United States v. MedStar Health Inc. - Support Person Visitor Restrictions

The United States Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against MedStar Health, Inc., alleging that the healthcare system failed to modify visitor restrictions so that people with certain disabilities, which affected their ability to independently access medical care, could be accompanied by their support persons (such as a family member, companion, or aide). The complaint alleged that MedStar's visitor restrictions, implemented during public health emergencies or other circumstances, did not include exceptions for individuals with disabilities who require support persons to access medical care. This violated the ADA's requirement that healthcare providers make reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and procedures when necessary to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities. The case settled very quickly, just six days after filing, suggesting MedStar recognized the issue and moved promptly to resolve it. The settlement likely required MedStar to: - Modify visitor restriction policies to include exceptions for support persons - Train staff on ADA requirements for reasonable modifications - Ensure individuals with disabilities can access medical care with necessary support - Develop policies that balance public health concerns with disability access rights This case highlights the critical importance of ensuring that public health policies and visitor restrictions do not discriminate against individuals with disabilities who require support to access healthcare services.