after a visit to Dr.Zitofsky's office I was informed that I need a root canal and a crown. he told me to go to a endotontist to get the root canal done then come back to him. I did so and went back, the dentist then sent a "pre-determination" to my insurance co. who in turn informed the dentist how much they would pay and how I would have to pay this was presented to me and although I felt the amount was exorbitant I agreed to continue. the dentist told me that the insurance company has negotiated the cost of the procedure and my responsibility was $445.40.
I again expressed my concern to the dentist regarding his rates he said the rates were already negotiated down by insurance company and I should just continue, I agreed. now the cost of a crown procedure according to the dentist is approximately $1500, again I questioned the cost. when the crown was measured and ordwered by dentist. I was told I had to pay, even though the procedure was not completed, the office staff said it was lab costs, I refused to pay at that time -I wanted to wait until the procedure was done- so we continued. I was frustrated as was the office staff,the next week I went back to the dentist to finish the procedure,which was done and I then paid the amount due $445.40 the office staff complained about taking payment on a credit card.
after 2 weeks I RECIEVED ANOTHER BILL FOR $93.80. I questioned the bill and the office staff said my insurance co. did not pay what they were supposed to pay, so I said why not. they said thats between you and your insurance comapany.
I contacted the insurance company and they said my annual amount of insurance was exceeded, therefore I have to pay. I have discontinued the dentist/patient relationship at this time because of Dr.Zitofsky's exorbitant rates and his office staffs lack of willingness to work with my insurance company and myself. mental anguish and approximately $539.20 that I had to pay for a crown that other dentists say is all they would have charged for the entire procedure.
