MEDICAL : David Baker Resigns His Post as Chairman of Irvine Medical Center

David Baker has resigned as chairman of Irvine Medical Center, a 177-bed community hospital under construction in Irvine. Baker, who in 1980 spearheaded a move to establish Irvine’s first hospital, said he needed more time to devote to other activities. Baker also works as an attorney, serves on the Irvine City Council and chairs the $16- million Irvine Community Health Foundation, which was created to sponsor community health programs and research. “I needed more time in my life,” said Baker, adding that he also expects to spend more of that time with his family.

When Baker stepped down, Gary H. Hunt, senior vice president of the Irvine Co. and a former vice chairman of the Irvine Medical Center, temporarily assumed the duties of chairman. Hospital spokeswoman Kathy M. Judge said the 18-member board of directors is being restructured to include a wider range of Orange County business community representatives and more physicians. A permanent chairman will be chosen when the restructuring is completed next year.