Two top officials overseeing medical care at the Oregon Department of Corrections have been fired as the prison system’s health care standards come under scrutiny.
Corrections Director Mike Reese on Monday fired Assistant Director of Health Services Joe Bugher and Chief of Medicine Dr. Warren Roberts, corrections department officials confirmed Monday. Officials say they’re overhauling the health services division and trying to improve the health care system.
Both men had been placed on administrative leave Dec. 12, 2024, corrections officials previously told OPB. Warren and Bugher earned monthly salaries of $31,727 and $20,098, respectively.
“The health and well-being of those in our care is a high priority,” spokesperson Amber Campbell said in the announcement. “Too often the people coming into our prison system have complex medical conditions, high mental health needs, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders.”
The statement also noted that the state’s prison population is aging, with about 1,400 people in custody who are 60 years or older.
“We recognize the challenges facing correctional healthcare in Oregon, and as an agency we are dedicated to addressing them with innovation and process improvement,” the statement said.
The corrections department has hired a consulting firm to audit its health care policies and practices. Specifics on that contract were not made immediately clear, such as the consultant’s pay or exact scope of work.
The corrections department added that it plans to hire a new recruiter who will help attract “qualified professionals, such as physicians, nurses, mental health practitioners and support staff” and make upgrades to its records management systems.
Staff with Disability Rights Oregon told OPB they had recently “raised concerns” about the system’s diminishing quality of physical and mental health care. Managing Attorney Dave Boyer said the organization “looks forward” to seeing changes.
In a statement, Gov. Tina Kotek said she supported Reese’s leadership at the department and “supports his efforts to improve the Health Services Division.”
Dr. Michael Seale will take over as interim chief of medicine, corrections officials said. Seale has 28 years of experience working in correctional medicine. Deputy Director Heidi Steward will take the reins of the health services division.
OPB’s Amelia Templeton and Conrad Wilson contributed to this report.