New Acting Director Brings Extensive Experience to Rhode Island Department of Health

The Rhode Island Department of Health has recently seen changes in its leadership, with Governor Dan McKee announcing the appointment of a new acting director. Dr. Utpala Bandy, who currently serves as director, is set to retire on March 29th. The Governor expressed his gratitude for Bandy’s leadership and service to the people of Rhode Island.

While the final stages of hiring a permanent RIDOH director are underway, Dr. Staci Fischer has been appointed as the acting director. Fischer has extensive experience in public health and infectious disease, having served as Chief Administrative Officer at the Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline since 2023 and previously spending 15 years practicing at Rhode Island Hospital.

Fischer’s career includes overseeing the training of medical residents and fellows at Lifespan, serving as Director of Graduate Medical Education, and leading the Infectious Disease Fellowship Program at the Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University. She is also board-certified in infectious diseases and has held positions with the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education.

This appointment signals a continued commitment to public health and leadership within the Rhode Island Department of Health under the guidance of Governor Dan McKee.