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Lamar named Kagman health center’s interim DMA
The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. and the Kagman Community Health Center board has named Dr. Daniel Lamar as its interim director for Medical Affairs.
Lamar will oversee the new center’s medical operation in his new designation.
Corporation director for public health division Roxanne Diaz disclosed yesterday that Lamar will occupy the post until the Kagman health center board appoints a permanent DMA.
Lamar is an internal medicine physician at the Commonwealth Health Center who also functions as DMA for the Public Health Division.
Two other key positions at the new health center must be filled pursuant to the requirements of the federal grant. The chief executive officer and the chief financial officer positions, according to Diaz, have yet been filled but announcements are being readied
The CNMI was approved over $600,000 to build the Kagman Community Health Center. Its operation is expected to kick off on Oct. 1, pursuant to grant requirements. The corporation, being the co-applicant of the grant, is required to provide in-kind match to the federal share.
Diaz earlier disclosed that the corporation and the center’s board are initially looking at employing 14 personnel, but she told Saipan Tribune yesterday that this might be adjusted following a review of the budget. She emphasized that all decisions on the new center’s operation will depend on its board.
The center’s board is scheduled to meet this week to discuss and decide on other matters relating to the new center. An interim CEO may also be named to jumpstart preparations.
A memorandum of agreement between the corporation and the center’s board is also up for board action this week.
Saipan Tribune learned that the salaries for some positions at the new center will be shouldered by the corporation, including that of nurse practitioners, mid-level providers, laboratory technician, clerks, and others. The corporation is eyeing the lateral transfer of some CHC personnel to the center. It will also provide supplies and materials.
The Kagman Community Health Center will be built at the old detention facility in Kagman II. It will serve as a wellness, prevention, and primary care center. It will not be restricted to just Kagman residents but will be open to all community members.
By Moneth Deposa
Reporter
