With health insurance coverage choices diminishing my options get fewer. Where previously I was able to have blood drawn in my doctor's office, that office is no longer eligible for services since it would be considered out of network.
Remembering that you can schedule an apt with Quest I created an account and made one for 9:45 am. I arrived about 15 minutes early and found the waiting area filled with people. Some of the folks told me they had been there for over an hour! When my scheduled time came I wasn't called but they called someone else. I protested stating I had an apt. I was told they were working on the previous list and they would get to me.
There was only one person working there at the time. A second employee arrived during before 10 but it appeared she didn't start until 10:00. I was finally called about 15 minutes later and asked why my apt wasn't honored. I was told that people who have "timed tests" get first priority, then scheduled appointments and finally walk ins. She did tell me that they have at least 20 minutes to call you past your scheduled appointment time.
She took my medical information and proceeded to draw blood. I came out of there with a bruised welt on my arm which I never previously had when i had it done in my doctor's office. I know it takes two days for the doctor to get the results and since this blood draw was necessary for an upcoming test, I'm not particularly interested in the results.
Still i cannot understand that if insurance companies pay a set rate for blood work then regardless of what the provider charges they will only get the amount agree upon. But I can't fight "city hall" so I'm going to have to live with them for all my future blood work.
My only recommendation is that you make an apt to avoid excessive waits. It appears the middle of the weekday appear to be the best times to get one. read more
