Blue Ridge Eye Associates are using deceptive practives to draw customers in with one price and…read morethen charging another without the customers knowledge when they get there. Here is what happened to me today, 28 February, 2023L When I made an appointment by phone for an eye exam two weeks ago, I specifically asked how much it would cost. I was told by the very friendly voice of "Wally" that it would be $189.00 He then asked me if I had Medicare and supplemental insurance. I said yes, and then asked how much of that Medicare would pay. He said 80% if I had met my deductible. I went ahead and made an appointment. I called back a second time and asked Wally to confirm that it would be $189. He confirmed. When I showed up today for the appointment I asked Wally again how much it will be. For a third time he said $189, and I gave him my Medicare and insurance cards. After doing this and before going in for the exam I thought I had better confirm the price one more time because I didn't want to get stuck with a surprise bill. This time he said that it will be $189 "If you pay in cash today" and $249. "if you use Medicare," and you have to pay today $79.00 for "non-payment service." I protested, saying that he didn't tell me all this the two times I talked with him on the phone or when I asked him the first time when I came today for the appointment. He denied everything. This is the typical "Bait and Switch" tactic. I asked to see Dr. Crowder because I wanted to register my complaint with her. She came out and sat down with me, but explained that it was $189. "if I paid cash," but $249. "if I used Medicare." I said I was not told that until just now. It didn't make any difference. I said I would post a review. She asked me if I would report it to Medicare. I said I would. As a taxpayer, I do not believe it is fair to charge one amount for a cash price and a higher price to Medicare. BEWARE! Paul M.

I requested a copy of my medical records and Blue Ridge Eye Associates has refused to provide them,…read morein direct violation of HIPAA. I will be reporting them to the Office of Civil Rights.