Dr. Staci Fischer Takes Over as Acting Director at Rhode Island Department of Health: A Commitment to Public Health under Governor Dan McKee’s Leadership

Governor Dan McKee’s office recently announced the appointment of Dr. Staci Fischer as the acting director at the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH). This change comes as Dr. Utpala Bandy prepares to retire on March 29th. The Governor expressed his gratitude for Bandy’s leadership and service to the people of Rhode Island.

Since taking office in 2021, there have been changes in leadership at RIDOH, including the resignation of Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott and Dr. James McDonald serving as acting director before Bandy. Fischer, who currently serves as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline, will step into the role of acting director. She has been with RIDOH since 2023 and previously spent 15 years practicing at Rhode Island Hospital.

Fischer brings extensive experience to her new role, having overseen the training of medical residents and fellows at Lifespan, served as the Director of Graduate Medical Education, and led the Infectious Disease Fellowship Program at Brown University’s Warren Alpert Medical School. She is also board-certified in infectious diseases and has held positions with the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education.

This appointment signifies a continued commitment to public health and leadership within RIDOH under Governor Dan McKee’s guidance.