Mid-Michigan medical apply settles grievance of refusing therapy to HIV-positive affected person

MID-MICHIGAN (WJRT) – The US Department of Justice announced a settlement with a Mid-Michigan medical practice that has refused to treat a patient with HIV.

Great Lakes Surgical Associates, which has offices in Alma and Mount Pleasant, has been accused of violating the Disabled Americans and other civil rights laws by refusing to serve a patient because of his HIV status.

HIV is considered a disability under ADA law, and refusal to serve a sick person is a form of discrimination that is prohibited under Title III of the law, according to the Detroit District Attorney’s Office.

“People living with HIV have a right to medical treatment and should not be discriminated against based on their health,” said acting US attorney Saima S. Mohsin. “The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures such access by requiring physicians to make decisions based on an individual’s medical needs, not stereotypes or assumptions.”

Great Lakes Surgical Associates agreed to pay the patient financial damages as part of the settlement with the federal prosecutor. The practice also agreed to revise its guidelines and train employees on ADA compliance.

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