Legal News

Stories about physicians and other healthcare professionals involved in lawsuits—as either a plaintiff or a defendantor accused of breaking the law. Various legal updates or unusual stories in the news may land here.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) sign.

Judge halts HHS’s $11B cuts to state healthcare programs

In issuing an injunction, a federal district court in Rhode Island ruled that states and their populations would suffer irreparable harm if the funds allocated by Congress were not granted to them.

Jose Jacob cardiologist

Florida cardiologist arrested for allegedly kissing patient without consent

“He has taken my freedom, my joy,” the alleged victim said. “I’m scared to go out now. I’m scared to go to my doctor’s appointments now."

covid-19 money virus coronavirus dollar

Radiology practice will pay $2.9M to settle allegations it falsified PPP loan documents

Fairfax Radiological Consultants, located in the D.C. metro area, had employed over 500 individuals as of 2019, but by April 2020, its roster was down to fewer than 100, the DOJ note. 

Elon Musk Neuralink

Report: Elon Musk stepping down from DOGE in ‘coming weeks’

The world's richest man is expected to return to his duties in the private sector. However, a source told Politico he will likely continue to have an informal role in the administration. 

Luigi Mangione Mugshot

DOJ seeking death penalty in murder case against Luigi Mangione

Federal authorities made the announcement on Tuesday. Mangione is still awaiting trial in New York on accusations he murdered UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, Brian Thompson.

Luigi Mangione Mugshot Pennsylvania

California ballot measure named after Luigi Mangione lands on AG’s desk

The proposed “Luigi Mangione Access to Health Care Act,” named after the man accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, would make it illegal for insurance companies to deny necessary care to patients. The lawyer who proposed the measure said the controversial name was chosen to garner public attention. 

Optum UnitedHealthcare UnitedHealth Group HQ

Change Healthcare files to have federal lawsuits dismissed

There are at least 65 consolidated cases pending in federal courts that stem from the 2024 data breach on the claims processor's network. A judge in Minnesota has asked that the lawsuits be coordinated and consolidated as much as possible. 

cleveland clinic settles for failing to disclose research funding

Radiology group will pay $2.35M to settle allegations it violated False Claims Act by submitting sham diagnoses

Renaissance Imaging Medical Associates, a California-based Rad Partners affiliate, allegedly created false radiology reports supporting the diagnosis of spinal enthesopathy.