The corporation, known as SAS Healthcare, runs behavioral health hospitals in North Texas. It is accused of knowingly violating the state’s mental health code by detaining two patients longer than the statutory maximum of 48 hours. Facilities must have a court order of protective custody to detain a patient longer without their consent.
The indictment also alleges SAS Healthcare refused to let two voluntary patients leave the facility despite the patients repeatedly saying they wanted to leave.
If found guilty of the violations, the corporation faces up to a $100,000 fine for each of the 33 days the offenses were allegedly committed — amounting to $3.3 million.
SAS Healthcare executives did not immediately return a message from the Star-Telegram.
More articles on legal and regulatory issues:
Author sues New Mexico hospital for violating ‘do not resuscitate’ order
Ex-exec of Cleveland Clinic spinoff admits to defrauding system
CHS settles lawsuit against ex-CEO of Indiana hospital
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.