In late I was searching for plastic surgeons in the VA area and found Parva's website. After reading it, especially the FAQ's section, I called up and made an appointment for a complimentary consultation for a breast reduction.
I had the complimentary consultation on 10/28. I filled out paperwork while the receptionist made a copy of my insurance card. The PS went through the procedure and took pictures to send to my insurance company.
After the appointment I had more questions so I made out a list and emailed them to the email address on his website. His reply was that we would get those questions answered at our pre operation appointment. I stated I wanted them answered beforehand or else I would not be making an appointment with him. I received no reply.
I found another Plastic Surgeon to have my breast reduction (great doctor by the way, Dr. Berman in Sterling!) in Feb.
I had forgotten all about Parva until I received a bill from them! I was shocked, as it was a complimentary consultation. The total charge for this 'complimentary' consultation was $438. The insurance adjusted primary insurance write off was $201.50 so I actually only owed $226.50.
After ensuring that I remembered that it was a free consultation, I then sent them a letter stating so and that I am not responsible for paying over $200 for a complimentary consultation.
A letter in response dated April 3rd stating many things:
"Your insurance company did not make any payment to us and as a courtesy to you; we wrote off $201.50 of your bill and billed you only for the $226.50 that is your deductible responsibility."
As a courtesy to you was underlined, like they did me a favor reducing how much I owe on a COMPLIMENTARY (free) consultation!
They also said:
"This is a far different situation than someone who request breast surgery for cosmetic improvement and is planning to pay for the procedure. Health companies do not pay for any cosmetic breast surgery and would not have done so for you if we did not take the costly and time consuming steps required for us to seek that approval."
Breast reduction surgery is STILL cosmetic surgery, whether it is covered by insurance for medical reasons or paid by the patient for esthetic reasons.
They also stated in their letter that they did NOT file a claim with my insurance company, which is very much untrue. I had a discussion with someone at my insurance company and they DID indeed file a claim. My IC received it on 11/16 and it was processed on 12/03. My IC applied it to my deductible.
I feel that I in no way should have to pay for a complimentary consultation and that Parva Plastic Surgery is only billing me now (SIX MONTHS LATER) because I chose not to go with him for my surgery and is using semantics and trying to guilt trip me into paying.
I post this in efforts to get more advice and suggestions as well as an outsiders view on what to do and to see if I actually am in the right or not.
Thank you.
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