The Palo Verde Healthcare District announced Wednesday, April 15, that the Blythe hospital’s chief executive officer will be stepping down from her position next week.
A press release stated that Sandra Anaya’s last day will be Thursday, April 23. She has served as Palo Verde Hospital’s CEO for nearly 13 years.
It was not stated if or when a replacement would be sought.
The move comes after a tumultuous year for the Blythe hospital, which has included loss of medical services, bankruptcy and potential closures.
As of February, Riverside County now operates Palo Verde Hospital for a temporary six-month period. The management plan consists of a stakeholder “strike force” to independently stabilize and manage Palo Verde Hospital’s emergency department to maintain emergency medical services, assess current conditions and develop recommendations for next steps.
The healthcare district stated that Anaya’s departure does not change the terms of the management agreement. Riverside University Health System Medical Center and Clinics’ chief executive officer and the leadership team continue to provide temporary operational authority over the emergency department, clinic and all supporting departments.
Palo Verde Hospital is the only one serving the Blythe area, which is at the far eastern edge of Riverside County along the Arizona border. Many residents have relied on La Paz Regional Hospital in Parker, Arizona, which is about 45 miles away, but another small facility. Other options are JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio and Colorado River Medical Center in Needles — both approximately a two-hour drive away from Blythe.
Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley. Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com or on Twitter @ema_sasic.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Palo Verde Hospital CEO steps down
Reporting by Ema Sasic, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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