Filer Eye M.D.

Decent doctors, but what I consider *fraudulent* billing practices.



I've been going to see Dr MacDonald for many years for *eye checkups*, covered by VSP. This past visit was another eye checkup, but the receptionist asked for my medical insurance card, even though I'm with VSP. Usually, I'm asked to sign something that says I will cover what VSP does not - but no, she needed my medical insurance card, so I handed it over. This was the warning of what was to come.



I had a visit just like all others - optometrist checked my vision, eyes dialated, and Dr MacDonald checked my eyes. We talked about my pterygium (a small growth on my eye), like always. The only difference with this visit - other than asking for my medical insurance - was that he said there were new advances in removing them and that he could give me the name of a doctor who could help. That was it - it took all of a minute.



Nothing was discussed by Dr MacDonald nor the staff after that about anything other than see you next year.



Well, the bill spoke differently. I was coded as *MEDICAL*, and since my medical insurance didn't cover it - that's TWO HUNDRED EIGHTY FIVE dollars out of pocket.



When I called to ask about it June 2012 - what was different about this visit, I was told that was how it was coded. I asked about VSP coverage and I asked for an explanation. They said they'd call back the next day -- but NO ONE CALLED.



Then, several months later - I get a bill for the $285 -- and I see that VSP was also billed. So VSP paid them AND they still billed me 285. I then mailed them a letter (phone calls didn't work) and asked for an EXPLANATION in WRITING, stating I would pay once I had a good explanation. Instead, someone tried to call while I was out of town. They ended up sending me the bill again with a scribbled note saying to call the office - no name - no explanation. I wrote AGAIN asking for an explanation - once received one I would pay the bill. I received NOTHING.



A month later - rather than getting an explanation of the charges -- charges made without explanation of why this visit was different -- they turned it over to a COLLECTION AGENCY instead of PROVIDING AN EXAPLANATION.



While I will pay this fraudulent bill -- but I will be sure to make sure everyone knows of these HORRID billing practices and LACK OF EXPLANATION as to why you are charged MEDICAL charges for an EYE CHECKUP that should be covered by VSP.



PLEASE BE AWARE - STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE! The doctors may be decent, but the way in which they do business is awful. NEVER AGAIN!