Consumer complaint received 2024-11-17 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — Medical debt
Issue: False statements or representation — Attempted to collect wrong amount
Company: USCB, Inc.
State: CA

Complaint narrative:
Complaint Regarding Medical Services and Billing What Happened : I made an appointment to treat my eye condition, XXXX XXXX, at the XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX. I recently moved from Arizona and needed a new doctor because I could no longer attend my previous physicians office. My condition is long-term and requires monthly injections without interruption ; missing these treatments can lead to severe complications such as bleeding and irreversible vision loss, potentially resulting in blindness. 

Events : I scheduled my appointment well in advance to ensure I would receive an injection on the same day, as waiting an additional month for treatment was not an option due to the risk involved. The clinic confirmed that I would receive the injection during the visit if needed.

On the day of the appointment, I spent approximately two hours at the facility, mostly waiting despite being the only patient present. After taking pictures of my retina, the doctor intended to give me the injection. However, I was informed that they had not contacted my insurance in time for the appointment, which other clinics typically do as standard practice. 

The doctor stated they would reach out during the week to fit me into the schedule at their main location in XXXX. However, I did not receive any follow-up calls. I tried repeatedly to schedule an appointment myself, calling both the XXXX XXXX and XXXX locations. Each location directed me to contact the other, resulting in hours spent on phone calls. 

When I finally managed to speak with someone at the XXXX location, I was told that the earliest appointment available was in three months. Additionally, I was informed that they would need to take new retina images before possibly providing the injection. Waiting three months was not an option for me, as it had already been 2.5 months since my last injection, putting my vision at significant risk. I urgently had to find a different doctor to prevent further damage. Unfortunately, during this time, my vision deteriorated, and the liquid build-up increased. 

Billing Issue : After the ordeal, XXXX contacted menot to schedule an appointment, but to discuss a bill from XXXX. I explained that I have insurance that covers doctors visits and that I did not receive the necessary treatment during that appointment. I believe I owe nothing, as I did not receive the treatment, and my time and effort were wasted. 

In XXXX, I received a text message from a debt collector ( USCB ) stating that I owe XXXX {$830.00} for this visit. XXXX did not bill my insurance properly, adding further frustration and financial stress. 

Resolution Sought : I am seeking assistance from the CFPB to address the improper billing and lack of communication from XXXX. I want the charge of {$830.00} to be dismissed, as I was billed for the visit and did not receive the necessary treatment, and my insurance was not appropriately billed. Additionally, I seek an acknowledgment of the undue stress, time, and harm caused by their negligence, which led to a deterioration in my vision.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation