NYC Department of Corrections (DOC) announced the appointment on Thursday, April 20, of Dr. Anita Gupta as the new chief surgeon of its health management division (HMD). They said Gupta has extensive experience, has held several professional government appointments, and is actively board licensed and certified as an anesthesiologist.

In her new role, DOC officials said Gupta will report directly to First Deputy Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie and will oversee and direct the administration, delivery, and review of employee medical and health services. Additionally, they said Gupta will be responsible for reviewing and establishing relevant polices and operating procedures for the division and ensuring quality patient care, among other responsibilities.

Gupta has had a very distinguished career in medicine, DOC officials said. Highlights include being the first anesthesiologist appointed by the American Society of Anesthesiologists to advocate for the expanded use of naloxone at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the first woman anesthesiologist to co-chair the American Society of Anesthesiologists Task Force on Prescription Opioid Abuse, and being the first anesthesiologist-pharmacist alumnae of both Princeton University and Harvard Business School.

DOC officials said Gupta will evaluate the delivery of medical and health services, and assess the need and practicability of additional employee medical programs in alignment with the agency’s expansion, reform initiatives and executive action plans. She will also ensure compliance with federal, State and local mandates, and stay up to date with health care regulations.

Gupta holds a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy and a doctor of pharmacy degree from Rutgers University; a doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey; a master of public policy degree in health and a certificate in health and health policy from Princeton University, and a certificate from Harvard Business School in general management.

DOC officials said the department is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment while providing individuals in our care with a path to successfully re-enter their communities.