LINCOLN, Neb. -- On Monday, the Nebraska Department of Correctional services announced a new medical director. 

Director Rob Jeffreys announced the appointment of Jerry Lee Lovelace Jr., M.D., Ph.D., as medical director for the NDCS.

Lovelace will oversee the Health Services division, which includes medical, dental, psychiatry and behavioral health. His appointment goes into effect Oct. 30, 2023.

“Dr. Lovelace is an innovative leader who has a proven record of working collaboratively to find solutions,” Jeffreys said. “His experience and commitment to providing excellent care to diverse populations will be a tremendous asset.”

Lovelace bring extensive experience to this role, with a background in pathology and internal medicine, as well as 24 years in primary care practice.

Most recently, he served as the statewide medical director for Centurion Health in Missouri for seven years, where he ensured comprehensive healthcare for more than 23,000 individuals in 22 corrections facilities throughout the state.

“I am looking forward to working with Director Jeffreys and my colleagues at NDCS in delivering appropriate and evidence-based healthcare, as well as ancillary programs to decrease crime in the state of Nebraska,” Lovelace said.

Lovelace has more than 10 years of experience providing medical care and services at corrections facilities in Alabama, Missouri and Tennessee.