News from: Desert Care Network

Michele Finney will remain CEO for Desert Care Network to focus on strategic priorities for the three-hospital system serving the California desert communities

Michael J. Ditoro, PharmD, has been named CEO for Desert Regional Medical Center, assuming leadership responsibilities for the largest hospital in Desert Care Network, which is home to the Coachella Valley’s only Level 1 Trauma Center.

Ditoro joined Desert Regional as Chief Operating Officer in 2018 and was promoted to Chief Administrative Officer in 2022. He previously served as CEO of Westlake Hospital in Melrose Park, Ill. Michele Finney, who previously served a dual role as CEO of Desert Regional and Desert Care Network, will remain Group CEO for the three-hospital system operated by Tenet Healthcare in the desert communities of Southern California.

“Mike’s strong leadership, proven track record at Desert Regional, and unwavering commitment to excellence has been extremely valuable to our success,” said Finney said. “He will bring an intensive focus to accomplishing our goals at Desert Regional and fulfilling our commitment to care for the communities we serve.”

Finney said she will dedicate her time to strategic network priorities across the three hospitals and related outpatient centers, including seismic preparedness and systemwide growth. Ditoro said he is proud to continue advancing healthcare for the citizens of the greater Palm Springs region.

“It has been an honor to serve Desert Regional Medical Center, which has a long history of healthcare leadership in our region,” Ditoro said. “I look forward to continuing to build upon the work of our excellent team of clinical providers and healthcare professionals. Over the past seven years, my family and I have fallen in love with the Coachella Valley and I am excited to help in the continued growth of our hospital and the community.”

About Desert Care Network

Desert Care Network represents three hospitals and related outpatient services – Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio and Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree – providing life-saving care to our communities in the Southern California desert. Our network includes three trauma centers and a stroke network anchored by the region’s only Level 1 Trauma Center and only Comprehensive Stroke Center. Our Women & Infants Center includes the desert’s highest level intensive care unit for newborns. We also are home to the Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Advanced Wound Healing Center and the Center for Weight Management. Find out more at www.DesertCareNetwork.com.