Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, CA

Save

  • Interior

    A view of a waiting area featuring padded chairs and a small table.
  • Decor

    A cozy living room with a comfortable sofa, chairs, and a coffee table, featuring a chandelier and large windows letting in natural light.
  • Building

    Entrance of Desert Regional Medical Center.
  • Architecture

    A historic building featuring Spanish-style architecture, complemented by palm trees and a clear blue sky.
  • Landscaping

    A scenic view of a charming building with a tower, surrounded by palm trees and a clear sky.
  • Outdoor

    A view of the main entrance to a regional medical center featuring a sculpture.
  • Seating

    An empty lecture hall ready for a class.
  • Palm Trees

    A picturesque scene featuring a church framed by palm trees and mountains under a clear blue sky.
  • Clouds

    A serene view of mountains under a partly cloudy sky, featuring vehicles parked in a lot and palm trees in the foreground.
  • Office

    An empty office waiting area with chairs and a glass partition.
  • Healthcare

    A person adjusts the controls of a hyperbaric chamber with a patient inside.

Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, CA

Information last verified:

1150 North Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

2.7 from 110 reviews
5 stars
41
4 stars
3
3 stars
2
2 stars
7
1 stars
57

Overall Review of Desert Regional Medical Center

Pros

  • pro Desert Regional Medical Center is described as an amazing hospital with excellent medical services and a friendly, caring staff.
  • pro The labor and delivery department is praised for outstanding care of mothers, both natural and via C-sections.
  • pro Nurses and staff are repeatedly described as helpful, friendly, compassionate, and attentive.
  • pro Surgeons and doctors are credited with lifesaving care and high levels of expertise.
  • pro ER staff and the overall care team are noted for kindness, professionalism, and life-saving assistance.
  • pro Many reviewers say they would highly recommend Desert Regional Medical Center and consider it among the best in the Coachella Valley.
  • pro Individual caregivers are often named and thanked for their compassion and professionalism.

Cons

  • pro They say Desert Regional Medical Center is a place where patients consistently have bad experiences and would not recommend it.
  • pro They describe the ER as slow, overcrowded, and focused on billing more than patient care.
  • pro They allege rude, dismissive, and uncaring staff, with some nurses screaming or mocking patients.
  • pro They report dirty, unsanitary conditions including bed bugs, moldy trash cans, and bloodied bedding.
  • pro They claim patients are left in pain or dehydration for hours with little information or assistance.
  • pro They accuse misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment and frequent miscommunication among doctors, nurses, and staff.
  • pro They describe unethical or inflated billing practices and difficulty obtaining accurate medical records.
  • pro They recount traumatic or dehumanizing experiences, including coercive or abusive treatment during mental health holds.
  • pro They warn to steer clear of the hospital and suggest alternatives like Eisenhower or other facilities.
  • pro They state that lives were put at risk or harmed due to perceived negligence and poor quality of care.

Review

Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs is best suited for families facing acute, time-sensitive medical needs where a large, full-service hospital with deep emergency and inpatient capabilities is essential. When a crisis hits, trauma from an accident, a sudden obstetric event, or the need for rapid surgical intervention, the facility can mobilize a broad team and provide lifesaving care. In practice, this center earns its keep in high-stakes moments, with several reviews praising skilled surgeons, dedicated nurses, and responsive ER staff who save lives and stabilize critical conditions. The hospital’s size and resources mean it can gut-check complex problems, coordinate across departments, and offer a spectrum of services that smaller clinics cannot. Those whose primary concern is access to a wide array of specialists on short notice will find Desert Regional a reasonable default.

However, the community is not a universal fit. Families seeking a consistently calm, patient-centric experience with uniformly empathetic bedside manner and crystal-clear billing will want to consider alternatives. The reviews show a striking oscillation: some days present with superb, compassionate care; other days reveal rude front-desk interactions, poor communication, and experiences that feel transactional rather than patient-centered. For families living with chronic needs or those who require predictable discharge planning and assertive patient advocacy, a facility with steadier day-to-day communication and transparent cost practices, such as Eisenhower Medical Center or comparable regional centers, may be preferable. In short, Desert Regional works best when urgent medical decisions are paramount and the care team is at its best; it is less reliable as a consistently comforting, financially transparent, and smoothly orchestrated long-term care environment.

On the plus side, the hospital’s clinical strengths are real and repeatedly demonstrated. Several reviews highlight lifesaving responses from surgeons, skilled nurses, and physical therapists who offered genuine care during traumatic or acute events. Labor and delivery experiences are not uniformly negative; in fact, some parents recount extraordinary nursing support and compassionate postpartum care that left lasting positive impressions. In the ER and ICU, there are accounts of attentive nurses like Stephanie, nurses who calm anxious families, and teams that communicate clearly during critical periods. When the right clinicians are present and staff members answer questions with warmth and competence, Desert Regional can feel like a lifeline rather than a place to fear. The hospital’s resources, imaging, surgical teams, and post-acute care coordination, can offset many concerns when a patient’s condition demands aggressive intervention.

The most glaring fault lines in the reviews cluster around front-line interactions, consistency of care, and financial aspects. A sizable portion of feedback points to rude or overwhelmed intake staff, fragmented communication between departments, and dissonant discharge instructions. Billing and documentation issues surface repeatedly, including misbilling or opaque billing practices, and in some cases, patients report paying substantial out-of-pocket sums for relatively brief ER encounters. Patience and empathy appear uneven; some patients describe bedside care as compassionate and thorough, while others recount being treated as a nuisance or left waiting with little information. In short, the experiential gulf between the best and worst days can be wide, and that volatility makes Desert Regional a care option that demands careful, proactive engagement from families.

Yet the pros do not vanish because of the cons. When the care pathway is clear and a family member can advocate effectively, the hospital’s strengths can carry the day. Emergency and surgical teams that show up with competence can reduce risk and shorten the crisis, while earnest nursing staff can make a profound difference in a patient’s emotional and physical comfort. There are credible stories of improvements after leadership engagement, instances where labor and delivery unit operations and security protocols have advanced, and where the patient experience visibly improved as a result. Those signals suggest Desert Regional is capable of delivering consistently high-quality care in the right circumstances, and that the hospital is not static but capable of meaningful change when administration and staff align on patient-centered goals.

For families weighing alternatives, several credible options deserve consideration depending on the care context. Eisenhower Medical Center in nearby Rancho Mirage and other regional hospitals frequently emerge in comments as more reliable for steady communication, attentive bedside manners, and more transparent billing practices. For OB-GYN care or high-risk pregnancies, some reviews indicate mixed experiences and point to particular providers who stand out poorly, suggesting that prospective patients should carefully vet specific clinicians as part of the decision. In cases where extended chronic care, complex rehab, or ongoing outpatient coordination is pivotal, a facility with a more predictable care culture and billing workflow may reduce stress and confusion, even if Desert Regional remains a valid emergency choice.

In the end, Desert Regional Medical Center offers a practical option with undeniable strengths and visible weaknesses. Families should choose with a plan: in emergencies, rely on the hospital’s clinical depth and readiness; in routine or elective care, confirm provider compatibility, request clear, written estimates, and insist on a patient advocate or social work liaison to navigate discharges and follow-ups. If the goal is guaranteed consistency, or if prior experiences have highlighted a sensitivity gap in communication or billing, exploring Eisenhower Medical Center or other nearby facilities can yield a calmer, more predictable patient journey without sacrificing access to high-level care. Desert Regional remains a credible, life-saving option when urgency is non-negotiable; it is a facility to approach with eyes wide open, prepared to advocate fiercely, and ready to pivot to alternatives if the day’s care feels impersonal or financially opaque.

Features

Housing

  • 32 resident community capacity 32 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Palm Springs International (2 miles away) Palm Springs International (2 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, CA is a premier assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and services to cater to the needs of its residents. The community provides a comfortable and fully furnished living space with the convenience of cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and a small library for leisure reading.

Residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the community's restaurant-style dining service, accommodating special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diets. Housekeeping services are also provided to ensure a clean and well-maintained living environment.

Care services at Desert Regional Medical Center include 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The professional staff also assists with medication management and offers a mental wellness program to support residents' emotional well-being.

The location of this assisted living community is ideal, with numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship nearby. Transportation options are available for easy access to all these facilities.

Desert Regional Medical Center offers an engaging lifestyle for its residents with resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities. Whether it's enjoying outdoor spaces or participating in various social events within the community, there is never a dull moment at Desert Regional Medical Center.

Overall, Desert Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a comfortable living environment where residents can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally while benefiting from the convenience of nearby amenities.

Nearby Places of Interest

Hospitals

  • Desert Regional Medical Center (0 miles)
  • Eisenhower Labtechniques Palm Springs (1.4 miles)
  • DOHC Infusion Clinic (2 miles)

Physicians

  • Premier Surgical Associates (0.1 miles)
  • Dr Nora J. Bucher, MD (0.1 miles)
  • Douglas Jay Roger (0.1 miles)
  • Capily Institute (0.1 miles)
  • Contour Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center (0.1 miles)
  • Desert Family Medical Center (0.1 miles)
  • UCR Health - Family Medicine Center Operated by Tenet (0.1 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Desert Hospital Outpatient Pharmacy (0.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (0.9 miles)
  • Albertsons Pharmacy (1 miles)
  • Walgreens (1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.4 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.4 miles)
  • The Medicine Shoppe (1.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Ernest Coffee (0.2 miles)
  • Cafe La Jefa (0.4 miles)
  • Cartel Coffee Lab (0.4 miles)
  • Palm Springs Koffi (0.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (1 miles)
  • 4 Paws Coffee Co. (1.1 miles)
  • Starbucks Reserve (1.1 miles)

Restaurants

  • Bootlegger Tiki (0.2 miles)
  • Eight4Nine (0.3 miles)
  • Workshop (0.3 miles)
  • Trio (0.4 miles)
  • Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey (0.4 miles)
  • Birba (0.5 miles)
  • Cheeky's (0.5 miles)

Parks

  • Ruth Hardy Park (0.3 miles)
  • Palm Springs Dog Park (2.2 miles)
  • Demuth Park (3.1 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Palm Springs (1.1 miles)

Transportation

  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) (2.4 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Bloom In The Desert Ministries (2.8 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Desert Regional Medical Center?
What photos are available for Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, California?

Nearby Communities

  • Palm Springs Manor Retirement

    Palm Springs Manor Retirement

    Palm Springs, CA

    4.5 from 2 reviews
     

    pro Excellent access to dining, healthcare, parks, and other amenities in Palm Springs.

  • Retreat Las Palmas

    Retreat Las Palmas

    Palm Springs, CA

    3 from 2 reviews
    $1,600 to $1,800 / month

    pro Compassionate staff and caring environment; affordable relative to Riverside County and California; offers multiple care options with on-site activities and pet-friendly features.

  • Palm Springs Manor

    Palm Springs Manor

    Palm Springs, CA

    4.5 from 2 reviews
     

    pro Luxurious, serene setting with extensive nearby dining and healthcare.

  • Carino's Quality Home Care

    Carino's Quality Home Care

    Palm Springs, CA

    5 from 7 reviews
    $3,000 to $3,500 / month

    pro Caring, dedicated staff in a clean, welcoming environment with good family communication.

  • Stonewall Gardens

    Stonewall Gardens

    Palm Springs, CA

    4.8 from 58 reviews
    $2,995 to $5,450 / month

    pro Warm, dedicated staff in an attractive LGBTQ+-friendly setting with good dining and activities.

  • California Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

    California Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

    Palm Springs, CA

    4.2 from 112 reviews
     

    pro Clean, well-maintained facility with friendly staff and pleasant decor.

  • Pacifica Senior Living Palm Springs

    Pacifica Senior Living Palm Springs

    Palm Springs, CA

    4.6 from 161 reviews
    $3,100 to $4,200 / month

    pro Caring staff in a cozy cottage-style setting with pleasant grounds.

  • Mountain View Manor

    Mountain View Manor

    Desert Hot Springs, CA

    4.1 from 10 reviews
    $2,800 to $3,800 / month

    pro Warm, attentive staff and a clean, engaging environment with personalized attention.

  • Atria Hacienda

    Atria Hacienda

    Palm Desert, CA

    4.5 from 178 reviews
    $4,295 to $6,395 / month

    pro Beautiful facility with restaurant-style dining, strong community, and caring staff.

Related Resources

  • fecal incontinenceFecal Incontinence in Older Adults: A Comprehensive Guide

    Fecal incontinence, prevalent among older adults, arises from factors like weakened pelvic muscles and nerve damage, significantly affecting well-being and social interactions. Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and tests to inform tailored treatments, while caregivers and preventive measures can aid in managing the condition effectively.

  • anticipatory griefRecognizing the Journey: Understanding and Navigating Anticipatory Grief

    Anticipatory grief is an emotional response to the impending loss of a loved one, characterized by complex emotions such as sadness and anger, and involves navigating stages similar to those identified by Kübler-Ross. Coping strategies are vital for managing this process, emphasizing compassionate communication, self-care, and support groups while recognizing the cultural influences on grieving.

  • adult day careEncouraging Participation in Adult Day Care: A Guide to Supporting a Hesitant Parent

    Adult day care programs offer essential support and activities for older adults, yet many hesitate to participate due to concerns about independence and stigma. To alleviate these apprehensions, families should facilitate open discussions, explore financial resources, suggest trial visits, and collaborate with healthcare providers to highlight the benefits of such services for both the participants and their caregivers.