Oregon DOC Overhauls Healthcare Division: New Leadership for Patient-Centered Services

The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) announced a significant reform initiative yesterday that will see leadership changes as the agency embarks on a comprehensive review of the care and services of adults in custody (AICs) across Oregon.

 

New Oregon Department of Corrections Services Initiative

To address long-standing issues with AICs receiving care at correctional facilities in Oregon, the DOC is overhauling the division providing healthcare to AICs.

In an effort to improve its Health Services Division, the DOC intends to engage industry experts and has already taken steps to enact operational changes, enhance staffing, and innovate DOC pharmacy operations.

The DOC changes include:

  • Separating with Health Services Assistant Director Joe Bugher and Chief of Medicine Dr. Warren Roberts began yesterday, as a comprehensive review of DOC’s healthcare delivery system was launched.
  • Deputy Director Heidi Stewart will lead the Health Services Division until the review is complete.
  • Dr. Michael Seale, who has 28 years of leadership experience in correctional medicine and a track record of integrating medical, dental, and behavioral health services for acute and chronic conditions, was named Interim Chief of Medicine.
  • Falcon Correctional and Community Services, Inc., a national consulting firm specializing in correctional healthcare, has been appointed to conduct a comprehensive review of DOC’s healthcare delivery system, extending to policies, practices, and the overall quality of care.
  • A dedicated Health Services Recruiter will be hired to attract qualified professionals such as physicians, nurses, mental health practitioners, and support staff.
  • An enhanced Electronic Health Records (EHR) system will be implemented to improve documentation, data tracking, and communication across all DOC facilities.

 

DOC Director Michael Reese confirmed that the health and well-being of AICs is a high priority. With approximately 1,400 AICs aged 60 years or older, Reese also noted that many people enter the prison system with complex medical conditions, high mental health needs, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders.

Reese said, “Patient-centered care must be central to what we do, and I am grateful for the dedication and hard work of our healthcare staff.”

To ensure the DOC has the leadership, resources, and support to provide the highest standard of care, Reece committed to a transparent process of change in the Health Services Division.

Dr. Robin Timme, a forensic psychologist and vice president at Falcon Correctional and Community Services, Inc., said, “As a nation, we have a legal and moral obligation to meet those needs when people are in our care and custody.”

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