New Acting Director Appointed for Rhode Island Department of Health Amidst Ongoing Search for Permanent Position

Rhode Island Department of Health to have New Acting Director

In an email sent Thursday afternoon, Gov. Dan McKee’s spokesperson Olivia DaRocha confirmed that Dr. Staci Fischer has been appointed as the acting director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. This comes after interim state health director Dr. Utpala Bandy gave notice of her resignation, effective March 29th.

Dr. Fischer has been with the department since July 2023 and currently serves as the chief administrative officer for the Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline. She has a strong background in medicine, having practiced at Rhode Island Hospital for 15 years and overseeing training for medical residents and fellows for Lifespan Corporation. Her resume is filled with awards, publications, and various leadership positions within the medical community.

The search for a permanent health director is ongoing, with the final stages of the hiring process underway. It is unclear if Fischer is among the contenders for the permanent director role. The last person to hold the title was Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott who stepped down in January 2022.

Gov McKee has proposed a salary increase for the health director position to make it more attractive to potential candidates, with a proposed salary of $250,000 effective in April (pending legislative approval). Fischer’s appointment will allow for a smooth transition as the state continues to search for a permanent health director.

Bandy’s departure from her position marks an end to her tenure as interim state health director after serving only six months in office.

Fischer will take over as acting director on March 31st and will bring her wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role.