SNF Operator Next Step Healthcare Settles Alleged ADA Admissions Violation Related To Medications For Opioid Use Disorder

On September 8, 2022, skilled nursing facility (SNF) operator Next Step Healthcare, LLC (Next Step) settled with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Massachusetts to resolve allegations that Next Step discriminated against potential residents taking medications to treat opioid use disorder. The U.S. Attorney’s office alleged that Next Step’s refusal to accept these residents violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Next Step operates 21 SNFs in Massachusetts. It allegedly denied admission to 548 applicants who sought admission for health issues unrelated to opioid use disorder treatment.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasized that people . . .