One day before interim state health director Dr. Utpala Bandy is slated to retire, Gov. Dan McKee has named her replacement. Dr. Staci Fischer will be taking over as the acting director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. This decision comes as Bandy has given notice of her resignation, effective March 29th. The search for a permanent health director is ongoing, with the final stages of the hiring process underway.
In an email sent Thursday afternoon, Olivia DaRocha, a spokesperson for Gov. McKee, confirmed that Dr. Staci Fischer has been appointed as the acting director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. However, it is unclear if Fischer is among the contenders for the permanent director role. Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott was the last person to hold the title of health director and stepped down in January 2022.
Fischer currently serves as the chief administrative officer for the Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline and has been with the health department since July 2023. 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.
With a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Tulane University and a doctorate in medicine from Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Fischer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role as acting health director. 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.