Scripps Clinical Medical Group has agreed to pay more than $6.8 million to resolve allegations that it imposed mandatory retirement age on physician employees, it was announced Tuesday.
The settlement agreement stems from age and disability discrimination claims filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. A subsequent investigation concluded that there was “reasonable cause to believe that Scripps Clinical Medical Group violated the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA),” according to the EEOC. .
The agreement was reached without Mr. Scripps admitting liability, and the health care group will provide $6.875 million to people affected by the retirement age policy. The policy will also be rescinded, and Scripps employees will be informed that the company does not have a policy that allows age to influence employment decisions, including termination, termination, and terms and conditions of employment, the EEOC said.
Scripps leaders will also be required to attend ADEA and ADA training, and the provisions of the agreement will also apply to acquired or merged medical groups, the EEOC said.
EEOC Commissioner Charlotte A. Burrows said, “Older workers make vital contributions to our nation’s workplaces.” “When you look at demographic trends, more people are staying in the workforce longer, and it’s important for employers to understand ADEA’s protections for older workers.”