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Advancing Community wellness in the Coachella Valley

What’s a Special District?

California has approximately 3,400 special districts. Each one, including the Desert Healthcare District, is a government entity, distinct from city, county and state government, directed by its own Board, providing specific focused services and facilities to residents within defined boundaries.

Healthcare districts are public entities that provide community-based healthcare services to residents throughout the state, according to the Association of California Healthcare Districts. They respond to the needs in their District by providing a range of services, which may include a hospital, clinic, skilled nursing facility or emergency medical services, as well as education and wellness programs. Each of California's healthcare districts is governed by a locally elected board of trustees who are directly accountable to the communities they serve.


For more information about special districts, click here:


California Special Districts Association (CSDA)

Association of California Healthcare Districts (ACHD)



On December 9, 2020, the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation was featured in the California Sprecial District Association's legislative tour. A highlight of the tour was an emphasis on the importance of healthcare district to our communities. Read more here.