On my first visit to Dr. John Gonzalez at the Riverside branch of Orthopedic Medical Group on Brockton, the doctor did a full examination on both wrists.
Dr. Gonzalez reviewed x-rays, took motion measurements, tested grip, reviewed the neurological report, etc. FOR BOTH HANDS.
When he took the stitches out and referred me to physical therapy, I asked Dr. Gonzalez what about the surgery on my left hand.
He told me to call the office and we can schedule it.
I called as instructed a few months later after I regained use of my right hand and was ready for the second surgery.
The staff stated that the doctor is the only one that can schedule surgery, and I would need to come in and see him.
I explained that I had already been evaluated and approved for surgery on both hands, I didn’t need to see the doctor, I just needed him to schedule the surgery and let me know when to come in for the pre-op appointment. Have him schedule it and call me back with a time – my schedule was open.
The office staff verified that what I was stating was correct, but insisted I had to come in so Dr. Gonzalez could schedule the pre-op and surgery date. It could not be done over the phone.
"Do you mean I have to schedule an appointment to see Dr. Gonzalez so we can schedule an appointment for me to see Dr. Gonzalez?"
I was told that was their policy.
Food For Thought
My understanding is a doctor cannot bill insurance companies for scheduling appointments on the phone. They can bill for office visits. No matter how fast a patient is in and out, there is a minimum charge to the insurance company.
Do you think I was required to come in so Dr. Gonzalez and Orthopedic Medical Group could bill for an office visit that they knew would only take 2 minutes?
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