Claim Deadline: June 9, 2025
Payout: Varies (pro rata based on number of plan participants)
Proof Required: Yes
What Is the Sutter Health Class Action About?
Sutter Health has agreed to pay $11 million to resolve a class action lawsuit alleging unlawful billing practices. The lawsuit claims that Sutter violated California’s Unfair Competition Law by charging self-funded payers for anesthesia services in ways that were deceptive — including billing for services not rendered, double billing, or using misleading billing descriptions.
While Sutter Health denies all allegations, the organization agreed to settle to avoid the costs and uncertainties of continued litigation.
Who Is Eligible to File a Claim?
Entities must meet all of the following conditions:
- You are a self-funded payer (e.g., employer, union, or healthcare trust) who directly covers healthcare costs for members or employees.
- You were a California citizen or entity as of January 6, 2015.
- You paid Sutter Health for anesthesia services (excluding conscious sedation) performed in Sutter Health acute care hospital operating rooms between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2013.
Note: This settlement is not open to individuals — only to eligible self-funded organizations.
How Much Could You Receive?
Approved claimants will receive a pro rata cash payment based on:
- The number of active health plan participants during each year of the class period (2003–2013)
- The number of valid claims filed
How to File a Claim
You must submit a claim form by June 9, 2025, either online or by mail.
Mailing Address:
Sutter Anesthesia Billing Lawsuit Settlement
c/o JND Legal Administration
P.O. Box 91208
Seattle, WA 98111
Required Documentation
Entities must provide documentation showing the number of active participants in your health plan from 2003 through 2013. This data is typically found on:
- Form 5500, Line 6a(2), or
- Form 5500-SF, Line 5b
How Will Payments Be Issued?
Payments will be mailed as checks to the address provided in your claim form.
Settlement Breakdown
The $11 million fund will be allocated as follows:
- Attorneys’ fees: Up to $3,666,667
- Attorneys’ expenses: To be submitted to the court
- Plaintiff service award: $10,000
- Administrative costs: To be determined
- Claimant payments: Remaining funds after deductions
Key Dates to Remember
- Claim Filing Deadline: June 9, 2025
- Final Fairness Hearing: July 24, 2025
- Payout Date: Payments will be distributed after final court approval and resolution of any appeals.
Why Was the Lawsuit Filed?
The suit accused Sutter Health of improper billing practices targeting self-funded payers by charging for anesthesia services that may not have been performed or were inaccurately described. The allegations centered on practices that could violate California’s consumer protection laws.
While Sutter denies these claims, it has agreed to settle to avoid further litigation.
Please be aware that your claim form will be rejected if it contains fraudulent information. By submitting your information and your sworn statement of its accuracy, you are agreeing to do so under penalty of perjury. Submitting false information not only jeopardizes your claim but also affects others who are genuinely eligible for the settlement. If you are uncertain about your eligibility for this class action settlement, please visit the class action administrator’s website for more information. Note that NoProofClassActions.org participates in the Amazon affiliate advertising program, and this post may include affiliate links, which could result in us earning a commission if you make a purchase through those links.
