UPDATE: Chris Christensen Fired from Healthcare District

UPDATE: A video clip fron the Healthcare District Board of  Director’s meeting might hold clues to Chris Chrisstensen’s termination. He was frustrated by the lack of his timely performance review and told the board what he thought. You can hear what he said at the 1:10 minute mark by clicking on this link.

 

Chris Christensen Terminated Effective Immediately

PALM SPRINGS — Chris Christensen, who was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Desert Healthcare District in May 2024, was terminated on Tuesday, May 26, effective immediately, according to the board’s legal counsel.

The board voted unanimously in closed session to terminate his contract without cause, in accordance with his contract, Scott said.

The Board of Directors was set to discuss Christensen’s Employee Performance Evaluation in closed session, according to the agenda.

“These decisions are never easy, Board President Kimberly Barraza said. “We wish Mr. Christensen well. The Board remains united in its commitment to serving the healthcare needs of our community.”

During the Board meeting prior to closed session, Christensen made public statements regarding personnel matters and expressed frustration with Board procedures and Board leadership., according  to a news release. While the Board remains committed to respectful and constructive engagement, it unanimously rejects the false allegations made during those remarks.

The District & Foundation Board has appointed Chief Program Officer Donna Craig, a 21-year veteran of the organization, to serve as interim CEO pending the selection of a permanent successor.

Christensen could not be reached Tuesday night for comment. Most recently he has been working on the strategic plan.

Christensen was promoted to CEO in 2024 from his roles as Interim CEO and Chief Administration Officer. Christensen filled the void created when former Dr. Conrado Bárzaga’s abruptly departed in September 2023.

Christensen joined the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation in 2014 as Controller, where he was responsible for the accounting and financial department. In addition to general ledger maintenance and monthly financial statement preparation for both organizations, he prepared annual budgets and facilitated yearly audits. He served as Chief Financial Officer for five years, managing payroll, accounts payable and human resources. During his tenure, he oversaw the maintenance of a 33-suite medical plaza, along with tenant leasing and tenant relations.

About the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation

The Desert Healthcare District is a local government agency formed in 1948. Its mission is to achieve optimal health at all stages of life for all District residents. The District includes more than 400,000 residents and encompasses the entire Coachella Valley. The District and Desert Healthcare Foundation, together, are one of the largest funders in the valley. These funds are used to assist residents — especially the underserved — in accessing vitally needed resources, such as primary and behavioral healthcare.