I scheduled an annual physical, which is supposed to be fully covered by insurance as preventive care. After the visit, I was surprised to see an additional charge for an 'office visit.' I did not come in with any complaints; the doctor asked routine questions like 'Any pain?' and then coded it as a separate evaluation. When I questioned the charge, the office claimed that because we 'discussed specific issues,' they were required to bill extra. This is misleading and feels like a way to pad the bill.
To make matters worse, they suggested there is a difference between an 'annual physical' and an 'annual wellness visit,' even though I am not on Medicare. That explanation was inaccurate and confusing.
Patients deserve transparency and honesty. If answering a doctor's basic questions can turn a preventive exam into a billable problem visit, that needs to be clearly explained before the appointment--not after. Be very careful, and clarify up front if you go here. read more