Class Certification Granted for Opioid Use Disorder Case
The law firms Berger Montague PC and Tycko & Zavareei LLP have successfully secured class certification in a pivotal lawsuit against Wexford Health Sources, Inc., a provider of healthcare services within correctional facilities. This lawsuit addresses serious allegations that Wexford denied essential medication for Opioid Use Disorder, violating the standard medical care requirements and the U.S. Constitution.
Importance of Class Certification
In a landmark decision issued by the United States District Court, the court recognized the critical issues at stake in this civil rights case. Executive Shareholder Shanon J. Carson emphasized that this certification is vital for the clients represented by the firms, validating their struggles while incarcerated. Alongside Shanon, the dedicated team includes attorneys Julie Selesnick and Natalie Lesser, who have worked tirelessly on behalf of their clients.
Accountability for Healthcare Oversight
Anna Haac from Tycko & Zavareei LLP articulated the firm's commitment to addressing the pressing opioid epidemic facing the nation. They maintain that Wexford must answer for neglecting its duty to provide life-saving medication to prisoners, while it benefits financially from taxpayer dollars. This lawsuit seeks to probe the entrenched issues affecting the treatment of incarcerated individuals suffering from opioid dependence.
Legal Foundations of the Case
The plaintiffs assert claims asserting violations of the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments of the Constitution, alleging that Wexford exhibited deliberate indifference to the medical needs of incarcerated individuals. The court's certification of the classes is pivotal, illustrating whether medication for Opioid Use Disorder aligns with the standard care and if Wexford's restrictive policies reflect a failure to address this fundamental health need.
Details of the Certified Classes
Two classes were certified by the court. The first comprises individuals who were confined at specific correctional facilities and diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder, possessing a prescription for FDA-approved medications. They claim they were either not continued on prescribed medications or inadequately screened for withdrawal. The second class is aimed at achieving injunctive relief, focusing on the need for Wexford to overhaul its policies related to medication access moving forward.
Looking Ahead
As litigation proceeds, the plaintiffs and their legal teams are eager to present their case and highlight the systemic issues within correctional healthcare. They are inviting individuals nationwide who experienced similar denials of medication for Opioid Use Disorder during imprisonment to share their stories, as these accounts are pivotal in addressing and rectifying the challenges faced by countless Americans.
About Berger Montague
Berger Montague is recognized as a premier law firm specializing in complex civil litigation, class action lawsuits, and mass torts across federal and state courts. Their expertise spans various fields, such as antitrust law, civil rights, commercial litigation, consumer protection, and environmental law. With a legacy spanning over 55 years, they have secured over $50 billion for clients and play a vital role in crucial legal battles that set significant precedents.
About Tycko & Zavareei LLP
Tycko & Zavareei LLP was established to safeguard public interests through impactful litigation. Their focus includes complex cases and class actions, particularly in areas involving consumer rights and False Claims Act violations. Over the years, they have successfully recovered substantial amounts for consumers subjected to corporate malpractices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary issue in the class action lawsuit?
The lawsuit addresses the denial of medication for Opioid Use Disorder to incarcerated individuals, which allegedly violates their constitutional rights.
Which law firms are involved in the case?
Berger Montague PC and Tycko & Zavareei LLP are representing the plaintiffs in this significant class action lawsuit.
What constitutional amendments are being cited in the claims?
The plaintiffs are asserting violations of the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution regarding their medical care.
What are the outcomes sought by the plaintiffs?
The lawsuit aims for both compensatory damages for affected individuals and changes in Wexford's policies regarding medication access for inmates.
How can individuals affected by similar issues get involved?
Individuals who were denied medication for Opioid Use Disorder while incarcerated are encouraged to reach out to the legal firms for support and to help share their experiences.
