I started coming to this dental office years ago when I had an emergency. At that time, I had no insurance, and a family friend referred me to Dr. Smigielski. He was great, and I believe he still is. I had numerous appointments with him without insurance, typically paying about a hundred dollars whenever I could afford it. I was under the impression that his services were essentially free, as I never received a bill and costs were never discussed with me. The staff knew I had no insurance or job, yet I continued to pay what I could because Dr. Smigielski was so nice and kind.
Eventually, I found a job and got insurance, which I was relieved to learn the dentist accepted. I continued visiting the office, but again, I never received any bills or requests for copays--nothing at all. I paid the office a hundred dollars here and there during my appointments, but I never received any receipts or breakdowns of my bills or outstanding balance.
As time went on, I was injured at work and ultimately lost my job. Now, I am disabled and covered under my wife's insurance. Recently, I received a bill from the dentist's office for over four thousand dollars. One of the staff members called and threatened me, stating that if I didn't pay by a specific date, they would send the bill to collections, and Dr. Smigielski would no longer treat me.
I offered to set up a payment plan, but they rejected my proposal. Subsequently, they sent the bill to collections. I don't fully understand how insurance works, but it appears something went wrong when they billed my wife's insurance, and they wouldn't cover it.
I am very disappointed because the staff members who handle calls have been rude and unprofessional. I feel I didn't do anything wrong to deserve this treatment, and being unable to see my dentist anymore feels heartless. I've noticed several similar reviews recently, indicating that the office is beginning to treat patients poorly. I genuinely wish Dr. Smigielski the best and hope he can resolve the issues within his office before losing more patients. read more