PVT FILE PHOTO Former Desert View Regional Medical Center Administrator David Rencher Advertisement

Dave Rencher, administrator of Desert View Regional Medical Center, spent his last day on the job Wednesday.

Rencher and Mark Stoddard, president and chief executive officer of Rural Health Group, wouldn't say much about the reasons for his sudden departure.

When Rencher was asked about his future plans, he replied, "That's personal and confidential."

Rural Health Group officials confirmed Susan Davila, chief financial officer for the hospital, will take over as interim administrator.

"David's done an outstanding job and is looking for other opportunities, so we'll be looking for another person," Stoddard said of Rencher. "We just decided together this was a good time (for him to leave)."

Rencher, a tall, personable man, came from Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., to take over as administrator of Desert View Regional Medical Center 22 months ago.

He was the man in charge in April 2006 when the $30 million, 70,000-square-foot hospital opened its doors with 25 patient rooms and 130 employees.

"We opened the hospital, it's open, it's growing, it's thriving and I expect the very best for Pahrump and the very best for the hospital. Pahrump's a good community we will be in Pahrump for some time," Rencher said, referring to his wife and five children, who are attending Nye County schools.

Stoddard said it would be incorrect to conclude from Rencher's departure the hospital is having problems.

"I wouldn't suggest in any way, shape or form there's any difficulties or problems," he said. "It's just in discussion, we concluded there's some opportunities, and I think David will move on to some great things that will allow us to find someone that's new and is looking forward to moving into Pahrump."

Rural Health Group is still hoping to recruit physicians to live in Pahrump, especially an orthopedic surgeon, a cardiovascular specialist and a general surgeon.

"We're making some excellent progress, and I think in the near future there will be announcements as physicians come in the community. We're looking at additional specialists that will accommodate care," Stoddard said.

Rencher announced at the first anniversary barbecue in May the hospital had begun offering mammography services. He announced contracts with two obstetrician-gynecologists, Dr. Michael Crane and Dr. Gary Wright.

He also announced Dr. Mysore Shilpa would be an in-house physician.

Rencher said contracts had been signed with 90 percent of the insurance carriers.