NEW CASTLE —
Editor, The News:
In February, a relative scheduled an appointment with a dermatologist, due to severe pain and infection on his scalp.
Upon arrival at his June 29 appointment, he gave his insurance information, Blue Cross being his primary and Access his secondary.
Once staff saw his cards, they refused to see him, claiming they do not participate with Access.
Staff commented that if he did not tell them he had Access, they could have seen him.
He offered to pay cash, and again was refused an opportunity to see the doctor.
Apparently, billing as a cash-paying patient would have been considered fraudulent. Reluctantly, he left the office suffering.
Prior to leaving, his wife asked if the doctor would sign a paper stating he was refused care. The doctor agreed to do so, however, when the document was taken into the office later that day, it was not signed.
People housed in a detention center are seen at this office, with the assistance of publicly funded insurance, but the fact that our relative had Access (as his secondary insurance) was not acceptable.
As we understand, insurance coverage is a benefit, not something that is mandated to use.
It’s sad to know that not every patient gets seen and treated. And things probably will get worse with the coming health care changes.
By the way, in case loved ones don’t have insurance or the cash to pay for an appointment, this dermatologist sells gift certificates, as plainly posted in the waiting area.
Mary Jane Book
State Road
Kimberlie Reiter
Hollow Road
Tyra Daugherty
Cornell Avenue
New Castle
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Medical treatment is denied
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