I went on Medi-Cal while I was pregnant, and was due to a teeth cleaning (I'd had an exam 7 months prior with no cavities), so I looked into dentists. I decided on Western Dental, because they had a decent reputation, and could fit me in the same week.
When I arrived, I checked in and had a seat. After about an hour and a half of listening to the other patrons' conversations about jail time, parole and alcohol problems, I was brought back for x-rays. I thought it was strange, since I was just there for a cleaning, but went with it. They did the x-rays, then sent me back to the waiting area. When I asked how long it would be, the dental assistant said she wasn't sure.
An hour later, I was pulled back to a chair. I was then told (after asking) it would be another 20 minutes before the dentist came to see me. I explained that my newborn was with a sitter, and I needed to get home as soon as possible.
The dentist came by about 5 minutes later (didn't know it was even the dentist until I read his coat, as he never introduced himself). He started looking at the x-rays, and looking at my mouth, and said I had SEVEN cavities that they'd be happy to fix for me that day. I said that I didn't have time to get work done, that I'd only wanted a cleaning, and was frustrated at how long this had taken so far. They said it would be at least another 30 minutes before they could start the cleaning. I got up and walked out.
I think Medi-Cal would be interested to know that they are paying for services that are not needed.
0 comments