RIVERSIDE – Loma Linda University Health has agreed to pay $7.5 million and implement extensive compliance measures to resolve allegations that it unlawfully disposed of hazardous waste, medical waste, and confidential patient information at facilities throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Under the settlement, Loma Linda University Health will pay $7.5 million, including $6.75 million in civil penalties, $500,000 to reimburse investigative and enforcement costs, and $250,000 to fund environmental projects that benefit California communities.

The investigation began in April 2022 and focused on how waste generated at hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities within the Loma Linda University Health network was being identified, handled, stored, and disposed of.

Investigators found numerous instances in which regulated waste was improperly disposed of regular trash containers destined for municipal landfills. Items discovered during waste inspections included hazardous pharmaceutical waste, batteries, aerosol cans, medical waste, and documents containing protected health information.

The investigation also identified materials containing protected health information, including patient information that should have been shredded, erased, or otherwise rendered unreadable before disposal.

As part of the settlement, Loma Linda University Health must comply with a permanent injunction prohibiting future violations of California laws governing hazardous waste, medical waste, and the protection of confidential medical information. The settlement also requires the health system to maintain and enhance a comprehensive compliance program. In addition, a $1 million penalty will remain suspended for five years and may be imposed if the health system fails to spend at least $3 million on required compliance measures.

During the investigation, Loma Linda University Health cooperated with prosecutors and undertook significant corrective actions, including a system-wide overhaul of its waste management program, modifications to employee training, and improvements to waste handling procedures.

The settlement resolves the allegations without trial and is intended to protect public health, safeguard patient privacy, and ensure compliance with California environmental and healthcare laws.

The settlement is the result of a multi-year investigation conducted by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office in partnership with the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office. This case was handled for Riverside County by Deputy District Attorney Lauren R. Martineau of the Environmental Protection Team.