I developed ringing in my ears and was referredby my physician to Dr. Langman of Puget Sound Hearing and Balance in Northgate. The staff was friendly though not exactly helpful nor knowledgable in determining the out of pocket costs.The first office visit included a pretty extensive hearing check, turns out my hearing is fine, which was good news.
To eliminate the possibility of water on my ears - even though I am not in water regularly other than a shower and the last time I swam was about 5 years ago, another visit was scheduled for another specialized test. Because the results (report) could not be done within that appointment, I had to come in for a 3rd time the morning after.
I arrived 10 minutes ahead of my 3rd appointment at 8:30, only to wait for Dr. Langman for 30 minutes. He came in for a less than 90 second visit during which he told me to try over the counter allergy medicine Allegra.
Having lost at least a day's worth of work, $340 out of pocket plus the insurance monies only to be told to take OTC Allegra? I was in a state of disbelieve. I can deal with a doctor over scheduling themselves, which is extremely rude and unfortunately pretty common, but to be scheduled to discuss my 'treatment plan' only to be told to take OTC allergy medicine? This is very poor patient service in my opinion - that could have so easily been done over the phone. Overall this experience was a waste of time and money, not only mine but the company I work for as well as the insurance company's money. BTW...my ears are still ringing. read more
