AG Ferguson: Harris & Harris to Pay $1 Million for Violating Patient Debt Collection Rights
Attorney General Bob Ferguson recently announced a significant victory in the fight against unlawful medical debt collection practices in Washington State. Debt collection agency Harris & Harris has agreed to pay $1 million to resolve a lawsuit alleging the company collected medical payments from over 160,000 patients without providing them with essential disclosures about their rights. This victory is a step forward in ensuring patients are informed and protected when facing medical debt. Let's delve into the details of this critical development.
The lawsuit against Harris & Harris was part of a broader legal action taken by Attorney General Ferguson against Providence Health & Services and its debt collectors. The case highlighted the unlawful practices of debt collectors in withholding vital information from patients, preventing them from accessing financial assistance for their medical bills. By failing to provide necessary disclosures, Harris & Harris created barriers that hindered patients from learning about their rights and options for help.
Providence Health & Services, the healthcare provider that hired Harris & Harris, recently settled a related lawsuit with the Attorney General's office. Providence will provide $157.8 million in refunds and debt forgiveness to nearly 100,000 patients subjected to unlawful medical charges as part of the agreement. This settlement reflects our commitment to holding entities accountable and ensuring fair and ethical treatment of patients.
Attorney General Ferguson's lawsuit against Harris & Harris and Providence's other debt collection agency, Optimum Outcomes, highlights the importance of transparency and compliance with state laws regarding patient rights. Patients have the right to be informed about their financial assistance options and to receive clear and accurate information about their medical debt. By holding irresponsible debt collectors accountable for their actions, the Attorney General is working to protect the rights of Washingtonians and ensure fair treatment in the healthcare system.
Conclusion
The lawsuit's resolution against Harris & Harris is a significant win for patients in Washington State. Attorney General Bob Ferguson is taking steps to safeguard patients' rights facing medical debt by holding debt collectors accountable for their actions and ensuring compliance with state laws. This outcome is a reminder that transparency, fairness, and regulation adherence are crucial in healthcare. The people of Washington can now rest assured that their citizens' rights are being protected and that steps are being taken to address any unlawful practices in medical debt collection.