Tennessee's own Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti has taken legal action against Dr. Jaime M. Vasquez, a Nashville fertility specialist, following the sudden closure of his clinic. On behalf of distressed consumer patients left in the lurch by the abrupt shutdown, Skrmetti filed a lawsuit under the state's Consumer Protection Act, citing Dr. Vasquez's failure to provide adequate notification or care continuity, according to a recent report.
The Center for Reproductive Health, which Dr. Vasquez has run since the mid-90s, was known for its highly praised, individualized care for those grappling with infertility, but it came to an unexpected halt earlier this month. This left many in the throes of time-sensitive, and costly treatments stranded. Following the clinic's closure, patients faced delays in communication from Dr. Vasquez leading to further stress over the status of their medical records, and the fate of their stored biological materials.
In a swiftly coordinated response, the AG's office secured a temporary restraining order against the clinic and Dr. Vasquez, while also having the court appoint a receiver to temporarily manage the clinic's operations. "After investigating numerous complaints about Dr. Vasquez’s failed practice, we moved quickly to limit the risk and ongoing harm to these patients," Chief Deputy Attorney General Lacey Mase remarked on the immediate need for action. Thanks to the court's provision, patients now have access to their files and can transition to other providers with assistance from the receiver.
With full litigation in the process to safeguard all affected consumer-patients, the Attorney General's Office urged those with grievances related to their care at the clinic to reach out. Patients should contact the Department of Health at [email protected], and the Health Facilities Commission with their concerns, the office also pointed to the Division of Consumer Affairs at [email protected] for those wishing to share personal experiences tied to the clinic's services. Public records such as the official complaint, and the court’s order are accessible online for those seeking more details on the case.
