I have been a customer of Dr. DeLucia for approximately eight years, and even had his father as my dentist before he retired at the original office off Rogero Rd. Though my jobs moved me through different insurance plans, I was able to stay with this office. Dr. DeLucia and I established a rapport throughout this time, always touching base on the goings on and events that had transpired since my last appointment. The staff and dentist were very professional, so I continued to remain a loyal patient. After my most recent February visit, I received a call from Debbie, a veteran staff member there. She noted she verified coverage with my insurance company, but did not realize there was an issue until my claim came back unpaid. I followed up with my insurance company, who told me to contact my dentist office and figure out next steps, as I indeed was no longer covered for this visit. I called, and got to speak with Dr. DeLucia himself, explaining the situation, and asking him to please speak with Debbie to make sure she verified specifically what all is covered because I would not have gone there had I known I would have a bill of $369. He stated I needed to follow up with Cigna because their notes show they verified on the day of my appointment. Additionally, he stated it is the patient's responsibility to verify their coverage. This is true, but being that I had been with this office for years, was told I had been verified, I trusted this office would take care of me. When I asked if I could set up a payment plan (I am a teacher and single mother) he seemed miffed I could only pay $20 a month, and questioned, "are you sure you can't pay more for the initial payment? You would be paying for almost 18 months." Again I reiterated my current financial situation (though he already knew this because he keeps abreast with my life when I visit), and noted I could pay more once I am able to in a few months. Per Dr. DeLucia's advice, I called my insurance company back, and asked to make a complaint against the representative Debbie talked to. They noted the date, and that the dentist's office was told I had "no out of network benefits." Finally, I am now left with a bill of $369 for a teeth cleaning, and annual X-Rays while neither my insurance nor the dentist office I frequented will take any responsibility for the misinformation that was circulated. I called Dr. DeLucia's office back to note my disappointment because it seems consumer loyalty is not valid nor respected at this office. read more
