News Archive

A student in IU McKinney’s Health and Human Rights Clinic has been playing a behind-the-scenes role in a lawsuit filed on behalf of hepatitis C patients on Medicaid in Indiana. Caroline Ryker, a 2L, conducted much of the research that led to the legal action being taken.

The state’s Family and Social Services Administration has blocked Indiana’s Medicaid patients from receiving treatment that can cure hepatitis C. The drugs are costly and can cost as much as $1,000 a day; the regimen is typically 12 weeks.

“Caroline performed the work of a true human rights advocate here: she did the nitty-gritty research, interviewed experts, recruited supporters, drafted detailed documents, and then very selflessly stepped aside when it was appropriate for others to take the spotlight,” said Health and Human Rights Clinic director Professor Fran Quigley, ’87. “This subject matter was all new to her, but she refused to let inexperience prevent her from fighting for justice for those who are sick and cannot access medicine. I could not be more proud of how she represented our clinic and our school, and I hope and expect her efforts will have a real impact on the lives of Hoosiers in need of care.”

News of the lawsuit has been reported by Indianapolis public radio station WFYI and in the December 10 issue of the Indianapolis Star. News of the lawsuit also has been reported nationally by NPR.