In this role, Dr. Watts serves as a full deputy to the health care system director. He provides management and oversight of fiscal, logistics, environmental management, engineering and nutrition and food services. He also works closely with the office of information and technology, human resources, and prosthetics to meet the needs of Veterans and employees. 

Dr. Watts was previously the Social Work Service Chief at the Lexington VAHCS since 2011. He joined the VA in 2007, as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for Home-Based Primary Care and Primary Care at the Morehead Clinic. Dr. Watts has a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Morehead State University, a Master’s in Social Work and PhD from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Watts is a graduate of the VISN 9 Leadership Institute, participated in the Senior Executive Assessment Program, and a graduate from the Health Care Leadership Development Program class of 2020/2021. Dr. Watts is a Marine Corps Veteran.

Dr. Watts and his wife, an advanced practice nurse practitioner at this facility, have three daughters and one grandson.