I visited this practice in Alpharetta, Ga., to find out if a stubborn ear infection was gone. Upon arrival, I informed the front office that I was paying out of pocket due to a high deductible. The receptionist just looked at me. Instead of merely checking my ears, the practice required automatic audiology testing (cost: $228) and then, after finding that my ears were fine, the doctor performed an unrequested ""endoscopic"" exam through my nose that took 60 seconds or less (cost: $343). These charges were on top of a ""new patient"" physician charge of $195. The total billing to the insurance company: $766. My hearing was normal and I had no ear infection. I had no idea how much these unnecessary procedures had cost me until I received an explanation of benefits from my insurance company. Because the practice is in-network, I ""only"" have to pay $391.80. When I questioned the excessive charges, the practice's billing staff member was very talented at deflecting the physician's ethical responsibility to inform his patients of costs. I imagine this practice pays her very well. However, it took two phone calls to get them to cancel my follow-up visit.
Cons: a money machine
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