Shocking Practices Uncovered at Multiple Acadia Facilities Nationwide
Former Patients Seek Justice for Involuntary Psychiatric Detention, more.
One of the largest chains of psychiatric hospitals in the United States, Acadia Healthcare, has come under intense scrutiny following a disturbing investigation by The New York Times. This report follows many other concerning reports, including physical and sexual abuse of adults and children in Acadia staff care.
Acadia operates a vast network of behavioral healthcare facilities across 38 states and Puerto Rico, totaling approximately 300 locations. These facilities offer services for mental health, behavioral disorders, and substance use, with various levels of care like detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient programs and medication-assisted treatment.
The investigation revealed that Acadia has been detaining patients against their will, often without medical necessity, across multiple states. These practices have not only violated legal standards but have also caused significant harm to many patients seeking help for mental health issues. Now, those victims are speaking out and seeking legal recourse against the mental healthcare giant.
Cohen & Malad Attorneys Are Helping Former Acadia Healthcare Patients Seek Justice
Patients Mistreated, Abused, Unlawfully Held
The investigation found that in at least 12 of the 19 states where Acadia operates, numerous patients, employees, and even police officers have raised alarms about the company’s unlawful detentions. Patients seeking routine mental health care were often locked in Acadia facilities, sometimes for days, without meeting the legal criteria for involuntary commitment. These detentions appear to be motivated by financial gain rather than medical need.
Acadia has been accused of using various tactics to extend patients’ stays, such as exaggerating symptoms or adjusting medication dosages to justify prolonged hospitalization. These extended stays, billed at rates as high as $2,200 per day, often continued until patients’ insurance coverage was exhausted. Unfortunately, this practice has left many patients traumatized and fearful of seeking future mental health care.
Reports have also surfaced of other harmful acts suffered by patients, including inappropriate behavior by staff, and physical and sexual abuse.
The Impact on Patients
The consequences of these actions are severe. Patients who should have been receiving appropriate mental health care were instead subjected to unnecessary detainment, often in poor conditions. Reports from health inspectors across the country have highlighted instances of patients not receiving therapy, being denied access to essential medications, and experiencing assaults and other forms of mistreatment.
For some, the experience of being involuntarily detained has led to lasting emotional and psychological damage. Many patients have lost their jobs, suffered deteriorating mental health, and, in some cases, become afraid to seek help again. This is not the care that patients deserve, nor is it the care that Acadia claims to provide.
Victims’ Rights
Cohen & Malad Attorneys Are Helping Former Acadia Healthcare Patients Seek Justice.
We can help you, too.
If you or a loved one has been a patient at an Acadia Healthcare facility and suffered from unlawful detainment or substandard care, you may have legal recourse. Our medical malpractice lawyers are here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and hold Acadia accountable for its actions.
Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of mental health law, medical malpractice and the protections afforded to patients. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring that you receive the justice you deserve. You should not have to suffer in silence or feel helpless against a large corporation.
If you have been harmed by Acadia Healthcare facility or staff, please contact us for a free, confidential case evaluation. Cohen & Malad, LLP is dedicated to empowering the voices of those who have been wronged. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Remember, you are not alone. Our attorneys are here to stand by your side, advocate for your rights, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Contact Cohen & Malad, LLP today to take the first step toward justice.
