credit Fee
                 -------------------
     payable pursuant to clause (i) above, the Borrower promises to pay to the
     Issuing Lender without sharing by the other Lenders (i) a letter of credit
     fronting fee of one-fourth of one percent (0.25%) on the actual daily
     maximum amount available to be drawn under each Letter of Credit computed
     at a per annum rate for each day from the date of issuance to the date of
     expiration and (ii) the customary charges from time to time of the Issuing
     Lender with respect to the issuance, amendment, transfer, administration,
     cancellation and conversion of, and drawings under, such Letters of Credit
     (collectively, the "Issuing Lender Fees").
                         -------------------

     (c)  Administrative Fees.  The Borrower agrees to pay to the Administrative
          -------------------
Agent, for its own account, the fees referred to in the Administrative Agent Fee
Letter.

3.6  Capital Adequacy.
     ----------------

     If any Lender has determined that, after the date hereof, the adoption or
the becoming effective of, or any change in, or any change by any Governmental
Authority, central bank or comparable agency charged with the interpretation or
administration thereof in the interpretation or administration of, any law, rule
or regulation regarding capital adequacy applicable to such Lender (or its
parent holding company or its Applicable Lending Office), or compliance by such
Lender (or its parent holding company or its Applicable Lending Office) with any
request or directive regarding capital adequacy (whether or not having the force
of law) of any such Governmental Authority, central bank or comparable agency,
has or would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on such Lender's
capital or assets as a consequence of its commitments or obligations hereunder
to a level below that which such Lender could have achieved but for such
adoption, effectiveness, change or compliance (taking into consideration such
Lender's policies with respect to capital adequacy), then, upon notice from such
Lender to the Borrower, the Borrower shall be obligated to pay to such Lender
such additional amount or amounts as will compensate such Lender for such
reduction.  Each determination by any such Lender of amounts owing under this
Section shall, absent manifest error, be conclusive and binding on the parties
hereto.

3.7  Limitation on Eurodollar Loans.
     ------------------------------

     If on or prior to the first day of any Interest Period for any Eurodollar
Loan:

          (a)  the Administrative Agent determines (which determination shall be
     conclusive) that by reason of circumstances affecting the relevant market,
     adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining the Eurodollar
     Rate for such Interest Period; or

          (b)  the Required Lenders determine (which determination shall be
     conclusive) and notify the Administrative Agent that the Eurodollar Rate
     will not adequately and fairly reflect the cost to the Lenders of funding
     Eurodollar Loans for such Interest Period; then the Administrative Agent
     shall give the Borrower prompt notice thereof, and so long as such
     condition remains in effect, the Lenders shall be under no obligation to
     make additional Eurodollar Loans, Continue Eurodollar Loans, or to Convert
     Base Rate Loans into Eurodollar Loans, and the Borrower shall, on the last
     day(s) of the then current Interest Period(s) for the outstanding
     Eurodollar Loans, either prepay such
<PAGE>

                                      -50-

     Eurodollar Loans or Convert such Eurodollar Loans into Base Rate Loans in
     accordance with the terms of this Credit Agreement.

3.8  Illegality.
     ----------

     Notwithstanding any other provision of this Credit Agreement, in the event
that it becomes unlawful for any Lender (or its Applicable Lending Office) to
make, maintain, or fund Eurodollar Loans hereunder, then such Lender shall
promptly notify the Borrower and Administrative Agent thereof and such Lender's
obligation to make or Continue Eurodollar Loans and to Convert Base Rate Loans
into Eurodollar Loans shall be suspended until such time as such Lender may
again make, maintain, and fund Eurodollar Loans (in which case the provisions of
Section 3.10 shall be applicable).

3.9  Requirements of Law.
     -------------------

     If, after the date hereof, the adoption of any applicable law, rule, or
regulation, or any change in any applicable law, rule, or regulation, or any
change in the interpretation or administration thereof by any Governmental
Authority, central bank, or comparable agency charged with the interpretation or
administration thereof, or compliance by any Lender (or its Applicable Lending
Office) with any request or directive (whether or not having the force of law)
of any such Governmental Authority, central bank, or comparable agency:

            (i) shall subject such Lender (or its Applicable Lending Office) to
     any Taxes (as defined in Section 3.11(a)) with respect to any Eurodollar
     Loans, its Notes, any Letter of Credit or any Lender's participation
     therein, any LOC Documents, or its obligation to make Eurodollar Loans, or
     change the basis of taxation of any amounts payable to such Lender (or its
     Applicable Lending Office) under this Credit Agreement or its Notes in
     respect of any Eurodollar Loans (other than a change in the rate of tax);

            (ii) shall impose, modify, or deem applicable any reserve, special
     deposit, assessment, or similar requirement (other than the Eurodollar
     Reserve Requirement utilized in the determination of the Eurodollar Rate)
     relating to any extensions of credit or other assets of, or any deposits
     with or other liabilities or commitments of, such Lender (or its Applicable
     Lending Office), including the Commitment of such Lender hereunder; or

            (iii)  shall impose on such Lender (or its Applicable Lending
     Office) or the London interbank market any other condition affecting this
     Credit Agreement or its Notes or any of such extensions of credit or
     liabilities or commitments (including any Letter of Credit or any Lender's
     participation therein or any LOC Documents); and the result of any of the
     foregoing is to increase the cost to such Lender (or its Applicable Lending
     Office) of making, Converting into, Continuing, or maintaining any
     Eurodollar Loans or any Letter of Credit or any Lender's participation
     therein or any LOC Documents or to reduce any sum received or receivable by
     such Lender (or its Applicable Lending Office) under this Credit Agreement
     or its Notes with respect to any Eurodollar Loans or any Letter of Credit
     or LOC Document, then the Borrower shall pay to such Lender on demand such
     amount or amounts as will compensate such Lender for such increased cost or
     reduction.  If any Lender requests compensation by the Borrower under this
     Section 3.9, the Borrower may, by
<PAGE>

                                      -51-

     notice to such Lender (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), suspend
     the obligation of such Lender to make or Continue Eurodollar Loans, or to
     Convert Base Rate Loans into Eurodollar Loans, until the event or condition
     giving rise to such request ceases to be in effect (in which case the
     provisions of Section 3.10 shall be applicable); provided that such
     suspension shall not affect the right of such Lender to receive the
     compensation so requested. Each Lender shall promptly notify the Borrower
     and the Administrative Agent of any event of which it has knowledge,
     occurring after the date hereof, which will entitle such Lender to
     compensation pursuant to this Section 3.9 and will designate a different
     Applicable Lending Office if such designation will avoid the need for, or
     reduce the amount of, such compensation and will not, in the sole judgment
     of such Lender, be otherwise disadvantageous to it; provided, that in
     determining whether designating a different Applicable Lending Office would
     be disadvantageous to such Lender, such Lender shall disregard any economic
     disadvantage that the Borrower agrees in form and substance satisfactory to
     such Lender to indemnify and hold such Lender harmless therefrom. Any
     Lender claiming compensation under this Section 3.9 shall furnish to the
     Borrower and the Administrative Agent a statement setting forth the
     additional amount or amounts to be paid to it hereunder which shall be
     conclusive in the absence of manifest error. In determining such amount,
     such Lender may use any reasonable averaging and attribution methods.

3.10  Treatment of Affected Loans.
      ---------------------------

     If the obligation of any Lender to make any Eurodollar Loan or to Continue,
or to Convert Base Rate Loans into, Eurodollar Loans shall be suspended pursuant
to Section 3.8 or 3.9 hereof, such Lender's Eurodollar Loans shall be
automatically Converted into Base Rate Loans on the last day(s) of the then
current Interest Period(s) for such Eurodollar Loans (or, in the case of a
Conversion required by Section 3.8 hereof, on such earlier date as such Lender
may specify to the Borrower with a copy to the Administrative Agent) and, unless
and until such Lender gives notice as provided below that the circumstances
specified in Section 3.8 or 3.9 hereof that gave rise to such Conversion no
longer exist:

          (a)  to the extent that such Lender's Eurodollar Loans have been so
     Converted, all payments and prepayments of principal that would otherwise
     be applied to such Lender's Eurodollar Loans shall be applied instead to
     its Base Rate Loans; and

          (b)  all Loans that would otherwise be made or Continued by such
     Lender as Eurodollar Loans shall be made or Continued instead as Base Rate
     Loans, and all Base Rate Loans of such Lender that would otherwise be
     Converted into Eurodollar Loans shall remain as Base Rate Loans.

     If such Lender gives notice to the Borrower (with a copy to the
Administrative Agent) that the circumstances specified in Section 3.8 or 3.9
hereof that gave rise to the Conversion of such Lender's Eurodollar Loans
pursuant to this Section 3.10 no longer exist (which such Lender agrees to do
promptly upon such circumstances ceasing to exist) at a time when Eurodollar
Loans made by other Lenders are outstanding, such Lender's Base Rate Loans shall
be automatically Converted, on the first day(s) of the next succeeding Interest
Period(s) for such outstanding Eurodollar Loans, to the extent necessary so
that, after giving effect thereto, all Loans held by the Lenders holding
Eurodollar Loans
<PAGE>

                                      -52-

and by such Lender are held pro rata (as to principal amounts, interest rate
basis, and Interest Periods) in accordance with their respective Commitments.

3.11  Taxes.
      -----

     (a)  Any and all payments by the Borrower to or for the account of any
Lender or the Administrative Agent hereunder or under any other Credit Document
shall be made free and clear of and without deduction for any and all present or
future taxes, duties, levies, imposts, deductions, charges or withholdings, and
all liabilities with respect thereto, excluding, in the case of each Lender and
                                      ---------
the Administrative Agent, taxes imposed on its net income, and franchise taxes
imposed in lieu of a tax on net income, by the jurisdiction under the laws of
which such Lender (or its Applicable Lending Office) or the Administrative Agent
(as the case may be) is organized or maintained or any political subdivision
thereof (all such non-excluded taxes, duties, levies, imposts, deductions,
charges, withholdings, and liabilities being hereinafter referred to as
"Taxes").  If the Borrower shall be required by law to deduct or withhold any
 -----
Taxes from or in respect of any sum payable under this Credit Agreement or any
other Credit Document to any Lender or the Administrative Agent, (i) except as
provided in Section 3.11(e), the sum payable shall be increased as necessary so
that after making all required deductions or withholdings for or on account of
Taxes (including deductions or withholdings for or on account of Taxes
applicable to additional sums payable under this Section 3.11) such Lender or
the Administrative Agent receives an amount equal to the sum it would have
received had no such deductions been made, (ii) the Borrower shall make such
deductions or withholdings, (iii) the Borrower shall pay the full amount
deducted or withheld to the relevant taxation authority or other Governmental
Authority in accordance with applicable law, and (iv) within thirty (30) days
after the date of any payment of Taxes, the Borrower shall furnish to the
Administrative Agent, at its address referred to in Section 12.1, the original
or a certified copy of a receipt evidencing payment thereof.

     (b)  In addition, the Borrower agrees to pay any and all present or future
stamp or documentary taxes and any other excise or property taxes or charges or
similar levies which arise from any payment made under this Credit Agreement or
any other Credit Document or from the execution or delivery of, or otherwise
with respect to, this Credit Agreement or any other Credit Document (hereinafter
referred to as "Other Taxes").
                -----------

     (c)  Except as provided in Section 3.11(e), the Borrower agrees to
indemnify each Lender and the Administrative Agent for the full amount of Taxes
and Other Taxes (including, without limitation, any Taxes or Other Taxes imposed
or asserted by any jurisdiction on amounts payable under this Section 3.11 for
or on account of Taxes or Other Taxes) paid by such Lender or the Administrative
Agent (as the case may be) and any liability (including penalties, interest, and
expenses) arising therefrom or with respect thereto.

     (d)  Each Lender that is not a United States person under Section
7701(a)(30) of the Code for U.S. federal income tax purposes, on or prior to the
date of its execution and delivery of this Credit Agreement in the case of each
Lender listed on the signature pages hereof and on or prior to the date on which
it becomes a Lender in the case of each other Lender (including, without
limitation, a Lender that is an assignee or transferee of an interest under this
Credit Agreement pursuant to Section 3.17 or 12.3),
<PAGE>

                                      -53-

and from time to time thereafter if (x) a lapse in time or change in
circumstances renders the previous certification obsolete or inaccurate in any
material respect or (y) requested in writing by the Borrower or the
Administrative Agent (but only so long as such Lender remains lawfully able to
do so), shall provide the Borrower and the Administrative Agent with (i) two
accurate and complete original signed copies of Internal Revenue Service Form
W-8BEN or W-8ECI, as appropriate, or any successor form prescribed by the
Internal Revenue Service, certifying that such Lender is entitled to benefits
under an income tax treaty to which the United States is a party which
completely eliminates United States withholding tax on all payments hereunder or
under any other Credit Documents or certifying that all such payments are
effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United
States, or (ii) if such Lender is not a "bank" within the meaning of Section
881(c)(3)(A) of the Code and cannot deliver either Internal Revenue Service Form
W-8BEN (with respect to a complete exemption under an income tax treaty) or Form
W-8ECI pursuant to clause (i), (A) a certificate substantially in the form of
Schedule 3.11(d) (any such certificate, a "Section 3.11(d) Certificate") and (B)
two accurate and complete original signed copies of Form W-8BEN or any successor
form prescribed by the Internal Revenue Service, certifying that such Lender is
entitled to a complete exemption from United States withholding tax on payments
of interest pursuant to this Credit Agreement or any of the other Credit
Documents. In addition, if requested in writing by the Borrower or the
Administrative Agent, each Lender that is a United States person under Section
7701(a)(30) of the Code for U.S. federal income tax purposes, on or prior to the
date of its execution and delivery of this Credit Agreement in the case of each
Lender listed on the signature pages hereof and on or prior to the date on which
it becomes a Lender in the case of each other Lender (including, without
limitation, a Lender that is an assignee or transferee of an interest under this
Credit Agreement pursuant to Section 3.17 or 12.3), and from time to time
thereafter if (C) a lapse in time or change in circumstances renders the
previous certification obsolete or inaccurate in any material respect or (D)
requested in writing by the Borrower or the Administrative Agent (but only so
long as such Lender remains lawfully able to do so), shall provide the Borrower
and the Administrative Agent with two accurate and complete original signed
copies of Internal Revenue Service Form W- 9 or any successor form prescribed by
the Internal Revenue Service certifying that such Lender is entitled to a
complete exemption from United States withholding tax on payments pursuant to
this Credit Agreement or any of the other Credit Documents.

     (e)  For any period with respect to which a Lender has failed to provide
the Borrower and the Administrative Agent with the appropriate form pursuant to
Section 3.11(d) (unless such failure is due to a change in treaty, law, or
regulation (or in the official interpretation thereof) enacted or promulgated
subsequent to the date on which a form with respect to such Lender originally
was required to be provided), such Lender shall not be entitled to
indemnification under Section 3.11(a) or 3.11(c) with respect to Taxes imposed
by the United States; provided, however, that should a Lender, which is
                      --------  -------
otherwise exempt from United States withholding tax, become subject to Taxes
because of its failure to deliver a form required hereunder, the Borrower shall
take such steps as such Lender shall reasonably request to assist such Lender,
at such Lender's expense, to recover such Taxes.  In addition, for any period
with respect to which a Lender has provided the Borrower and the Administrative
Agent with the Internal Revenue Service forms specified in clause (ii) of
Section 3.11(d), such Lender shall not be entitled to indemnification under
Section 3.11(a) or 3.11(c) with respect to Taxes imposed by the United States
other than Taxes imposed on interest.
<PAGE>

                                      -54-

     (f)  If the Borrower is required to pay additional amounts to or for the
account of any Lender pursuant to this Section 3.11, then such Lender will agree
to use reasonable efforts to change the jurisdiction of its Applicable Lending
Office so as to eliminate or reduce any such additional payment which may
thereafter accrue if such change, in the sole judgment of such Lender, is not
otherwise materially disadvantageous to such Lender; provided, that in
                                                     --------
determining whether changing the jurisdiction of an Applicable Lending Office
would be disadvantageous to such Lender, such Lender shall disregard any
economic disadvantage that the Borrower agrees in form and substance
satisfactory to such Lender to indemnify and hold such Lender harmless from.

     (g)  If any Lender determines that it has actually received or realized any
refund of tax, any reduction of, or credit against, its tax liabilities or
otherwise recovered any amount in connection with any deduction or withholding,
or payment of any additional amount, by the Borrower pursuant to Section 3.9 or
3.11, such Lender shall reimburse the Borrower an amount that the Lender shall,
in its sole discretion, determine is equal to the net benefit, after tax, which
was actually obtained by the Lender as a consequence of such refund, reduction,
credit or recovery; provided, that nothing in this paragraph (g) shall require
                    --------
any Lender to make available its tax returns (or any other information relating
to its taxes which it deems to be confidential).

     (h)  Without prejudice to the survival of any other agreement of the
Borrower hereunder, the agreements and obligations of the Borrower contained in
this Section 3.11 shall survive the repayment of the Loans, LOC Obligations and
other obligations under the Credit Documents and the termination of the
Commitments hereunder.

3.12  Compensation.
      ------------

     Upon the request of any Lender, the Borrower shall pay to such Lender such
amount or amounts as shall be sufficient (in the reasonable opinion of such
Lender) to compensate it for any loss, cost, or expense (excluding loss of
anticipated profits) incurred by it as a result of:

          (a)  any payment, prepayment, or Conversion of a Eurodollar Loan for
     any reason (including, without limitation, the acceleration of the Loans
     pursuant to Section 10.2) on a date other than the last day of  the
     Interest Period for such Loan; or

          (b)  any failure by the Borrower for any reason (including, without
     limitation, the failure of any condition precedent specified in Section 5
     to be satisfied) to borrow, Convert, Continue, or prepay a Eurodollar Loan
     on the date for such borrowing, Conversion, Continuation, or prepayment
     specified in the relevant notice of borrowing, prepayment, Continuation, or
     Conversion under this Credit Agreement.

     With respect to Eurodollar Loans, such indemnification may include an
amount equal to the excess, if any, of (a) the amount of interest which would
have accrued on the amount so prepaid, or not so borrowed, Converted or
Continued, for the period from the date of such prepayment or of such failure to
borrow, Convert or Continue to the last day of the applicable Interest Period
(or, in the case of a failure to borrow, Convert or Continue, the Interest
Period that would have commenced on the date of such failure) in each case at
the applicable rate of interest for such Eurodollar Loans provided for herein
(excluding,
<PAGE>

                                      -55-

however, the Applicable Percentage included therein, if any) over (b) the amount
of interest (as reasonably determined by such Lender) which would have accrued
to such Lender on such amount by placing such amount on deposit for a comparable
period with leading banks in the interbank Eurodollar market. Without prejudice
to the survival of any other agreement of the Borrower hereunder, the covenants
of the Borrower set forth in this Section 3.12 shall survive the repayment of
the Loans, LOC Obligations and other obligations under the Credit Documents and
the termination of the Commitments hereunder.

3.13  Pro Rata Treatment.
      ------------------

     Except to the extent otherwise provided herein:

          (a)  Loans.  Each Revolving Loan advance, each payment or prepayment
               -----
     of principal of any Revolving Loan (other than Swingline Loans) or
     reimbursement obligations arising from drawings under Letters of Credit,
     each payment of interest on the Revolving Loans or reimbursement
     obligations arising from drawings under Letters of Credit, each payment of
     Commitment Fees, each payment of the Letter of Credit Fee, each reduction
     of the Revolving Committed Amount and each conversion or extension of any
     Revolving Loan (other than Swingline Loans) shall be allocated pro rata
                                                                    --------
     among the Revolving Lenders in accordance with the respective Revolving
     Commitment Percentages.  Each Asset Sale Loan advance, each payment or
     prepayment of principal on the Asset Sale Loan, each payment of interest on
     the Asset Sale Loan and each conversion or extension of any Loan comprising
     the Asset Sale Loan shall be allocated pro rata among the Asset Sale
                                            --------
     Lenders in accordance with the respective principal amounts of their
     respective Asset Sale Loan Commitment Percentages.  Each Tranche A Term
     Loan advance, each payment or prepayment of principal on the Tranche A Term
     Loan, each payment of interest on the Tranche A Term Loan and each
     conversion or extension of any Loan comprising the Tranche A Term Loan
     shall be allocated pro rata among the Tranche A Term Lenders in accordance
                        --------
     with the respective principal amounts of their respective Tranche A Term
     Loan Commitment Percentages.  Each Tranche B Term Loan advance, each
     payment or prepayment of principal on the Tranche B Term Loan, each payment
     of interest on the Tranche B Term Loan and each conversion or extension of
     any Loan comprising the Tranche B Term Loan shall be allocated pro rata
                                                                    --------
     among the Tranche B Term Lenders in accordance with the respective
     principal amounts of their respective Tranche B Term Loan Commitment
     Percentages.

          (b)  Advances.  No Lender shall be responsible for the failure or
               --------
     delay by any other Lender in its obligation to make its ratable share of a
     borrowing hereunder; provided, however, that the failure of any Lender to
                          --------  -------
     fulfill its obligations hereunder shall not relieve any other Lender of its
     obligations hereunder.  Unless the Administrative Agent shall have been
     notified by any Lender prior to the date of any requested borrowing that
     such Lender does not intend to make available to the Administrative Agent
     its ratable share of such borrowing to be made on such date, the
     Administrative Agent may assume that such Lender has made such amount
     available to the Administrative Agent on the date of such borrowing, and
     the Administrative Agent in reliance upon such assumption, may (in its sole
     discretion but without any obligation to do so) make available to the
     Borrower a corresponding amount.  If such corresponding amount is
<PAGE>

                                      -56-

     not in fact made available to the Administrative Agent, the Administrative
     Agent shall be able to recover such corresponding amount from such Lender.
     If such Lender does not pay such corresponding amount forthwith upon the
     Administrative Agent's demand therefor, the Administrative Agent will
     promptly notify the Borrower, and the Borrower shall immediately pay such
     corresponding amount to the Administrative Agent. The Administrative Agent
     shall also be entitled to recover from the Lender or the Borrower, as the
     case may be, interest on such corresponding amount in respect of each day
     from the date such corresponding amount was made available by the
     Administrative Agent to the Borrower to the date such corresponding amount
     is recovered by the Administrative Agent at a per annum rate equal to (i)
     from the Borrower at the applicable rate for the applicable borrowing
     pursuant to the Notice of Borrowing and (ii) from a Lender at the Federal
     Funds Rate.

3.14  Sharing of Payments.
      -------------------

     The Lenders agree among themselves that, in the event that any Lender shall
obtain payment in respect of any Loan, LOC Obligations or any other obligation
owing to such Lender under this Credit Agreement through the exercise of a right
of setoff, banker's lien or counterclaim, or pursuant to a secured claim under
Section 506 of Title 11 of the United States Code or other security or interest
arising from, or in lieu of, such secured claim, received by such Lender under
any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law or otherwise, or by
any other means, in excess of its pro rata share of such payment as provided for
                                  --------
in this Credit Agreement, such Lender shall promptly purchase from the other
Lenders a Participation Interest in such Loans, LOC Obligations and other
obligations in such amounts, and make such other adjustments from time to time,
as shall be equitable to the end that all Lenders share such payment in
accordance with their respective ratable shares as provided for in this Credit
Agreement.  The Lenders further agree among themselves that if payment to a
Lender obtained by such Lender through the exercise of a right of setoff,
banker's lien, counterclaim or other event as aforesaid shall be rescinded or
must otherwise be restored, each Lender which shall have shared the benefit of
such payment shall, by repurchase of a Participation Interest theretofore sold,
return its share of that benefit (together with its share of any accrued
interest payable with respect thereto) to each Lender whose payment shall have
been rescinded or otherwise restored.  The Borrower agrees that any Lender so
purchasing such a Participation Interest may, to the fullest extent permitted by
law, exercise all rights of payment, including setoff, banker's lien or
counterclaim, with respect to such Participation Interest as fully as if such
Lender were a holder of such Loan, LOC Obligations or other obligation in the
amount of such Participation Interest.  Except as otherwise expressly provided
in this Credit Agreement, if any Lender or the Administrative Agent shall fail
to remit to the Administrative Agent or any other Lender an amount payable by
such Lender or the Administrative Agent to the Administrative Agent or such
other Lender pursuant to this Credit Agreement on the date when such amount is
due, such payments shall be made together with interest thereon for each date
from the date such amount is due until the date such amount is paid to the
Administrative Agent or such other Lender at a rate per annum equal to the
Federal Funds Rate.  If under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or other
similar law, any Lender receives a secured claim in lieu of a setoff to which
this Section 3.14 applies, such Lender shall, to the extent practicable,
exercise its rights in respect of such secured claim in a manner consistent with
the rights of the Lenders under this Section 3.14 to share in the benefits of
any recovery on such secured claim.
<PAGE>

                                      -57-

3.15  Payments, Computations, Etc.
      ---------------------------

     (a)  Generally.  Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, all
          ---------
payments hereunder shall be made to the Administrative Agent in Dollars in
immediately available funds, without setoff, deduction, counterclaim or
withholding of any kind, at the Administrative Agent's office specified in
Schedule 2.1 not later than 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina time) on the
------------
date when due.  Payments received after such time shall be deemed to have been
received on the next succeeding Business Day.  The Administrative Agent may (but
shall not be obligated to) debit the amount of any such payment which is not
made by such time to any ordinary deposit account of the Borrower maintained
with the Administrative Agent (with notice to the Borrower).  The Borrower
shall, at the time it makes any payment under this Credit Agreement, specify to
the Administrative Agent the Loans, LOC Obligations, Fees, interest or other
amounts payable by the Borrower hereunder to which such payment is to be applied
(and in the event that it fails so to specify, or if such application would be
inconsistent with the terms hereof, the Administrative Agent shall distribute
such payment to the Lenders in such manner as the Administrative Agent may
determine to be appropriate in respect of obligations owing by the Borrower
hereunder, subject to the terms of Section 3.13(a)).  The Administrative Agent
will distribute such payments to such Lenders, if any such payment is received
prior to 11:00 A.M. (Charlotte, North Carolina time) on a Business Day in like
funds as received prior to the end of such Business Day and otherwise the
Administrative Agent will distribute such payment to such Lenders on the next
succeeding Business Day.  Whenever any payment hereunder shall be stated to be
due on a day which is not a Business Day, the due date thereof shall be extended
to the next succeeding Business Day (subject to accrual of interest and Fees for
the period of such extension), except that in the case of Eurodollar Loans, if
the extension would cause the payment to be made in the next following calendar
month, then such payment shall instead be made on the next preceding Business
Day.  Except as expressly provided otherwise herein, all computations of
interest and fees shall be made on the basis of actual number of days elapsed
over a year of 360 days, except with respect to computation of interest on Base
Rate Loans which shall be calculated based on a year of 365 or 366 days, as
appropriate.  Interest shall accrue from and include the date of borrowing, but
exclude the date of payment.

     (b)  Allocation of Payments After Event of Default.  Notwithstanding any
          ---------------------------------------------
other provisions of this Credit Agreement to the contrary, after the occurrence
and during the continuance of an Event of Default, all amounts collected or
received on or in respect of the Obligations (or other amounts owing under the
Credit Documents in connection therewith) shall be paid over or delivered as
follows:

          FIRST, to the payment of all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and
     expenses (including without limitation reasonable attorneys' fees) of the
     collateral agent incurred in connection with the execution of its duties as
     collateral agent in exercising or attempting to exercise rights and
     remedies in respect of the collateral and all protective advances made with
     respect thereto;

          SECOND, to the payment of all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and
     expenses (including without limitation reasonable attorneys' fees) of the
     Administrative Agent in connection with enforcing the rights and remedies
     of the Lenders under the Credit Documents and any protective advances made
     with respect thereto;
<PAGE>

                                      -58-

          THIRD, to payment of any fees owed to the Administrative Agent
     hereunder;

          FOURTH, to the payment of all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and
     expenses (including without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees) of each
     of the Lenders hereunder in connection with enforcing its rights under the
     Credit Documents or otherwise with respect to the Obligations owing to such
     Lender;

          FIFTH, to the payment of all accrued interest and fees on or in
     respect of the Obligations;

          SIXTH, to the payment of the outstanding principal amount of the
     Obligations hereunder (including the payment or cash collateralization of
     the outstanding LOC Obligations);

          SEVENTH, to all other Obligations hereunder and other obligations
     which shall have become due and payable under the Credit Documents
     otherwise and not repaid pursuant to clauses "FIRST" through "SIXTH" above;
     and

          EIGHTH, to the payment of the surplus, if any, to whoever may be
     lawfully entitled to receive such surplus.

     In carrying out the foregoing, (i) amounts received shall be applied in the
numerical order provided until exhausted prior to application to the next
succeeding category; and (ii) except as otherwise provided, the Lenders shall
receive amounts ratably in accordance with their respective pro rata share
                                                            --------
(based on the proportion that the then outstanding Obligations held by such
Lenders bears to the aggregate amount of Obligations then outstanding) of
amounts available to be applied pursuant to clauses "FOURTH," "FIFTH," "SIXTH"
and "SEVENTH" above; and (iii) to the extent that any amounts available for
distribution pursuant to clause "SIXTH" above are attributable to the issued but
undrawn amount of outstanding Letters of Credit, such amounts shall be held by
the Administrative Agent in a cash collateral account and applied (A) first, to
reimburse the Issuing Lender for any drawings under such Letters of Credit and
(B) then, following the expiration of all Letters of Credit, to all other
obligations of the types described in clauses "FIFTH" and "SIXTH" above in the
manner provided in this Section 3.15(b).

3.16  Evidence of Debt.
      ----------------

     (a)  Each Lender shall maintain an account or accounts evidencing each Loan
made by such Lender to the Borrower from time to time, including the amounts of
principal and interest payable and paid to such Lender from time to time under
this Credit Agreement.  Each Lender will make reasonable efforts to maintain the
accuracy of its account or accounts and to promptly update its account or
accounts from time to time, as necessary.

     (b)  The Administrative Agent shall maintain the Register pursuant to
Section 12.3(c), and a subaccount for each Lender, in which Register and
subaccounts (taken together) shall be recorded (i) the amount, type and Interest
Period of each such Loan hereunder, (ii) the amount of any principal or interest
due and payable or to become due and payable to each Lender hereunder and (iii)
the amount of any
<PAGE>

                                      -59-

sum received by the Administrative Agent hereunder from or for the account of
the Borrower and each Lender's share thereof. The Administrative Agent will make
reasonable efforts to maintain the accuracy of the subaccounts referred to in
the preceding sentence and to promptly update such subaccounts from time to
time, as necessary.

     (c)  The entries made in the accounts, Register and subaccounts maintained
pursuant to subsection (b) of this Section 3.16 (and, if consistent with the
entries of the Administrative Agent, subsection (a)) shall be prima facie
evidence of the existence and amounts of the obligations of the Borrower therein
recorded; provided, however, that the failure of any Lender or the
          --------  -------
Administrative Agent to maintain any such account, such Register or such
subaccount, as applicable, or any error therein, shall not in any manner affect
the obligation of the Borrower to repay the Loans and other obligations owing to
such Lender.

3.17  Replacement of Lenders.
      ----------------------

     Borrower shall have the right, if no Default then exists, to replace any
Lender (the "Replaced Lender") with one or more other Eligible Assignees
             ---------------
reasonably acceptable to Lead Arrangers (collectively, the "Replacement Lender")
                                                            ------------------
if such Lender is charging Borrower increased costs pursuant to Section 3.9 or
3.11 in excess of those being charged generally by the other Lenders or such
Lender becomes incapable of making Eurodollar Loans as provided in Section 3.8
when other Lenders are generally able to do so; provided, however, that (i) at
                                                --------  -------
the time of any replacement pursuant to this Section 3.17, the Replacement
Lender shall enter into one or more assignment agreements in accordance with
Section 12.3 (and with all fees payable pursuant to Section 12.3 to be paid by
the Replacement Lender) pursuant to which the Replacement Lender shall acquire
all of the Commitments and outstanding Loans of, and in each case LOC
Commitments by, the Replaced Lender and, in connection therewith, shall pay to
(x) the Replaced Lender, an amount equal to the sum of (A) the principal of, and
all accrued interest on, all outstanding Loans of the Replaced Lender, (B) all
Obligations owing to such Replaced Lender, together with all then unpaid
interest with respect thereto at such time, and (C) all accrued, but theretofore
unpaid, fees owing to the Replaced Lender pursuant to Section 3.5, and (y) the
Issuing Lender, an amount equal to such Replaced Lender's Revolving Commitment
Percentage of a participation in any LOC Obligations (which at such time remains
a LOC Obligation) to the extent such amount was not theretofore purchased by
such Replaced Lender pursuant to Section 2.6(d), and (ii) all obligations of the
Borrower owing to the Replaced Lender (other than those specifically described
in clause (i) above in respect of which the assignment purchase price has been,
or is concurrently being, paid, but including any amounts which would be paid to
a Lender pursuant to Section 3.12 if Borrower were prepaying a Eurodollar Loan)
shall be paid in full to such Replaced Lender concurrently with such
replacement.  Upon the execution of the respective assignment agreement, the
payment of amounts referred to in clauses (i) and (ii) above and, if so
requested by the Replacement Lender, delivery to the Replacement Lender of Notes
executed by the Borrower, the Replacement Lender shall become a Lender hereunder
and the Replaced Lender shall cease to constitute a Lender hereunder and be
released of all its obligations as a Lender, except with respect to
indemnification provisions applicable to the Replaced Lender under this Credit
Agreement, which shall survive as to such Replaced Lender.
<PAGE>

                                      -60-

                                   SECTION 4

                            [INTENTIONALLY OMITTED]

                                    SECTION 5

                                   CONDITIONS

5.1  Closing Conditions.
     ------------------

     The obligation of the Lenders to enter into this Credit Agreement and to
make the initial Loans or the Issuing Lender to issue the initial Letter of
Credit, whichever shall occur first, shall be subject to satisfaction of the
following conditions (in each case in form and substance acceptable to the
Lenders, unless otherwise specified):

          (a)  Executed Credit Documents.  Receipt by the Administrative Agent
               -------------------------
     of multiple counterparts of the Credit Documents (other than the Notes of
     which there shall only be one original), including but not limited to the
     Guaranty Agreement (a form of which is attached hereto on Schedule 5.1(a))
     and all documentation necessary and appropriate to convey a valid and
     perfected first-priority security interest in the Collateral, as more
     specifically enumerated in Section 5.1(r) hereof, each duly executed by an
     appropriate officer of the parties thereto.

          (b)  Financial Information.  Receipt of such financial information
               ---------------------
     regarding the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as may be requested by, and in
     each case in form and substance satisfactory to, the Administrative Agent
     and the Lenders, including, to the extent available, any of the information
     otherwise required to be delivered pursuant to Section 8.1, including
     Section 8.1(h).

          (c)  Senior Notes.  Receipt by the Administrative Agent of evidence
               ------------
     that the Borrower shall have received gross proceeds from (i) the sale of
     the Senior Notes in an aggregate principal amount of at least $600.0
     million or (ii) the draw down of the Interim Loan in an aggregate principal
     amount of at least $400.0 million.  The Lead Arrangers shall have received
     a copy, certified by an Executive Officer of the Borrower as true and
     complete, of the indenture or credit agreement, as the case may be, or
     other governing instrument relating thereto, as originally executed and
     delivered, together with all exhibits and schedules thereto.  The indenture
     or credit agreement, as the case may be, or other governing instrument
     relating to the Senior Notes or Interim Loan shall be in form and
     substance, and on terms and conditions, satisfactory to the Lead Arrangers.

          (d)  Equity Issuance.  The Borrower shall have issued approximately
               ---------------
     36.3 million shares of its common stock in partial consideration for the
     Quorum Acquisition as set forth in the Merger Agreement pursuant to
     documentation reasonably satisfactory to the Lead Arrangers.
<PAGE>

                                      -61-

          (e)  Corporate Documents.  Receipt by the Administrative Agent of the
               -------------------
     following:

                 (i) Charter Documents.  Copies of the articles or certificates
                     -----------------
          of incorporation or other charter documents of the Borrower certified
          to be true and complete as of a recent date by the appropriate
          Governmental Authority of the state or other jurisdiction of its
          incorporation and certified by a secretary or assistant secretary of
          the Borrower to be true and correct as of the Closing Date.

                 (ii) Bylaws.  A copy of the bylaws of the Borrower certified by
                      ------
          a secretary or assistant secretary of the Borrower to be true and
          correct as of the Closing Date.

                 (iii)  Resolutions.  Copies of resolutions of the Board of
                        -----------
          Directors of the Borrower approving and adopting the Credit Documents
          to which it is a party, the transactions contemplated therein and
          authorizing execution and delivery thereof,  certified by a secretary
          or assistant secretary of the Borrower to be true and correct and in
          force and effect as of the Closing Date.

                 (iv) Good Standing.  Copies of (A) certificates of good
                      -------------
          standing, existence or its equivalent with respect to the Borrower
          certified as of a recent date by the appropriate Governmental
          Authorities of the state or other jurisdiction of incorporation and
          each other jurisdiction in which the failure to so qualify and be in
          good standing could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
          Effect and (B) to the extent available, a certificate indicating
          payment of all corporate or comparable franchise taxes certified as of
          a recent date by the appropriate governmental taxing authorities.

                 (v) Incumbency.  An incumbency certificate of the Borrower
                     ----------
          certified by a secretary or assistant secretary to be true and correct
          as of the Closing Date.

                 (vi) Solvency.  A certificate on behalf of the Borrower from
                      --------
          the chief financial officer of the Borrower and in form and substance
          reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent with respect to
          the solvency (on a consolidated basis) of each Credit Party
          immediately after the consummation of the Transactions.

                 (vii)  Corporate Structure.  Receipt by the Administrative
                        -------------------
          Agent of the corporate capital and ownership structure of the members
          of the Consolidated Group.

                 (viii)  Merger.  Immediately prior to the making of the initial
                         ------
          Loans, THH shall have merged with and into THI.

          (f)  Opinions of Counsel.  The Administrative Agent shall have
               -------------------
     received opinions of counsel in form and substance satisfactory to the Lead
     Arrangers, including, without limitation, an opinion of local counsel
     substantially in the form of Schedule 5.1(f) hereto, in each jurisdiction
                                  ---------------
     where the Collateral is located.
<PAGE>

                                      -62-

          (g)  Transaction Filings.  Receipt of such copies, certified by the
               -------------------
     Borrower, of all filings made with any Governmental Authority in connection
     with the Transactions as may be requested by the Lead Arrangers.

          (h)  Compliance with Law, Etc.  The Transactions and the financing
               ------------------------
     therefor shall be in compliance with all laws and regulations in all
     material respects and no law or regulation shall be applicable in the
     reasonable judgment of the Lead Arrangers that restrains, prevents or
     imposes material adverse conditions upon the Transactions or the financing
     thereof, including this Credit Agreement.  All requisite governmental
     authorities and material third parties shall have approved or consented to
     the Transactions and the other transactions contemplated hereby to the
     extent required (without the imposition of any materially burdensome
     condition or qualification in the reasonable judgment of the Lead
     Arrangers) and all such approvals shall be in full force and effect, all
     applicable waiting periods shall have expired and there shall be no
     governmental or judicial action, actual or threatened, that has or could
     have a reasonable likelihood of restraining, preventing or imposing
     materially burdensome or materially adverse conditions on any of the
     Transactions.

          (i)  Quorum Acquisition. Substantially concurrently with the making of
               ------------------
     the initial Loans, the Quorum Acquisition shall have been consummated in
     all material respects in accordance with the terms of the Merger Agreement
     (without the waiver or amendment of any material condition unless consented
     to by the Lead Arrangers and the Lenders).  Each of the parties to the
     Merger Agreement shall have complied in all material respects with the
     covenants set forth therein to be complied with by it on or prior to the
     Closing Date (without the waiver or amendment of any of the material terms
     thereof unless consented to by the Lead Arrangers).

          (j)  Refinancing. Simultaneously with the making of the initial Loans,
               -----------
     the Borrower shall have effected the Refinancing on terms and conditions
     and pursuant to documentation reasonably satisfactory to the Lead
     Arrangers.  All liens in respect to the Existing Indebtedness (excluding
     capital leases and other currently secured debt permitted to remain
     outstanding) shall have been released and the Lead Arrangers shall have
     received evidence thereof satisfactory to the Lead Arrangers (or
     arrangements for such release reasonably satisfactory to the Lead Arrangers
     shall have been made) and a "payoff" letter or letters reasonably
     satisfactory to the Lead Arrangers with respect to such Existing
     Indebtedness.

          (k)  Indebtedness.  After giving effect to the Transactions, the
               ------------
     Borrower and its subsidiaries shall have outstanding no indebtedness or
     preferred stock (or direct or indirect guarantee or other credit support in
     respect thereof) other than the Loans, the Senior Notes or the Interim
     Loan, $325.0 million aggregate principal amount outstanding with respect to
     the Senior Subordinated Notes, Indebtedness referred to in Section 5.1(p)
     and any Indebtedness set forth on Schedule 9.1 and such other debt or
     preferred stock as is reasonably acceptable to the Lead Arrangers.

          (l)  Material Adverse Change.  There shall not have occurred or become
               -----------------------
     known any material adverse change or any condition or event that could
     reasonably be expected to result in
<PAGE>

                                      -63-

     a material adverse change in the business, operations, financial condition,
     liabilities (contingent or otherwise) or prospects (each, a "Material
     Adverse Change") of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole
     (after giving effect to the Transactions) since December 31, 1999.

          (m)  Funded Debt to EBITDA Ratio.  The Lead Arrangers shall have
               ---------------------------
     received reasonably satisfactory evidence (including satisfactory
     supporting schedules and other data) that the ratio on a Pro Forma Basis of
     Consolidated Total Funded Debt to Consolidated EBITDA of the Borrower and
     its Subsidiaries calculated in a manner reasonably acceptable to the Lead
     Arrangers and after giving effect to the Transactions for the trailing four
     (4) quarters ended immediately prior to the Closing Date was not greater
     than 4.25:1.0.

          (n)  Litigation.  There shall not exist (i) any order, decree,
               ----------
     judgment, ruling or injunction which restrains, or seeks to restrain or to
     obtain damages as a result of, the consummation of the Transactions or (ii)
     any pending or threatened action, suit, investigation or proceeding against
     the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries that could reasonably be expected
     to have a Material Adverse Effect.

          (o)  No Conflicts.  The consummation of the Transactions shall not
               ------------
     violate, conflict with or result in a breach of, or constitute a default
     under (or result in an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both,
     would constitute a default under) any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed
     of trust, concession, lease, contract or other instrument, obligation or
     agreement to which the Borrower of any of its Subsidiaries is a party or by
     which Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or any of their respective assets
     may be bound or affected.

          (p)  QHGI Notes Redemption.  Irrevocable notice of the optional
               ---------------------
     redemption, within 60 days of the Closing Date, of the 8 3/4% Senior
     Subordinated Notes due 2005 of Quorum Health Group Inc. shall have been
     mailed to holders of such notes and an amount of cash or U.S. government
     securities shall have been deposited with the trustee thereto sufficient to
     repay all principal, interest and premium in such notes through the
     redemption date therefor.

          (q)  Fees and Expenses.  Payment by the Credit Parties of all fees and
               -----------------
     expenses owed by them to the Lenders and the Administrative Agent,
     including, the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel to the Lead
     Arrangers.

          (r)  Collateral Documents.
               --------------------

                  (1) Each of the (i) Borrower Security Agreement, (ii)
          Guarantor Security Agreement, (iii) Borrower Pledge Agreement, and
          (iv) Guarantor Pledge Agreement shall have been duly executed by the
          Credit Parties party thereto and shall have been delivered to the
          Administrative Agent and shall be in full force and effect on such
          date and all certificates, agreements or instruments representing or
          evidencing the Pledged Collateral (as defined in the Borrower Pledge
          Agreement and Guarantor Pledge Agreement, as applicable), accompanied
          by instruments of transfer and/or stock powers endorsed in blank,
          shall have been delivered to the Administrative Agent.
<PAGE>

                                      -64-

                  (2) The Administrative Agent shall have received Mortgages
          with respect to each of the Mortgaged Properties (other than the
          Mortgaged Properties described on Schedule 8.15(a)) and such Mortgages
                                            ----------------
          shall be in full force and effect on such date, together with each
          document required by law or requested by the Administrative Agent to
          be filed, registered or recorded or delivered to the Administrative
          Agent in order to create in favor of the Administrative Agent for the
          benefit of the Secured Parties (as defined in the Mortgages) a valid,
          legal and perfected first-priority grant of, security interest in and
          Lien on each of such Mortgaged Properties.

                  (3) The Borrower and each of the other Credit Parties shall
          have authorized, executed and/or delivered or caused to be delivered
          each of the following to the Administrative Agent:

                       (i) UCC financing statements (Form UCC-1 or UCC-2, as
               appropriate) in appropriate form for filing under the UCC and any
               other applicable Requirements of Law in each jurisdiction as may
               be necessary or appropriate to perfect the Liens created, or
               purported to be created, by the Collateral Documents;

                       (ii) certified copies of Requests for Information (Form
               UCC-11), tax lien and judgment lien searches or equivalent
               reports or lien search reports, each of a recent date listing all
               effective financing statements, lien notices or comparable
               documents that name the Borrower or any other Credit Party as
               debtor and that are filed in those state and county jurisdictions
               in which any of the Property of the Borrower or any other Credit
               Party is located and the state and county jurisdictions in which
               the Borrower's or any Credit Party's principal place of business
               is located, none of which encumber the Collateral covered or
               intended to be covered by the Collateral Documents other than
               those encumbrances which constitute Permitted Collateral Liens
               (as defined in the applicable Collateral Document);

                       (iii)  delivery of such other security and other
               documents including, without limitation, consents of
               counterparties to contracts and leases, and the taking of all
               actions as may be necessary or, in the opinion of the
               Administrative Agent, desirable, to perfect the Liens created, or
               purported to be created, by the Borrower Security Agreement and
               the Guarantor Security Agreement;

                       (iv) with respect to each real property, the appropriate
               Credit Party shall have made all notifications, registrations and
               filings, to the extent required by, and in accordance with, all
               environmental real property disclosure requirements as applicable
               to such real property, including the use of forms provided by
               state, local or foreign agencies, where such forms exist;
<PAGE>

                                      -65-

                       (v) with respect to each of the Mortgages (other than the
               Mortgages described in Section 8.15(a)), a policy (or commitment
                                      ---------------
               to issue a policy) of title insurance issued by a title insurance
               company acceptable to the Administrative Agent insuring (or
               committing to insure) the Lien of such Mortgage as a valid first
               mortgage Lien on the Mortgaged Properties and fixtures described
               therein in an amount not less than 100% of the fair market value
               thereof, which policy (or commitment) shall (w) be issued by the
               title insurance company, (x) contain a "tie-in" or "cluster"
               endorsement (if available under applicable law) (i.e., policies
                                                                ---
               which insure against losses regardless of location or allocated
               value of the insured property up to a stated maximum coverage
               amount) and (y) have been supplemented by such endorsements,
               provided that such endorsements are available, as shall be
               reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent (including,
               without limitation, endorsements on matters relating to usury,
               first loss, last dollar, zoning, contiguity, revolving credit,
               doing business, public road access, survey, variable rate and so-
               called comprehensive coverage over covenants and restrictions)
               and (z) contain no exceptions to title other than exceptions for
               the Prior Liens (as defined in the applicable Mortgage)
               acceptable to the Administrative Agent;

                       (vi) with respect to each of the Mortgaged Properties
               (other than the Mortgaged Properties described on Schedule
                                                                 --------
               8.15(g)), a survey, sufficient to cause the title insurance
               -------
               company to remove or limit the survey and unrecorded easement
               exceptions from the title insurance policy (or commitment) and
               issue so-called comprehensive coverage with respect to each such
               Mortgaged Properties to the extent such so-called comprehensive
               coverage is available in the applicable jurisdiction;

                       (vii)  with respect to each of the Mortgaged Properties
               (other than the Mortgaged Properties described on Schedule
                                                                 --------
               8.15(a)), such affidavits, certificates, information (including
               -------
               financial data) and instruments of indemnification (including a
               so-called "gap" indemnification) as shall be required to induce
               the title insurance company to issue the policy or policies (or
               commitment or commitments) and endorsements contemplated in
               subparagraph (v) above; and

                       (viii)  evidence acceptable to the Administrative Agent
               of payment by the Credit Parties of all applicable title
               insurance premiums, search and examination charges, survey costs
               and related charges, mortgage recording taxes, fees, charges,
               costs and expenses required for the recording of the Mortgages
               described in Section 5.1(r)(2) and issuance of the title
                            -----------------
               insurance policies referred to in subparagraph (v) above.

                  (4) The Administrative Agent shall have received a copy of, or
          a certificate as to coverage under, the insurance policies required by
          Section 8.6 hereof and the
<PAGE>

                                      -66-

          applicable provisions of the Collateral Documents, each of which shall
          be endorsed or otherwise amended to include a "standard" or "New York"
          lender's loss payable endorsement and to name the Administrative Agent
          as additional insured, in form and substance satisfactory to the
          Administrative Agent.

          (s)  Other.  Receipt by the Lenders of such other documents,
               -----
     instruments, agreements or information as reasonably requested by any
     Lender, including, but not limited to, information regarding litigation,
     tax, accounting, labor, insurance, pension liabilities (actual or
     contingent), real estate leases, material contracts, debt agreements,
     property ownership, environmental matters, contingent liabilities,
     corporate structure and management of the Borrower and Quorum and their
     respective Subsidiaries.

5.2  Conditions to All Extensions of Credit.
     --------------------------------------

     The obligation of each Lender to make any Extension of Credit hereunder
(including the initial Extension of Credit to be made hereunder) is subject to
the satisfaction of the following conditions precedent on the date of making
such Extension of Credit:

          (a)  Representations and Warranties.  The representations and
               ------------------------------
     warranties made by the Borrower herein or by the Credit Parties in any
     other Credit Documents or which are contained in any certificate furnished
     at any time under or in connection herewith shall be true and correct in
     all material respects on and as of the date of such Extension of Credit as
     if made on and as of the date of such extension or such request, as
     applicable (except for those which expressly relate to an earlier date).

          (b)  No Default or Event of Default.  No Default or Event of Default
               ------------------------------
     shall have occurred and be continuing on such date or after giving effect
     to the Extension of Credit to be made on such date and the application of
     the proceeds thereof unless such Default or Event of Default shall have
     been waived in accordance with this Credit Agreement.

          (c)  Involuntary Bankruptcy or Insolvency.  There shall not have been
               ------------------------------------
     commenced against any of the Credit Parties an involuntary case under any
     applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar law now or hereafter in
     effect, or any case, proceeding or other action for the appointment of a
     receiver, liquidator, assignee, custodian, trustee, sequestrator (or
     similar official) of such Person or for any substantial part of its
     Property or for the winding up or liquidation of its affairs, and shall
     remain undismissed, undischarged or unbonded.

          (d)  No Material Adverse Effect.  No circumstances, events or
               --------------------------
     conditions shall have occurred since December 31, 2000 which could
     reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

          (e)  Additional Conditions to Revolving Loans.  If a Revolving Loan is
               ----------------------------------------
     requested pursuant to Sections 2.1 and 2.2, all conditions set forth
     therein shall have been satisfied.
<PAGE>

                                      -67-

          (f)  Additional Conditions to Letters of Credit.  If the issuance of a
               ------------------------------------------
     Letter of Credit is requested pursuant to Sections 2.1 and 2.2, all
     conditions set forth therein with respect to the issuance of a Letter of
     Credit shall have been satisfied.

          (g)  Additional Conditions to Swingline Loans.  If a Swingline Loan is
               ----------------------------------------
     requested pursuant to Sections 2.1 and 2.2, all conditions set forth
     therein with respect to Swingline Loans shall have been satisfied.

          (h)  Additional Conditions to Asset Sale Loan Advance.  If an Asset
               ------------------------------------------------
     Sale Loan advance is requested pursuant to Sections 2.1 and 2.2, all
     conditions set forth therein with respect to Asset Sale Loans shall have
     been satisfied.

          (i)  Additional Conditions to Term Loan Advance.  If a Term Loan
               ------------------------------------------
     advance is requested pursuant to Sections 2.1 and 2.2, all conditions set
     forth therein with respect to Term Loan advances shall have been satisfied.

     Each request for an Extension of Credit (including extensions and
conversions) and each acceptance by the Borrower of an Extension of Credit
(including extensions and conversions) shall be deemed to constitute a
representation and warranty by the Borrower as of the date of such Extension of
Credit that the applicable conditions in paragraphs (a), (b), (c) and (d), and
in (e), (f), (g), (h) and (i), as applicable, of this subsection have been
satisfied.

                                    SECTION 6

                                   [RESERVED]

                                    SECTION 7

                         REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

     To induce the Lenders to make the Extensions of Credit hereunder to the
Borrower, the Borrower hereby represents and warrants to the Administrative
Agent and to each Lender that:

7.1  Financial Condition.
     -------------------

     Each of the financial statements described below (copies of which have
heretofore been provided to the Administrative Agent for distribution to the
Lenders) have been prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently applied
throughout the periods covered thereby, are complete and correct in all material
respects and present fairly the financial condition (including disclosure of all
material liabilities, contingent or otherwise) and results of operations of the
Persons and for the periods specified, subject in the case of interim company-
prepared statements to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes:

            (i) audited combined balance sheet for the net assets and operations
     of the Borrower and its consolidated
<PAGE>

                                      -68-

     Subsidiaries dated as of December 31, 1998 and audited consolidated balance
     sheets of the Borrower and its consolidated Subsidiaries dated as of
     December 31, 1999 and December 31, 2000, together, in each case, with
     related audited statements of income and cash flows certified by Ernst &
     Young LLP, certified public accountants;

            (ii) audited consolidated balance sheets of Quorum and its
     consolidated Subsidiaries dated as of June 30, 1998, June 30, 1999 and June
     30, 2000, together with related audited statements of income and cash flows
     certified by Ernst & Young LLP, certified public accountants;

            (iii)  company-prepared consolidated balance sheets for Quorum and
     its consolidated Subsidiaries, dated as of December 31, 2000, together with
     related consolidated statements of income and cash flows; and

            (iv) after the Closing Date, the annual and quarterly financial
     statements provided in accordance with Sections 8.1(a) and (b).

7.2  No Changes or Restricted Payments.
     ---------------------------------

     Since the date of the most-recent annual audited financial statements
referenced in Section 7.1(i) or (ii) hereof,

            (i) for the period to the Closing Date, except as previously
     disclosed in writing to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, (A) there
     have been no material sales, transfers or other dispositions of any
     material part of the business or property of the members of the
     Consolidated Group, nor have there been any material purchases or other
     acquisitions of any business or property (including the capital stock of
     any other person) by the members of the Consolidated Group, which are not
     reflected in the company-prepared quarterly financial statements referenced
     in Section 7.1(iii), and (B) no Restricted Payments have been declared or
     paid by members of the Consolidated Group; and

            (ii) there has been no circumstance, development or event which has
     had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

7.3  Organization; Existence; Compliance with Law.
     --------------------------------------------

     Each of the members of the Consolidated Group (a) is duly organized,
validly existing in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its
incorporation or organization, (b) has the corporate or other necessary
organizational power and authority, and the legal right to own and operate its
Property, to lease the Property it operates as lessee and to conduct the
business in which it is currently engaged, (c) is duly qualified as a foreign
entity and in good standing under the laws of each jurisdiction where its
ownership, lease or operation of Property or the conduct of its business
requires such qualification, other than in such jurisdictions where the failure
to be so qualified and in good standing has not had and could not have a
Material Adverse Effect, and (d) is in compliance with all Requirements of Law,
except to the extent that the failure to comply therewith has not had and could
not be reasonably expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
<PAGE>

                                      -69-

7.4  Power; Authorization; Enforceable Obligations.
     ---------------------------------------------

     Each of the Credit Parties has the corporate or other necessary
organizational power and authority, and the legal right, to make, deliver and
perform the Credit Documents to which it is a party and has taken all necessary
corporate or other action to authorize the execution, delivery and performance
by it of the Credit Documents to which it is a party.  No consent or
authorization of, filing with, notice to or other act by or in respect of, any
Governmental Authority or any other Person is required in connection with
acceptance of Extensions of Credit or the making of the guaranties hereunder or
with the execution, delivery or performance of any Credit Documents by the
Credit Parties (other than those which have been obtained, such filings as are
required by the Securities and Exchange Commission and to fulfill other
reporting requirements with Governmental Authorities) or with the validity or
enforceability of any Credit Document against the Credit Parties (except such
filings as are necessary in connection with the perfection of the Liens created
by such Credit Documents).

     Each Credit Document to which it is a party constitutes a legal, valid and
binding obligation of such Credit Party enforceable against such Credit Party in
accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable
bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or similar laws affecting the
enforcement of creditors' rights generally and by general equitable principles
(whether enforcement is sought by proceedings in equity or at law).

7.5  No Legal Bar.
     ------------

     The execution, delivery and performance of the Credit Documents, the
borrowings hereunder and the use of the Extensions of Credit will not violate
any Requirement of Law or any Contractual Obligation of any member of the
Consolidated Group (except those as to which waivers or consents have been
obtained), and will not result in, or require, the creation or imposition of any
Lien on any of its respective properties or revenues pursuant to any Requirement
of Law or Contractual Obligation other than the Liens arising under or
contemplated in connection with the Credit Documents.  No member of the
Consolidated Group is in default under or with respect to any of its Contractual
Obligations in any respect which has had or could reasonably be expected to have
a Material Adverse Effect.

7.6  No Material Litigation and Disputes.
     -----------------------------------

     (a)  No unsealed litigation or, to the best knowledge of the Credit
Parties, claims, investigation, sealed litigation or proceeding of or before any
arbitrator or Governmental Authority is pending or, to the best knowledge of the
Credit Parties, threatened by or against, any members of the Consolidated Group
or against any of their respective properties or revenues which (a) relate to
the Credit Documents or any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby
or (b) if adversely determined, could, after giving effect to any applicable
insurance and the obligations of HCA under the Tax Sharing Agreement, reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  Set forth on Schedule 7.6 is a
                                                             ------------
summary of all claims, litigation, investigations and proceedings pending or
threatened by or against the members of the Consolidated Group or against any of
their respective properties or revenues known to the Credit Parties, and none of
such actions, individually or in the aggregate, have had or could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
<PAGE>

                                      -70-

     (b)  No default exists, nor, to the best knowledge of the Credit Parties,
is any such default asserted under any Contractual Obligations to which any
members of the Consolidated Group are party which individually or in the
aggregate has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect.

7.7  No Defaults.
     -----------

     No Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.

7.8  Ownership and Operation of Property.
     -----------------------------------

     Each of the members of the Consolidated Group (i) has good title to, or a
valid leasehold interest in, all its material real property, and good title to,
or a valid leasehold interest in, all its other material Property, and none of
such Property is subject to any Lien, except for (a) with respect to any of its
Property, whether now owned or after acquired, that constitutes Collateral,
Permitted Collateral Liens (as defined in the applicable Collateral Documents)
and (b) with respect to any of its Property, whether now owned or after
acquired, that does not constitute Collateral, Permitted Liens, and (ii) has
obtained all material licenses, permits, franchises or other certifications,
consents, approvals and authorizations, governmental or private, necessary to
the ownership of its Property and to the conduct of its business, which are
material to the Consolidated Group taken as a whole.

7.9  Intellectual Property.
     ---------------------

     Each of the members of the Consolidated Group owns, or has the legal right
to use, all United States trademarks, tradenames, copyrights, patents,
technology, know-how, processes and other intellectual property, if any,
necessary for each of them to conduct its business as currently conducted (the
"Intellectual Property") except for those the failure to own or have such legal
----------------------
right to use have not had and could not be reasonably expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect.  Set forth on Schedule 7.9 is a list of Intellectual
                                       ------------
Property owned or used by members of the Consolidated Group.  Except as provided
on the foregoing Schedule, no claim has been asserted and is pending by any
Person challenging or questioning the use of any such Intellectual Property or
the validity or effectiveness of any such Intellectual Property, nor does any
Credit Party know of any such claim, and the use of such Intellectual Property
by the members of the Consolidated Group does not infringe on the rights of any
Person, except for such claims and infringements that, in the aggregate, have
not had and could not be reasonably expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

7.10  No Burdensome Restrictions.
      --------------------------

     No Requirement of Law or Contractual Obligation of the members of the
Consolidated Group has had or could be reasonably expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect.

7.11  Taxes.
      -----

     Each of the members of the Consolidated Group has filed or caused to be
filed all income tax returns (federal, state, local and foreign) and all other
material tax returns which are required to be filed
<PAGE>

                                      -71-

and has paid (i) all amounts shown therein to be due (including interest and
penalties) and (ii) all other taxes, fees, assessments and other governmental
charges (including mortgage recording taxes, documentary stamp taxes and
intangibles taxes) owing, except for such taxes which are not yet delinquent or
as are being contested in good faith by proper proceedings and against which
adequate reserves are being maintained in accordance with GAAP. No tax claim or
assessment has been asserted in writing against members of the Consolidated
Group which has had or, if adversely determined, could reasonably be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect.

7.12  ERISA
      -----

      Except as has not had and could not reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect:

          (a)  During the five-year period prior to the date on which this
     representation is made or deemed made:  (i) no ERISA Event has occurred,
     and, to the best knowledge of the Credit Parties, no event or condition has
     occurred or exists as a result of which any ERISA Event could reasonably be
     expected to occur, with respect to any Plan; (ii) no "accumulated funding
     deficiency," as such term is defined in Section 302 of ERISA and Section
     412 of the Code, whether or not waived, has occurred with respect to any
     Plan; (iii) each Plan has been maintained, operated, and funded in
     compliance with its own terms and in material compliance with the
     provisions of ERISA, the Code, and any other applicable federal or state
     laws; and (iv) no lien in favor of the PBGC or a Plan has arisen or is
     reasonably likely to arise on account of any Plan.

          (b)  The actuarial present value of all "benefit liabilities" (as
     defined in Section 4001(a)(16) of ERISA), whether or not vested, under each
     Single Employer Plan, as of the last annual valuation date prior to the
     date on which this representation is made or deemed made (determined, in
     each case, in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board
     Statement 87, utilizing the actuarial assumptions used in such Plan's most
     recent actuarial valuation report), did not exceed as of such valuation
     date the fair market value of the assets of such Plan.

          (c)  No member of the Consolidated Group nor any ERISA Affiliate has
     incurred, or, to the best knowledge of the Credit Parties, could be
     reasonably expected to incur, any withdrawal liability under ERISA to any
     Multiemployer Plan or Multiple Employer Plan.  No member of the
     Consolidated Group nor any ERISA Affiliate would become subject to any
     withdrawal liability under ERISA if any member of the Consolidated Group or
     any ERISA Affiliate were to withdraw completely from all Multiemployer
     Plans and Multiple Employer Plans as of the valuation date most closely
     preceding the date on which this representation is made or deemed made. No
     member of the Consolidated Group nor any ERISA Affiliate has received any
     notification that any Multiemployer Plan is in reorganization (within the
     meaning of Section 4241 of ERISA), is insolvent (within the meaning of
     Section 4245 of ERISA), or has been terminated (within the meaning of Title
     IV of ERISA), and no Multiemployer Plan is, to the best knowledge of the
     Credit Parties, reasonably expected to be in reorganization, insolvent, or
     terminated.

          (d)  No prohibited transaction (within the meaning of Section 406 of
     ERISA or Section 4975 of the Internal Revenue Code) or breach of fiduciary
     responsibility has occurred with respect
<PAGE>

                                      -72-

     to a Plan which has subjected or may subject any member of the Consolidated
     Group or any ERISA Affiliate to any liability under Sections 406, 409,
     502(i), or 502(l) of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code, or under any
     agreement or other instrument pursuant to which any member of the
     Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate has agreed or is required to
     indemnify any person against any such liability.

          (e)  No member of the Consolidated Group nor any ERISA Affiliates has
     any liability with respect to "expected post-retirement benefit
     obligations" within the meaning of the Financial Accounting Standards Board
     Statement 106.  Each Plan which is a welfare plan (as defined in Section
     3(1) of ERISA) to which Sections 601-609 of ERISA and Section 4980B of the
     Code apply has been administered in compliance in all material respects of
     such sections.

          (f)  Neither the execution and delivery of this Credit Agreement nor
     the consummation of the financing transactions contemplated thereunder will
     involve any transaction which is subject to the prohibitions of Sections
     404, 406 or 407 of ERISA or in connection with which a tax could be imposed
     pursuant to Section 4975 of the Code.  The representation by the Credit
     Parties in the preceding sentence is made in reliance upon and subject to
     the accuracy of the Lenders' representation in Section 12.15 with respect
     to their source of funds and is subject, in the event that the source of
     the funds used by the Lenders in connection with this transaction is an
     insurance company's general asset account, to the application of Prohibited
     Transaction Class Exemption 95-60, 60 Fed. Reg. 35,925 (1995), compliance
     with the regulations issued under Section 401(c)(1)(A) of ERISA, or the
     issuance of any other prohibited transaction exemption or similar relief,
     to the effect that assets in an insurance company's general asset account
     do not constitute assets of an "employee benefit plan" within the meaning
     of Section 3(3) of ERISA of a "plan" within the meaning of Section
     4975(e)(1) of the Code.

7.13  Governmental Regulations, Etc.
      -----------------------------

     (a)  No part of the proceeds of the Extensions of Credit hereunder will be
used, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of purchasing or carrying any
"margin stock" within the meaning of Regulation U, or for the purpose of
purchasing or carrying or trading in any other securities.  If requested by any
Lender or the Administrative Agent, the Borrower will furnish to the
Administrative Agent and each Lender a statement to the foregoing effect in
conformity with the requirements of FR Form U-1 referred to in said Regulation
U.  No indebtedness being reduced or retired out of the proceeds of the
Extensions of Credit hereunder was or will be incurred for the purpose of
purchasing or carrying any margin stock within the meaning of Regulation U or
any "margin security" within the meaning of Regulation T.  "Margin stock" within
the meanings of Regulation U does not constitute more than 25% of the value of
the consolidated assets of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries.  None of the
transactions contemplated by this Credit Agreement (including, without
limitation, the direct or indirect use of the proceeds of the Loans) will
violate or result in a violation of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or
the Securities Exchange Act, or regulations issued pursuant thereto, or
Regulation T, U or X.

     (b)  None of the members of the Consolidated Group is subject to regulation
under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, the Federal Power Act or
the Investment Company Act of 1940,
<PAGE>

                                      -73-

each as amended. In addition, none of the members of the Consolidated Group is
(i) an "investment company" registered or required to be registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and is not controlled by such a
company, or (ii) a "holding company," or a "subsidiary company" of a "holding
company," or an "affiliate" of a "holding company" or of a "subsidiary" of a
"holding company," within the meaning of the Public Utility Holding Company Act
of 1935, as amended.

     (c)  No director, executive officer or principal shareholder of any member
of the Consolidated Group is a director, executive officer or principal
shareholder of any Lender.  For the purposes hereof the terms "director,"
"executive officer" and "principal shareholder" (when used with reference to any
Lender) have the respective meanings assigned thereto in Regulation O issued by
the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

7.14  Subsidiaries.
      ------------

     Set forth on Schedule 7.14 are all the Subsidiaries of the Borrower,
                  -------------
including the jurisdiction of organization, classes of Capital Stock or other
equity interests (including options, warrants, rights of subscription,
conversion and exchangeability and other similar rights) and ownership and
ownership percentages thereof.  The outstanding shares of Capital Stock shown
have been validly issued, fully paid and are non-assessable and owned free of
Liens other than Permitted Liens.  The foregoing shares of Capital Stock and
equity interests are not the subject of buy-sell, voting trust or other
shareholder agreement except as identified on Schedule 7.14.
                                              -------------

7.15  Purpose of Extensions of Credit.
      -------------------------------

     The Term Loans and Asset Sale Loan will be used to finance the Quorum
Acquisition, the Refinancing and to pay related fees and expenses of the
Transactions.  The Revolving Loans will be used for the purposes identified in
the previous sentence and to finance working capital and other general corporate
purposes.

7.16  Environmental Matters.
      ---------------------

     Except as has not had and could not reasonably be expected to result in a
Material Adverse Effect, to the knowledge of the Consolidated Group:

          (a)  All of the facilities and properties owned, leased or operated by
     any member of the Consolidated Group (the "Subject Properties") and all of
                                                ------------------
     the Consolidated Group's respective operations at the Subject Properties
     (the "Businesses") are in compliance with all applicable Environmental
           ----------
     Laws, and there is no violation of any Environmental Law with respect to
     the Subject Properties or the Businesses.

          (b)  None of the Subject Properties contains any Materials of
     Environmental Concern at, on or under the Subject Properties in amounts or
     concentrations that constitute a violation of, or could give rise to
     liability under, Environmental Laws.
<PAGE>

                                      -74-

          (c)  Materials of Environmental Concern have not been generated,
     treated, stored or disposed of at, on or under any of the Subject
     Properties or any other location, or transported from the Subject
     Properties to or disposed of at any other location, by or on behalf of any
     members of the Consolidated Group in violation of any Environmental Law.

          (d)  No member of the Consolidated Group has (i) received any written
     notice of any judicial proceeding or administrative action that is pending
     or threatened under any Environmental Law with respect to any member of the
     Consolidated Group, the Subject Properties or the Businesses; (ii) entered
     into or been subject to any consent decrees or other decrees, consent
     orders, administrative orders or compliance orders, or other administrative
     or judicial requirements that remain outstanding under any Environmental
     Law; or (iii) been subject to any governmental enforcement action under any
     Environmental Laws with respect to the Subject Properties or any off-site
     waste disposal site.

          (e)  There has been no release of Materials of Environmental Concern
     at or from the Subject Properties, or arising from or related to the
     operations of any member of the Consolidated Group in connection with the
     Subject Properties or the Businesses.

7.17  Reserved.
      --------

7.18  No Material Misstatements.
      -------------------------

      None of (i) the information contained in the confidential information
memorandum, or (ii) any other information, reports, financial statements,
exhibits or schedules, taken as a whole, furnished by or on behalf of any member
of the Consolidated Group to the Administrative Agent or any Lender in
connection with the negotiation of the Credit Documents or included therein or
delivered pursuant thereto contained, contains or will contain any material
misstatement of fact or omitted, omits or will omit to state any material fact
necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under
which they were, are or will be made, not materially misleading, provided that
                                                                 --------
to the extent any such information, report, financial statement, exhibit or
schedule was based upon or constitutes a forecast or projection, THH represents
only that it acted in good faith and utilized reasonable assumptions and due
care in the preparation of such information, report, financial statement,
exhibit or schedule.

7.19  Labor Matters.
      -------------

      Except as set forth in Schedule 7.19,
                             -------------

            (i) there are no strikes or lockouts against any members of the
     Consolidated Group pending or, to the best knowledge of the Credit Parties,
     threatened which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
     Effect;

            (ii) the hours worked by and payments made to employees of the
     Consolidated Group have not been in violation of the Fair Labor Standards
     Act or any other applicable federal, state, local or foreign law dealing
     with such matters in any case where a Material Adverse Effect has occurred
     or could reasonably be expected to occur as a result of the violation
     thereof;
<PAGE>

                                      -75-

            (iii)  as of the date hereof, all payments due from members of the
     Consolidated Group, or for which any claim may be made against a member of
     the Consolidated Group, on account of wages and employee health and welfare
     insurance and other benefits, have been paid or accrued as a liability on
     the books of the respective members of the Consolidated Group; and

            (iv) as of the date hereof, none of the members of the Consolidated
     Group is party to a collective bargaining agreement.

7.20  Security Documents.
      ------------------

     (a)  Borrower Security Agreement.  The Borrower Security Agreement is
          ---------------------------
effective to create in favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable
benefit of the holders of the Secured Obligations (as defined in the Borrower
Security Agreement), a legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the
Collateral (as defined in the Borrower Security Agreement) owned by the Borrower
and, when financing statements in appropriate form are filed in the offices for
the locations in Schedule 4(d) and Schedule 3 to the Borrower Security
Agreement, the Borrower Security Agreement shall create a fully perfected Lien
on, and security interest in, all right, title and interest of the Borrower in
such Collateral that may be perfected by filing, recording or registering a
financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect, in each case
prior and superior in right to any other Lien on any Collateral other than
Permitted Collateral Liens (as defined therein).

     (b)  Guarantor Security Agreement.  The Guarantor Security Agreement is
          ----------------------------
effective to create in favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable
benefit of the holders of the Secured Obligations (as defined in the Guarantor
Security Agreement), a legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the
Collateral (as defined in the Guarantor Security Agreement) owned by the
Guarantors and, when financing statements in appropriate form are filed in the
offices for the locations in Schedule 4(d) and Schedule 3, the Guarantor
Security Agreement shall create a fully perfected Lien on, and security interest
in, all right, title and interest of the Guarantors in such Collateral that may
be perfected by filing, recording or registering a financing statement under the
Uniform Commercial Code as in effect, in each case prior and superior in right
to any other Lien on any Collateral other than Permitted Collateral Liens (as
defined therein).

     (c)  Borrower Pledge Agreement.  The Borrower Pledge Agreement is effective
          -------------------------
to create in favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable benefit of the
holders of the Secured Obligations (as defined in the Borrower Pledge
Agreement), a legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the Collateral
(as defined in the Borrower Pledge Agreement) and, when such Collateral is
delivered to the Administrative Agent, the Borrower Pledge Agreement shall
constitute a fully perfected first priority Lien on, and security interest in,
all right, title and interest of the Borrower in such Collateral, in each case
prior and superior in right to any other Lien.

     (d)  Guarantor Pledge Agreement.  The Guarantor Pledge Agreement is
          --------------------------
effective to create in favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable
benefit of the holders of the Secured Obligations (as defined in the Guarantor
Pledge Agreement), a legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the
Collateral (as defined in the Guarantor Pledge Agreement) and, when such
Collateral is delivered to the
<PAGE>

                                      -76-

Administrative Agent, the Guarantor Pledge Agreement shall constitute a fully
perfected first priority Lien on, and security interest in, all right, title and
interest of the pledgors thereunder in such Collateral, in each case prior and
superior in right to any other Lien.

     (e)  Intellectual Property.
          ---------------------

            (i) The Borrower Security Agreement together with the Notice of
     Grant of Security Interest in Trademarks and the Notice of Grant of
     Security Interest in Patents when filed with the United States Patent and
     Trademark Office, and the Notice of Grant of Security Interest in
     Copyrights filed with the United States Copyright Office will create a
     fully perfected Lien on, and security interest in, all right, title and
     interest of the Borrower in all Patents and Patent Licenses, Trademarks and
     Trademark Licenses and Copyrights and Copyright Licenses (each as defined
     in the Borrower Security Agreement) and in which a security interest may be
     perfected by filing, recording or registration of a Notice in the United
     States Patent and Trademark Office and the United States Copyright Office,
     in each case prior and superior in right to any other person other than
     Permitted Liens; and

            (ii) The Guarantor Security Agreement together with the Notice of
     Grant of Security Interest in Trademarks and the Notice of Grant of
     Security Interest in Patents when filed with the United States Patent and
     Trademark Office, and the Notice of Grant of Security Interest in
     Copyrights filed with the United States Copyright Office will create a
     fully perfected Lien on, and security interest in, all right, title and
     interest of the Guarantors in all Patents and Patent Licenses, Trademarks
     and Trademark Licenses and Copyrights and Copyright Licenses (each as
     defined in the Guarantor Security Agreement) and in which a security
     interest may be perfected by filing, recording or registration of a Notice
     in the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the United States
     Copyright Office, in each case prior and superior in right to any other
     person other than Permitted Liens.

     (f)  Mortgages.  The Mortgages are effective to create in favor of the
          ---------
Administrative Agent, for the ratable benefit of the holders of the Secured
Obligations identified therein, a legal, valid and enforceable Lien on all of
the respective grantors' right, title and interest in and to the Mortgaged
Properties thereunder and the proceeds thereof, and when the Mortgages are
recorded in the appropriate offices and the proper amount of mortgage recording
or similar taxes (if any) are paid and when the financing statements are duly
filed in the appropriate public records, the Mortgages shall constitute a fully
perfected Lien on, and security interest in, all right, title and interest of
the grantors in such Mortgaged Properties and the proceeds thereof, in each case
prior and superior to the right of any other Lien other than Permitted
Collateral Liens.

7.21  Location of Real Property and Leased Premises.
      ---------------------------------------------

     Set forth on Schedule 7.21(a-1) is a complete and correct list of all of
                  ------------------
the Mortgaged Properties.  Set forth on Schedule 7.21(b) is a list of all
                                        ----------------
locations where any tangible personal property of any member of the Consolidated
Group is located, including street address and state where located.  Set
<PAGE>

                                      -77-

forth on Schedule 7.21(c) is the jurisdiction of organization, chief executive
office and principal place of business of each member of the Consolidated Group.

7.22  Solvency.
      --------

     Immediately after giving effect to the initial Extensions of Credit
hereunder, (i) the fair value of the assets of each Credit Party will exceed its
debts and liabilities, subordinated, contingent or otherwise; (ii) the present
fair saleable value of the property of each Credit Party will be greater than
the amount that will be required to pay the probable liability of its debts and
other liabilities, subordinated, contingent or otherwise, as such debts and
other liabilities become absolute and mature; and (iii) each Credit Party will
not have unreasonably small capital with which to conduct the business in which
it is engaged as such business is now conducted and is proposed to be conducted
following the Closing Date.

                                   SECTION 8

                             AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

     The Borrower hereby covenants and agrees that, so long as this Credit
Agreement is in effect or any amounts payable hereunder or under any other
Credit Document shall remain outstanding or any Letter of Credit is outstanding,
and until all of the Commitments hereunder shall have terminated:

8.1  Information Covenants.
     ---------------------

     The members of the Consolidated Group will furnish, or cause to be
furnished, to the Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders:

          (a)  Annual Financial Statements.  As soon as available, and in any
               ---------------------------
     event within ninety (90) days after the close of each fiscal year of the
     Consolidated Group, a consolidated balance sheet and income statement of
     the members of the Consolidated Group as of the end of such fiscal year,
     together with related consolidated statements of operations and retained
     earnings and of cash flows for such fiscal year, in each case setting forth
     in comparative form consolidated figures for the preceding fiscal year, all
     such financial information described above to be in reasonable form and
     detail and audited by independent certified public accountants of
     recognized national standing reasonably acceptable to the Administrative
     Agent and whose opinion shall be to the effect that such financial
     statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP (except for changes
     with which such accountants concur) and shall not be limited as to the
     scope of the audit or qualified as to the status of the members of the
     Consolidated Group as a going concern or any other material qualifications
     or exceptions.

          (b)  Quarterly Financial Statements.  As soon as available, and in any
               ------------------------------
     event within forty-five (45) days after the close of each fiscal quarter of
     the Consolidated Group (other than the fourth fiscal quarter, in which case
     ninety (90) days after the end thereof) a consolidated balance sheet and
     income statement of the members of the Consolidated Group as of the end of
     such fiscal quarter, together with related consolidated statements of
     operations and retained earnings and of cash flows for such fiscal quarter,
     in each case setting forth in comparative
<PAGE>

                                      -78-

     form consolidated figures for the corresponding period of the preceding
     fiscal year, all such financial information described above to be in
     reasonable form and detail and reasonably acceptable to the Administrative
     Agent, and accompanied by a certificate of an Executive Officer of the
     Borrower to the effect that such quarterly financial statements fairly
     present in all material respects the financial condition of the members of
     the Consolidated Group and have been prepared in accordance with GAAP,
     subject to changes resulting from audit and normal year-end audit
     adjustments.

          (c)  Monthly Financial Statements.  As soon as available, and in any
               ----------------------------
     event within thirty (30) days after the end of each month which is not the
     last month of a fiscal quarter, forty-five (45) days after the end of each
     month which is the last month of the first three (3) fiscal quarters, and
     ninety (90) days after the month which is the last month of the fourth
     fiscal quarter of the Consolidated Group, a summary of operating
     statistics, including revenues, EBITDA and net income, on a hospital-by-
     hospital basis certified by an Executive Officer of the Borrower to be true
     and correct in all material respects to the best of his knowledge.

          (d)  Officer's Certificate.  At the time of delivery of the financial
               ---------------------
     statements provided for in Sections 8.1(a) and 8.1(b) above, a certificate
     of an Executive Officer of the Borrower substantially in the form of
     Schedule 8.1(c), (i) demonstrating compliance with the financial covenants
     ---------------
     contained in Section 8.11 by calculation thereof as of the end of each such
     fiscal period and (ii) stating that no Default or Event of Default exists,
     or if any Default or Event of Default does exist, specifying the nature and
     extent thereof and what action the Credit Parties propose to take with
     respect thereto.

          (e)  Annual Business Plan and Budgets.  At least thirty (30) days
               --------------------------------
     prior to the end of each fiscal year of the Borrower, beginning with the
     fiscal year ending December 31, 2001, an annual business plan and budget of
     the members of the Consolidated Group containing, among other things, pro
     forma financial statements for the next fiscal year.

          (f)  Compliance with Certain Provisions of the Credit Agreement.
               ----------------------------------------------------------
     Within ninety (90) days after the end of each fiscal year of the Credit
     Parties, a certificate containing information regarding the amount of all
     Asset Dispositions, Debt Transactions and Equity Transactions that were
     made during the prior fiscal year.

          (g)  Accountant's Certificate.  Within the period for delivery of the
               ------------------------
     annual financial statements provided in Section 8.1(a), a certificate of
     the accountants conducting the annual audit stating that they have reviewed
     this Credit Agreement and stating further whether, in the course of their
     audit, they have become aware of any Default or Event of Default and, if
     any such Default or Event of Default exists, specifying the nature and
     extent thereof.

          (h)  Auditor's Reports.  Promptly upon receipt thereof, a copy of any
               -----------------
     other report or "management letter" submitted by independent accountants to
     any member of the Consolidated Group in connection with any annual, interim
     or special audit of the books of such Person.
<PAGE>

                                      -79-

          (i)  Reports.  Promptly upon transmission or receipt thereof, (i)
               -------
     copies of any filings and registrations with, and reports to or from, the
     Securities and Exchange Commission, or any successor agency, and copies of
     all financial statements, proxy statements, notices and reports as any
     member of the Consolidated Group shall send to its shareholders or to a
     holder of any Indebtedness owed by any member of the Consolidated Group in
     its capacity as such a holder and (ii) upon the request of the
     Administrative Agent, all reports and written information to and from the
     United States Environmental Protection Agency, or any state or local agency
     responsible for environmental  matters, the United States Occupational
     Health and Safety Administration, or any state or local agency responsible
     for health and safety matters, or any successor agencies or authorities
     concerning environmental, health or safety matters.

          (j)  Notices.  Upon any Executive Officer of a Credit Party obtaining
               -------
     knowledge thereof, the Credit Parties will give written notice to the
     Administrative Agent immediately of (i) the occurrence of a Default or
     Event of Default, specifying the nature and existence thereof and what
     action the Credit Parties propose to take with respect thereto, and (ii)
     the occurrence of any of the following with respect to any member of the
     Consolidated Group (A) the pendency or commencement of any litigation,
     arbitral or governmental proceeding against such Person which if adversely
     determined is likely to have a Material Adverse Effect or (B) the
     institution of any proceedings against such Person with respect to, or the
     receipt of notice by such Person of potential liability or responsibility
     for violation, or alleged violation of any federal, state or local law,
     rule or regulation, including but not limited to, Environmental Laws, the
     violation of which could have a Material Adverse Effect.

          (k)  ERISA.  Upon any Executive Officer of a Credit Party obtaining
               -----
     knowledge thereof, the Credit Parties will give written notice to the
     Administrative Agent promptly (and in any event within five (5) Business
     Days) of:  (i) any event or condition, including, but not limited to, any
     Reportable Event, that constitutes, or might reasonably lead to, an ERISA
     Event; (ii) with respect to any Multiemployer Plan, the receipt of notice
     as prescribed in ERISA or otherwise of any withdrawal liability assessed
     against the Credit Parties or any ERISA Affiliates, or of a determination
     that any Multiemployer Plan is in reorganization or insolvent (both within
     the meaning of Title IV of ERISA); (iii) the failure to make full payment
     on or before the due date (including extensions) thereof of all amounts
     which any member of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate is
     required to contribute to each Plan pursuant to its terms and as required
     to meet the minimum funding standard set forth in ERISA and the Code with
     respect thereto; or (iv) any change in the funding status of any Plan that
     could have a Material Adverse Effect, together with a description of any
     such event or condition or a copy of any such notice and a statement by an
     Executive Officer of the Borrower briefly setting forth the details
     regarding such event, condition, or notice, and the action, if any, which
     has been or is being taken or is proposed to be taken by the Credit Parties
     with respect thereto.  Promptly upon request, the Credit Parties shall
     furnish the Administrative Agent and the Lenders with such additional
     information concerning any Plan as may be reasonably requested, including,
     but not limited to, copies of each annual report/return (Form 5500 series),
     as well as all schedules and attachments thereto required to be filed with
     the Department of Labor and/or the Internal Revenue
<PAGE>

                                      -80-

     Service pursuant to ERISA and the Code, respectively, for each "plan year"
     (within the meaning of Section 3(39) of ERISA).

          (l)  Environmental.
               -------------

            (i) Upon the reasonable written request of the Administrative Agent
     following the occurrence of any event or the discovery of any condition
     which the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders reasonably believe
     has caused (or could be reasonably expected to cause) the representations
     and warranties set forth in Section 7.16 to be untrue, the Credit Parties
     will furnish or cause to be furnished to the Administrative Agent, at the
     Credit Parties' expense, a report of an environmental assessment of
     reasonable scope, form and depth, (including, where appropriate, soil or
     groundwater sampling) by a consultant possessing relevant qualifications
     and skills to undertake such an environmental assessment of the nature and
     extent of the presence of any Materials of Environmental Concern on any
     Subject Properties (as defined in Section 7.16) and as to the compliance by
     any member of the Consolidated Group with Environmental Laws at such
     Subject Properties.  If the Credit Parties fail to deliver such an
     environmental report within seventy-five (75) days after receipt of such
     written request then the Administrative Agent may arrange for same, and the
     members of the Consolidated Group hereby grant to the Administrative Agent
     and their representatives access to the Subject Properties to reasonably
     undertake such an assessment (including, where appropriate, soil or
     groundwater sampling).  The reasonable cost of any assessment arranged for
     by the Administrative Agent pursuant to this provision will be payable by
     the Credit Parties on demand and added to the obligations secured by the
     Collateral Documents.

            (ii) The members of the Consolidated Group will conduct and complete
     all investigations, studies, sampling, and testing and all remedial,
     removal, and other actions necessary to address all Materials of
     Environmental Concern on any of the Subject Properties to the extent
     required to comply with all Environmental Laws and with the orders and
     directives of all Governmental Authorities issued thereunder to the extent
     that any failure to comply could reasonably be expected to result in a
     Material Adverse Effect.  However, nothing in this Credit Agreement shall
     limit any rights of the members of the Consolidated Group under any
     Environmental Laws or other Requirements of Law to seek to require third
     parties to conduct, complete, or pay for any investigations, studies,
     sampling, testing, or remedial, removal, or other actions necessary to
     address Materials of Environmental Concern on, from or affecting any of the
     Subject Properties to the extent necessary to comply with all applicable
     Environmental Laws.

            (iii)  Notwithstanding this paragraph 8.1(l), nothing in this Credit
     Agreement shall prevent the members of the Consolidated Group from
     exercising any rights to contest or appeal any order or directive issued
     under Environmental Laws by a Governmental Authority prior to undertaking
     any investigations, studies, sampling, testing, or remedial, removal, or
     other actions required thereunder.

          (m)  Additional Patents and Trademarks.  At the time of delivery of
               ---------------------------------
     the financial statements and reports provided for in Section 8.1(a), a
     report signed by an Executive Officer of the
<PAGE>

                                      -81-

     Borrower setting forth (i) a list of registration numbers for all patents,
     trademarks, service marks, tradenames and copyrights awarded to any member
     of the Consolidated Group since the last day of the immediately preceding
     fiscal year and (ii) a list of all patent applications, trademark
     applications, service mark applications, trade name applications and
     copyright applications submitted by any member of the Consolidated Group
     since the last day of the immediately preceding fiscal year and the status
     of each such application, all in such form as shall be reasonably
     satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.

          (n)  Lien Matters, Casualty and Damage to Collateral.  After actual
               -----------------------------------------------
     knowledge, prompt written notice of (i) the incurrence of any Lien other
     than a Permitted Collateral Liens (as defined in the Collateral Documents)
     on, or claim asserted against any of the Collateral, (ii) any casualty
     event, condemnation or other insured damage to any material portion of the
     Collateral or the commencement of any proceeding likely to result in a
     casualty event or condemnation or (iii) the occurrence of any other event
     which in Borrower's judgment is reasonably likely to materially adversely
     affect the aggregate value of the Collateral.

          (o)  Other Information.  With reasonable promptness upon any such
               -----------------
     request, such other information regarding the business, properties or
     financial condition of any member of the Consolidated Group as the
     Administrative Agent (on behalf of any Lender) or the Required Lenders may
     reasonably request.

8.2  Preservation of Existence and Franchises.
     ----------------------------------------

     Except as a result of or in connection with a dissolution, merger or
disposition of a Subsidiary permitted under Section 9.4 or Section 9.5, each
member of the Consolidated Group will do all things necessary to preserve and
keep in full force and effect its existence, rights, franchises and authority.

8.3  Books and Records.
     -----------------

     Each member of the Consolidated Group will keep complete and accurate books
and records of its transactions in accordance with good accounting practices on
the basis of GAAP (including the establishment and maintenance of appropriate
reserves).

8.4  Compliance with Law.
     -------------------

     Each member of the Consolidated Group will comply with all laws, rules,
regulations and orders, and all applicable restrictions imposed by all
Governmental Authorities, applicable to it and its Property if noncompliance
with any such law, rule, regulation, order or restriction could have a Material
Adverse Effect.

8.5  Payment of Taxes and Other Indebtedness.
     ---------------------------------------

     Each member of the Consolidated Group will pay and discharge (a) all taxes,
assessments and governmental charges or levies imposed upon it, or upon its
income or profits, or upon any of its Properties, before they shall become
delinquent, (b) all lawful claims (including claims for labor, materials and
supplies) which, if unpaid, might give rise to a Lien upon any of its
properties, and (c) except as prohibited hereunder,
<PAGE>

                                      -82-

all of its other Indebtedness as it shall become due; provided, however, that no
member of the Consolidated Group shall be required to pay any such tax,
assessment, charge, levy, claim or Indebtedness (i) which is being contested in
good faith by appropriate proceedings and as to which adequate reserves therefor
have been established in accordance with GAAP or (ii) if the failure to make any
such payment (A) would not give rise to an immediate right to foreclose on a
Lien securing such amounts and (B) could not have a Material Adverse Effect.

8.6  Insurance.
     ---------

     (a)  Each member of the Consolidated Group will at all times maintain in
full force and effect insurance (including worker's compensation insurance,
liability insurance, casualty insurance and business interruption insurance) in
such amounts, covering such risks and liabilities and with such deductibles or
self-insurance retentions as are in accordance with normal industry practice (or
as otherwise required by the Collateral Documents).  The Administrative Agent,
for the ratable benefit of the Lenders, shall be named as loss payee or
mortgagee, as its interest may appear, and/or additional insured with respect to
any such insurance providing coverage in respect of any Collateral, and each
provider of any such insurance shall agree, by endorsement upon the policy or
policies issued by it or by independent instruments furnished to the
Administrative Agent, that it will give the Administrative Agent thirty (30)
days' prior written notice before any such policy or policies shall be altered
or canceled, and that no act or default of any member of the Consolidated Group
or any other Person shall affect the rights of the Administrative Agent or the
Lenders under such policy or policies.  The present insurance coverage of the
members of the Consolidated Group is outlined as to carrier, policy number,
expiration date, type and amount on Schedule 8.6.
                                    ------------

     (b)  The proceeds from insurance may be held by the Administrative Agent in
a collateral account or delivered over to the applicable member of the
Consolidated Group, in the discretion of the Administrative Agent.  Amounts held
in a collateral account will be disbursed to the applicable member of the
Consolidated Group on evidence of repair, replacement or reinvestment in the
same or similar property.  The members of the Consolidated Group will account
for amounts delivered over to them and the uses to which the proceeds are put
and make payments as may be required hereunder by Section 3.3(b)(ii) or
otherwise.

8.7  Maintenance of Property.
     -----------------------

     Each member of the Consolidated Group will maintain and preserve its
properties and equipment material to the conduct of its business in good repair,
working order and condition, normal wear and tear, obsolescence and casualty and
condemnation excepted, and will make, or cause to be made, in such properties
and equipment from time to time all repairs, renewals, replacements, extensions,
additions, betterments and improvements thereto as may be needed or proper, to
the extent and in the manner customary for companies in similar businesses.
<PAGE>

                                      -83-

8.8  Performance of Obligations.
     --------------------------

     Each member of the Consolidated Group will perform in all material respects
all of its obligations  under the terms of all material agreements, indentures,
mortgages, security agreements and other debt instruments to which it is a party
or by which it is bound.

8.9  Use of Proceeds.
     ---------------

     The Borrower will use the proceeds of Extensions of Credit solely for the
purposes set forth in Section 7.15.

8.10  Audits/Inspections.
      ------------------

     Upon reasonable notice and during normal business hours, each member of the
Consolidated Group will permit representatives appointed by the Administrative
Agent, including, without limitation, independent accountants, agents,
attorneys, and appraisers to visit and inspect such member's property, including
its books and records, its accounts receivable and inventory, its facilities and
its other business assets, and to make photocopies or photographs thereof and to
write down and record any information such representative obtains and shall
permit the Administrative Agent or its representatives to investigate and verify
the accuracy of information provided to the Administrative Agent or the Lenders
and to discuss all such matters with the officers, employees and, subject to the
right of the representatives of the Consolidated Group to be present,
representatives of such Person (in each case excluding patient medical records
and any other material which is confidential pursuant to any Requirement of
Law).  The Credit Parties agree that the Administrative Agent, and its
representatives, may conduct an annual audit of the Collateral, at the expense
of the Borrower.

8.11  Financial Covenants.
      -------------------

     (a)  Consolidated Net Worth.  At all times after the end of the first
          ----------------------
fiscal quarter to occur after the Closing Date, Consolidated Net Worth shall be
not less than the sum of (i) an amount equal to eighty-five percent (85.0%) of
the Consolidated Net Worth on June 30, 2001, plus (ii) as of the end of each
                                             ----
fiscal quarter to occur after the Closing Date, an amount equal to fifty percent
(50.0%) of Consolidated Net Income (but not less than zero) for such fiscal
quarter, such increases to be cumulative, plus (iii) an amount equal to one
                                          ----
hundred percent (100.0%) of net proceeds from Equity Transactions occurring
after the Closing Date.

     (b)  Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio.  As of the end of each fiscal
          ----------------------------------
quarter set forth below, the Consolidated Senior Leverage Ratio shall be not
greater than:

Fiscal Quarter Ending
---------------------

June 30, 2001                                   2.40:1.00
September 30, 2001                              2.40:1.00
December 31, 2001                               2.40:1.00
March 31, 2002                                  2.30:1.00
June 30, 2002                                   2.30:1.00
<PAGE>

                                      -84-

September 30, 2002                              2.30:1.00
December 31, 2002                               2.30:1.00
March 31, 2003                                  2.10:1.00
June 30, 2003                                   2.10:1.00
September 30, 2003                              2.10:1.00
December 31, 2003                               2.10:1.00
March 31, 2004                                  1.90:1.00
June 30, 2004                                   1.90:1.00
September 30, 2004                              1.90:1.00
December 31, 2004                               1.90:1.00
March 31, 2005                                  1.60:1.00
June 30, 2005                                   1.60:1.00
September 30, 2005                              1.60:1.00
December 31, 2005                               1.60:1.00
March 31, 2006 and thereafter                   1.50:1.00

     (c)  Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio.  As of the end of each fiscal
          ---------------------------------
quarter set forth below, the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio shall be not
greater than:

Fiscal Quarter Ending
---------------------

June 30, 2001                                  4.50:1.00
September 30, 2001                             4.50:1.00
December 31, 2001                              4.50:1.00
March 31, 2002                                 4.35:1.00
June 30, 2002                                  4.35:1.00
September 30, 2002                             4.35:1.00
December 31, 2002                              4.35:1.00
March 31, 2003                                 3.85:1.00
June 30, 2003                                  3.85:1.00
September 30, 2003                             3.85:1.00
December 31, 2003                              3.85:1.00
March 31, 2004                                 3.60:1.00
June 30, 2004                                  3.60:1.00
September 30, 2004                             3.60:1.00
December 31, 2004                              3.60:1.00
March 31, 2005 and thereafter                  3.35:1.00

     (d)  Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio.  As of the end of each
          ----------------------------------------
fiscal quarter, the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be not less
than:
<PAGE>

                                      -85-

Fiscal Quarter Ending
---------------------

June 30, 2001                                    1.25:1.00
September 30, 2001                               1.25:1.00
December 31, 2001                                1.25:1.00
March 31, 2002                                   1.20:1.00
June 30, 2002                                    1.20:1.00
September 30, 2002                               1.20:1.00
December 31, 2002                                1.20:1.00
March 31, 2003                                   1.10:1.00
June 30, 2003                                    1.10:1.00
September 30, 2003                               1.10:1.00
December 31, 2003                                1.10:1.00
March 31, 2004                                   1.10:1.00
June 30, 2004                                    1.10:1.00
September 30, 2004                               1.10:1.00
December 31, 2004                                1.10:1.00
March 31, 2005                                   1.10:1.00
June 30, 2005                                    1.10:1.00
September 30, 2005                               1.10:1.00
December 31, 2005                                1.10:1.00
March 31, 2006                                   1.10:1.00
June 30, 2006                                    1.10:1.00
September 30, 2006                               1.10:1.00
December 31, 2006                                1.10:1.00
March 31, 2007 and thereafter                    1.00:1.00

     (e)  Consolidated Interest Expense Coverage Ratio.  As of the end of each
          --------------------------------------------
fiscal quarter, the Consolidated Interest Expense Coverage Ratio shall be not
less than:

Fiscal Quarter Ending
---------------------

June 30, 2001                                    2.40:1.00
September 30, 2001                               2.40:1.00
December 31, 2001                                2.40:1.00
March 31, 2002                                   2.60:1.00
June 30, 2002                                    2.60:1.00
September 30, 2002                               2.60:1.00
December 31, 2002                                2.60:1.00
March 31, 2003                                   2.80:1.00
June 30, 2003                                    2.80:1.00
September 30, 2003                               2.80:1.00
December 31, 2003                                2.80:1.00
March 31, 2004                                   3.10:1.00
<PAGE>

                                      -86-

June 30, 2004                                    3.10:1.00
September 30, 2004                               3.10:1.00
December 31, 2004                                3.10:1.00
March 31, 2005                                   3.30:1.00
June 30, 2005                                    3.30:1.00
September 30, 2005                               3.30:1.00
December 31, 2005                                3.30:1.00
March 31, 2006                                   3.60:1.00
June 30, 2006                                    3.60:1.00
September 30, 2006                               3.60:1.00
December 31, 2006                                3.60:1.00
March 31, 2007 and thereafter                    3.75:1.00

     (f)  Capital Expenditures.  Consolidated Capital Expenditures for each
          --------------------
fiscal year set forth below shall not exceed:

Fiscal Year 2001.............................       $350,000,000
Fiscal Year 2002.............................       $325,000,000
Fiscal Year 2003 and thereafter..............       $250,000,000

plus (a) the unused amount available for Consolidated Capital Expenditures under
this Section 8.11 for the immediately preceding fiscal year (excluding any carry
forward available from any prior fiscal year), (b) the amount of any Net
Proceeds from Asset Dispositions permitted to be retained by the Borrower
pursuant to Section 3.3(b)(ii)(B) to the extent that the Borrower applies such
amount to Consolidated Capital Expenditures within twelve (12) months of the
date of such Approved Asset Disposition and (c) the amount of any Consolidated
Capital Expenditures which constitute Permitted Acquisitions hereunder.

8.12  Additional Guarantors.
      ---------------------

     As soon as practicable and in any event within thirty (30) days after any
Person becomes a direct or indirect Subsidiary of THI, the Borrower shall
provide the Administrative Agent with written notice thereof setting forth
information in reasonable detail describing all of the Property of such Person
and shall (a) if such Person is a Domestic Subsidiary, cause such Person to
execute a Guaranty Joinder Agreement in substantially the same form as Schedule
1 to the Guaranty Agreement, (b) if such Person is a Domestic Subsidiary, cause
(i) 100% of the issued and outstanding Capital Stock of such Person owned by any
Credit Party to be delivered to the Administrative Agent (together with undated
stock powers signed in blank) and pledged to the Administrative Agent pursuant
to an appropriate pledge agreement(s) in substantially the form of the Guarantor
Pledge Agreement and otherwise in form acceptable to the Administrative Agent
and (ii) all of the personal property of such Person to be pledged to the
Administrative Agent pursuant to an appropriate security agreement(s)
substantially in the form of the Guarantor Security Agreement and otherwise in
form acceptable to the Administrative Agent, (c) if such Person is a direct
Foreign Subsidiary of a Credit Party, cause 65% (or such greater percentage
which would not result in material adverse tax consequences) of the issued and
outstanding Capital Stock
<PAGE>

                                      -87-

entitled to vote (within the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.956-2(c)(2)) and
100% of the issued and outstanding Capital Stock not entitled to vote (within
the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.956-2(c)(2)) of such Person to be delivered
to the Administrative Agent (together with undated stock powers signed in blank
(unless, with respect to a Foreign Subsidiary, such stock powers are deemed
unnecessary by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion under the
law of the jurisdiction of incorporation of such Person)) and pledged to the
Administrative Agent pursuant to an appropriate pledge agreement(s) in
substantially the form of the Guarantor Pledge Agreement and otherwise in form
acceptable to the Administrative Agent and (d) cause such Person to (i) if such
Person is a Domestic Subsidiary which has any Eligible Real Property, deliver to
the Administrative Agent, with respect to such Eligible Real Property,
documents, instruments and other items of the types required to be delivered
pursuant to Section 5.5(g) all in form, content and scope reasonably
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and (ii) deliver such other
documentation as the Administrative Agent may reasonably request in connection
with the foregoing, including, without limitation, appropriate UCC-1 financing
statements, real estate title insurance policies, environmental reports,
landlord's waivers, certified resolutions and other organizational and
authorizing documents of such Person, favorable opinions of counsel to such
Person (which shall cover, among other things, the legality, validity, binding
effect and enforceability of the documentation referred to above and the
perfection of the Administrative Agent's liens thereunder) and other items of
the types required to be delivered pursuant to Section 5.1 (e), (f), (g), (h),
(i) and (r), all in form, content and scope reasonably satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent; provided that, notwithstanding anything contrary in this
Section 8.12, the Borrower may, from time to time, designate one or more
Controlled Subsidiaries as exempt from the foregoing provisions of this Section
8.12 (each such Subsidiary, an "Exempt Subsidiary") by written notice to the
Administrative Agent so long as (i) no Default or Event of Default shall have
occurred and be continuing after giving effect to such designation; (ii) the
aggregate amount of Indebtedness (other than redeemable capital stock issued in
the ordinary course of business (i) that existed prior to the Closing Date or
(ii) in an amount not to exceed $10 million since the Closing Date) of all such
Subsidiaries does not exceed $10.0 million at any time outstanding and (iii) as
of the date of any such designation, the aggregate assets of all such
Subsidiaries do not exceed 16% of the consolidated assets of the Consolidated
Group.

8.13  Pledged Assets.
      --------------

     Each Credit Party will cause (i) all of its owned personal property located
in the United States, (ii) all of its owned real property located in the United
States other than Excluded Property and the Quorum Properties and (iii) to the
extent deemed to be material by the Administrative Agent or the Required
Lenders, (A) all of its owned real property located outside of the United States
other than Excluded Property and (B) all of its leased real property (wherever
located) other than Excluded Property, to be subject at all times to first
priority, perfected and, in the case of real property (whether leased or owned),
title insured Liens in favor of the Administrative Agent to secure such party's
obligations under the Credit Documents pursuant to the terms and conditions of
the Collateral Documents or, with respect to any such property acquired
subsequent to the Closing Date, such other additional security documents as the
Administrative Agent shall reasonably request, subject in any case to Permitted
Collateral Liens (as defined in the applicable Collateral Documents); provided,
                                                                      --------
that in the event the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is greater than
4.25:1.00 as of the end of two consecutive fiscal quarters, the Quorum
Properties will not be excepted from the foregoing provisions of this Section
8.13 and the Borrower
<PAGE>

                                      -88-

shall use its commercially reasonable best efforts to pledge such properties to
the Administrative Agent following the end of such two fiscal quarter period;
and provided, further, that the requirements of the immediately preceding
proviso shall be of no further force and effect after the time that the senior
secured debt of the Borrower receives both a rating of at least Ba3 from Moody's
and at least BB- from S&P. With respect to any real property acquired by any
Credit Party subsequent to the Closing Date and required by this Section 8.13 to
be pledged to the Administrative Agent, such Person will cause to be delivered
to the Administrative Agent with respect to such real property documents,
instruments and other items of the types required to be delivered pursuant to
Sections 5.1(f) and 5.1(r) hereof in form acceptable to the Administrative
Agent. Without limiting the generality of the above, (A) the Credit Parties will
cause (i) 100% of the issued and outstanding Capital Stock of each Domestic
Subsidiary and (ii) 65% (or such greater percentage which would not result in
material adverse tax consequences) of the issued and outstanding Capital Stock
entitled to vote (within the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.956-2(c)(2)) and
100% of the issued and outstanding Capital Stock not entitled to vote (within
the meaning of Treas. Reg. Section 1.956-2(c)(2)) of each Foreign Subsidiary
directly owned by THI or any Domestic Subsidiary to be subject at all times to a
first priority, perfected Lien in favor of the Administrative Agent pursuant to
the terms and conditions of the Collateral Documents or such other security
documents as the Administrative Agent shall reasonably request and (B) on or
before the effective date of Revised Uniform Commercial Code Article 9 in each
jurisdiction in which Collateral is located, each Credit Party shall execute and
deliver to the Administrative Agent and cause to be filed all financing
statements and other documents as shall be necessary or appropriate to perfect
and maintain the security interest in the Collateral (including, without
limitation, health-care insurance receivables) granted to the Administrative
Agent under the Collateral Documents.

     If, subsequent to the Closing Date, a Credit Party shall (a) acquire any
intellectual property, securities, instruments, chattel paper or other personal
property required to be pledged to the Administrative Agent as Collateral
hereunder or under any of the Collateral Documents or (b) acquire or lease any
real property, the Credit Parties shall promptly notify the Administrative Agent
of same.  Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to,
take such action (including but not limited to the actions set forth in Section
5.1(r)) at its own expense as requested by the Administrative Agent to ensure
that the Administrative Agent has a first priority perfected Lien to secure such
party's obligations under the Credit Documents in (i) all owned real property
and personal property of the Credit Parties located in the United States, (ii)
to the extent deemed to be material by the Administrative Agent or the Required
Lenders in its or their sole reasonable discretion, all other owned real and
personal property of the Credit Parties and (iii) all leased real property
located in the United States, subject in each case only to Permitted Liens.
Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, adhere to
the covenants regarding the location of personal property as set forth in the
Security Agreements.

8.14  Hedging Agreements.
      ------------------

     On or before December 31, 2001, not less than 50% of the aggregate
principal amount of then outstanding Consolidated Total Funded Debt of the
Consolidated Group shall be either (x) fixed rate debt or (y) debt subject to
Hedging Agreements having terms and with counterparties reasonably satisfactory
to Co-Lead Arrangers or (z) any combination of (x) and (y) above.
<PAGE>

                                      -89-

8.15  Certain Post-Closing Obligations.
      --------------------------------

     The Borrower shall, and shall cause each applicable Credit Party to, as
expeditiously as possible, but in no event later than the number of days after
the Closing Date to applicable to each item set forth below:

            (a) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, execute and
     deliver to the Administrative Agent a Mortgage encumbering each of the
     Mortgaged Properties described in Schedule 8.15(a), in each case duly
                                       ----------------
     executed and acknowledged by the Credit Party that is the owner of or
     holder of an interest in such Mortgaged Property, and otherwise in form for
     recording in the recording office of each political subdivision where each
     such Mortgaged Property is situated, together with such certificates,
     affidavits, questionnaires or returns as shall be required in connection
     with the recording or filing thereof to create a lien under applicable law,
     and such financing statements or other instruments as are contemplated by
     the local counsel opinions described in Section 8.15(m) below in respect of
                                             ---------------
     such Mortgage, all of which shall be in form and substance reasonably
     satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, and any other instruments
     necessary to grant a mortgage lien under the laws of any applicable
     jurisdiction, which Mortgage and financing statements and other instruments
     shall when recorded be effective to create a first priority Lien on such
     Mortgaged Property subordinate to no Liens other than Prior Liens (as
     defined in the applicable Mortgage) reasonably acceptable to the
     Administrative Agent and subject to no other Liens except Liens expressly
     permitted by such Mortgage;

            (b) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each Mortgaged Property, execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent
     such consents (including, without limitation, a landlord's consent (in form
     and substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent) to the
     encumbrance of the applicable Credit Party's interest, as tenant, in each
     leased real property commonly known as the Medical Center at Terrell, Texas
     and Brownwood Regional Medical Center, Texas) approvals, amendments,
     supplements, estoppels, tenant subordination agreements or other
     instruments as necessary or required or as shall reasonably be deemed
     necessary by the Administrative Agent in order for the owner or holder of
     the fee or leasehold interest constituting such Mortgaged Property to grant
     the Lien contemplated by the Mortgage with respect to such Mortgaged
     Property;

            (c) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each Mortgage described in Section 8.15(a) above, deliver to the
                                   ---------------
     Administrative Agent a policy (or commitment to issue a policy) of title
     insurance insuring (or committing to insure) the Lien of such Mortgage as a
     valid first mortgage Lien on the real property and fixtures described
     therein in an amount equal to 100% of the fair market value thereof, which
     policies (or commitments) shall (i) be issued by a title insurance company
     acceptable to the Administrative Agent, (ii) contain a "tie-in" or
     "cluster" endorsement (if available under applicable law) (i.e., policies
     which insure against losses regardless of location or allocated value of
     the insured property up to a stated maximum coverage amount), (iii) have
     been supplemented by such endorsements (or to the extent where such
     endorsements are not available at commercially reasonable rates, opinions
     of special counsel, architects or other professionals reasonably acceptable
     to the Administrative
<PAGE>

                                      -90-

     Agent to the extent that such opinions can be obtained at a cost which is
     reasonable with respect to the value of the real property subject to such
     Mortgage) as shall be reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent
     (including, without limitation, endorsements on matters relating to usury,
     first loss, last dollar, zoning, contiguity, revolving credit, doing
     business, non-imputation, public road access, survey, variable rate and
     so-called comprehensive coverage over covenants and restrictions) and (iv)
     contain no exceptions to title other than exceptions for the Prior Liens
     (as defined in the applicable Mortgage) acceptable to the Administrative
     Agent;

            (d) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each Mortgaged Property described in Schedule 8.15(a), deliver to the
                                             ----------------
     Administrative Agent policies or certificates of insurance as required by
     Section 8.6 hereof and the applicable provisions of the Mortgage relating
     -----------
     thereto;

            (e) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each Mortgaged Property described in Schedule 8.15(a), execute and/or
                                             ----------------
     deliver such affidavits, certificates, information (including financial
     data) and instruments of indemnification (including, without limitation, a
     so-called "gap" indemnification) as shall be required to induce the title
     insurance company to issue the policy or policies (or commitment) and
     endorsements contemplated in Section 8.15(c) above;
                                  ---------------

            (f) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, deliver
     evidence reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent of payment by
     the Borrower of all title insurance premiums, search and examination
     charges, and related charges, mortgage recording taxes, fees, charges,
     costs and expenses required for the recording of the Mortgages described in
     Section 8.15(a) and issuance of the title insurance policies referred to in
     ---------------
     Section 8.15(c) above;
     ---------------

            (g) within ninety (90) days after the Closing Date, with respect to
     each Mortgaged Property described in Schedule 8.15(g), deliver to the
                                          ----------------
     Administrative Agent a survey sufficient to cause the title insurance
     company to remove or limit the survey and unrecorded easement exceptions
     from the applicable title insurance policy (or commitment) and to issue so-
     called comprehensive coverage with respect to each of the Mortgaged
     Properties described by such surveys to the extent such so-called
     comprehensive coverage is available in the applicable jurisdiction;

            (h) within ninety (90) days after the Closing Date, with respect to
     each real property (other than the Mortgaged Properties), deliver to the
     Administrative Agent copies of all material leases, subleases, franchise
     agreements, licenses, occupancy agreements, concession agreements or other
     agreements relating to possessory interests in which a Credit Party holds
     the tenant's, subtenant's or grantee's interest;

            (i) within ninety (90) days after the Closing Date, with respect to
     each lease or other agreement described in Section 8.15 (h) and each lease
                                                ----------------
     or other agreement pursuant to which a Credit Party holds the tenant's,
     subtenant's or grantee's interest in a Mortgage Property, the applicable
     Credit Party shall use commercially reasonably best efforts to deliver to
     the
<PAGE>

                                      -91-

     Administrative Agent a landlord lien waiver and access agreement
     substantially in the form of Schedule 8.15(i) hereto with such changes
     thereto as shall be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent;

            (j) within ninety (90) days after the Closing Date, with respect to
     each of the Mortgaged Properties, deliver to the Administrative Agent
     copies of all leases, subleases, franchise agreements, licenses, occupancy
     agreements, concession agreements or other agreement relating to possessory
     interests (excluding any leases relating to the non-material lease of space
     entered into in the ordinary course of business) affecting such Mortgaged
     Property and with respect to (i)(A) each such lease, sublease, franchise,
     license, occupancy, concession or other agreement in which a Credit Party
     holds the landlord's, sublandlord's, licensor's or grantor's interest in
     existence as of the date hereof, or (B) each lease, sublease, franchise,
     license, occupancy, concession or other agreement in which a Credit Party
     holds the landlord's, sublandlord's, licensor's or guarantor's interest,
     which is recorded or is evidenced by a recorded memorandum thereof in each
     of the cases described in clauses (i)(A) and (i)(B) of this subsection, the
     Borrower shall and shall cause each applicable Credit Party to use its
     commercially reasonable best efforts to cause such agreement to be
     subordinate to the Lien of the Mortgage recorded (or to be recorded)
     against such real property (either expressly by its terms or pursuant to a
     subordination, non-disturbance and attornment agreement in form and
     substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent) and shall
     otherwise be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and (ii)
     each such lease, sublease, franchise, license, occupancy, concession or
     other agreement in which a Credit Party holds the landlord's,
     sublandlord's, licensor's or grantor's interest entered into after the date
     hereof shall be subordinate to the Lien of the Mortgage recorded (or to be
     recorded) against such real property (either expressly by its terms or
     pursuant to a subordination, non-disturbance and attornment agreement in
     form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent) and
     shall otherwise be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent;

            (k) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, deliver to
     the Administrative Agent evidence of the completion of all recordings and
     filings of, or with respect to, the Borrower Security Agreement and the
     Guarantor Security Agreement, including filings with the United States
     Patent, Trademark and Copyright offices, and delivery of such other
     security and other documents and the taking of all actions as may be
     necessary or, in the opinion of the Administrative Agent, desirable, to
     perfect the Liens created, or purported to be created, by the Borrower
     Security Agreement and the Guarantor Security Agreement;

            (l) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each Mortgaged Property described in Schedule 8.15(a), Borrower and each
                                             ----------------
     applicable Credit Party shall have made all notification, registrations and
     filings, to the extent required by, and in accordance with, all
     environmental real property disclosure requirements applicable to such
     Mortgaged Property, including the use of forms provided by state, local or
     foreign agencies, where such forms exist;
<PAGE>

                                      -92-

            (m) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, at the time
     of delivery of each of the Mortgages described in Section 8.15(a), procure
                                                       ---------------
     such opinions of local counsel to the Credit Parties substantially in the
     form of Schedule 5.1(f) hereto in the jurisdiction governing the Lien
             ---------------
     granted to the Administrative Agent under such Mortgage;

            (n) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each of the Mortgaged Properties, a Real Property Officer's Certificate
     substantially in the form of Schedule 8.15(n) attached hereto;
                                  ----------------

            (o) within forty-five (45) days after the Closing Date, with respect
     to each Capital Stock issued by a Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned
     Subsidiary of any Credit Party, the Borrower shall, and shall cause each
     applicable Credit Party to use commercially reasonable best efforts to
     deliver to the Administrative Agent (i) a consent to the grant of a
     security interest in and Lien on such Capital Stock to the extent such
     grant is expressly prohibited by the terms of the organizational documents
     relating to such subsidiary and (ii) an issuer acknowledgment substantially
     in the form of Schedule 4(c) to the applicable Pledge Agreement;
                    -------------

            (p) within ten (10) days after the Closing Date, (i) execute and
     deliver to the Administrative Agent UCC financing statements (Form UCC-3 or
     other appropriate form) in appropriate form for filing under the UCC and
     any other applicable Requirements of Law in each jurisdiction as may be
     necessary or appropriate to maintain, preserve and perfect the Liens
     created or purported to be created, by the Collateral Documents, (ii)
     deliver to the Administrative Agent copies of certificates of good standing
     and other documents described in Sections 5.1(e)(i) and (iv) hereof with
     respect to the Credit Parties described in Schedule 8.15(p) hereto from the
                                                ----------------
     jurisdictions contemplated in such Schedule, (iii) deliver to the
     Administrative Agent opinions of counsel to the Credit Parties in form and
     substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent relating to
     the matters described Sections 8.15(p)(i) and (ii) in each relevant
     jurisdiction and (iv) cause the title insurance company to endorse the
     applicable title insurance policy (or commitment) in a manner reasonably
     acceptable to the Administrative Agent to, among other things, reflect the
     filing of the financing statements described in Section 8.15(p)(i) and the
     delivery of the certificates and other documents described in Section
     8.15(p)(ii), and omit any exceptions taken in such title insurance policy
     (or commitment) as a result of the failure to file such financing
     statements or to obtain such certificates; and

            (q) within ten (10) days after the Closing Date, deliver to the
     Administrative Agent opinions of local counsel in the States of Arizona,
     Alabama, Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, Tennessee and Texas, and in each
     additional state in which material Collateral is located covering each
     applicable Credit Party (provided, however, in the case of QHR, such
                              --------  -------
     opinion shall not be required to be obtained in any states other than
     Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas,
     Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma,
     Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia and New York, in
     each case to the extent (1) QHR is organized in such state, (ii) any
     Collateral owned by QHR is located in such state or (iii) the perfection of
     the Security Interest granted to the Administrative Agent under the
<PAGE>

                                      -93-

     Collateral Documents in the QHR Collateral is governed by the laws of such
     state); in each case substantially in the form of Schedule 5.1(f) hereto.
                                                       ---------------

provided, however, that if, notwithstanding the use of commercially reasonable
--------  -------
best efforts, the Borrower is unable to receive the Brownwood Regional Medical
Center landlord consent, then the Borrower shall continue to use commercially
reasonable best efforts to obtain such consent, and the foregoing requirements
of this Section 8.15 as they relate to the Brownwood Regional Medical Center
shall only apply after the receipt of such consent.

                                    SECTION 9

                               NEGATIVE COVENANTS

     The Borrower hereby covenants and agrees that, so long as this Credit
Agreement is in effect or any amounts payable hereunder or under any other
Credit Document shall remain outstanding or any Letter of Credit is outstanding,
and until all of the Commitments hereunder shall have terminated:

9.1  Indebtedness.
     ------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will contract, create, incur, assume or
permit to exist any Indebtedness, except:

          (a)  Indebtedness existing or arising under this Credit Agreement or
     the other Credit Documents;

          (b)  Indebtedness set forth on Schedule 9.1, and renewals,
                                         ------------
     refinancings and extensions thereof on terms and conditions no less
     favorable to the members of the Consolidated Group than for such existing
     Indebtedness;

          (c)  Capital Lease Obligations and Indebtedness incurred, in each
     case, to provide all or a portion of the purchase price or costs of
     construction of fixed assets, or in the case of a Sale and Leaseback
     Transaction, to finance the value of such asset owned by a member of the
     Consolidated Group, and renewals, refinancings and extensions thereof;
     provided that (i) such Indebtedness when incurred shall not exceed the
     --------
     purchase price or cost of construction of such asset or, in the case of a
     Sale and Leaseback Transaction or refinancing transaction, the fair market
     value of such asset, (ii) no such Indebtedness shall be refinanced for a
     principal amount in excess of the principal balance outstanding thereon at
     the time of such refinancing, and (iii) the total aggregate outstanding
     principal amount of all such Indebtedness shall not exceed $45.0 million at
     any one time outstanding;

          (d)  Indebtedness owing under (a) interest rate, commodities and
     foreign currency exchange protection agreements entered into in the
     ordinary course of business to manage existing or anticipated risks and not
     for speculative purposes or (b) any Hedging Agreement entered into with a
     Lender or an affiliate of a Lender in connection with the cash management
     needs of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of
     business;
<PAGE>

                                      -94-

          (e)  unsecured intercompany Indebtedness owing by a member of the
     Consolidated Group to another member of the Consolidated Group (subject,
     however, to the limitations of Section 9.6 and Permitted Investments
     thereunder, in the case of the member of the Consolidated Group extending
     the loan, advance or credit);

          (f)  the Senior Subordinated Notes in an aggregate principal amount up
     to $325.0 million;

          (g)  either (i) the Senior Notes or (ii) the Interim Loan (or the
     Take-out Securities), in either case in an aggregate principal amount up to
     $700.0 million and other unsecured Funded Debt in an aggregate outstanding
     principal amount of up to $10.0 million at any time;

          (h)  Guaranty Obligations of Indebtedness permitted hereunder (which
     guaranty obligations in respect of Subordinated Debt shall be similarly
     subordinated); and

          (i)  Indebtedness of Vicksburg Healthcare, LLC of up to $75.0 million
     in connection with the Vicksburg Financing.

9.2  Liens.
     -----

     No member of the Consolidated Group will contract, create, incur, assume or
permit to exist directly or indirectly any Lien (i) with respect to any of its
Property whether now owned or after acquired that constitutes Collateral except
for Liens permitted by the terms of the applicable Collateral Documents and (ii)
with respect to any of its Property, whether now owned or after acquired that
does not constitute Collateral, except for Permitted Liens.

9.3  Nature of Business.
     ------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will substantively alter the character
or conduct of the business conducted by such Person as of the Closing Date.

9.4  Merger and Consolidation, Dissolution and Acquisitions.
     ------------------------------------------------------

     (a)  No member of the Consolidated Group will enter into any transaction of
merger or consolidation other than the Quorum Acquisition, except that

            (i) a Domestic Credit Party may be party to a transaction of merger
     or consolidation with another Domestic Credit Party, provided that if the
                                                          --------
     Borrower is a party to such transaction, it shall be the surviving entity;

            (ii) a Foreign Subsidiary may be party to a transaction of merger or
     consolidation with a Subsidiary of the Borrower, provided that (A) if a
                                                      --------
     Domestic Subsidiary is a party thereto, it shall be the surviving entity
     and if such Domestic Subsidiary is not already a Credit Party, it shall
     execute and deliver such joinder and pledge agreements as may be necessary
     for compliance with the provisions of Sections 8.12 and 8.13, and (B) if a
     Foreign Subsidiary is the
<PAGE>

                                      -95-

     other party thereto, the surviving entity shall be a Foreign Subsidiary and
     the Borrower and its Subsidiaries shall be in compliance with the pledge
     requirements of Sections 8.12 and 8.13;

            (iii)  a Domestic Subsidiary of the Borrower may be a party to a
     transaction of merger or consolidation with a person other than the
     Borrower or its Subsidiaries, provided that (A) the surviving entity shall
                                   --------
     be a Domestic Subsidiary of the Borrower and shall execute and deliver such
     joinder and pledge agreements as may be necessary for compliance with the
     provisions of Sections 8.12 and 8.13, (B) no Default or Event of Default
     shall exist immediately after giving effect thereto, and (C) the
     transaction shall otherwise constitute a Permitted Acquisition; and

            (iv) a Subsidiary of the Borrower may enter into a transaction of
     merger or consolidation in connection with an Asset Disposition permitted
     under Section 9.5.

     (b)  No member of the Consolidated Group, other than a Wholly-Owned
Subsidiary of the Borrower (and then only if no Material Adverse Effect shall
result on account thereof), may dissolve, liquidate or wind up its affairs.

     (c)  No member of the Consolidated Group shall purchase or otherwise
acquire the Capital Stock of a Person which is not a member of the Consolidated
Group, nor shall any member of the Consolidated Group purchase or otherwise
acquire the assets, property and/or operations of a Person which is not a member
of the Consolidated Group, unless:

          (i) in the case of an acquisition of Capital Stock, after giving
     effect to such acquisition,

               (A) if the acquisition is not of a controlling interest in the
          subject Person such that after giving effect thereto the subject
          Person will not be a Subsidiary, then the acquisition shall constitute
          a Permitted Investment hereunder; and

               (B) if the acquisition is of a controlling interest in the
          subject Person such that after giving effect thereto the subject
          Person will be a Subsidiary, then (I) it shall be a Subsidiary of the
          Borrower, (II) it shall execute and deliver such joinder and pledge
          agreements as may be necessary for compliance with the provisions of
          Sections 8.12 and 8.13, (III) no Default or Event of Default shall
          exist immediately after giving effect thereto, and (IV) it shall
          otherwise constitute a Permitted Acquisition; or

          (ii) in the case of an acquisition of assets, property and/or
     operations, after giving effect to such acquisition (A) such joinder and
     pledge agreements shall be executed, and other actions taken, as may be
     necessary to perfect the security interests therein in accordance with the
     provisions of Section 8.13, and (B) no Default or Event of Default shall
     exist immediately after giving effect thereto, and (C) the acquisition
     shall otherwise constitute a Permitted Acquisition.
<PAGE>

                                      -96-

9.5  Asset Dispositions.
     ------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will make any Asset Disposition
(including, without limitation, any Sale and Leaseback Transaction), other than
the Approved Asset Dispositions or the QHR Disposition, unless

            (i) the sale, lease or other disposition is to a Domestic Credit
     Party;

            (ii) the sale, transfer or disposition is in connection with an
     asset swap which otherwise constitutes a Permitted Acquisition;

            (iii)  it is the disposition of Overland Park Regional Medical
     Center or Independence Regional Health Center in accordance with the terms
     of the existing leases relating thereto; or

            (iv) in all other cases, (A) at least seventy five percent (75%) of
     the consideration paid therefor shall consist of cash and Cash Equivalents,
     (B) if the subject transaction is a Sale and Leaseback Transaction, such
     transaction shall be permitted by Section 9.13, (C) the aggregate net book
     value of all assets sold, leased or otherwise disposed of shall not exceed
     $50.0 million in any fiscal year, (D) no Default or Event of Default shall
     exist immediately after giving effect thereto, (E) the Borrower shall have
     demonstrated compliance with the financial covenants hereunder on a Pro
     Forma Basis after giving effect to the disposition and shall have delivered
     to the Administrative Agent a Pro Forma Compliance Certificate (including
     reaffirmation of the representations and warranties hereunder as of such
     date before and after giving effect to such transaction) in connection
     therewith, and (F) the Borrower shall have given written notice to the
     Administrative Agent at least fifteen (15) days in advance of the
     prospective disposition, and the terms thereof, in sufficient detail as to
     the book value and consideration to be paid, terms of disposition, and net
     proceeds expected therefrom and intended application thereof.

     The Administrative Agent will promptly deliver to the Borrower upon
request, at the Borrower's expense, such release documentation (including
delivery of applicable stock certificates) as may be reasonably requested to
give effect to the release of subject assets from the security interests
securing the obligations hereunder in connection with Asset Dispositions
permitted hereunder; provided, however, in the case of Asset Dispositions of the
                     --------  -------
type described in clause (i) of this Section 9.5, to the extent the Property
                                     -----------
effected thereby shall constitute Collateral, such Property shall remain subject
to the Lien of the Collateral Documents and the applicable Credit Party shall
take all action necessary or requested by the Administrative Agent to confirm
and maintain the Lien granted to the Administrative Agent on such Property under
the Collateral Documents, in the case of Asset Dispositions of the type
described in clause (ii) of this Section 9.5, to the extent the Property
                                 -----------
affected thereby shall constitute Collateral the asset received in exchange for
such Property shall be made subject to the Lien of the Collateral Documents in
accordance with the provisions of Section 8.13 hereof.
                                  ------------
<PAGE>

                                      -97-

9.6  Investments.
     -----------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will make or permit to exist
Investments in or to any Person, except for Permitted Investments.

9.7  Restricted Payments.
     -------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will make any Restricted Payment other
than (i) the payment in cash of pro rata dividends to the holders of Capital
Stock of Existing Controlled Subsidiaries; (ii) the payment in cash of pro rata
dividends to the holders of Capital Stock of Designated Controlled Subsidiaries,
provided that, on and as of the date of issuance of any such Capital Stock to
any holder which is not a member of the Consolidated Group, the aggregate amount
of dividends in respect of all Capital Stock of Controlled Subsidiaries held by
holders which are not members of the Consolidated Group paid (or would have been
paid after giving effect to such issuance) for the immediately preceding fiscal
year would not exceed 8% of the Consolidated EBITDA for the Consolidated Group
for the immediately preceding fiscal year and (iii) other Restricted Payments of
$5.0 million in any fiscal year not to exceed $20.0 million in the aggregate;
provided, however, that amounts not expended during any fiscal year may be
carried forward to succeeding fiscal years, subject to the $20.0 million
aggregate cap.

9.8  Modifications and Payments in Respect of Funded Debt.
     ----------------------------------------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will

          (a)  After the issuance thereof, amend or modify (or permit the
     amendment or modification of) the terms of any Indebtedness (including
     Senior Notes and Subordinated Debt) in a manner adverse to the interests of
     the Lenders (including specifically shortening any maturity or average life
     to maturity or requiring any payment sooner than previously scheduled or
     increasing the interest rate or fees applicable thereto);

          (b)  Amend or modify, or permit or acquiesce to the amendment or
     modification (including waivers) of, any subordination provisions relating
     to any Subordinated Debt;

          (c)  Make any payment in contravention of the terms of any
     Subordinated Debt or the Senior Notes; or

          (d)  Make any prepayment, redemption, defeasance or acquisition for
     value of (including without limitation, by way of depositing money or
     securities with the trustee with respect thereto before due for the purpose
     of paying when due), or refund, refinance or exchange of any Senior Notes
     and Subordinated Debt other than (i) regularly scheduled payments of
     principal and interest on such Funded Debt and (ii) upon and after the
     Asset Sale Loan has been repaid in full, the Borrower may prepay, redeem,
     defease or acquire Subordinated Debt (A) in an amount equal to 50% of the
     Net Proceeds received from any Equity Transaction, after compliance with
     Section 3.3(b)(iv) hereof, and (B) during any fiscal year at any time the
     Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is less than 3.25:1.00, in an amount
     equal to 25% of Excess Cash Flow for the
<PAGE>

                                      -98-

     immediately preceding fiscal year; provided, however, that the Borrower may
     refinance Subordinated Debt with Subordinated Debt having substantially
     identical terms, a lower interest rate, a longer maturity and average life
     to maturity and no requirement to make any payment sooner than previously
     scheduled or increasing the interest rate or fees applicable thereto.

9.9  Transactions with Affiliates.
     ----------------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will enter into or permit to exist any
transaction or series of transactions with any officer, director, shareholder,
Subsidiary or Affiliate of such Person other than (a) advances of working
capital to any Credit Party, (b) transfers of cash and assets to any Credit
Party, (c) transactions permitted by Sections 9.1, 9.4, 9.5, 9.6 or 9.7, (d)
normal compensation and reimbursement of expenses of officers and directors and
(e) except as otherwise specifically limited in this Credit Agreement, other
transactions which are entered into in the ordinary course of such Person's
business on terms and conditions substantially as favorable to such Person as
would be obtainable by it in a comparable arms length transaction with a Person
other than an officer, director, shareholder, Subsidiary or Affiliate.

9.10 Fiscal Year; Organizational Documents.
     -------------------------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will change its fiscal year or amend,
modify or change its articles of incorporation (or corporate charter or other
similar organizational document) or bylaws (or other similar document).

9.11 Limitation on Restricted Actions.
     --------------------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will, directly or indirectly, create or
otherwise cause or suffer to exist or become effective any encumbrance or
restriction on the ability of any such Person to (a) pay dividends or make any
other distributions on its Capital Stock or with respect to any other interest
or participation in, or measured by, its profits, (b) pay any Indebtedness or
other obligation, (c) make loans, advances or capital contributions, (d) sell,
lease or otherwise transfer any of its properties or assets, or (e) act as a
guarantor or pledge its assets, except for such encumbrances or restrictions
existing under or by reason of (i) this Credit Agreement and the other Credit
Documents, (ii) pursuant to the terms of the Senior Subordinated Notes, (iii)
pursuant to the terms of the Senior Notes, the Interim Loan or the Take-out
Securities (or agreements governing Indebtedness of a member of the Consolidated
Group with terms no less beneficial to the Lenders than the Senior Notes, the
Interim Loan or the Take-out Securities) or (iv) Permitted Liens.

9.12 Ownership of Subsidiaries; Limitations on Parent.
     ------------------------------------------------

     Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Credit Agreement to the
contrary, no member of the Consolidated Group will (i) permit any Person (other
than the Borrower or any Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of the Borrower) to own any
Capital Stock of any Subsidiary of the Borrower, except (A) to qualify directors
where required by applicable law or to satisfy other requirements of applicable
law with respect to the ownership of Capital Stock of Foreign Subsidiaries or
(B) as a result of or in connection with a dissolution, merger, consolidation or
disposition of a Subsidiary permitted under Section 9.4 or Section 9.5
(provided, however, that Persons may own shares of Capital Stock (I) issued on
 --------  -------
or before
<PAGE>

                                      -99-

the date hereof by a Subsidiary of the Borrower (collectively, the
"Existing Controlled Subsidiaries") and (II) issued after the date hereof by a
---------------------------------
Subsidiary of the Borrower designated by the Borrower (each a "Designated
                                                               ----------
Controlled Subsidiary" and together with the Existing Controlled Subsidiaries,
---------------------
the "Controlled Subsidiaries");  provided, that after giving effect to any such
     -----------------------     --------
designation, the aggregate assets of all such Controlled Subsidiaries do not
exceed 20% of the consolidated assets of the Consolidated Group), (ii) permit
any Subsidiary of the Borrower to issue any shares of preferred Capital Stock or
(iii) permit, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien on any Capital
Stock of any Subsidiary of the Borrower, except for Permitted Liens.

9.13  Sale Leasebacks.
      ---------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will enter into any Sale and Leaseback
Transaction unless such Sale and Leaseback Transaction constitutes purchase
money indebtedness permitted by Section 9.1(c).

9.14  No Further Negative Pledges.
      ---------------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will enter into, assume or become
subject to any agreement prohibiting or otherwise restricting the creation or
assumption of any Lien upon its properties or assets, whether now owned or
hereafter acquired, or requiring the grant of any security for any obligation if
security is given for any other obligation, except (a) pursuant to this Credit
Agreement and the other Credit Documents, (b) pursuant to the terms of any
Subordinated Debt permitted by Section 9.1(f), (c) pursuant to the terms of any
purchase money indebtedness or capital lease obligations permitted by Section
9.1(c) to the extent such limitations relate only to the property which is the
subject of such financing and (d) pursuant to any other agreement that expressly
allows and does not restrict in any manner (directly or indirectly) Liens
created pursuant to the Credit Documents on Property of any member of the
Consolidated Group (whether now owned or hereafter acquired) securing the
Obligations and does not require the direct or indirect granting of any Lien
securing any Indebtedness or other obligation by virtue of the granting of Liens
on or pledge of Property of any member of the Consolidated Group to secure the
Obligations.

9.15  Operating Lease Obligations.
      ---------------------------

     No member of the Consolidated Group will enter into, assume or permit to
exist any obligations for the payment of rental under Operating Leases which in
the aggregate for all such Persons would exceed $80.0 million in any fiscal
year.

                                   SECTION 10

                                EVENTS OF DEFAULT

10.1  Events of Default.
      -----------------

     An Event of Default shall exist upon the occurrence of any of the following
specified events (each an "Event of Default"):
                           ----------------
<PAGE>

                                     -100-

          (a)  Payment.  There shall occur a
               -------

                 (i) default in the payment when due of any principal of any of
          the Loans or of any reimbursement obligations arising from drawings
          under Letters of Credit, or

                 (ii) default, and such default shall continue for three (3) or
          more Business Days, in the payment when due of any interest on the
          Loans or on any reimbursement obligations arising from drawings under
          Letters of Credit, or of any Fees or other amounts owing hereunder,
          under any of the other Credit Documents or in connection herewith or
          therewith; or

          (b)  Representations.  Any representation, warranty or statement made
               ---------------
     or deemed to be made by the Borrower herein or any Credit Party in any of
     the other Credit Documents or in any statement or certificate delivered or
     required to be delivered pursuant hereto or thereto, shall prove untrue in
     any material respect on the date as of which it was made or deemed to have
     been made; or

          (c)  Covenants.  There shall occur a
               ---------

                 (i) default in the due performance or observance of any term,
          covenant or agreement contained in Sections 8.2, 8.4, 8.9, 8.11, 8.12,
          8.13 or 9.1 through 9.15, inclusive;

                 (ii) default in the due performance or observance of any term,
          covenant or agreement contained in Sections 8.1(a), (b) (c), (d) or
          (j) and such default shall continue unremedied for a period of at
          least five (5) days after the earlier of an Executive Officer of a
          Credit Party becoming aware of such default or notice thereof by the
          Administrative Agent; or

                 (iii)  default in the due performance or observance by it of
          any term, covenant or agreement (other than those referred to in
          subsection (a), (b), (c)(i) or (c)(ii) of this Section 10.1) contained
          in this Credit Agreement or any other Credit Document and such default
          shall continue unremedied for a period of at least thirty (30) days
          after the earlier of an Executive Officer of a Credit Party becoming
          aware of such default or notice thereof by the Administrative Agent;
          or

          (d)  Other Credit Documents.  Except as a result of or in connection
               ----------------------
     with a dissolution, merger or disposition of a Subsidiary permitted under
     Section 9.4 or Section 9.5, any Credit Document shall fail to be in full
     force and effect or to give the Administrative Agent and/or the Lenders the
     Liens, rights, powers and privileges purported to be created thereby, or
     any Credit Party shall so state in writing; or

          (e)  Guaranties.  Except as the result of or in connection with a
               ----------
     dissolution, merger or disposition of a Subsidiary permitted under Section
     9.4 or Section 9.5, the guaranty given by any Guarantor (including any
     Person which becomes a Guarantor after the Closing Date in accordance
<PAGE>

                                     -101-

     with Section 8.12) or any provision of the Guaranty Agreement shall cease
     to be in full force and effect, or any Guarantor (including any Person
     which becomes a Guarantor after the Closing Date in accordance with Section
     8.12) or any Person acting by or on behalf of such Guarantor shall deny or
     disaffirm such Guarantor's obligations under the Guaranty Agreement or any
     Guarantor shall default in the due performance or observance of any term,
     covenant or agreement on its part to be performed or observed pursuant to
     the Guaranty Agreement; or

          (f)  Bankruptcy, etc.  Any Bankruptcy Event shall occur with respect
               ---------------
     to any member of the Consolidated Group; or

          (g)  Defaults under Other Agreements.
               -------------------------------

                 (i) The occurrence of an Event of Default under the Senior
          Notes, Interim Loan, Senior Subordinated Notes or the indentures or
          other governing instruments relating thereto;

                 (ii) Any member of the Consolidated Group shall default in the
          performance or observance (beyond the applicable grace period with
          respect thereto, if any) of any material obligation or condition of
          any contract or lease material to the members of the Consolidated
          Group taken as a whole; or

                 (iii)  With respect to any Indebtedness (other than
          Indebtedness outstanding under this Credit Agreement) in excess of
          $5.0 million in the aggregate for the members of the Consolidated
          Group taken as a whole, (A) any member of the Consolidated Group shall
          default in any payment (beyond the applicable grace period with
          respect thereto, if any) with respect to any such Indebtedness; (B)
          there shall occur and continue a default in the observance or
          performance of any provision relating to such Indebtedness or
          contained in any instrument or agreement evidencing, securing or
          relating thereto, or any other event or condition shall occur or
          condition exist, the effect of which default or other event or
          condition is to cause, or to permit the holder or holders of such
          Indebtedness (or trustee or agent on behalf of such holders) to cause
          (determined without regard to whether any notice or lapse of time is
          required), any such Indebtedness to become due prior to its stated
          maturity; or (C) any such Indebtedness shall be declared due and
          payable, or required to be prepaid other than by a regularly scheduled
          required prepayment, prior to the stated maturity thereof; or

          (h)  Judgments.  One or more judgments or decrees shall be entered
               ---------
     against one or more of the members of the Consolidated Group involving a
     liability of $5.0 million or more in the aggregate (to the extent not paid
     or fully covered by insurance provided by a carrier who has acknowledged
     coverage and has the ability to perform) and any such judgments or decrees
     shall not have been vacated, discharged or stayed or bonded pending appeal
     within thirty (30) days from the entry thereof; or

          (i)  ERISA.  Any of the following events or conditions, if such event
               -----
     or condition could reasonably be expected to involve possible taxes,
     penalties, and other liabilities against one or
<PAGE>

                                     -102-

     more members of the Consolidated Group in an aggregate amount in excess of
     $5.0 million: (i) any "accumulated funding deficiency," as such term is
     defined in Section 302 of ERISA and Section 412 of the Code, whether or not
     waived, shall exist with respect to any Plan, or any lien shall arise on
     the assets of any member of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate
     in favor of the PBGC or a Plan; (ii) an ERISA Event shall occur with
     respect to a Single Employer Plan, which is, in the reasonable opinion of
     the Administrative Agent, likely to result in the termination of such Plan
     for purposes of Title IV of ERISA; (iii) an ERISA Event shall occur with
     respect to a Multiemployer Plan or Multiple Employer Plan, which is, in the
     reasonable opinion of the Administrative Agent, likely to result in (A) the
     termination of such Plan for purposes of Title IV of ERISA, or (B) any
     member of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate incurring any
     liability in connection with a withdrawal from, reorganization of (within
     the meaning of Section 4241 of ERISA), or insolvency (within the meaning of
     Section 4245 of ERISA) of such Plan; or (iv) any prohibited transaction
     (within the meaning of Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code) or
     breach of fiduciary responsibility shall occur which may subject any member
     of the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate to any liability under
     Sections 406, 409, 502(i), or 502(l) of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code,
     or under any agreement or other instrument pursuant to which any member of
     the Consolidated Group or any ERISA Affiliate has agreed or is required to
     indemnify any person against any such liability; or

          (j)  Ownership.  There shall occur a Change of Control; or
               ---------

          (k)  Quorum Acquisition.  The Quorum Acquisition shall not be
               ------------------
     consummated in all material respects in accordance with this Credit
     Agreement and the Merger Agreement substantially concurrently with the
     making of the initial extensions of credit hereunder or the mergers
     contemplated thereby, including the merger of THH with and into THI, or if
     either the Quorum Acquisition or the merger of THH with and into THI shall
     be unwound, reversed or otherwise rescinded in whole or in any material
     part for any reason.

10.2  Acceleration; Remedies.
      ----------------------

     Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, and at any time thereafter
unless and until such Event of Default has been waived by the requisite Lenders
(pursuant to the voting requirements of Section 12.6) or cured to the
satisfaction of the requisite Lenders (pursuant to the voting procedures in
Section 12.6), the Administrative Agent may, and upon the request and direction
of the Required Lenders shall, by written notice to the Borrower take any of the
following actions:

          (a)  Termination of Commitments.  Declare the Commitments terminated
               --------------------------
     whereupon the Commitments shall be immediately terminated.

          (b)  Acceleration.  Declare the unpaid principal of and any accrued
               ------------
     interest in respect of all Loans, any reimbursement obligations arising
     from drawings under Letters of Credit and any and all other indebtedness or
     obligations of any and every kind owing by the Borrower to the
     Administrative Agent and/or any of the Lenders hereunder to be due
     whereupon the same shall be immediately due and payable without
     presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any
<PAGE>

                                     -103-

     kind, all of which are hereby waived by the Borrower. Amounts received
     after termination of the Commitments and acceleration of the maturity of
     the Loans and Obligations hereunder, shall be shared ratably among the
     Revolving Lenders based on the outstanding principal amount of Revolving
     Obligations, the Asset Sale Lenders based on the outstanding principal
     amount of the Asset Sale Loan, the Tranche A Term Lenders based on the
     outstanding principal amount of the Tranche A Term Loan and the Tranche B
     Term Lenders based on the outstanding principal amount of the Tranche B
     Term Loan.

          (c)  Cash Collateral.  Direct the Borrower to pay (and the Borrower
               ---------------
     agrees that upon receipt of such notice, or upon the occurrence of an Event
     of Default under Section 10.1(f), it will immediately pay) to the
     Administrative Agent additional cash, to be held by the Administrative
     Agent, for the benefit of the Revolving Lenders, in a cash collateral
     account as additional security for the LOC Obligations in respect of
     subsequent drawings under all then outstanding Letters of Credit in an
     amount equal to the maximum aggregate amount which may be drawn under all
     Letters of Credits then outstanding.

          (d)  Enforcement of Rights.  Enforce any and all rights and interests
               ---------------------
     created and existing under the Credit Documents including, without
     limitation, all rights and remedies existing under the Collateral
     Documents, all rights and remedies against a Guarantor and all rights of
     set-off.

     Notwithstanding the foregoing, if an Event of Default specified in Section
10.1(f) shall occur with respect to any member of the Consolidated Group, then
the Commitments shall automatically terminate and all Loans, all reimbursement
obligations arising from drawings under Letters of Credit, all accrued interest
in respect thereof, all accrued and unpaid Fees and other indebtedness or
obligations owing to the Administrative Agent and/or any of the Lenders
hereunder by the Borrower automatically shall immediately become due and payable
without the giving of any notice or other action by the Administrative Agent or
the Lenders.

     Notwithstanding anything contained in this Section 10.2, if at any time
within sixty (60) days after an acceleration of the Loans pursuant to this
Section 10.2, (i) the Borrower shall pay all arrears of interest and all
payments on account of principal which shall have become due otherwise than by
acceleration (with interest on principal and, to the extent permitted by law, on
overdue interest, at the rates specified in this Credit Agreement) and (ii) all
Events of Default and Defaults (other than non-payment of the principal of and
accrued interest on the Loans, in each case which is due and payable solely by
virtue of acceleration) shall be waived pursuant to Section 12.6, the Required
Lenders, by written notice to the Borrower, may at their option rescind and
annul the acceleration and its consequences; but such action shall not affect
any subsequent Event of Default or Default or impair any right consequent
thereon.  The provisions of this paragraph are intended merely to bind the
Lenders to a decision which may be made at the election of the Required Lenders
and are not intended to benefit the Borrower and do not grant the Borrower the
right to require the Lenders to rescind or annual any acceleration hereunder,
even if the conditions set forth herein are met.
<PAGE>

                                     -104-

                                   SECTION 11

                               AGENCY PROVISIONS

11.1  Appointment, Powers and Immunities.
      ----------------------------------

     Each Lender hereby irrevocably appoints and authorizes the Administrative
Agent to act as its agent under this Credit Agreement and the other Credit
Documents with such powers and discretion as are specifically delegated to the
Administrative Agent by the terms of this Credit Agreement and the other Credit
Documents, together with such other powers as are reasonably incidental thereto.
Each Lender further authorizes and directs the Administrative Agent to execute
and deliver releases (or similar agreements) to give effect to the provisions of
this Credit Agreement and the other Credit Documents, including specifically,
without limitation, the provisions of Section 9.5 hereof.  The Administrative
Agent (which term as used in this sentence and in Section 11.5 and the first
sentence of Section 11.6 hereof shall include its Affiliates and its own and its
Affiliates' officers, directors, employees, and agents):  (a) shall not have any
duties or responsibilities except those expressly set forth in this Credit
Agreement and shall not be a trustee or fiduciary for any Lender; (b) shall not
be responsible to the Lenders for any recital, statement, representation, or
warranty (whether written or oral) made by a member of the Consolidated Group or
other Lender in or in connection with any Credit Document or any certificate or
other document referred to or provided for in, or received by any of them under,
any Credit Document, or for the value, validity, effectiveness, genuineness,
enforceability, or sufficiency of any Credit Document, or any other document
referred to or provided for therein or for any failure by any Credit Party or
any other Person to perform any of its obligations thereunder; (c) shall not be
responsible for or have any duty to ascertain, inquire into, or verify the
performance or observance of any covenants or agreements by any Credit Party or
the satisfaction of any condition or to inspect the property (including the
books and records) of any Credit Party or any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates;
(d) shall not be required to initiate or conduct any litigation or collection
proceedings under any Credit Document, except as expressly provided under the
Credit Documents; and (e) shall not be responsible for any action taken or
omitted to be taken by it under or in connection with any Credit Document,
except for its own gross negligence or willful misconduct.  The Administrative
Agent may employ agents and attorneys-in-fact and shall not be responsible for
the negligence or misconduct of any such agents or attorneys-in-fact selected by
it with reasonable care.  Each of the Syndication Agent and the Co-Agents, in
its capacity as such, shall not have any duties or responsibilities under this
Credit Agreement.

11.2  Reliance by Administrative Agent.
      --------------------------------

     The Administrative Agent shall be entitled to rely upon any certification,
notice, instrument, writing, or other communication (including, without
limitation, any thereof by telephone or telecopy) believed by it to be genuine
and correct and to have been signed, sent or made by or on behalf of the proper
Person or Persons, and upon advice and statements of legal counsel (including
counsel for any Credit Party), independent accountants, and other experts
selected by the Administrative Agent.  The Administrative Agent may deem and
treat the payee of any Note as the holder thereof for all purposes hereof unless
and until the Administrative Agent receives and accepts an Assignment and
Acceptance executed in accordance with Section 12.3(b) hereof.  As to any
matters not expressly provided for by
<PAGE>

                                     -105-

this Credit Agreement, the Administrative Agent shall not be required to
exercise any discretion or take any action, but shall be required to act or to
refrain from acting (and shall be fully protected in so acting or refraining
from acting) upon the instructions of the Required Lenders, and such
instructions shall be binding on all of the Lenders; provided, however, that the
Administrative Agent shall not be required to take any action that exposes the
Administrative Agent to personal liability or that is contrary to any Credit
Document or applicable law or unless it shall first be indemnified to its
satisfaction by the Lenders against any and all liability and expense which may
be incurred by it by reason of taking any such action.

11.3  Defaults.
      --------

     The Administrative Agent shall not be deemed to have knowledge or notice of
the occurrence of a Default or Event of Default unless the Administrative Agent
has received written notice from a Lender or a Credit Party specifying such
Default or Event of Default and stating that such notice is a "Notice of
Default."  In the event that the Administrative Agent receives such a notice of
the occurrence of a Default or Event of Default, the Administrative Agent shall
give prompt notice thereof to the Lenders.  The Administrative Agent shall
(subject to Section 11.2 hereof) take such action with respect to such Default
or Event of Default as shall reasonably be directed by the Required Lenders (or
such other Lenders as required by Section 12.6), provided that, unless and until
                                                 --------
the Administrative Agent shall have received such directions, the Administrative
Agent may (but shall not be obligated to) take such action, or refrain from
taking such action, with respect to such Default or Event of Default as it shall
deem advisable in the best interest of the Lenders.

11.4  Rights as a Lender.
      ------------------

     With respect to its Commitment and the Loans made by it, Bank of America
(and any successor acting as Administrative Agent) in its capacity as a Lender
hereunder shall have the same rights and powers hereunder as any other Lender
and may exercise the same as though it were not acting as the Administrative
Agent, and the term "Lender" or "Lenders" shall, unless the context otherwise
indicates, include the Administrative Agent in its individual capacity.  Bank of
America (and any successor acting as Administrative Agent) and its Affiliates
may (without having to account therefor to any Lender) accept deposits from,
lend money to, make investments in, provide services to, and generally engage in
any kind of lending, trust, or other business with any Credit Party or any of
its Subsidiaries or Affiliates as if it were not acting as Administrative Agent,
and Bank of America (and any successor acting as Administrative Agent) and its
Affiliates may accept fees and other consideration from any Credit Party or any
of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates for services in connection with this Credit
Agreement or otherwise without having to account for the same to the Lenders.

11.5  Indemnification.
      ---------------

     The Lenders agree to indemnify the Administrative Agent (to the extent not
reimbursed under Section 12.5 hereof, but without limiting the obligations of
the Borrower under Section 12.5) ratably (in accordance with their respective
(i) Revolving Commitments (or, if the Revolving Commitments have been
terminated, the outstanding Revolving Loans, Swingline Loans and Participation
Interests in Letters of Credit
<PAGE>

                                     -106-

and Swingline Loan (including the Participation Interests of the Issuing Lender
in Letters of Credit and the Participation Interests of the Swingline Lender in
Swingline Loans)), (ii) outstanding Asset Sale Loans (and Participation
Interests therein), (iii) outstanding Tranche A Term Loans (and Participation
Interests therein) and (iv) outstanding Tranche B Term Loans (and Participation
Interests therein)) for any and all liabilities, obligations, losses, damages,
penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses (including reasonable
attorneys' fees), or disbursements of any kind and nature whatsoever that may be
imposed on, incurred by or asserted against the Administrative Agent in such
capacity (including by any Lender) in any way relating to or arising out of any
Credit Document or the transactions contemplated thereby or any action taken or
omitted by the Administrative Agent under any Credit Document; provided that no
Lender shall be liable for any of the foregoing to the extent they arise from
the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Person to be indemnified.
Without limitation of the foregoing, each Lender agrees to reimburse the
Administrative Agent promptly upon demand for its ratable share of any costs or
expenses payable by the Borrower under Section 12.5, to the extent that the
Administrative Agent is not promptly reimbursed for such costs and expenses by
the Borrower. The agreements in this Section 11.5 shall survive the repayment of
the Loans, LOC Obligations and other obligations under the Credit Documents and
the termination of the Commitments hereunder.

11.6  Non-Reliance on Administrative Agent and Other Lenders.
      ------------------------------------------------------

     Each Lender agrees that it has, independently and without reliance on the
Administrative Agent or any other Lender, and based on such documents and
information as it has deemed appropriate, made its own credit analysis of the
Credit Parties and their Subsidiaries and decision to enter into this Credit
Agreement and that it will, independently and without reliance upon the
Administrative Agent or any other Lender, and based on such documents and
information as it shall deem appropriate at the time, continue to make its own
analysis and decisions in taking or not taking action under the Credit
Documents.  Except for notices, reports, and other documents and information
expressly required to be furnished to the Lenders by the Administrative Agent
hereunder, the Administrative Agent shall not have any duty or responsibility to
provide any Lender with any credit or other information concerning the affairs,
financial condition, or business of any Credit Party or any of its Subsidiaries
or Affiliates that may come into the possession of the Administrative Agent or
any of its Affiliates.

11.7  Successor Administrative Agent.
      ------------------------------

     The Administrative Agent may resign at any time by giving notice thereof to
the Lenders and the Credit Parties.  Upon any such resignation, the Required
Lenders shall have the right to appoint a successor Administrative Agent.  If no
successor Administrative Agent shall have been so appointed by the Required
Lenders and shall have accepted such appointment within thirty (30) days after
the retiring Administrative Agent's giving of notice of resignation, then the
retiring Administrative Agent may, on behalf of the Lenders, appoint a successor
Administrative Agent which shall be a commercial bank organized under the laws
of the United States having combined capital and surplus of at least $100.0
million.  Upon the acceptance of any appointment as Administrative Agent
hereunder by a successor, such successor shall thereupon succeed to and become
vested with all the rights, powers, discretion, privileges, and duties of the
retiring Administrative Agent, and the retiring Administrative Agent shall be
discharged from its duties and obligations hereunder.  After any retiring
Administrative Agent's  resignation
<PAGE>

                                     -107-

hereunder as Administrative Agent, the provisions of this Section 11 shall
continue in effect for its benefit in respect of any actions taken or omitted to
be taken by it while it was acting as Administrative Agent.

                                   SECTION 12

                                  MISCELLANEOUS

12.1  Notices.
      -------

      Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all notices and other
communications shall have been duly given and shall be effective (a) when
delivered, (b) when transmitted via telecopy (or other facsimile device) to the
number set out below, (c) the Business Day following the day on which the same
has been delivered prepaid to a reputable national overnight air courier
service, or (d) the third Business Day following the day on which the same is
sent by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, in each case to the
respective parties at the address, in the case of the Borrower and the
Administrative Agent, set forth below, and, in the case of the Lenders, set
forth on Schedule 12.1, or at such other address as such party may specify by
         -------------
written notice to the other parties hereto:

     if to the Borrower:

          Triad Hospitals, Inc.
          13455 Noel Road, 20th Floor
          Dallas, Texas  75240
          Attn:  Burke W. Whitman
                 Chief Financial Officer
          Telephone:  972-701-2202
          Telecopy:  972-663-3946

     with a copy to:

          Triad Hospitals, Inc.
          13455 Noel Road, 20th Floor
          Dallas, Texas  75240
          Attn:  Donald P. Fay
                 General Counsel
          Telephone:  972-789-2732
          Telecopy:  972-701-9604

          Dewey Ballantine LLP
          1301 Avenue of the Americas
          New York, New York  10019
          Attn:  Morton A. Pierce/Gregory M. Owens
          Telephone:  212-259-6640/6823
          Telecopy:  212-259-6333
<PAGE>

                                     -108-

     if to the Administrative Agent:

          Bank of America, N.A.
          414 Union Street, 7th Floor
          Nashville, Tennessee  37219
          Attn:  Kevin R. Wagley
          Telephone:  615-749-3802
          Telecopy:  615-749-4640

     with a copy to:

          Bank of America, N. A.
          NCI-001-15-11
          100 North Tryon Street
          Charlotte, North Carolina  28255-0001
          Attn:  James D. Young
          Telephone: 704-386-9372
          Telecopy:  704-409-0030

12.2  Right of Set-Off; Adjustments.
      -----------------------------

     Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default,
each Lender (and each of its Affiliates) is hereby authorized at any time and
from time to time, to the fullest extent permitted by law, with the consent of
the Administrative Agent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed), to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or
demand, provisional or final) at any time held and other indebtedness at any
time owing by such Lender (or any of its Affiliates) to or for the credit or the
account of the Borrower against any and all of the obligations of the Borrower
now or hereafter existing under this Credit Agreement, under the Notes, under
any other Credit Document or otherwise, irrespective of whether such Lender
shall have made any demand under hereunder or thereunder and although such
obligations may be unmatured and regardless of the adequacy of any other
collateral securing the Obligations.  Each Credit Party hereby irrevocably
waives any obligation that any Lender may have to any set-off based on the
failure of any Agent or any Lender to exercise any rights that it may have with
respect to any other Collateral prior to the exercise of any set-off..  Each
Lender agrees promptly to notify the Borrower after any such set-off and
application made by such Lender; provided, however, that the failure to give
                                 --------  -------
such notice shall not affect the validity of such set-off and application.  The
rights of each Lender under this Section 12.2  are in addition to other rights
and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of set-off) that such
Lender may have.

12.3  Benefit of Agreement.
      --------------------

     (a)  This Credit Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit
of and be enforceable by the respective successors and assigns of the parties
hereto; provided that the Borrower may not assign or transfer any of its
        --------
interests and obligations without prior written consent of each of the Lenders;
<PAGE>

                                     -109-

provided further that the rights of each Lender to transfer, assign or grant
-------- -------
participations in its rights and/or obligations hereunder shall be limited as
set forth in this Section 12.3.

     (b)  Each Lender may assign to one or more Eligible Assignees all or a
portion of its rights and obligations under this Credit Agreement (including,
without limitation, all or a portion of its Loans, its Notes, and its
Commitment); provided, however, that
             --------  -------

            (i) each such assignment shall be to one or more Eligible Assignees;

            (ii) except in the case of an assignment to an existing Lender, an
     Affiliate of an existing Lender or any fund that invests in bank loans or
     similar extensions of credit and is advised or managed by a Lender (or an
     Affiliate of a Lender) or an investment advisor (or any Affiliate to an
     investment advisor) to an existing Lender or an assignment of all of a
     Lender's rights and obligations under this Credit Agreement, any such
     partial assignment shall be in an amount at least equal to $1.0 million
     (or, if less, the remaining amount of the Commitment being assigned by such
     Lender) or such lesser amount agreed to by the Borrower and the
     Administrative Agent;

            (iii)  any such assignment may consist of different percentages of
     all of the Obligations and Commitments hereunder; and

            (iv) the parties to such assignment shall execute and deliver to the
     Administrative Agent and the Syndication Agent for their acceptance an
     Assignment and Acceptance in the form of Schedule 12.3(b) hereto, together
                                              ----------------
     with any Note subject to such assignment and a processing fee of $3,500;
     provided, no such fee shall be payable in respect of assignments to any
     Affiliate of a Lender or an Approved Fund; and provided, further, that in
                                                    --------  -------
     the case of an assignment on the same day by a Lender to more than one fund
     managed or advised by the same investment adviser (which funds are not
     Approved Funds), only a single $3,500 fee shall be payable for all such
     assignments by such Lender to such funds.

     Upon execution, delivery, and acceptance of such Assignment and Acceptance,
the assignee thereunder shall be a party hereto and, to the extent of such
assignment, have the obligations, rights, and benefits of a Lender hereunder and
the assigning Lender shall, to the extent of such assignment, relinquish its
rights and be released from its obligations under this Credit Agreement.  Upon
the consummation of any assignment pursuant to this Section 12.3(b), the
assignor, the Administrative Agent and the Borrower shall make appropriate
arrangements so that, if required, new Notes are issued to the assignor and the
assignee.  Upon or prior to the consummation of any assignment to an assignee
that is not already a Lender hereunder pursuant to this Section 12.3(b), such
assignee shall deliver to the Borrower, the Guarantors and the Administrative
Agent certification as to exemption from deduction or withholding of taxes in
accordance with Section 3.11.  To the extent that an assignment of all or any
portion of a Lender's rights and obligations under this Credit Agreement
(including, without limitation, all or a portion of its Loans, its Notes, and
its Commitment) pursuant to this Section 12.3(b) would, due to circumstances
existing at the time of such assignment, result in increased costs under Section
3.11 from those being charged by the assigning Lender prior to such assignment,
then the Borrower shall not be obligated
<PAGE>

                                     -110-

to pay such increased costs (although the Borrower shall be obligated to pay
other increased costs resulting from changes after the date of such assignment).

     (c)  The Administrative Agent shall, as agent for the Borrower, maintain at
its address referred to in Section 12.1 a copy of each Assignment and Acceptance
delivered to and accepted by it and a register for the recordation of the names
and addresses of the Lenders and the Commitment of, and principal amount of the
Loans owing to, each Lender from time to time (the "Register").  The entries in
                                                    --------
the Register shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest
error, and the Borrower, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders may treat each
Person whose name is recorded in the Register as a Lender hereunder for all
purposes of this Credit Agreement.  The Register shall be available for
inspection by the Borrower or any Lender at any reasonable time and from time to
time upon reasonable prior notice.  Any assignment of any Loan or other
obligations shall be effective only upon an entry with respect thereto being
made in the Register.

     (d)  Upon its receipt of an Assignment and Acceptance executed by the
parties thereto, together with any Note subject to such assignment and payment
of the processing fee, the Administrative Agent shall, if such Assignment and
Acceptance has been completed and is in substantially the form of Schedule
                                                                  --------
12.3(b) hereto, (i) accept such Assignment and Acceptance, (ii) record the
-------
information contained therein in the Register and (iii) give prompt notice
thereof to the parties thereto.

     (e)  Each Lender may, without notice to or consent of the Borrower, the
Administrative Agent or the Syndication Agent, sell participations to one or
more Persons in all or a portion of its rights, obligations or rights and
obligations under this Credit Agreement (including all or a portion of its
Commitment or its Loans); provided, however, that  (i) such Lender's obligations
                          --------  -------
under this Credit Agreement shall remain unchanged,  (ii) such Lender shall
remain solely responsible to the other parties hereto for the performance of
such obligations,  (iii) the participant shall be entitled to the benefit of the
yield protection provisions contained in Sections 3.7 through 3.12, inclusive,
and the right of set-off contained in Section 12.2 ,  provided, however, the
                                                      --------  -------
participant shall not be entitled to receive any greater amount pursuant to
Sections 3.7 through 3.11, inclusive, than the participating Lender would have
been entitled to receive in respect of the amount of the participation sold by
such participating Lender to such participant had no such participation occurred
and (v) the Credit Parties shall continue to deal solely and directly with such
Lender in connection with such Lender's rights and obligations under this Credit
Agreement, and such Lender shall retain the sole right to enforce the
obligations of the Credit Parties relating to the Loans and other obligations
owing to such Lender and to approve any amendment, modification, or waiver of
any provision of this Credit Agreement (other than amendments, modifications, or
waivers (i) decreasing the amount of principal of or the rate at which interest
is payable on such Loans or Notes, (ii) extending any scheduled principal
payment date or date fixed for the payment of interest on such Loans or Notes,
(iii) extending its Commitment, (iv) except as the result of or in connection
with an Asset Disposition permitted by Section 9.5, release all or substantially
all of the Collateral, or (v)except as the result of or in connection with a
dissolution, merger or disposition of a member of the Consolidated Group
permitted under Section 9.4, release the Borrower or substantially all of the
other Credit Parties from its or their obligations under the Credit Documents).
<PAGE>

                                     -111-

     (f)  Notwithstanding any other provision set forth in this Credit
Agreement, any Lender may, without notice to or consent of the Borrower, the
Administrative Agent or the Syndication Agent,  at any time assign and pledge
all or any portion of its Loans and its Notes (i) to any Federal Reserve Bank as
collateral security pursuant to Regulation A and any Operating Circular issued
by such Federal Reserve Bank or (ii) in the case of any Lender which has made
Loans hereunder and is a fund that invests in bank loans or similar extensions
of credit, any such Lender may assign or pledge all or any portion of its Loans
and its Notes to any holders of obligations owed, or securities issued, by such
fund, as security for such obligations or securities, or to any trustee for, or
any other representative of, such holders.  No such assignment shall release the
assigning Lender from its obligations hereunder.

     (g)  Any Lender may furnish any information concerning the members of the
Consolidated Group in the possession of such Lender from time to time to
assignees and participants (including prospective assignees and participants),
subject, however, to the provisions of Section 12.14 hereof.

     (h)  Notwithstanding any other provisions set forth in this Credit
Agreement, the obligations of any Credit Party to any participant shall be no
greater than they would be in the absence of such transfer.

12.4  No Waiver; Remedies Cumulative.
      ------------------------------

     No failure or delay on the part of the Administrative Agent or any Lender
in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder or under any other Credit
Document and no course of dealing between the Administrative Agent or any Lender
and any of the Credit Parties shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any
single or partial exercise of any right, power or privilege hereunder or under
any other Credit Document preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the
exercise of any other right, power or privilege hereunder or thereunder.  The
rights and remedies provided herein are cumulative and not exclusive of any
rights or remedies which the Administrative Agent or any Lender would otherwise
have.  No notice to or demand on any Credit Party in any case shall entitle the
Credit Parties to any other or further notice or demand in similar or other
circumstances or constitute a waiver of the rights of the Administrative Agent
or the Lenders to any other or further action in any circumstances without
notice or demand.

12.5  Expenses; Indemnification.
      -------------------------

     (a)  The Borrower agrees to pay on demand all costs and expenses of the
Administrative Agent in connection with the syndication, preparation, execution,
delivery, administration, modification, and amendment of this Credit Agreement,
the other Credit Documents, and the other documents to be delivered hereunder,
including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel for
the Administrative Agent (including the cost of internal counsel) with respect
thereto and with respect to advising the Administrative Agent as to its rights
and responsibilities under the Credit Documents.  The Borrower further agrees to
pay on demand all costs and expenses of the Administrative Agent and the
Lenders, if any (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys' fees and
expenses and the cost of internal counsel), in connection with the enforcement
(whether through negotiations, legal proceedings, or otherwise) of the Credit
Documents and the other documents to be delivered thereunder.
<PAGE>

                                     -112-

     (b)  The Borrower agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Administrative
Agent and each Lender and each of their Affiliates and their respective
officers, directors, trustees, employees, agents, and advisors (each, an
"Indemnified Party") from and against any and all claims, damages, losses,
------------------
liabilities, costs, and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable
attorneys' fees, disbursements and other charges) that may be incurred by or
asserted or awarded against any Indemnified Party, in each case arising out of
or in connection with or by reason of (including, without limitation, in
connection with any investigation, litigation, or proceeding and regardless of
whether such Indemnified Party is a party thereto or preparation of defense in
connection therewith) the Credit Documents, the Transactions or any of the
transactions contemplated herein or the actual or proposed use of the proceeds
of the Loans, except to the extent such claim, damage, loss, liability, cost, or
expense is found in a final, non-appealable judgment by a court of competent
jurisdiction to have resulted solely from such Indemnified Party's bad faith,
gross negligence or willful misconduct.  In the case of an investigation,
litigation or other proceeding to which the indemnity in this Section 12.5
applies, such indemnity shall be effective whether or not such investigation,
litigation or proceeding is brought by any of the Credit Parties, their
respective directors, shareholders or creditors or an Indemnified Party or any
other Person or any Indemnified Party is otherwise a party thereto and whether
or not the transactions contemplated hereby are consummated.  The Borrower
agrees not to assert any claim against the Administrative Agent, any Lender, any
of their Affiliates, or any of their respective directors, officers, employees,
attorneys, agents, and advisors, on any theory of liability, for special,
indirect, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of or otherwise
relating to the Credit Documents, any of the transactions contemplated herein or
the actual or proposed use of the proceeds of the Loans.

     (c)  Without prejudice to the survival of any other agreement of the
Borrower hereunder, the agreements and obligations of the Borrower contained in
this Section 12.5 shall survive the repayment of the Loans, LOC Obligations and
other obligations under the Credit Documents and the termination of the
Commitments hereunder.

12.6  Amendments, Waivers and Consents.
      --------------------------------

     Neither this Credit Agreement nor any other Credit Document nor any of the
terms hereof or thereof may be amended, changed, waived, discharged or
terminated unless such amendment, change, waiver, discharge or termination is in
writing entered into by, or approved in writing by, the Required Lenders and the
Borrower, provided, however, that:
          --------  -------

          (a)  without the consent of each Lender affected thereby, neither this
     Credit Agreement nor any other Credit Document may be amended to

                 (i) extend the Revolving Commitment Termination Date or the
          final maturity of any Loan or of any reimbursement obligation, or any
          portion thereof, arising from drawings under Letters of Credit, or
          extend or waive any principal amortization payment of the Asset Sale
          Loan, the Tranche A Term Loan or the Tranche B Term Loan, or any
          portion thereof,
<PAGE>

                                     -113-

                 (ii) reduce the rate or extend the time of payment of interest
          (other than as a result of waiving the applicability of any post-
          default increase in interest rates) thereon or Fees hereunder,

                 (iii)  reduce or waive the principal amount of any Loan or of
          any reimbursement obligation, or any portion thereof, arising from
          drawings under Letters of Credit,

                 (iv) increase the Commitment of a Lender over the amount
          thereof in effect (it being understood and agreed that a waiver of any
          Default or Event of Default or mandatory reduction in the Commitments
          shall not constitute a change in the terms of any Commitment of any
          Lender),

                 (v) except as the result of or in connection with an Asset
          Disposition permitted by Section 9.5, release all or substantially all
          of the Collateral,

                 (vi) except as the result of or in connection with a
          dissolution, merger or disposition of a member of the Consolidated
          Group permitted under Sections 9.4 or 9.5 or the designation of a
          Subsidiary as an Exempt Subsidiary pursuant to Section 8.12, release
          the Borrower or any Guarantor from its obligations under the Credit
          Documents,

                 (vii)  amend, modify or waive any provision of this Section
          12.6 or Section 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.10, 3.11, 3.12, 3.13, 3.14,
          3.15, 10.1(a), 12.2, 12.3, 12.5 or 12.9 or the last sentence of
          Section 3.4(b),

                 (viii)  reduce any percentage specified in, or otherwise
          modify, the definition of Required Lenders, or change any provision
          requiring the consent of all Lenders or

                 (ix) consent to the assignment or transfer by the Borrower or
          all or substantially all of the other Credit Parties of any of its or
          their rights and obligations under (or in respect of) the Credit
          Documents except as permitted thereby;

          (b) (i)  without the consent of the Revolving Lenders holding more
     than 50% of the Revolving Commitments, or if the Revolving Commitments have
     been terminated, Lenders having more than 50% of the aggregate principal
     amount of the Revolving Obligations outstanding (taking into account in
     each case Participation Interests or obligation to participate therein),
     extend the time for, or reduce the amount, or otherwise alter the manner of
     application of proceeds in respect of the Revolving Obligations on account
     of the mandatory prepayment provisions of clauses (ii) through (v),
     inclusive, of Section 3.3(b) or the application provisions of Section
     3.3(c);

          (ii) without the consent of the Tranche A Term Lenders holding more
     than 50% of the Tranche A Term Loan Commitments, extend the time for, or
     reduce the amount, or otherwise alter the manner of application of proceeds
     in respect of the Tranche A Term Loan on account
<PAGE>

                                     -114-

     of the mandatory prepayment provisions of clauses (ii) through (v),
     inclusive, of Section 3.3(b) or the application provisions of Section
     3.3(c);

            (iii)  without the consent of the Tranche B Term Lenders holding
     more than 50% of the Tranche B Term Loan Commitments, extend the time for,
     or reduce the amount, or otherwise alter the manner of application of
     proceeds in respect of the Tranche B Term Loan on account of the mandatory
     prepayment provisions of clauses (ii) through (v), inclusive, of Section
     3.3(b) or the application provisions of Section 3.3(c); or

            (iv) without the consent of the Asset Sale Lenders holding more than
     50% of the Asset Sale Loan Commitments, extend the time for, or reduce the
     amount, or otherwise alter the manner of application of proceeds in respect
     of the Asset Sale Loan on account of the mandatory prepayment provisions of
     clause (ii) of Section 3.3(b) or the application provisions of Section
     3.3(c); or

            (v) no amendment, modification, supplement or waiver may be made to
     any condition precedent to any extension of credit under the Revolving
     Commitments set forth in subsection 5.2 without the written consent of the
     Revolving Lenders holding more than 50% of the Revolving Commitments, it
     being understood that no amendment to or waiver of any representation or
     warranty or any covenant contained in any Credit Document, or of any
     Default, shall be deemed to be effective for purposes of determining
     whether the conditions precedent set forth in subsection 5.2 to the making
     of any extension of credit under the Revolving Loans have been satisfied
     unless the Revolving Lenders holding more than 50% of the Revolving
     Commitments shall have consented to such amendment or waiver;

          (c)  without the consent of the Administrative Agent, no provision of
     Section 11 may be amended; and

          (d)  without the consent of the Issuing Lender, no provision of
     Section 2.2 may be amended.

     Notwithstanding the fact that the consent of all the Lenders is required in
certain circumstances as set forth above, (x) each Lender is entitled to vote as
such Lender sees fit on any bankruptcy reorganization plan that affects the
Loans, and each Lender acknowledges that the provisions of Section 1126(c) of
the Bankruptcy Code supersedes the unanimous consent provisions set forth herein
and (y) the Required Lenders may consent to allow a Credit Party to use cash
collateral in the context of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding.

12.7  Counterparts.
      ------------

     This Credit Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each
of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all of which
shall constitute one and the same instrument.  It shall not be necessary in
making proof of this Credit Agreement to produce or account for more than one
such counterpart for each of the parties hereto.  Delivery by facsimile by any
of the parties hereto of an executed
<PAGE>

                                     -115-

counterpart of this Credit Agreement shall be as effective as an original
executed counterpart hereof and shall be deemed a representation that an
original executed counterpart hereof will be delivered.

12.8  Headings.
      --------

     The headings of the sections and subsections hereof are provided for
convenience only and shall not in any way affect the meaning or construction of
any provision of this Credit Agreement.

12.9  Survival.
      --------

     All indemnities set forth herein, including, without limitation, in Section
2.6(h), 3.11, 3.12, 11.5 or 12.5 shall survive the execution and delivery of
this Credit Agreement, the making of the Loans, the issuance of the Letters of
Credit, the repayment of the Loans, LOC Obligations and other obligations under
the Credit Documents and the termination of the Commitments hereunder, and all
representations and warranties made by the Borrower herein shall survive
delivery of the Notes and the making of the Loans hereunder.

12.10  Governing Law; Submission to Jurisdiction; Venue.
       ------------------------------------------------

     (a)  THIS CREDIT AGREEMENT AND, UNLESS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY PROVIDED
THEREIN, THE OTHER CREDIT DOCUMENTS AND THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE
PARTIES HEREUNDER AND THEREUNDER SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED AND
INTERPRETED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.  Any legal
action or proceeding with respect to this Credit Agreement or any other Credit
Document may be brought in the courts of the State of New York in New York
County, or of the United States for the Southern District of New York, and, by
execution and delivery of this Credit Agreement, the Borrower hereby irrevocably
accepts for itself and in respect of its property, generally and
unconditionally, the nonexclusive jurisdiction of such courts.  The Borrower
further irrevocably consents to the service of process out of any of the
aforementioned courts in any such action or proceeding by the mailing of copies
thereof by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, to it at the address
set out for notices pursuant to Section 12.1, such service to become effective
three (3) days after such mailing.  Nothing herein shall affect the right of the
Administrative Agent or any Lender to serve process in any other manner
permitted by law or to commence legal proceedings or to otherwise proceed
against any Credit Party in any other jurisdiction.

     (b)  The Borrower hereby irrevocably waives any objection which it may now
or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any of the aforesaid actions or
proceedings arising out of or in connection with this Credit Agreement or any
other Credit Document brought in the courts referred to in subsection (a) above
and hereby further irrevocably waives and agrees not to plead or claim in any
such court that any such action or proceeding brought in any such court has been
brought in an inconvenient forum.

     (c)  TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, EACH OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, THE
LENDERS AND THE BORROWER HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN
ANY ACTION, PROCEEDING OR COUNTERCLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS CREDIT
AGREEMENT, ANY OF THE OTHER CREDIT DOCUMENTS OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED
HEREBY.
<PAGE>

                                     -116-

12.11  Severability.
       ------------

     If any provision of any of the Credit Documents is determined to be
illegal, invalid or unenforceable, such provision shall be fully severable and
the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect and shall be
construed without giving effect  to the illegal, invalid or unenforceable
provisions.

12.12  Entirety.
       --------

     This Credit Agreement together with the other Credit Documents represent
the entire agreement of the parties hereto and thereto, and supersede all prior
agreements and understandings, oral or written, if any, including any commitment
letters or correspondence relating to the Credit Documents or the transactions
contemplated herein and therein.

12.13  Binding Effect; Termination.
       ---------------------------

     (a)  This Credit Agreement shall become effective at such time on or after
the Closing Date when it shall have been executed by the Borrower and the
Administrative Agent, and the Administrative Agent shall have received copies
hereof (telefaxed or otherwise) which, when taken together, bear the signatures
of each Lender (the "Amendment and Restatement Effective Date", and thereafter
                     ----------------------------------------
this Credit Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
Borrower, the Administrative Agent and each Lender and their respective
successors and assigns.  On and after the Amendment and Restatement Effective
Date, (i) this Credit Agreement shall amend and restate the Borrower's credit
agreement dated May 11, 1999 (as amended prior to the Amendment and Restatement
Effective Date, the "Existing Credit Agreement"), (ii) to the extent not repaid
                     -------------------------
in connection with the amendment and restatement of the Existing Credit
Agreement, all Loans outstanding under the Existing Credit Agreement shall
continue as and constitute Loans for all purposes under this Agreement, (iii)
all Letters of Credit (under and as defined in the Existing Credit Agreement)
shall continue as and constitute Letters of Credit for all purposes under this
Agreement, (iv) all other Obligations of the Borrower and Guarantors under the
Existing Credit Agreement that have not been paid as of the Amendment and
Restatement Effective Date shall become Obligations of such parties under this
Agreement, (v) all Schedules to the Existing Credit Agreement shall be deemed to
constitute Schedules to this Agreement (with the understanding that any
reference to the Existing Credit Agreement contained therein are deemed to refer
to this Credit Agreement), (vi) to the extent not replaced, amended, restated or
terminated in connection with the amendment and restatement of the Existing
Credit Agreement, the Liens granted pursuant to the Collateral Documents shall
continue to secure the Obligations and (vii) the other Credit Documents shall
remain in full force and effect.

     (b)  The term of this Credit Agreement shall be effective until no Loans,
LOC Obligations or any other amounts payable hereunder or under any of the other
Credit Documents shall remain outstanding, no Letters of Credit shall be
outstanding, no Hedging Agreement between the Borrower and a Lender or an
Affiliate of a Lender shall remain outstanding and all of the Commitments
hereunder shall have expired or been terminated.
<PAGE>

                                     -117-

12.14  Confidentiality.
       ---------------

     The Administrative Agent and each Lender (each, a "Lending Party") agrees
                                                        -------------
to keep (and to cause its affiliates and its and their respective officers,
directors, employees, agents and advisors to keep) confidential any information
furnished or made available to it by the Credit Parties pursuant to this Credit
Agreement that is marked confidential; provided that nothing herein shall
                                       --------
prevent any Lending Party from disclosing such information (a) to any other
Lending Party or any Affiliate of any Lending Party, or any officer, director,
employee, agent, or advisor of any Lending Party or Affiliate of any Lending
Party, (b) to any other Person if reasonably incidental to the administration of
the credit facility provided herein, (c) as required by any law, rule, or
regulation, (d) upon the order of any court or administrative agency or pursuant
to subpoena or other legal process, (e) upon the request or demand of any
regulatory agency or authority, (f) that is or becomes available to the public
or that is or becomes available to any Lending Party other than as a result of a
disclosure prohibited by this Credit Agreement, (g) in connection with any
litigation to which such Lending Party or any of its Affiliates may be a party,
(h) to the extent necessary in connection with the exercise of any remedy under
this Credit Agreement or any other Credit Document, (i) to the National
Association of Insurance Commissioners or any similar organization or any
nationally recognized rating agency that requires access to information about a
Lender's investment portfolio in connection with ratings issued with respect to
such Lender, (j) to any direct or indirect contractual counterparty in swap
agreements or such contractual counterparty's professional advisor (so long as
such contractual counterparty or professional advisor to such contractual
counterparty has agreed in a writing enforceable by the Borrower to be bound by
the provisions of this Section 12.14) and (k) subject to provisions the same as
those contained in this Section 12.14, to any actual or proposed participant or
assignee.

12.15  Source of Funds.
       ---------------

     Each of the Lenders hereby represents and warrants to the Borrower that at
least one of the following statements is an accurate representation as to the
source of funds to be used by such Lender in connection with the financing
hereunder:

          (a)  no part of such funds constitutes assets allocated to any
     separate account maintained by such Lender in which any employee benefit
     plan (or its related trust) has any interest;

          (b)  to the extent that any part of such funds constitutes assets
     allocated to any separate account maintained by such Lender, such Lender
     has disclosed to the Borrower the name of each employee benefit plan whose
     assets in such account exceed 10% of the total assets of such account as of
     the date of such purchase (and, for purposes of this subsection (b), all
     employee benefit plans maintained by the same employer or employee
     organization are deemed to be a single plan);

          (c)  to the extent that any part of such funds constitutes assets of
     an insurance company's general account, either (i) such insurance company
     has complied with all of the requirements
<PAGE>

                                     -118-

     of the regulations issued under Section 401(c)(1)(A) of ERISA or (ii) such
     insurance company satisfies all of the applicable requirements for relief
     under Sections I and IV of the United States Department of Labor's
     Prohibited Transaction Exemption 95-60;

          (d)  such funds constitute assets of one or more specific benefit
     plans which such Lender has identified in writing to the Borrower; or

          (e)  such funds are from a fund managed by a "Qualified Professional
     Asset Manager" ("QPAM") within the meaning of Part I of Prohibited
                      ----
     Transaction Exemption PTCE 84-14 issued by the United States Department of
     Labor, and such QPAM made the investment decision on behalf of such Lender
     to enter into this Credit Agreement and such transaction satisfies the
     requirements of subsections (a) through (g) of Part I of PTCE 84-14.

     As used in this Section 12.15, the terms "employee benefit plan" and
"separate account" shall have the respective meanings assigned to such terms in
Section 3 of ERISA.

12.16  Conflict.
       --------

     To the extent that there is a conflict or inconsistency between any
provision hereof, on the one hand, and any provision of any Credit Document, on
the other hand, this Credit Agreement shall control.

                           [Signature Page to Follow]
<PAGE>

                                      S-1

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties hereto has caused a counterpart of
this Credit Agreement to be duly executed and delivered as of the date first
above written.

BORROWER:                     TRIAD HOSPITALS, INC., a Delaware
--------                      corporation

                              By: /s/  Donald P. Fay
                                  ------------------
                                  Name:  Donald P. Fay
                                  Title: Executive Vice President, Secretary
                                         and General Counsel

                           [Signature Pages Continue]
<PAGE>

                                      S-2

SYNDICATION AGENT:            MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH
-----------------                  INCORPORATED,
                              as Syndication Agent

                              By: /s/ Sarang R. Gadkari
                                  ---------------------
                                  Name:  Sarang R. Gadkari
                                  Title: Vice President

ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT:         BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,
--------------------          in its capacity as Administrative Agent

                              By: /s/ Kevin Wagley
                                  ----------------
                                  Name:  Kevin Wagley
                                  Title: Principal

CO-LEAD ARRANGERS:            MERRILL LYNCH & CO., as Co-Lead Arranger
-----------------

                              By: /s/ Christopher Birosak
                                  -----------------------
                                  Name:  Christopher Birosak
                                  Title: Managing Director

                              BANC OF AMERICA SECURITIES LLC, as Co-Lead
                              Arranger

                              By: /s/ Alan B. Gardner
                                  -------------------
                                  Name:  Alan B. Gardner
                                  Title: Managing Director
<PAGE>

                                      S-3

DOCUMENTATION AGENTS:         CITICORP USA, Inc., as Co-Documentation Agent
--------------------

                              By: /s/ James J. McCarthy
                                  ---------------------
                                  Name:  James J. McCarthy
                                  Title: Vice President

                              THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, as Co-Documentation
                              Agent

                              By: /s/  Stephen Rochford
                                  ---------------------
                                  Name:  Stephen P. Rochford
                                  Title: Vice President

LENDERS:                      MERRILL LYNCH CAPITAL CORPORATION, individually
-------                       in its capacity as a Lender

                              By: /s/ Christopher J. Birosak
                                  --------------------------
                                  Name:  Christopher J. Birosak
                                  Title: Director

                              BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.,
                              individually in its capacity as a Lender

                              By: /s/ Kevin Wagley
                                  ----------------
                                  Name:  Kevin Wagley
                                  Title: Principal
<PAGE>

                                      S-4

                              BANK OF OKLAHOMA

                              By: /s/ Heather E. Williams
                                  -----------------------
                                  Name:  Heather E. Williams
                                  Title: Commercial Lending Officer
<PAGE>

                                      S-5

                              CITICORP USA, INC.

                              By: /s/ James J. McCarthy
                                  ---------------------
                                  Name:  James J. McCarthy
                                  Title: Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-6

                              CREDIT LYONNAIS

                              By: /s/ Charles H. Heidsiech
                                  ------------------------
                                  Name:  Charles H. Heidsiech
                                  Title: Senior Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-7

                              FIRST UNION NATIONAL BANK

                              By: /s/ Tye Nordberg
                                  ----------------
                                  Name:  Tye Nordberg
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-8

                              FLEET NATIONAL BANK

                              By: /s/ William R. Rogers
                                  ---------------------
                                  Name:  William R. Rogers
                                  Title: Director
<PAGE>

                                      S-9

                              FOOTHILL INCOME TRUST II, L.P.,
                              By:  Fitz, GP LLC, its General Partner

                              By: /s/ M.E. Stearns
                                  ----------------
                                  Name:  M.E. Stearns
                                  Title:    Managing Member
<PAGE>

                                     S-10

                              FRANKLIN FLOATING RATE MASTER SERIES

                              By: /s/ Chauncey Lufkin
                                  -------------------
                                 Name:  Chauncey Lufkin
                                 Title: Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-11

                              FRANKLIN FLOATING RATE TRUST

                              By: /s/ Chauncey Lufkin
                                  -------------------
                                  Name:  Chauncey Lufkin
                                  Title: Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-12

                              GE CAPITAL CORPORATION

                              By: /s/ Brian S. Beckwith
                                  ---------------------
                                  Name:  Brian S. Beckwith
                                  Title: Duly Authorized Signatory
<PAGE>

                                      S-13

                              GOLDENTREE HY OPPORTUNITIES I, L.P.

                              By: /s/ Frederick Haddad
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Frederick Haddad
                                  Title: Partner
<PAGE>

                                      S-14

                              KEMPER FLOATING RATE FUND

                              By: /s/ Kenneth Weber
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Kenneth Weber
                                  Title: Senior Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-15

                              KZH CNC LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-16

                              KZH CYPRESS TREE -1 LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-17

                              KZH ING-1 LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-18

                              KZH ING-2 LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-19

                              KZH ING-3 LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-20

                              KZH PONDVIEW LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-21

                              KZH RIVERSIDE LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-22

                              KZH SHOSHONE LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-23

                              KZH SOLEIL LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-24

                              KZH SOLEIL - 2 LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-25

                              KZH STERLING LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-26

                              KZH WATERSIDE LLC

                              By: /s/ Susan Lee
                                  -------------
                                  Name:  Susan Lee
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-27

                              LIBERTY-STEIN ROE ADVISOR FLOATING RATE ADVANTAGE
                              FUND, BY STEIN ROE AND FARNHAM INCORPORATED, As
                              Advisor

                              By: /s/ Kathleen A. Zarn
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Kathleen A. Zarn
                                  Title: Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-28

                              MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER PRIME INCOME TRUST

                              By: /s/ Sheila A. Finnerty
                                  ----------------------
                                  Name:  Sheila A. Finnerty
                                  Title: Senior Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-29

                              MUIRFIELD TRADING LLC

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-30

                              OLYMPIC FUNDING TRUST SERIES 1999-1

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-31

                              OPPENHEIMER SENIOR FLOATING RATE FUND

                              By: /s/ Scott Farrar
                                  ----------------
                                  Name:  Scott Farrar
                                  Title: Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-32

                              PILGRIM PRIME RATE TRUST

                              By: /s/ William Nutting Jr.
                                  -----------------------
                                  Name:  William Nutting Jr.
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-33

                              PILGRIM SENIOR INCOME FUND

                              By: /s/ William Nutting Jr.
                                  -----------------------
                                  Name:  William Nutting Jr.
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-34

                              PINEHURST TRADING, INC.

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-35

                              PPM SPYGLASS FUNDING TRUST

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Authorized Agent
<PAGE>

                                      S-36

                              RIVIERA FUNDING LLC

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-37

                              SCOTIABANC INC.

                              By: /s/ Dana Maloney
                                  ----------------
                                  Name:  Dana Maloney
                                  Title: Relationship Manager
<PAGE>

                                      S-38

                              SEABOARD CLO 2000 LTD

                              By: /s/ Sheppard Davis
                                  ------------------
                                  Name:  Sheppard H.C. Davis, Jr.
                                  Title: Chief Executive Officer
<PAGE>

                                      S-39

                              SEQUILS-CUMBERLAND I, LTD
                              By: Deerfield Capital Management LLC as its
                                  Collateral Manager

                              By: /s/ Dale R. Burrow
                                  ------------------
                                  Name:  Dale R. Burrow
                                  Title: Senior Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-40

                              STEIN ROE FLOATING RATE LIMITED
                              LIABILITY CO.

                              By: /s/ Kathleen A. Zarn
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Kathleen A. Zarn
                                  Title: Vice President
                                         Stein Roe & Farnham Incorporated
                                         as Advisor to the Stein Roe Floating
                                         Rate Limited Liability Company
<PAGE>

                                      S-41

                              SRF TRADING, INC.

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-42

                              SRF 2000 LLC

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-43

                              SUNTRUST BANK

                              By: /s/ Stephen Baird
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Stephen Baird
                                  Title: Corporate Banking Officer
<PAGE>

                                      S-44

                              TEXTRON FINANCIAL CORP

                              By: /s/ Stuart Schulman
                                  -------------------
                                  Name:  Stuart Schulman
                                  Title: Managing Director
<PAGE>

                                      S-45

                              THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK

                              By: /s/ Stephen P. Rochford
                                  -----------------------
                                  Name:  Stephen P. Rochford
                                  Title: Vice President
<PAGE>

                                      S-46

                              UBS. AG, STAMFORD BRANCH

                              By: /s/ Wilfred V. Saint
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Wilfred V. Saint
                                  Title: Associate Director
                                         Banking  Products
                                         Services, VS

                              By: /s/ Dorothy L. McKinley
                                  -----------------------
                                  Name:  Dorothy L. McKinley
                                  Title: Director
                                         Banking  Products
                                         Services, VS
<PAGE>

                                      S-47
<PAGE>

                                      S-48

                              VAN KAMPEN PRIME RATE INCOME TRUST
                              By:  Van Kampen Investment Advisory Corp.

                              By: /s/ Brian T. Buscher
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Brian T. Buscher
                                  Title: Manager Operations and Compliance
<PAGE>

                                      S-49

                              VAN KAMPEN SENIOR INCOME TRUST
                              By:  Van Kampen Investment Advisory Corp.

                              By: /s/ Brian T. Buscher
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Brian T. Buscher
                                  Title: Manager Operations and Compliance
<PAGE>

                                      S-50

                              VAN KAMPEN SENIOR FLOATING RATE FUND
                              By:  Van Kampen Investment Advisory Corp.

                              By: /s/ Brian T. Buscher
                                  --------------------
                                  Name:  Brian T. Buscher
                                  Title: Manager Operations and Compliance
<PAGE>

                                      S-51

                              WINGED FOOT FUNDING TRUST

                              By: /s/ Ann E. Morris
                                  -----------------
                                  Name:  Ann E. Morris
                                  Title: Authorized Agent<PAGE>

                                                                  EXHIBIT (4)(a)

================================================================================

                                  ONEOK, INC.

                         7.125% Senior Notes due 2011

                                _______________

                         EIGHTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

                           Dated as of April 6, 2001

                                _______________

                           The Chase Manhattan Bank
                                    TRUSTEE

================================================================================
<PAGE>

     THIS EIGHTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE is made as of the 6th day of April,
2001, by and between ONEOK, INC., an Oklahoma corporation (the "Company"), and
THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, a New York banking corporation formerly known as Chase
Bank of Texas, National Association (the "Trustee").

                             W I T N E S S E T H:

     WHEREAS, the Company has heretofore entered into an Indenture, dated as of
September 24, 1998 (the "Original Indenture"), with the Trustee;

     WHEREAS, the Original Indenture is incorporated herein by this reference
and the Original Indenture, as supplemented by this Eighth Supplemental
Indenture, is herein called the "Indenture";

     WHEREAS, under the Original Indenture, a new series of Securities may at
any time be established pursuant to a supplemental indenture executed by the
Company and the Trustee;

     WHEREAS, the Company proposes to create under the Indenture a new series of
Securities; and

     WHEREAS, all conditions necessary to authorize the execution and delivery
of this Eighth Supplemental Indenture and to make it a valid and binding
obligation of the Company have been done or performed.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the agreements and obligations set
forth herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of
which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto hereby agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE 1

                         7.125% SENIOR NOTES DUE 2011

     SECTION 101. Establishment. There is hereby established a new series of
Securities to be issued under the Indenture, to be designated as the Company's
7.125% Senior Notes due 2011 (the "Notes").

     There are to be authenticated and delivered $400,000,000 principal amount
of Notes to be issued to underwriters at 99.262% of principal amount. The
Company shall have the right to issue additional Notes at any time upon
compliance with the provisions of the Indenture applicable to the issuance of
additional Securities. The Notes shall be issued in definitive fully registered
form.

     The Notes shall be issued initially in the form of one or more Global
Securities, each in substantially the form set out in Exhibit A hereto. The
initial Depositary with respect to the Notes shall be the Depository Trust
Company.
<PAGE>

     The Company will not pay Additional Amounts, as defined in Section 1008 of
the Original Indenture.

     The form of the Trustee's Certificate of Authentication for the Notes shall
be in substantially the form set forth in Exhibit B hereto.

     Each Note shall be dated the date of authentication thereof and shall bear
interest from the Original Issue Date.

     The interest rate on the Notes will not be reset pursuant to Section 308(b)
of the Original Indenture and the Stated Maturity shall not be extended pursuant
to Section 309 of the Original Indenture.

     SECTION 102. Definitions. The following defined terms used herein shall,
unless the context otherwise requires, have the meanings specified below.
Capitalized terms used herein for which no definition is provided herein shall
have the meanings set forth in the Original Indenture.

     "Adjusted Treasury Rate" means, with respect to any Redemption Date, the
rate per annum equal to the semi-annual equivalent yield to maturity of the
Comparable Treasury Issue, assuming a price of the Comparable Treasury Issue
(expressed as a percentage of its principal amount) equal to the Comparable
Treasury Price for such Redemption Date.

     "Comparable Treasury Issue" means the United States Treasury security
selected by the Quotation Agent as having a maturity comparable to the remaining
term of the Notes to be redeemed that would be utilized, at the time of
selection and in accordance with customary financial practice, in pricing new
issues of corporate debt securities of comparable maturity to the remaining term
of the Notes.

     "Comparable Treasury Price" means, with respect to any Redemption Date, the
Reference Treasury Dealer Quotation for such Redemption Date.

     "Interest Payment Dates" means April 15 and October 15 of each year,
commencing October 15, 2001.

     "Original Issue Date" means April 6, 2001.

     "Quotation Agent" means the Reference Treasury Dealer.

     "Reference Treasury Dealer" means Banc of America Securities LLC and its
successors; provided, however, that if the foregoing shall cease to be a primary
U.S. Government Securities dealer in New York City (a "Primary Treasury
Dealer"), the Company shall substitute therefor another Primary Treasury Dealer
and certify same to the Trustee.

     "Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations" means, with respect to any
Redemption Date, the average, as determined by the Company and certified to the
Trustee by the Company, of the bid

                                       2
<PAGE>

and asked prices for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed in each case as a
percentage of its principal amount) quoted in writing to the Company by the
Reference Treasury Dealer at 5:00 p.m. on the third Business Day preceding such
Redemption Date.

     "Regular Record Date" means April 1 in the case of an April 15 Interest
Payment Date and October 1 in the case of an October 15 Interest Payment Date.

     "Stated Maturity" means April 15, 2011.

     SECTION 103. Payment of Principal and Interest. The principal of the Notes
shall be due at Stated Maturity (unless earlier redeemed). The unpaid principal
amount of the Notes shall bear interest at the rate of 7.125% per annum until
paid or duly provided for. Interest shall be paid semi-annually in arrears on
each Interest Payment Date to the Person in whose name the Notes are registered
on the Regular Record Date for such Interest Payment Date and on Stated
Maturity.  Accrued interest paid on Stated Maturity shall be paid to the Person
to whom principal is paid.  Any such interest that is not so punctually paid or
duly provided for will forthwith cease to be payable to the Holders on such
Regular Record Date and may be paid to the Person or Persons in whose name the
Notes are registered at the close of business on a Special Record Date for the
payment of such defaulted interest to be fixed by the Trustee, notice whereof
shall be given to Holders of the Notes not less than ten days prior to such
Special Record Date.

     Payments of interest on the Notes will include interest accrued to but
excluding the respective Interest Payment Dates. Interest payments for the Notes
shall be computed and paid on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day
months.

     Payment of the principal and interest due at the Stated Maturity or earlier
redemption of the Notes shall be made upon surrender of the Notes at the
Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee. The principal of and interest on the
Notes shall be paid in such currency of the United States of America as at the
time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.
Payments of interest will be made at the option of the Company, by (i) check
mailed to the address of the Person entitled thereto as such address shall
appear in the Security Register or (ii)  wire transfer to an account located in
the United States maintained by the payee.

     SECTION 104. Denominations. The Notes may be issued in denominations of
$1,000 or any integral multiple thereof.

     SECTION 105. Global Securities. The Notes will be issued in the form of one
or more Global Securities registered in the name of the Depositary or its
nominee. Except under the limited circumstances described below, Notes
represented by a Global Security will not be exchangeable for, and will not
otherwise be issuable as, Notes in definitive form. The Global Securities may
not be transferred except by the Depositary to a nominee of the Depositary or by
a nominee of the Depositary to the Depositary or another nominee of the
Depositary or to a successor Depositary or its nominee.

     Owners of beneficial interests in a Global Security will not be considered
the Holders thereof for any purpose under the Indenture, and no Global Security
representing a Note shall be

                                       3
<PAGE>

exchangeable, except for another Global Security of like denomination and tenor
to be registered in the name of the Depositary or its nominee or to a successor
Depositary or its nominee. The rights of Holders of such Global Security shall
be exercised only through the Depositary.

     A Global Security shall be exchangeable for Notes registered in the names
of persons other than the Depositary or its nominee only if (i) the Depositary
notifies the Company that it is unwilling or unable to continue as a Depositary
for such Global Security and no successor Depositary shall have been appointed
by the Company, or if at any time the Depositary ceases to be a clearing agency
registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, at a time when
the Depositary is required to be so registered to act as such Depositary and no
successor Depositary shall have been appointed by the Company, in each case
within 90 days after the Company receives such notice or becomes aware of such
cessation, (ii) the Company in its sole discretion determines that such Global
Security shall be so exchangeable, or (iii) there shall have occurred an Event
of Default with respect to the Notes.

     SECTION 106. Transfer. No service charge will be made for any transfer or
exchange of Notes, but payment will be required of a sum sufficient to cover any
tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection therewith.

     SECTION 107. Redemption at the Company's Option. The Notes will be
redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time at the option of the Company at a
redemption price (the "Redemption Price") equal to the greater of (i) 100% of
the principal amount of such Notes or (ii) as determined by a Quotation Agent,
the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal
and interest (not including any portion of those payments of interest accrued as
of the date of redemption) discounted to the date of redemption (the "Redemption
Date") on a semi-annual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-
day months) at the Adjusted Treasury Rate plus 30 basis points, plus, in the
case of (i) and (ii), accrued but unpaid interest to the Redemption Date.

     Notice of any redemption will be mailed at least 30 days but not more than
60 days before the Redemption Date to each Holder of the Notes to be redeemed.
Unless the Company defaults in payment of the Redemption Price, interest will
cease to accrue on the Notes or portions thereof called for redemption on and
after the Redemption Date.

     SECTION 108.  Other Terms.

     The Notes will not have a sinking fund.

     Notice of redemption shall be given as provided in Section 1104 of the
Original Indenture.

     Any redemption of less than all of the Notes shall, with respect to the
principal thereof, be divisible by $1,000.

                                       4
<PAGE>

                                   ARTICLE 2

                           MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

     SECTION 201. Recitals by Company. The recitals in this Eighth Supplemental
Indenture are made by the Company only and not by the Trustee, and all of the
provisions contained in the Original Indenture in respect of the rights,
privileges, immunities, powers and duties of the Trustee shall be applicable in
respect of Notes and of this Eighth Supplemental Indenture as fully and with
like effect as if set forth herein in full.

     SECTION 202. Ratification and Incorporation of Original Indenture. The
Original Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed, and the Original
Indenture and this Eighth Supplemental Indenture shall be read, taken and
construed as one and the same instrument; provided that, in the case of a
conflict between this Eighth Supplemental Indenture and the Original Indenture,
this Eighth Supplemental Indenture shall control.

     SECTION 203. Executed in Counterparts. This Eighth Supplemental Indenture
may be simultaneously executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed to be an original, and such counterparts shall together constitute one
and the same instrument.

     SECTION 204. Parties Interested Herein. Nothing in the Indenture expressed
or implied is intended or shall be construed to confer upon, or to give or grant
to, any person or entity, other than the Company, the Trustee, the Paying Agent
and the registered owners of the Notes, any right, remedy or claim under or by
reason of the Indenture or any covenant, condition or stipulation hereof, and
all covenants, stipulations, promises and agreements in the Indenture contained
by and on behalf of the Company shall be for the sole and exclusive benefit of
the Company, the Trustee, the Paying Agent and the registered owners of the
Notes.

                 [remainder of page intentionally left blank]

                                       5
<PAGE>

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each party hereto has caused this Eighth
Supplemental Indenture to be signed in its name and behalf by its duly
authorized officer or signatory, all as of the day and year first above written.

                                    ONEOK, INC.

                                    By:_________________________________________

                                    THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, as Trustee

                                    By:_________________________________________
                                             Authorized Signatory

                                       6
<PAGE>

                                                                       EXHIBIT A

                                 FORM OF NOTE

                                  [Attached]

                                      A-1
<PAGE>

     THIS SECURITY IS A GLOBAL SECURITY WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE INDENTURE
HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO AND IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF A DEPOSITORY OR A
NOMINEE THEREOF.  THIS SECURITY MAY NOT BE EXCHANGED IN WHOLE OR IN PART FOR A
SECURITY REGISTERED, AND NO TRANSFER OF THIS SECURITY IN WHOLE OR IN PART MAY BE
REGISTERED, IN THE NAME OF ANY PERSON OTHER THAN SUCH DEPOSITORY OR ITS NOMINEE
EXCEPT IN THE LIMITED CIRCUMSTANCES DESCRIBED IN THE INDENTURE.

     UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE
DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION ("DTC"), TO THE ISSUER OR ITS
AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE, OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE
ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR IN SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS
REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO
CEDE & CO. OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE, OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR
OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER
HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

================================================================================
No. ___

                                  ONEOK, INC.
                         7.125% SENIOR NOTES DUE 2011

                              CUSIP:   682680AL7

     ONEOK, Inc., an Oklahoma corporation (herein called "Company," which term
includes any successor corporation under the Indenture referred to herein), for
value received, hereby promises to pay to:

     CEDE & CO.

or registered assigns, the principal sum of

     *_____________ DOLLARS*

on April 15, 2011 and to pay interest on such principal sum at the rate of seven
and one-eighth percent (7.125%) per annum.

     The Company will pay interest from April 6, 2001, semi-annually on April 15
and October 15 of each year, and on the date of maturity, commencing October 15,
2001 (each such date an "Interest Payment Date"), until the principal hereof is
otherwise paid or duly provided for.  The interest so payable, and punctually
paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date will, as provided in the
Indenture (as defined below), be paid to the holder of this Note (the
<PAGE>

"Holder") of record at the close of business on the regular record date (the
"Regular Record Date") for such Interest Payment Date, which shall be April 1
(in the case of the April 15 Interest Payment Date) or October 1 (in the case of
the October 15 Interest Payment Date), whether or not a Business Day. Interest
will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

     Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for shall
forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date by
virtue of his having been such Holder, and may be paid to the Holder of record
of this Note at the close of business on a special record date (the "Special
Record Date") fixed by the Company for the payment of such defaulted interest,
notice whereof shall be given to Holders not less than ten days prior to such
Special Record Date, all as more fully provided in the Indenture.

     Payment of the principal of this Note and the interest thereof will be made
at the office or agency of the Company in the Borough of Manhattan, City and
State of New York or at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee in such
currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal
tender for payment of public and private debts.
<PAGE>

                                  ONEOK, INC.
                         7.125% Senior Notes due 2011

     This Note is one of a duly authorized issue of debt securities of the
Company (herein called the "Securities"), issuable in one or more series, issued
and to be issued under and pursuant to an Indenture dated as of September 24,
1998, as amended and supplemented by that certain Eighth Supplemental Indenture
(the "Indenture"), duly executed and delivered by the Company to The Chase
Manhattan Bank, formerly known as Chase Bank of Texas, National Association, as
trustee (the "Trustee," which term includes any successor trustee under the
Indenture), and is one of a series unlimited in aggregate principal amount and
designated as 7.125% Senior Notes due 2011 (the "Notes"). Reference is hereby
made to the Indenture for a description of the rights, limitations of rights,
obligations, duties and immunities thereunder of the Trustee, the Company and
the holders of Securities (including Holders of the Notes).

     The Notes are subject to defeasance at the option of the Company as
provided in the Indenture.

     As long as this Note is represented in global form (the "Global Security")
registered in the name of the Depository or its nominee, except as provided in
the Indenture and subject to certain limitations therein set forth, no Global
Security shall be exchangeable or transferable.

     If an Event of Default (as defined in the Indenture) with respect to the
Notes shall occur and be continuing, the principal plus any accrued interest may
be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect and subject to the
conditions provided in the Indenture.

     The Indenture permits the amendment thereof and the modification of the
rights and obligations of the Company and the rights of the Holders under the
Indenture at any time by the Company and the Trustee with the consent of the
Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Securities then
Outstanding (as defined in the Indenture) of all series that are affected by
such amendment or modification, except that certain amendments that do not
adversely affect the rights of any holder of the Securities may be made without
the approval of holders of the Securities.  No amendment or modification may,
among other things, change the Stated Maturity of any Security, reduce the
principal amount thereof, reduce the rate or change the time of payment of any
interest thereon, or reduce the percentage in principal amount of Securities,
consent of the holders of which is required for any such amendment or
modification, without the consent of each Securityholder affected.

     Notwithstanding any provision in the Indenture or any provision of this
Note, the Holder of this Note shall have the right, which is absolute and
unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and
interest on this Note at the times, places and rate, and in the currency herein
prescribed.

     The Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time at the option
of the Company at a Redemption Price equal to the greater of (i) 100% of the
principal amount of such Notes or (ii) as determined by a Quotation Agent, the
sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and
interest (not including any portion of those payments of interest accrued as of
the date of redemption) discounted to the date of redemption on a semi-
<PAGE>

annual basis (assuming a 360-day consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the
Adjusted Treasury Rate plus 30 basis points, plus, in the case of (i) and (ii),
accrued but unpaid interest to the Redemption Date.

     In the event of redemption of this Note in part only, a new Note or Notes
of this series for the unredeemed portion hereof will be issued in the name of
the Holder upon surrender hereof or otherwise reduced in accordance with the
provisions of the Indenture.  The Notes will not have a sinking fund.

     THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAWS.

     All terms used in this Note but not defined herein have the meanings
assigned to them in the Indenture.

     Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by or on
behalf of the Trustee by manual signature, this Note shall not be entitled to
any benefit under the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.
<PAGE>

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Note to be duly executed.

                              ONEOK, INC.

                              By:_______________________________________________
                                    Name:
                                    Title:

                              Attested:_________________________________________
                                         Name:
                                         Title:

TRUSTEE'S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

Dated:  ____________________

This is one of the Notes referred to in the within-
mentioned Indenture.

                    THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK
                      as Trustee

                    By:__________________________________________
                         Authorized Signatory
<PAGE>

                 SCHEDULE OF EXCHANGES OF INTEREST IN THE NOTE

     The following exchanges of interests in this Note have been made:

<TABLE>
<S>                      <C>                      <C>                   <C>                           <C>
                                                                           Principal Amount of
                         Amount of decrease       Amount of increase       this Note following        Signature of authorized
Date of Exchange            in this Note             in this Note       such decrease or increase      signatory of Trustee
</TABLE>
<PAGE>

                                ASSIGNMENT FORM

                 To assign this Note, fill in the form below:
                   I or we assign and transfer this Note to

                               ________________

                               ________________

                  Insert assignee's soc. sec. or tax I.D. no.

                               ________________

________________________________________________________________________________
             (Print or type assignee's name, address and zip code)

________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
and all rights thereunder and irrevocably appoint ______________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
agent to transfer this Note on the books of the Company.  The agent may
substitute another to act for him.

________________________________________________________________________________

Dated: ___________________    __________________________________________________

                              __________________________________________________

     THE SIGNATURE TO THIS ASSIGNMENT MUST CORRESPOND WITH THE NAME AS IT
APPEARS ON THE FIRST PAGE OF THE NOTE.

     THE SIGNATURE MUST BE GUARANTEED BY AN "ELIGIBLE GUARANTOR INSTITUTION"
THAT IS A MEMBER OR PARTICIPANT IN A "SIGNATURE GUARANTEE PROGRAM" (E.G., THE
SECURITIES TRANSFER AGENTS MEDALLION PROGRAM, THE STOCK EXCHANGE MEDALLION
PROGRAM OR THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. MEDALLION PROGRAM).
<PAGE>

                                                                       EXHIBIT B

                         CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

    This is one of the Notes referred to in the within-mentioned Indenture.

                                    THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, as
                                      Trustee [or Successor Trustee]

     Dated:__________________       By:_________________________________________
                                         Authorized Signatory

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