I called an office of Dr. Keith A Bernstein, MD and asked for an appointment for a family member. The lady answering phones told me that due to HIPAA I cant request an appointment for a family member. I asked to speak to the office manager. She put me on hold and came back later dictating some phone number to physician referral services. I told her again that I wanted to speak to the office manager.
I was finally connected to the office manager and complained about HIPPA requirement and about the fact that the office personnel agreed to let me speak to the office manager but after a hold came back and dictated some phone number that was completely irrelevant.
The office manager told me that she sat next to her and I made it all up. After that she mentioned that I need a referral. I explained her that my insurance doesnt require a referral and that such referral would cost me couple hundred dollars because my insurance has very high deductible. In addition, the entire bill at Dr. Keith A Bernsteins office would be paid out of my pocket and I would like to spend my money wisely and have a full control how they are spent. I also have explained that the patient has preconditions and a family history. She said that they have such rule, she runs the office, my attitude would not work in the office, and hang up on me.
I called back and left my name, phone number, and a message with the main answering personnel (not the same office personnel) stating that I would like Dr. Bernstein to call me and apologize for his staff. He did not call.
I called two different physician offices and getting an appointment for a patient in pain was not a problem.
Shane on the staff and the doctor who would not bother to step in and make it right.