Desert Regional Medical Center recently announced that Richard N. Phillips has been named chief financial officer (CFO) to oversee all financial and accounting management for the hospital.

Phillips was most recently CFO at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, where he has served in that position for six years. He will start at Desert Regional in Palm Springs, Calif. today.

Phillips brings more than 25 years of hospital experience to the Coachella Valley. He has held previous CFO posts for hospitals in California, Arizona and Utah.

“Richard has selflessly given himself to our hospital and this community,” said Candace L. Markwith, Sierra Vista chief executive officer. “His work ethic and personal value set are an example and inspiration to us all. We’ll miss him greatly.”

During his tenure at Sierra Vista, he helped lead the hospital to great success including Sierra Vista being the first hospital in all of Tenet to earn two 5-Bar Audi Awards in recognition of exemplary performance during its tri-annual internal audit.

In addition, with his capable assistance Sierra Vista earned its first Tenet Circle of Excellence Award in 2010 emblematic of being one of eight hospitals in the company to perform at the highest level in clinical quality, patient, physician and employee satisfaction and financial performance. He was also involved in the community doing volunteer work through his church in Atascadero, served as a United Way volunteer and was treasurer/board member of the Children’s Health Initiative.

“We are delighted to have Richard bring his financial talents and wealth of experience to Desert Regional Medical Center,” said Karolee Sowle, Desert Regional Medical Center president and chief executive officer. “We are in the midst of growing several new programs, including our new La Quinta clinics, our new Joint & Spine Pavilion and several other programs on the horizon. Richard’s skill will be put to use immediately.”

Phillips holds a degree in business administration from the University of Texas. He is a certified public accountant and a fellow of the Healthcare Financial Management Association.