Save money - Public vs Private for Radiation
HI all,
I just thought I would let you know of a $3,000 pitfall that I managed to avoid . . .
I was treated in a private hospital for IBC and underwent breast conservation surgery in August. My surgeon referred me for radiation to the same private hospital BUT, I had been forewarned that this would cost in th region of $3,000 whereas it could be all free in the NSW public hospital.
I asked my surgeon to refer me to the public hospital but he refused. In fact, he even asked his secretary to phone the private provider and make an appointment for me - while I was sitting in front of him. I asked no less than 5 times. HIs responses varied : "I don't know anyone there", "Ask the Rx clinic for a referral", "Have a look at both, by all means.", "Your out of pocket expenses won't be much!" (the one that sticks in my craw!!!).
So, I did go to that private clinic appointment (with a friend for support) with no intention of paying anything for the privilege. I asked to look over the facilities and to see the payment schedule. I also asked if there was a fee for that?The receptionist said that all that would be discussed in the consultation. I asked her to therefore cancel my appointment, but could I please have the payment schedule. Eventually I received it, all beautifully presented. And? Correct! I would have to pay the full fee weekly and then claim back from Medicare and my private health insurer. Out of pocket expenses? Yep - $2,500, in writing. But I needed to have the money up front.
I went back to my GP and told her the story and she referred me to the public hospital where I received EXCELLENT treatment and service. At NO cost to me.
What makes me mad is that the surgeon just dismissed my need to be careful with MY money as 'It wouldn't be much'. To HIM maybe not, but to ME that is a lot of money on top of the surgeon's and assist surgeon, anaesthetist's out of pocket expenses (about $3,500).
So, be warned everyone who reads this. Make sure you ask all the right questions. Take an advocate with you if necessary. You are in a vulnerable position and not always capable of making the best choice. Your advocate will look out for you. The McGrath breast nurses can go to some of these appointments if they are not too rushed at that time.
If I could have my time over . . . I would go to the surgeon recommended by my GP. I chose the surgeon based on the Breast Screening NSW visit where I received my diagnosis. The surgeon happened to be rostered on that day and he gave me his phone number. (I did follow up to see if that is ethical practice - it appears to be!).
I would be interested to know if anyone else has experienced similar referring practices.
Regards,
Jenny (Gadgetmumma)
