There are lots of ways to make a buck.
Among the most repulsive is taking advantage of people at their most vulnerable in exchange for a payoff. A kickback. Some payola.
So-called “patient brokers” trade the needs of those seeking substance abuse treatment — without regard for their welfare — for some cash, legit treatment facilities argue.
New Jersey lawmakers took a stand on Monday to boost punishments and more clearly ban practices that exploit substance abuse treatment patients and their loved ones.
“Treatment for substance use disorder is a lifeline for those grappling with addiction, and it is reprehensible that patients are being exploited by dishonest marketing tactics in moments of vulnerability,” said State Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz, D-Essex. “These practices too often put a roadblock on the path to sobriety for those who need help, and must be curbed if we are to effectively treat substance use disorder.”
An NJ Advance Media investigation into patient brokers in 2023 and a State Commission of Investigation report in 2024 spurred two bills that passed Monday by the state Legislature and could change the treatment outlook for patients throughout the state.
The measures increase penalties for perpetrators and amplify protections for patients even though brokering is already banned by federal and state law. The changes are supported by respected facilities in the substance abuse industry, which argued they don’t have enough ammunition to foil reckless counterparts that would impersonate their facilities and provide lackluster treatment.
The measures would increase penalties for those who pay or receive kickbacks for patient referrals in the state and prohibit deceptive marketing practices that critics say are used to lure vulnerable families to agree to services.
“Today’s unanimous vote is a victory for patients, families, and the integrity of addiction treatment in New Jersey,” said Rachel Wallace, senior director of substance use counseling services for Hackensack Meridian’s Carrier Clinic.
Carrier Clinic, regularly rated as one of the top substance abuse clinics in the country, was spotlighted in NJ Advance Media’s report as a facility that is often impersonated online as patient brokers work to trick vulnerable people.
“This legislation will protect vulnerable individuals seeking help and ensure they receive the care they deserve in their courage to enter recovery,” she said.
The bills now move to Gov. Phil Murphy for his signature.
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Karin Price Mueller may be reached at KPriceMueller@NJAdvanceMedia.com. Follow her on X at @KPMueller.
