All workers in the healthcare profession play a valuable role in preserving the life and well-being of Californians who come in for treatment. No matter their role, they are all trusted with the health of their patients, and, as such, have to follow many strict laws and regulations designed to keep people safe and the American medical system financially and ethically sound.
One problem workers may face as they try to follow these laws is employers and others who may turn a blind eye to rule violations if not disregard them outright. In these cases, bringing these violations to the light depends on courageous employees who have the integrity to speak up.
Our law office has been in the business of helping these employees for a number of years when they face retaliation from their employers. Unfortunately, it is way too common for medical care providers in Southern California to punish or even fire employees who report violations, even though state and federal laws clearly protect whistleblowers.
For instance, a worker who reports unlawful practices like double billing or fraudulent coding may find himself or herself on the receiving end of a bad performance evaluation, or worse. Oftentimes, employers are clever at hiding the real reasons for disciplining or firing an employee.
A Pasadena resident who works in the healthcare profession and who suspects that he or she was wrongfully terminated may have legal options available to him or her. For instance, he or she may have the right to reinstatement, backpay and compensation for emotional damages. However, exploring these options may require someone with the knowledge and experience to conduct a thorough and complete investigation.