Particle Health, a platform for healthcare data integration, filed a federal lawsuit against Epic Systems Corporation on Monday. The lawsuit stated that Epic has used its position to worm its way into the core of the U.S. healthcare system and eradicate competition.
The lawsuit declared that over three-quarters of the U.S. population have electronic health records (EHR) within an Epic database. “Epic is now attempting to use its power over EHRs to expand its dominance into the fledgling market for payer platforms,” the lawsuit stated.
The Particle Health team accused Epic in a post on its website that the EHR company “used a multi-tentacled approach to try to squash Particle.” “Over the past six months, it has cut off access to data for Particle’s customers, lobbed now-discredited complaints, and overwhelmed Particle’s support operations by stoking baseless security concerns.”
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP filed the antitrust suit. The suit seeks an adjudication that Epic has violated the Sherman Act and seeks monetary damages as well as injunctive relief, insisting Epic cease its anticompetitive practices.
“Over the past year, Epic has not only engaged in anticompetitive behavior but has purposefully blocked the exchange of patient information. Doctors need the full medical records of their patients, and this lawsuit represents more than just a business dispute. It's about medical ethics and protecting patients' rights to their health data,” Jason Prestinario, CEO of Particle Health, wrote in a LinkedIn post.
In a statement to Wisconsin Public Radio, an Epic spokesperson called Particle Health’s claims baseless and accused Particle of violating healthcare privacy laws. “Epic’s software is open and interoperable, allowing healthcare organizations to easily share data under HIPAA and all relevant regulations,” the spokesperson said. “Epic will continue to protect patient privacy and vigorously defend itself against Particle’s meritless claims.”
