Tracym

I wouldn't file the complaint until the doctor has spoken to you. Just because the threat of filing it makes good leverage.

I would include in your letter that you do NOT owe them the money they are requesting, that in fact they owe you the initial money, which you expect to be promptly refunded, or you will take appropriate action.

The only thing I wonder, is do you have anything in writing where she said they were members? Or did anyone else hear this? Because people do lie...

You could possibly take them to small claims court to recover the money.

If he/she calls, you can still file the complaint regardless.

anotherlimey

1. Attorney
2. Sue
3. Lottery

Jerseygirl

It's the American way...much better than Britain.

loopylorns

I have kind of resumed my self to not getting back the money we have already paid however I am unprepared to give them any more so take the stand that they can whistle for the additional $750 odd.

Hubby just spoke with receptionist again and she said well its complicated, some we take and some we dont!
So he told her that well as she said they were members we took her on her word and that its her fault if shes confused and not ours and that she should not give out info if shes not sure.

Duncan Roberts

Yes, they can be fined heavily. If a letter is sent, make sure you include that as they knowingly disclosed the information that they are liable for a fine of up to $50,000 and 1 year in prison. They probably believe that they are subject to the civil fine which is $100 per violation but that is for accidents, like a clearinghouse accidentally sends a file of claims to the wrong insurance company. If you really want to stretch it and put the pressure on them, you could probably claim that as they were using this information to get you to pay a bill, that could be classed as using the information for commercial advantage or personal gain which has a fine of $250,000 and up to 10 years in jail.

loopylorns

hehe!

just can do without the headache.

Tracym

And what was her response to that?

anotherlimey

You don't have to have one!

Let the attorney do the leg work... I'm only advocating this route because so many companies get away with this type of crap when they should know better - especially a doctor's office.

loopylorns

Well hubby told her he was not impressed that she had discussed with friend and she said that she felt it was within her rights as the said friend had recommended the doctors to us!!!! omg the cheek.

No result in this so guess I will have to send recorded delivery letter and if that dont help find a lawyer to settle it, along with filling in the HIPPA complaint form.

Tracym

An attorney will charge for this. The doctor may be unaware of the whole thing so far. So if the doctor is made aware, and still won't cooperate...

Jerseygirl

I would call her again and inform her of your intentions...make her sweat a little.

Tracym

Our posts crossed. I think you're right. And she's nuts.

To be fair, the doctor could be unaware of the whole thing and be perfectly apalled. I'd see what happens there first.

loopylorns

Yep I agree!

I am a very pricipled person and 100% believe this type of thing should not be gotten away with.

Tracym

Sorry, but I disagree. That just gives here the chance to know about and intercept the letters, and put a spin on it for the doctor.

It is now beyond her ability to fix anyway - she would not have the authority to write-off bills.

The element of surprise is what I would advocate.

Jerseygirl

I agree I wonder how many people she's done this to in the past. I always think about the elderly folk...they get confused and don't want a fuss so they would just pay up.