Complaints

• Initial Complaint

  11/02/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I unfortunately had to take my cat, Weiner, to the vet because he was limping. Upon arrival, the vet tech, stated she would take Weiner into the back to examine him. About 30 minutes later, the veterinarian, came back to the front exam room. He explained that my cat "sprained his knee." Gave me home instructions and medication. He handed the office paperwork to the receptionist to do the billing. I was beyond shocked when I was given a $477.50 bill. I completely understand that Weiner needed to be examined. Also that things like x-rays, office visits, medications and so on cost money. But to receive a bill for so much without consulting me?!?! At the very least, someone should have talked to me about any procedures, tests, and/or x-rays beyond a basic examination. Definitely given me the opportunity to agree to the extra/needed services. Of course this is just my opinion.

  Business response

  12/28/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 11, 2022/12/11) */ 2-year-old cat was presented for limping in the rear end. One day duration. Left knee was swollen, somewhat painful. Cat hissed when knee was palpated. No drawers sign present. Left patella normal position. Toes/nails normal. The technician told the client that radiographs would be requiredthe owner consented. This can be confirmed by our receptionist. Five radiographs were takenright and left lateral knee, ventrodorsal pelvis, lateral lumbar spine, lateral thoracic spine. No fractures or dislocations were noted. Skeletal parts appeared normal, indicating a probable soft tissue problem. The owner was only charged for 3 x-rays instead of the 5. The cat was given injections for inflammation, pain, and an antibiotic. An antibiotic and pain medicine were dispensed. Findings were discussed with the owner and instructed to restrict the cat's activity for one week, and to return for a recheck in one week (which was not done by the owner). When checking out at the exit window, the owner complained to the receptionist and the tech standing there that he could get x-rays done at his medical doctor for $25. The technician said that it was his deductible payment. The owner said no, it was the cost. The owner did not decline to take medications home and did not ask to speak to me about the bill. We are usually pretty reasonable with our costs compared to surrounding veterinary clinics. The bill consisted of examination $59.50, antibiotic injection $19.50, anti-inflammation injection $15.50, pain injection $15.50, five x-rays $268.50, two weeks of liquid clavamox antibiotic drops (2 bottles) $79.00, oral pain syringes for 8 treatments $20.00 The owner called one week later to complain to the receptionist about the bill total. The owner a week later asked for x-rays to be sent to him, which were done. No mention of restricted finances was mentioned by the owner. The owner authorized x-rays. Appropriate medications were given and dispensed based on exam/x-ray findings. The medications were accepted by the owner. Dr H ***** *******

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