Billing Question - Oregon Obesity Inst.

Has anyone that has Dr. Patterson or Dr. Jan had a similar experience with billing?: I have had all my evaluations and don't have any followups - just waiting for the surgery consult but I'm getting billed (4 so far).  If I'm approved, my insurance will pick up almost all of this. I did receive a benefits statement that these charges were denied but when I sent a note to the bariatric caseworker for the insurance company, she told me that once I'm approved the insurance company will reissue the claim. I'm nervous.  Should I pay or should I wait?  The clinic just got the transcribed records and will be sending over to the surgical office (please, let it be soon!).

Debi,   I am having the exact same problem with my insurance as you. I was billed for my preliminary visits,but my insurance wasn't paying,even my labs. I received the EOB from my insurance company, and no payment.  I called Cami at Dr. Patterson's office. She wasn't too reassuring, but she felt just OK about them getting payment. (And you do know that they checked our insurance prior to scheduling any appointments)  She hadn't had any problems with BCBS in the past (I work for the Kroger Company)     I wanted to be sure......don't want a HUGE bill hanging over my head that I am unable to pay.  So, I called my insurer, Anthem National Accounts for Bariatrics.  Spoke with Teresa E.  She basically told me NOT TO WORRY, and once you are approved they go back and make payment on the past claims.   So, I am putting my faith in the insurance company, and not making any payments until I get a corrected EOB.    I did call Legacy and tell them that I was conversing with my insurance company just so they know that I am not a total flake.  Legacy seemed fine with that.  Or, at least I hope so.   I had my surgery consult today. It went very well.  Dr. Patterson told me that if I don't hear anything by Halloween, to give them a call.  So....my time is getting close.  I did tell them that I didn't want my surgery before Thanksgiving...........and that I needed it by the year end.  They seemed to think that was very doable.    So, I am on just about the last leg of a new beginning.  I am excited and anxious at the same time.  Know what I mean?

Thanks, Brandon. I also have Anthem and am working with Teresa - she's been great.  Small world. I feel much better.  Thanks!

You may want to call your insurance company, too.  This way they've got documentation that you called.  Just say you're interested in checking up on your approval and such.  I figure the more bases you have covered the better. Good luck! Lori