1. (a) A lien perfected under section 4 of this chapter is valid unless the lienholder executes a release of the lien under section 7 of this chapter.

2. (b) The release or settlement of a claim with a patient by a person claimed to be liable for the damages incurred by the patient:

   1. (1) after a lien has been perfected under section 4 of this chapter; and

   2. (2) without obtaining a release of the lien;

      entitles the lienholder to damages for the reasonable cost of the hospital care, treatment, and maintenance.

3. (c) Satisfaction of a judgment rendered in favor of the lienholder under subsection (b) is satisfaction of the lien.

4. (d) An action by the lienholder must be brought in the court having jurisdiction of the amount of the lienholder's claim and may be brought and maintained in the county of residence of the lienholder.

   [Pre-2002 Recodification Citation: 32-8-26-6.]

As added by P.L.2-2002, SEC.18.