Question:
My Sugeons office wants a deposit of $7,875.00 for surgery. Is this normal?

I have insurance through BCBS. They say my sugeon is in their network, but my surgoens office says that they are non participating members. Anyway they want 7,875. on the date of my pre op consult. They say it's a deposit should insurance not pay. I dont have that kind of money!!! But I have already been through so much and the thought of starting over with a new surgeon just brings me to tears. HELP!!!!!!!!! [email protected]    — Brandy C. (posted on February 2, 2003)

February 2, 2003
If I am not mistaken, non-participating means that they don't have to accept what BC/BS offers as payment in full. If they decide that they'll charge you $15,000 for this insurance and your insurance company pays $4,000 (and you paid the $7,875 deposit), I would think that you'd be liable for the remainde of the balance - in this example, $3,125. Personally, I'd find a surgeon that is going to accept my insurance company's payment as payment in full...JR (open RNY 07/17 -142 pounds)
   — John Rushton

February 2, 2003
u need to call bcbs & tell them all this & see what they say about it.
   — sheryl titone

February 2, 2003
If the doctor is in network then they should NOT require a deposit. Besides, $7800??? Is this JUST the surgeon's fee? Because if it is, that's REALLY expensive!! My surgeon charged $3000.
   — Patty H.

February 2, 2003
My surgeon charges $6900 for my procedure and requires a $5000 deposit. He accepts my Cigna insurance.
   — Leslie E.

February 3, 2003
I agree with a previous poster. If the insurance company states he is in network, then contact them. They need to be informed that he is requesting a significant amount up front. Do keep in mind that ins companies tell you to make sure from the doctor that they are in network before you go! I would suggest finding an doctor in their network if he is not. Will save you in the long run!
   — roryleigh

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