Healthcare District Board remains focused on advancing health & wellness in the Coachella Valley

The Desert Healthcare District & Foundation is aware of the recent public statements issued by former Chief Executive Officer Chris Christensen.

Mr. Christensen is entitled to express his personal views and perspectives regarding his employment and experiences with the District.

As a public agency, the District is legally and ethically prohibited from discussing personnel matters, including employee evaluations, employment-related communications, confidential personnel information, and discussions that occurred in closed session. Accordingly, the District will not engage in a public debate regarding personnel matters or respond to specific allegations.

The District can confirm that all actions related to Mr. Christensen’s employment were taken by the Board of Directors in accordance with applicable law, the District’s governing authority, and the terms of the CEO’s employment agreement. The Board’s decision was approved unanimously.

The Board strongly disagrees with assertions that it acted improperly, unethically, or outside its legal authority. Those characterizations do not reflect the facts. The Board rejects allegations that its actions were motivated by retaliation, personal animus, or any improper purpose and remains confident it fulfilled its duties in accordance with applicable law, District policies, and its fiduciary obligations to the public.

While personnel matters are confidential and the District will not litigate competing narratives in the media, it is customary for public agencies to offer severance agreements in employment separations. The District remains focused on its mission, responsible stewardship of public resources, and improving the health and well-being of residents throughout the Coachella Valley.

- The Desert Healthcare District & Foundation Board of Directors