Nevada Prison Medical Director Under Scrutiny for Lack of State License

Las Vegas, NV – The Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC) is facing scrutiny after it was revealed that Dr. Kenneth Williams, the department’s medical director, is not licensed to practice medicine in the state.

Key Points:

• Dr. Williams was appointed to the position in August 2023 by NDOC Director James Dzurenda.
• He is currently licensed in Tennessee but does not hold a Nevada license, which is mandatory for the position according to the state’s job solicitation and Nevada law.
• The Board of Medical Examiners confirmed Dr. Williams’ unlicensed status.
• Concerns have been raised by healthcare providers within NDOC who allege Dr. Williams is directly impacting patient care despite lacking the necessary license.
• These concerns include participation in utilization reviews and potentially influencing treatment decisions.
• An ongoing lawsuit filed by an inmate against Dr. Williams and NDOC alleges inadequate care for bullet wounds.

NDOC’s Response:

• Assistant Director William Quenga acknowledges Dr. Williams’ unlicensed status and confirms Director Dzurenda is aware of the situation.
• Quenga claims Dr. Williams is not practicing medicine and is working towards obtaining a Nevada license.

Additional Considerations:

• Nevada law prohibits practicing medicine without a license. While Dr. Williams may be acting in an administrative capacity, his involvement in clinical decisions and oversight of the state’s prison hospice program raises questions about potential legal and ethical concerns.

Credits: This is Reno