I have trusted this facility for the past 10 yrs. Back in Aug I called to schedule my yearly preventative mammogram. This procedure is covered 100% by my insurance. During the call the scheduler asked if I was having any problems. Because she asked, I told her that I had a small amount of pain on one side. With that basic bit of information she designated the appt as a diagnostic mammogram (vs preventative). The only difference being that I am now being billed over $700! When I first got the bill I was sure there was an error. I visited the facility to straighten it out. When there I spoke with a billing specialist who explained what had happened and why the appointment was set as diagnostic —- she had my record in hand and defended the bill by reminding me that I had told the scheduler of my “pain”. I explained that when I called to schedule the appt I only wanted what I had always received and what I believe I asked for. I absolutely do not feel that I should be penalized for, what I now believe, are their unethical scheduling practices. I said that I couldn’t possibly be the only patient this had happened to. She said she speaks with at least 6 women a week with this same complaint. She told me that she’s brought it up with management and they have refused to change their practices. As I now understand, most reputable breast health clinics require a referral before scheduling a diagnostic mammogram. This is to ensure that it is truly a necessity. In fact the actual procedure was exactly the same as all my previous appointments with the exception of getting the results immediately vs in the mail. I have spoken with the billing dept 4 times now and am getting nowhere. I have offered to pay 1/2 immediately—despite the fact that I don’t feel I should even owe that. They have refused my offers. I believe this facility is deliberately digging for anything to justify scheduling appts that will net a higher pay out. They are preying on the fear of women.