Business ProfileforUniversity of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

I visited MD Anderson on July 12th. This was for 1) a follow-up Mammogram, after one I had at ************** was "inconclusive" due to "dense breast tissue" and, at MD Anderson's suggestion, 2) an ultrasound, for the same diagnostic purpose. Upon making my appointment, a representative called and gave me my client ID, explained the procedures, and told me there was an office that determines patient financial responsibility that would be checking with my insurance (**** ***** **** ******) and letting me know my exact responsibility. After some time, I received a call from a woman named "Patience" from this patient financial responsibility office. She told me that my total patient responsibility would be a $60 co-payment. I double-checked with her and said, "are you sure?" And she confirmed, and so I said that there was no reason not to do both tests, the mammogram and the ultrasound. Imagine my surprise when I received a $963 bill. When I contacted **** *****, I found the mammogram was covered, but the ultrasound was not. Why I was upset and believe MD Anderson should waive this charge: -I did not request the ultrasound, and in fact I did not need it and would not have gotten it had I been warned about the cost. What I could have done is the mammogram, found out the result, and then seen if I needed to push forward. -Patience, the person I spoke with, made ZERO mention of potential charges if I still had a deductible. This office advises patients of their financial responsibility all day! How could they not have it as part of their routine practice to say, "these are the charges we see on our end, but you must check with your insurance regarding any deductible that applies." In fact, I could have gotten pre-authorized in writing for these services. Since then, I had fruitless meetings with a patient advocate and billing representatives. I would like the phone calls with Patience pulled and my charges dispensed. They are engaging in bait and switch.