Doctor performed procedure specifically asked NOT to and now charged

[NorthernFamily]

I am so angry right now. 

My husband went to the eye doctor and specifically stated NOT to do a refraction because insurance does not cover it. We received a statement from the insurance saying that a refraction was done and not covered of course.

We cannot afford to spend $100 plus on this. What are my rights? What should I say when I call them? What do I do if they refuse to remove the charge?

I ask this in advance because our internet is done tomorrow and want to be armed as well as I can.

Thanks everybody!!

[erigeron]

I would start by calling the doctor's office. See if a. they remember that you had requested no refraction, and b. if they actually did one (it sounds weird that you had to wait until the insurance bill to know that one was done, but I'm not entirely sure what a refraction is so I'm not sure if your husband would recollect having it done to him) or if they had billed for it by mistake or because it was what they were used to billing for. If they are cooperative see if they might waive the charge since it was done by mistake or billed by mistake. You could also ask for a copy of his records and see if there is documentation that you refused the procedure. 

If the insurance has any protocol under which a refraction would be covered, see if the doctor's office can retroactively get one authorized. 

I think you are more likely to get results from the doctor's office than from the insurance. 

Next time, if you don't want a procedure because it's not covered, I'd recommend putting it in writing so that it is easier to prove later that you refused the procedure.