Conrad Murray -- Extra Protection at the Jail Medical Ward

Dr. Conrad Murray is currently being held in the medical ward at the L.A. County Men's Central Jail -- but it's NOT because there's anything wrong with him ... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement tells us ... Murray has been assigned to the medical ward while he's being processed -- as opposed to the regular holding area.

We're told the medical ward has a "higher density of deputies" -- which means it's easier for officers to keep an eye on a high profile prisoner like Murray when he's in the M.W.

As we previously reported, Murray has been deemed a "keep away prisoner" -- which means officials must keep an eye on the doc at all times, as a matter of his own protection.