Sutter Health

Uninsured persons who received treatment at Sutter-affiliated hospitals filed a class action lawsuit against the company claiming they were charged unreasonably high prices compared to prices paid by commercially insured people. The case alleged unfair billing and collection practices for the uninsured. Under the terms of the class action settlement, Sutter Health adopted a new policy for all of its affiliated hospitals that offers automatic discounts to uninsured patients that are comparable to discounts provided to private insurance companies. As well, uninsured patients who were treated at a Sutter-affiliated hospital dating back to September 2000 will receive eligibility notices to recalculate bills for a possible refund. (Aug-02-06) [PR NEWSWIRE]