"Program Fee" for new provider/bariatric program???

[PosyFossil 0]

My insurance has changed and I have to change providers and begin working with a new hospital system and bariatric program. I was dismayed when I called to make a follow up appointment with the new doctors and was informed that there is a $500 program fee to even see a provider (this is not including the doctor visit, which is covered by my insurance). I cannot believe this is even acceptable - if I had diabetes and switched providers they would not charge me up front to cover administrative costs!!! The program manager told me this was common among bariatric programs to charge patients who have switched from other systems. I was wondering if anyone else has heard this and if you could provide me with details? I hate to think that it is discrimination or even a means to weed out those who are unable to afford an upfront fee. Thanks!

[RestlessMonkey 7]

Call your insurance company and complain. If charging that fee is illegal (ie, contrary to their contract) they'll let you know. IF it is "legal" and you were forced to change coverage by an employer, I'd then complain to the employer's HR department.

[NanyC 0]

I had my surgery done in Columbus OH and had to pay a $300 fee once I was accepted into the program and then another $200 for the nutrition visits. It's all part of their program so if I didn't want to pay, I would have had to find another program. I had my surgery done on the 17th. I loved my surgeon. Today I got on the scale and it said I am down 21 pounds. I have my first fill on the 3rd of February and can't wait. I wish I would have done this five years ago.

[jillrenee15 0]

Your insurance should cover this fee, if they cover bariatrics at all. They are forcing you to change providers for a service they cover. If you can't get your insurance to pay for it, would you consider staying where you are? Self pay is not so bad sometimes. You pay for what you want, and when it's your cash you expect to have more say in your care than if insurance is covering the bill. Just a thought....

[texasweb 0]

Your insurance should cover this fee, if they cover bariatrics at all. They are forcing you to change providers for a service they cover. If you can't get your insurance to pay for it, would you consider staying where you are? Self pay is not so bad sometimes. You pay for what you want, and when it's your cash you expect to have more say in your care than if insurance is covering the bill. Just a thought....

The insurance was probably changed due to the company changing insurance companies. If this is the case, then insurance will definitely not cover it. I would do like an earlier posts did is inquire if this is okay with the contracts that are established between the new insurance company and the surgeon.