Attorney General Josh Kaul has revealed a significant $350 million national settlement with Publicis Health, a global marketing and communications firm, regarding its involvement in the prescription opioid crisis. As part of the agreement, Wisconsin will receive over $6 million from the settlement to aid in addressing the ongoing opioid crisis.
Publicis Health has acknowledged the harm caused by its actions, and this settlement will provide additional financial support to communities severely impacted by the opioid crisis. The funds will be utilized for treatment and recovery programs, the development of lasting infrastructure, and ultimately, to save lives. Moreover, Publicis Health has committed to disclosing thousands of internal documents on a public website, outlining its work for opioid companies such as Purdue Pharma. Additionally, the firm will no longer accept client work associated with opioid-based Schedule II or other Schedule III controlled substances.
Attorney General Josh Kaul emphasized the importance of combating the opioid crisis, stating, "The opioid crisis continues to cause devastation in communities across the country, and combating that crisis must continue to be a priority." He further added, "This resolution adds to the substantial amount of funds we've helped to secure to support efforts in Wisconsin to fight the opioid epidemic."
States have alleged that Publicis Health's marketing efforts contributed to the crisis by aiding Purdue Pharma and other opioid manufacturers in promoting and selling opioids. Publicis Health served as Purdue's agency of record for their branded opioid drugs, including OxyContin. The firm even developed sales tactics that relied on mining data from recordings of personal health-related conversations between patients and providers. Publicis Health also played a significant role in Purdue's decision to market OxyContin to providers through patient electronic health records.
The impact of the opioid epidemic has been devastating, with over 10,000 individuals in Wisconsin losing their lives to opioid overdoses since 2000. The repercussions extend beyond the loss of lives, affecting various aspects of society, including healthcare, child welfare, and the criminal justice system. Attorney General Kaul highlighted the toll it has taken on families, relationships, and communities.
This settlement marks another significant step taken by Attorney General Kaul to combat the opioid crisis and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Wisconsin has already secured close to $750 million in legal settlements from drug manufacturers and other entities involved in fueling the crisis.
The investigation leading to this settlement was led by Colorado, with the attorneys general of California, Connecticut, Idaho, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, and Vermont joining the executive committee. All states, territories, and the District of Columbia were also involved in this multistate effort.
The settlement with Publicis Health represents a significant milestone in the fight against the opioid epidemic, providing financial resources to support the recovery and treatment of affected communities. It serves as a reminder that holding accountable those responsible for the crisis is crucial in combating its devastating effects.