Dental patients affected by a significant data breach can now claim up to $6,000 in compensation as part of a $1.225 million settlement. This settlement follows allegations against First Choice Dental, a practice located in Wisconsin, for failing to adequately protect sensitive consumer information.
The class action lawsuit was initiated after a data breach in 2023 reportedly exposed personal information of numerous patients, including names, dates of birth, driver’s license numbers, Social Security numbers, and financial details. While First Choice Dental has not admitted to any wrongdoing, the settlement is designed to benefit those whose information may have been compromised.
Settlement Details and Claims Process
Under the terms of the settlement, affected individuals can receive compensation for documented economic losses directly related to the data breach. This includes expenses stemming from fraud, identity theft, credit reporting fees, and other related costs. To qualify for the maximum benefit of $6,000, claimants must provide supporting evidence, such as receipts or bank statements.
In addition to those with documented losses, all class members will receive a fixed payment of $50, even if they did not experience any direct financial harm. Furthermore, the settlement offers three years of free credit monitoring services, along with $1 million in identity theft protection insurance, enhancing security for all affected individuals.
As the deadline approaches, class members have until December 29, 2023, to object to or opt out of the settlement. To secure their compensation, claimants must submit a valid claim form by January 28, 2024. The claim process can be completed online, making it accessible for all those eligible.
Final Approval and Hearing
The final approval hearing for this settlement is scheduled for January 12, 2024. This hearing is a standard part of class action lawsuits and serves to ensure that the settlement effectively addresses the needs of the class members involved.
Patients are encouraged to act quickly to ensure they receive their entitled compensation and protective services. The swift resolution of this case underscores the importance of data security measures within healthcare practices and the potential consequences of breaches that affect patient trust.
