Since early last June I've happily been on Dr. Boachie's surgery schedule for January. The "predetermination letter" was sent to my insurance company (Blue Cross of Georgia - PPO) a few weeks ago, and I was told by Theresa, the billing lady for Dr. B, that it was my responsibility to find out from BC what they would pay. I've since talked to countless people at both BC of GA and Empire (BC of NY), but they all say they cannot give me that information.
This week I had a call from Theresa, who informed me that since I couldn't get an answer from BC, I would need to pay 50% of the surgical fee of $108,000 now! I am just reeling from this! I was told back in June that a prepayment would be required, but the figure mentioned at that time was considerably less than $54,000 and one that I could have managed. I know several people who've had surgery with Dr. B, but none of them paid anything in advance. I asked her why I was being singled out. She said I wasn't, but that since I have an individual policy, it will pay less than a group policy.
My husband and I are not wealthy people, and we don't happen to have $54,000 in cash. So now, after waiting 6 months and after counting on surgery with this doctor, it looks like I'll have to start all over again in a search to find a surgeon who can help me. Needless to say, I was devastated. I felt like the rug had just been pulled out from under me. I didn't post until today because my eyes were so swollen from crying, I could barely see the computer screen. But, today I feel better...and a bit stronger...and I will just do whatever I have to do, and if that means starting over, I will. Actually, I don't fault Dr. Boachie for this; he's certainly free to charge whatever he wants. Perhaps the majority of his patients are able to pay these amounts.
I would like to ask any of Dr. Boachie's patients if you had to pay part of your fee up-front, and if so, what percentage? In fact, has a patient of ANY other doctor had to pay in advance? I would appreciate any feedback that could help me understand this.
Peachy
This week I had a call from Theresa, who informed me that since I couldn't get an answer from BC, I would need to pay 50% of the surgical fee of $108,000 now! I am just reeling from this! I was told back in June that a prepayment would be required, but the figure mentioned at that time was considerably less than $54,000 and one that I could have managed. I know several people who've had surgery with Dr. B, but none of them paid anything in advance. I asked her why I was being singled out. She said I wasn't, but that since I have an individual policy, it will pay less than a group policy.
My husband and I are not wealthy people, and we don't happen to have $54,000 in cash. So now, after waiting 6 months and after counting on surgery with this doctor, it looks like I'll have to start all over again in a search to find a surgeon who can help me. Needless to say, I was devastated. I felt like the rug had just been pulled out from under me. I didn't post until today because my eyes were so swollen from crying, I could barely see the computer screen. But, today I feel better...and a bit stronger...and I will just do whatever I have to do, and if that means starting over, I will. Actually, I don't fault Dr. Boachie for this; he's certainly free to charge whatever he wants. Perhaps the majority of his patients are able to pay these amounts.
I would like to ask any of Dr. Boachie's patients if you had to pay part of your fee up-front, and if so, what percentage? In fact, has a patient of ANY other doctor had to pay in advance? I would appreciate any feedback that could help me understand this.
Peachy
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