I can’t speak for the state of Alabama. As I understand it, the issue is, colloquially speaking, billing practices. Perhaps if the state prevails, costs will drop and taxpayers will benefit. Perhaps. I’m not aware that the suit specfically address patient are. By the way, AstraZeneca lost the cast in late February and was ordered to pay $215 million, although the drugmaker plans to appeal.

http://www.pharmalot.com/2008/02/astrazeneca-to-pay-alabama-215m-for-fraud/

Hope this helps.
ed s