Doctor visit but pay twice since you don't see a doctor
First 2 visits to the Rheumatologist, I saw a medical doctor.
My out of pocket specialist cost is $40, I expected that.
But my next 2 visits, same office, I see an FNP, who works in same office. I have to pay the $40 specialist doctor deductible, AND last bill was a $60 fee for the FNP, which after a month, insurance says I now have to pay $38. I just looked and my upcoming visit is with the FNP again. She is nice enough, but they force me to pay basically twice to go in for a visit. Instead of $40, it is $40 and $38, AFAIK, I will call office and ask about this., see if I am really paying twice. What is your experience?
I am glad you brought this up,
! And now I want to go dig out my past doctor's bills and scrutinize them! You bring up a great point about what I call 'double billing', although that's probably not the correct term. I don't understand why this is allowed, either. I mean, I get their reasoning, but really, it doesn't make sense. I would am interested to see what the office says. Sometimes, they will stop charging like this when eagle eyed patients catch on, but not always.
I'll also be interested to see what other community members here have to say about interesting charges on their doctor/medical bills!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.THAT IS EXACTLY WHY I STOPPED GOING TO MY RHEUMATHOLOGIST.HE WANTED TO SEE ME EVERY 2 WEEKS AND THE N EVERY MONTH.40.00 COPAY EACH VISIT.PLUS SEEING MY PRIMARY 20.00 COPAY..I WAS ONLY ON METHROTREXATE,FOLIC ACID,12 MG. PREDNISONE WHICH REALLY HELPED WITH MY FLARES.THE METHROTRAXATE RUINED MY TEETH.MY CAPS FELL OFF.MY TEETH WERE BREAKING.FINALLY AFTER ABOUT LOOSING HALF OF MY TEETH THEY FIGURED THE BLOOD PRESSURE MED AND THE METHOTRAXATE WERE COUNTERACTING EACH OTHER.NOW IAM 81 CAN'T AFFORD MOUTH SURGERY TO EXTRACT THE BROKEN PIECES OF TOOTH. I STOPPED THE METHOTRXATE ON MY OWN.JUST GAVE UP.
I know that treatment for RA costs add up pretty quickly. Here is a page that outlines potential ways you may be able to save money: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/resources-cost I know it's often a struggle but if you can see your rheumatologist again it may ultimately help you better manage your RA. Warmly, - Reggie, RheumatoidArthritis.net team member 
I'm truly sorry to hear about the challenges you've faced with your doctor and medication. It sounds like a difficult and frustrating experience, especially considering the financial burden it brings as well. I know this journey comes with it's ups and downs, but I encourage you to not lose hope. You owe it to yourself to prioritize your health and give yourself every chance to live a quality life. I hope you find the article that Reggie shared helpful as it offers some tips on how to save on the cost of possible treatment options. And you always have free will to seek as many opinions and medical professionals to ensure that you receive the treatment and attention you need tailored around your needs. Don't give up. We're always here to help you along the way. Kindly, Latoya (Team Member)
