Complaint Review: Immediadent

In July of 2009 I visited the above business for an emergency dental procedure.  I needed a crown re-cemented onto a tooth.  Before the procedure I asked to have my dental coverage verified by the front desk staff person. 

When it was verified that the business was in network, I asked the cost of the procedure, but the staff person said she could not answer that question, however she said it would cost me  no more than my $50 deductible.  I repeated this statement to her for verification and was again assured it would be covered by my $50 deductible. 

When I got back to the dentist chair, I was told an xray and exam would need to be completed.  I explained that I did not have the money for additional charges at this time nor did I want the additional work done.  The dental assistant said the dentist could not perform the cementing procedure without the xray and exam.  I started to leave because I did not have more than $50 to pay for the procedure.  The assistant asked me to wait, left for a moment, came back and again assured me that it would all be covered by the $50 deductible.

I reluctantly stayed because I needed the work done.  Upon check out I proceeded to write a check for $50, but was told the cost would be $91.  I again explained that I did not have the money and was told twice that everything would be covered by the $50 deductible.  At this time, I was told because I had the procedure done the same day as the xray and exam, the insurance would not cover the cost of the exam. I will preface the fact that I was rudely spoken to with the fact that I am a very nervous dental patient, and was very firm about the circumstances, but I was not rude.  The office staff and assistant very rudely attempted to get me to pay the entire $91 at this time.  I knew if I paid it my check would bounce and the procedure would cost me even more.  I explained that I would pay the $50 and they should submit the bill to the insurance company.  I was again very rudely spoken to by the assistant even told that I should "drop my insurance" since I did not use it.

The insurance was billed and they denied the $41.  It was very evident to me that the office staff knew the insurance would not cover the exam and xray, but I was assured otherwise.  I would have left and gone to my own dentist when I had more money to cover the cost had they been honest with me. 

I have now received a letter stating they have made numerous attempts to collect the $41.  This also is not true.  The letter dated August 27, 2009 is the first notice I received from them attempting to collet the $41. 

I have attempted to reach a supervisor regarding this matter, but have been unable to reach anyone other than front desk staff. I will continue to try to reach a supervisor, but feel that others need to know this business cannot be trusted with their verbal communications.