30-Year Lease Signed for Desert Regional Medical Center, Expanding Health Care in the Valley

A historic 30-year lease and purchase agreement has been finalized for Desert Regional Medical Center, ensuring long-term health care investments for the Coachella Valley. The lease, signed between Tenet Health and the Desert Health Care District, follows overwhelming voter approval of Measure AA in November, with 72% in favor. Under the agreement, Tenet Health will take ownership of the Palm Springs hospital at the end of the lease term. The terms also require the facility to meet seismic compliance by 2030, expand the emergency room at JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio, and provide nearly $650 million in payments to the Desert Health Care District over the lease period. “This is many years in the making, and we are thrilled to celebrate this momentous occasion,” a district representative stated. “The community's strong support for Measure AA highlights the importance of continued growth and health care presence in the valley.” Seismic compliance plans must be submitted by January 1, 2026, with the new lease set to commence on May 31, 2027. The agreement promises significant improvements to regional health care infrastructure, addressing growing demand and ensuring critical services remain accessible to valley residents. Stay updated with NBC Palm Springs for the latest developments.