Little Rock Gastroenterologist Faces Accusations of Medicaid Fraud and Sexual Misconduct
The Arkansas State Medical Board recently suspended the licenses of two physicians and set a hearing for a third doctor, Little Rock gastroenterologist Dr. Alonzo Williams, who faces allegations of Medicaid fraud and sexual misconduct. The hearing, scheduled for August, was postponed from its original June date due to the unavailability of expert witnesses who could testify on Dr. Williams’ behalf.
Dr. Williams has been under investigation by the state inspector general since March for alleged Medicaid fraud, which includes performing medically unnecessary procedures, failing to assess patients before invasive procedures, and billing for services not rendered. Additionally, a civil lawsuit has been filed against him in Pulaski County Circuit Court, accusing him of sexual misconduct and racial discrimination in his employment practices.
The lawsuit, a class-action filed by a former employee, Jordana Gardner, alleges that Dr. Williams paid Black employees less than white employees and did not fulfill promises to raise their pay. Gardner also claims that she was forced to work without adequate compensation because she refused to engage in a quid pro quo sexual relationship with Dr. Williams, as was allegedly expected of other medical assistants. The Office of Medicaid Inspector General has suspended payments for Medicaid services provided by Dr. Williams and his clinics.
Dr. Williams’ case is not an isolated incident. His history of misconduct and abuse complaints spans 30 years, according to reports. The Arkansas State Medical Board has been investigating his use of prescription drugs for pain management since October, and several board members have suggested suspending his license until the hearing due to the severity of the allegations against him.
