Jeanette Hoffman, executive director of Patients Come First New Jersey, said in an op-ed that the state should keep unreliable “junk science” out of courtrooms and limit misleading legal ads that lead patients to stop needed medications.
“Across the Garden State, residents are bombarded with legal ads warning that everyday, FDA-approved medications or consumer products are dangerous. These ads often rely on exaggerated or unsupported scientific claims to recruit plaintiffs for class action lawsuits,” said Hoffman. “A meaningful share of patients say they would consider stopping their medication after seeing just one of these ads. That’s deeply concerning. Abruptly discontinuing prescribed medication can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening. These ads undermine the patient-doctor relationship by allowing trial lawyers — not medical professionals — to shape health care decisions. In a state where chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders affect millions, misinformation can have devastating consequences. New Jersey policymakers should act to ensure that courts rigorously enforce evidence-based standards for expert testimony and that junk science has no place in our legal system. The state should examine stronger oversight of legal advertising that spreads misleading or exaggerated scientific claims.”
According to Benesch Law, federal rules were amended in December 2023 to impose stricter standards on expert testimony in court. Presenters of expert evidence must now demonstrate that their methods are both reliable and properly applied. Legal analysts suggest that states might soon adopt similar measures, as most cases are adjudicated in state courts.
Research conducted by Cornell University indicates that “drug-injury” lawsuit advertisements can pose risks to patients. The study found that some individuals cease taking essential medications after viewing these ads, often without consulting a healthcare professional first.
A national survey corroborates these findings, revealing that 58% of physicians reported instances where patients stopped medication use after seeing attorney advertisements without prior consultation. Additionally, approximately 22% of doctors altered their prescribing practices for at least one medication due to such ads. The majority of surveyed doctors advocate for clearer regulations to safeguard patients and prevent unnecessary treatment interruptions.
Patients Come First NJ is led by Executive Director Jeanette Hoffman, who is described as a seasoned public-affairs strategist with extensive experience in issues campaigns, policy development, and state government. The organization aims to promote patient-first, evidence-based policies within New Jersey’s healthcare system.
