In a recent development, PeaceHealth, a prominent healthcare organization operating in Washington state, has come under scrutiny for allegedly violating state laws on multiple occasions. These violations have raised concerns regarding patient safety, compliance with regulations, and the organization’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of healthcare.
“Thanks to my team’s work, up to $13.4 million will go back to Washington patients,” said Attorney General Bob Ferguson. This settlement with PeaceHealth impacts more than 15,000 patients in Washington state. People can see if they are eligible by going to
The accusations against PeaceHealth stem from an investigation conducted by state authorities into several alleged incidents of non-compliance. Ferguson alleges PeaceHealth did not screen patients for financial assistance eligibility before attempting to collect payment. He added that PeaceHealth collected payment from patients it knew were likely eligible for charity care without disclosing their eligibility.
The investigation revealed a pattern of violations across various areas, highlighting potential gaps in the organization’s adherence to Washington state law. The AG’s team said PeaceHealth got the information from the tool indicating that patients might be charity-care qualified and they didn’t tell them. They instead, proceeded to bill them for their care.
PeaceHealth’s General Counsel Tom Carnes sent a statement which reads in part:
“PeaceHealth is committed to identifying every single person who can benefit from charity care. We welcome this opportunity to continue to lead the way in charity care, providing physical and financial healing to the most vulnerable in our communities.”