TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Hudson spine surgeon is taking legal action against the state of Florida, seeking a staggering $500 million in damages. His decision comes after his ambulatory surgery center faced closure, prompting a nine-count lawsuit against the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and three of its employees.
Dr. Bonati’s Bonati Spine Institute was forced to shut down following the suspension of its license in March 2023 by the AHCA. The state had raised concerns about the center’s practices, alleging that a certified surgical technologist, who lacked a doctor’s license, had performed a full spine surgery—a claim vehemently denied by Dr. Bonati and his team.
The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the Bonati Spine Institute, asserts that the closure was based on “knowingly false” allegations, suggesting a deliberate attempt to tarnish the center’s reputation. Kimberly Bonati, the senior vice president of media and communications for the institute, emphasized that the allegations were unfounded and aimed at damaging both the facility and Dr. Bonati’s reputation.
The legal action further accuses AHCA employees of engaging in civil rights violations, including defamation, civil conspiracy, and interference with business relationships. It alleges that these employees conducted a biased investigation, seeking to justify their actions by any means necessary.
Despite the closure of the Bonati Spine Institute, the company swiftly arranged for patients to continue their treatments at another surgery center. However, according to the lawsuit, AHCA employees continued to harass staff and search for Dr. Bonati at the new facility, causing further distress and disruption.
The lawsuit seeks substantial compensation of $500 million for the damages incurred, citing lost revenue and reputational harm suffered by the Bonati Spine Institute. The legal battle underscores the high stakes involved in regulatory actions against medical facilities and highlights the challenges faced by healthcare providers in defending their practices and reputations.