Constant Surprise Bills Overshadow Great Medical Care…read more
Dr. Geddes is an exceptionally gifted surgeon. He performed a hybrid spine surgery for me in August after extensive research, second opinions, and many discussions. His skill, professionalism, and bedside manner are truly outstanding -- and my surgical outcome has been tremendous. I can't praise him and the surgery center enough. It was shocking how good it was!
Unfortunately, that outstanding medical experience is completely overshadowed by the Center's billing practices. There are multiple separate entities involved -- the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and facility -- each billing independently. Because Blue Cross Blue Shield would only cover the fusion portion and not a hybrid procedure, I personally paid ~$21,000 upfront of my own money. Despite that, I continue to receive additional, unexplained bills that don't match any of their original estimates. And my insurance company (Blue Cross Blue Shield) can't explain this practice's billing either.
Repeated requests for an itemized billing statement have gone unanswered, even though Tennessee law requires licensed hospitals and surgical centers to provide one within 30 days. When I escalated the issue, I was belittled by a billing employee, who said something to the effect that it was a "privilege" to be operated on there (because my situation was insurance + cash which they apparently don't typically deal with) -- an appalling comment considering I paid out-of-pocket for half the procedure. NONE OF THEIR BILLS MATCH ANY OF THIER ESTIMATES so nothing ties out. Its a mystery where these charges are originating. And when you and ask for a format that shows it all - the answer is, "no".
I was assured multiple times that I would not receive further bills. Yet, weeks later, I continue to get new invoices (today's surprise is $1,345.29 and is the 3rd, different amount mystery bill). The lack of transparency and accountability is unacceptable. It's clear their billing systems are disjointed and antiquated, spread across multiple legal entities that do not coordinate or communicate effectively.
It's truly unfortunate, because the surgeons, staff, and facilities are top-notch. If their billing process were as excellent and transparent as their medical care, this would easily be a five-star review. But as it stands, the constant surprise bills, missing documentation, and dismissive attitude make this a one-star experience. They are forcing me now to have to spend more time and more money escalating this.
Patients deserve both world-class care and honest, transparent billing.
