Surgeon charge for transfer of care?

[Fran875 0]

I had Lapband done in 2006 in Wisconsin. It was not a successful surgery for me. I now live in Texas. Since living here (year and a half) I discovered my port is disconnected. Now experiencing pain and a lump in the area of the port. I found a doctor, in network, and my insurance company gave me the billing codes for my situation, which would be a technical reason. Today, I was told by the clinic they charge $500 to transfer care. No other explanation except, their policy is a $500 fee to transfer care. Not billed to my insurance, out of pocket, just to get in the door. Didn't say anything regarding the $500 being applied to future charges. Has anyone ever heard of this sort of charging practice?

[LPSteven 22]

That is per the doctor - my surgeon is no longer doing lap band and referred me to the doctors taking over his practice . I was advised it would cost just to talk to him basically (consult) just so they have my records. I have been a success for over 6 years. Personally for me - I'm not going to the doctor for $100 just for me to tell him that I am perfectly fine

[Fran875 0]

Well, my port is disconnected and not working. Now I have a swollen painful lump above the port. These folks are going to charge $500 to make an appointment, and then bill my insurance for a consult for which I will pay a copay. I am not doctor hopping. My work transferred, I don't live in the same state. I am limited in my options and driven by the preferred provides in my insurance.

[LPSteven 22]

Power of Insurance company. Horrible. Best of luck really