When an individual decides to enter a drug treatment program, it is an important step in the right direction. Despite all the advertisements and hype, not all drug treatment programs are the same. Research has revealed that with the national opioid crisis continuing to grow, some drug treatment centers are more concerned with making a profit than taking care of their patients. Because of the lack of care provided by some drug treatment facilities, medical malpractice claims are being filed regularly against these facilities and their staff members.
NBC News recently reported about an investigation that revealed the unscrupulous actions of certain professionals at drug treatment centers located in South Florida, who are making obscene profits from the nation’s opioid epidemic by capitalizing on federal loopholes. These centers are billing insurance companies millions of dollars for counseling and testing services that are not necessary. These facilities are more concerned with making a profit than making a difference in the lives of addicts, who are struggling and desiring help for their condition.
These corrupt treatment centers don’t only overlook drug use, some of them encourage it because when a patient relapses, they are more likely to make a profit. Deciding to seek treatment is a big step for one burdened by drug addiction, so no one shouldn’t have to worry about the level of care they or their loved ones are receiving during treatment. You need to know how to find a good drug treatment center, so here are a few tips and questions to address when deciding on a facility to address substance abuse or addiction issues.
Warning Signs to Steer Clear from an Addiction Treatment Program
Here are some warning signs that may indicate a subpar addiction treatment program that could put you at risk for medical malpractice:
- Generic advertisements or websites – Any reputable treatment facility will clearly identify the treatment programs that they are offering, along with details.
- Unsolicited referrals – Brokers are paid by the treatment centers that they represent, so they may try to convince you or a loved one to sign up for a program that doesn’t match your specific needs.
- Offers free travel – Some states have laws that make offering paid-travel to a drug treatment center illegal. If you are talking with someone who offers free travel to a facility that is out-of-state, you should call the facility directly and make sure this person is an actual employee of the center.
- Limited discovery process – Good treatment facilities spend a lot of time with the potential client, asking specific details, and gathering in-depth information, and then accessing therapists and counselors that were used in the past. Without these important details, they cannot determine the right fit for the patient.
- Daily tests – Treatment centers will conduct laboratory testing and drug screens to make sure the patient is clean. Still, if the patient is undergoing daily testing or testing that is almost daily, you or your insurance gets billed tens of thousands of dollars, which isn’t required and could be a way to increase their income.
Consult with a Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or a loved one has fallen victim to a substandard addiction treatment program in Los Angeles, you may be able to pursue a medical malpractice claim. Contact the Trial Law Offices of Bradley I. Kramer, M.D., Esq. today to discuss your case.