DOC Commissioner Addresses Medical Staffing Reforms and Urges Legislative Support

Northern Mariana Islands Department of Corrections (NMIDOC) Commissioner Anthony Torres today addressed a recent article regarding medical staffing at the department’s facility, emphasizing the proactive steps being taken to enhance healthcare delivery, while achieving cost savings for taxpayers.

“I called this press conference to set the record straight on our strategic reforms,” said Commissioner Torres. “We are committed to building a stronger, more efficient Medical Unit that prioritizes the health and safety of inmates, staff, and the community.”

Commissioner Torres expressed sincere gratitude to Governor David M. Apatang for his strong leadership and support. The Governor’s recent letter to Senate President Karl King-Nabors and House Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez highlights the urgent challenges, including rising medical needs, chronic conditions, and risks to safety and constitutional compliance, due to staffing shortages. Commissioner Torres fully endorses the Governor’s call for immediate legislative action, noting that hiring a qualified Physician Assistant is essential.

Deep appreciation was also extended to Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation (CHCC) CEO Esther Muna and her team for their outstanding assistance during this transition, including clinical guidance and care coordination. “CHCC’s partnership exemplifies collaborative government service for our people,” Commissioner Torres stated.

Additionally, Commissioner Torres thanked the Professional Licensing Board for their innovative approach in streamlining credentialing and exploring flexible solutions to expedite the onboarding of qualified providers.

Clarifying recent developments, Commissioner Torres explained that earlier this year, the decision was made not to renew the contract of the previous Medical Director. Rather than replacing the high-salary position identically, funds are being repurposed to create three vital roles: one Physician Assistant and two Medical Assistants.

“This strategic plan strengthens our Medical Unit by adding more providers for daily assessments, treatments, prescriptions, and follow-up care,” said Commissioner Torres. “It also saves taxpayer dollars through a sustainable and team-based model that costs less than relying on a single high-cost provider.”

The hiring of Mr. Keith Longuski as the new Physician Assistant was the first critical step. As a licensed PA, he will conduct exams, diagnose and treat conditions, prescribe medications, and manage acute and chronic illnesses under physician supervision. This proactive approach will expand access to care, reduce delays, alleviate burdens on staff and officers, and minimize costly off-island transports and legal risks.

The Governor’s request for an above-cap salary certification of $104,000 for Mr. Longuski reflects the competitive demands of recruiting professionals for a correctional environment. The two Medical Assistant positions will be filled promptly to complete the restructuring.

“Let me be crystal clear: This is not about cutting medical care, it is about improving it,” Commissioner Torres emphasized. “These reforms demonstrate fiscal responsibility, while ensuring better, more consistent care.”

Commissioner Torres highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Governor, CHCC, and the Professional Licensing Board, proving that government agencies can unite to solve problems effectively. He respectfully urged the Legislature to approve the request without delay, given PA Keith has graciously been working for the last (10) weeks without pay.

NMIDOC remains committed to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in serving the Commonwealth.