Judge Reaches Decision On 2 Muhlenberg County Doctors

LOUISVILLE- A Jefferson County judge has reversed the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure’s decision to revoke the licenses of two Muhlenberg County physicians, Dr. Barry Hardison and Dr. William Vincent. The board had revoked their licenses in November 2024 after allegations that they overprescribed controlled substances while treating patients for opioid addiction at A New Start in Central City.

Judge Jennifer Bryant Wilcox ruled that the board’s decision lacked substantial evidence and that the issues cited did not justify the severe penalty of revocation. She noted several factual errors in the board’s findings, including claims that patients were prescribed buprenorphine doses above state limits—claims contradicted by the board’s own expert, who testified he didn’t recall any such cases.

The judge also found that the board overlooked evidence showing the doctors took steps to provide proper care, including hiring psychiatric nurses, referring patients for specialized treatment, and advising patients about alcohol use. Filings praised both physicians’ commitment to addiction treatment, and the board’s own expert had not described their clinic as a “pill mill.”

Vincent’s attorney, Ed Monarch, argued that Kentucky’s buprenorphine regulations are outdated and criticized as barriers to effective addiction care by major medical organizations. Pending legislation may limit the board’s ability to restrict access to medications like Suboxone.

Both physicians said losing their licenses was devastating and based on outdated or inaccurate information. They emphasized their success in helping patients and the lack of evidence that any were harmed. Hardison said the ruling restored his faith in the system, and both doctors plan to continue working in addiction medicine.

The board may appeal the ruling. If it does not, the doctors will return to the Board of Medical Licensure for reinstatement.