OUr Team

our team

Karen Fernanders

Karen Fernanders is a nationally respected healthcare executive with over two decades of high-level leadership in correctional health systems, federal healthcare operations, and multimillion-dollar budget management. As Vice President of Health Services for The Correctional Management and Communications Group (CMCG), she brings unmatched experience in delivering results-driven, compliant, and cost-effective healthcare solutions across complex institutional settings.

Prior to joining CMCG, Ms. Fernanders served as Health Systems Administrator with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, where she led the full scope of medical operations for facilities serving up to 3,800 inmates. She managed annual healthcare budgets ranging from $1.5 to $2.5 million, maintained direct oversight of clinical operations, supervised 26+ healthcare professionals, and ensured policy adherence across medical, dental, and pharmaceutical services.

Key accomplishments and capabilities include:

• Program Leadership: Directed medical, dental, and pharmaceutical operations with documented success in regulatory compliance, infectious disease control, and utilization review.

• Staff & Policy Management: Supervised multidisciplinary healthcare teams, implemented performance improvement plans, and developed internal review systems to enhance accountability and service delivery.

• Public Health Execution: Led HIV, TB, Hepatitis, and STD programs including all testing and pre/post counseling services. Oversaw 350+ quarterly staff drug screenings and biannual hearing tests for federal personnel.

• Cost Control & Vendor Relations: Acted as principal liaison with hospitals and third-party providers, managing contracts and coordinating inmate care ranging from routine visits to complex emergency services.

• Patient Advocacy: Advocated daily for the health of 2,500–3,900 inmates, ensuring timely access to medication, treatment adherence, and seamless care coordination with caseworkers, clinicians, and external resources.

Ms. Fernanders holds an MBA in Human Relations from Amberton University and is recognized for her strategic vision, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to quality care. Her expertise directly supports CMCG’s mission to deliver healthcare programs that are compliant, accountable, and outcome-focused—positioning her as a critical leader in the execution of large-scale government contracts.