Asking Eric: My new doctor told me their service is only as good as my payments. Is that legal?

Dear Eric: I just had my 93rd birthday, so have been on Medicare for some years. But I recently ran across something different. My newest doctor—a podiatrist—told me first that she would give me only token care since she got only a token payment. Then a second time she said I could pay her the difference and get full treatment. Is this right morally and legally?

— Do No Harm

Dear Do No Harm: Find someone new, if you can. Maybe this podiatrist is a poor communicator (one might say she put her foot in her mouth). Or she’s trying to hoodwink you (…pulling your leg?) According to Medicare.gov, doctors can bill patients for out-of-pocket costs if they don’t accept Medicare assignment, so it’s possible that’s what she was trying to convey. But good communication is key to a successful medical relationship. As a patient, you shouldn’t have to decipher what she’s saying or feel you’re being backed into a corner to receive care. It’s in your best interest to find someone with whom you can communicate clearly.

Reach out to your state medical board to express your concern about this treatment and get clarity. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE to get help filing a complaint or to ask questions. If you need help navigating other doctor visits or managing prescriptions, your state or local commission on aging can direct you to a patient advocate who is trained to work with seniors and can navigate the Medicare system. Hopefully your next doctor steps up their game.

(Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.)

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