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| - I am updating this review not as a reflection on Dr. Washinsky's expertise and professionalism, but rather that of his staff. I had an appointment recently and was given a battery of tests. Though I'm on Medicare and have a "Medicare Advantage" plan, I asked how much they would cost me. I was told they were "covered" and would cost little or nothing by a staffer. Needless to say I was surprised when I received a bill for $700, my "deductible" for "Out of Network." Well, I knew he was "Out of Network," but I absolutely asked that question and received the above response.
The reason I called was to make an appointment to get some prescriptions refilled and obviously I couldn't unless the bill was paid. I immediately sought another physician with good qualifications and "In Network." I found one who's, perhaps, not as good, though I can't really form an opinion at this point. However, I can say that when I made the appointment, the staff was forthcoming, checked my insurance and told me exactly what my co-pay would be. The physician was just fine and refilled my scripts.
I wrote a letter to Washinsky a couple of days ago, thanking him for his fine service over the past dozen years and explaining why I was making a change. This update could, of course, change if he responds with a "mea culpa." However, he has a very large practice and my visceral feeling is that losing a single patient, no matter how long term and how many referrals I've provided, it simply won't make a difference.
For me this is a true loss of a fine professional. You might think it could be "overlooked," however, if the staff can make a simple mistake on coverage, it can also make others.
If there is a response that make a difference, well, I'll keep you posted.
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