## montana Healthcare Providers File lawsuit Against State Recovery Program
A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Maximus, the company contracted by the state of Montana to administer its professional assistance program for healthcare workers. The suit, brought by nurses and a doctor, alleges issues with the program’s practices and impact on participant well-being.
The program provides support and monitoring for medical professionals – including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, chiropractors, and veterinarians – struggling with addiction or mental health concerns. State law mandates licensing boards establish these programs, which typically involve drug testing, peer support, and workplace guidelines, but do not provide direct treatment.
The current situation stems from a tumultuous transition following the dissolution of the previous nonprofit operator, the Montana Professional Assistance Program, in 2021 after losing the state contract.
Plaintiffs in the lawsuit claim Maximus’ program is “punitive rather than supportive,” a sentiment echoed in an August audit by nonpartisan legislative staff. the audit revealed considerably lower satisfaction rates among participants compared to the previous program.
Specific allegations in the lawsuit include arbitrary determinations of noncompliance, leading to sanctions and prolonged program participation. Plaintiffs also allege excessive and needless drug testing, citing costs of $300 per test with multiple tests sometimes required within the same week, raising concerns about potential financial gain for Maximus.
these concerns gained further attention following the January suicide of Amy Young, a Billings nurse enrolled in the program, which was first reported by Montana free Press in September. Young’s death prompted scrutiny from lawmakers and licensing officials regarding participant well-being.
The lawsuit coincides with a review of state laws and the Maximus contract initiated by Gov. Greg Gianforte’s labor department. An advisory council has been formed to assess the program and solicit public comment. The council recently recommended extending Maximus’ contract for one year while exploring alternative models and vendors. Maximus’ current contract is set to expire in December. As of Wednesday, no further meetings of the advisory group have been publicly announced.
