I was referred to Dr. Stanard by my regular dentist circa first quarter 2022. I required an extraction and subsequent implant at tooth # 13. Dr. Stanard and his assistant did an outstanding job, and I took the time to note such in a recent YELP review.
Prior to my first of three scheduled visits, I received a call during the first week of March, 2022 from Dr. Boquel's so called Office Manager (male) advising that the total charge for the extraction and implant would be $3,713,00. Upon arrival at Dr. Boquel's office on March 24, 2022, I was also advised by who I assumed was his Scheduler/Accounts Manager (female) that the office accepted credit cards, but would also accomodate four payments being allowed to cover total charges, and this was witnessed by Dr. Stanard.
In the next two visits, I provided the office with two checks totalling $3,000.00, and based on the earlier discussions with both the so called Office Manager (male) and Scheduler/Accounts Manager (female) I expected the remaining balance would amount to $713.00. I had written a check for what I thought to be the remaining balance of $713.00 and dated it 7/23/2022, and upon arrival for the final scheduled visit was first told by the receptionist that I had a balance of $1,469.00 (August 11, 2022). I told her that I was under the impression that the balance was $713.00, but could I speak to the Office Manager. I was directed to a male staff person who stated that he was the Office Manager. I reminded him that he had called me in the early March, 2022 time frame, and told me that the total bill was $3,713.00, and that is why I was presenting the third check for $713.00. I then stated that as soon as I return home I would write the fourth check, and place it in the mail the very next day. He was dismissive, and told me that I must provide a credit card to cover the entire amount, or else I would not receive any care from either the dental assistant or the attending dentist, Dr. Stanard. I did not have a credit card.
I was in shock after hearing of the office's position. I asked to speak to Dr. Stanard, and advised him of the so called Office Manager's position, and he advised that he had nothing to do with the office's policies/practices in that he only provided dental care on Thursdays. I drove home and called Boquel's office and asked if I wrote another check in the so-called full amount for $1,469.00 could I return today? I was told I could return with the full balance at 3:30 PM that same afternoon. I returned and was seen by Dr. Stanard.
The irony of this experience was that the attending dentist was thorough, patient sensitive, and technically sound in contrast to the Office Manager that treated me in a belittling and disrespectful manner. His only concern was to be paid in full no matter the circumstances. Be reminded that during the initial visit I was promised that I would be able to make four payments in the presence of Dr. Stanard, not three.
In summary, I was treated as a deadbeat and given zero respect. I believe that the ultimate responsibility rests with the owner of the office who has a responsibility to ensure the delivery of a fair and reasonable patient experience at all times. I am saddened based upon this experience, and wil under no circumstances - return. read more
