A Most Unreceptive Receptionist, Part 13
I get a voicemail from my dentist’s office saying that I have an outstanding bill and to call them right away. This is odd because the last time I saw them, all that was done was a routine cleaning and I paid a copay at the visit. I’m not looking forward to the call since the receptionist is frequently rude.
Receptionist: “[Dentist]’s office, this is [Receptionist].”
Me: “Hi, [Receptionist], this is [My Name]. I’m returning the call I received from you about a bill.”
Receptionist: “It’s about time you called! Do you know how much you owe?!”
Me: “No, I never received a bill in the mail.”
Receptionist: “It’s $700. Get your credit card so we can take care of this.”
Me: “Wait, what?! $700 for a cleaning? Is that with insurance?”
Receptionist: *Smugly* “You didn’t have insurance. So, how are you planning on making the payment? I can take a credit card number right now.”
Me: “Yes, I do have insurance. It needs to be run again.”
Receptionist: “The insurance I have on file didn’t go through. You owe us $700.”
Me: “Is that with the old insurance or the new one I provided you with when I came in?”
Receptionist: “Uh, what?”
Me: “Was it [Old Insurance] or [New Insurance]?”
Receptionist: “It was [Old Insurance].”
Me: “That one isn’t current anymore.”
Receptionist: “Well, you didn’t give a new insurance when you were here, so now you owe us $700.”
Me: “No. I have insurance and I did give you the new insurance. I’d be more than happy to provide you the insurance information and have you run that again before making any payments.”
Receptionist: “I guess that’s the only option you’re giving me?”
Me: “Yes.”
She begrudgingly takes the information, asking for it in a very nasty tone.
Receptionist: “Fine, I did what you want. Is there anything else I can do for you?”
Me: “Yes, actually. Cancel my next appointment.”
Her attitude suddenly changes.
Receptionist: “Oh, uh, can I ask why?”
Me: “Because I never want to deal with you again.”
Sure enough, the $700 bill disappeared once sent through the correct insurance company.
Related:
A Most Unreceptive Receptionist, Part 12
A Most Unreceptive Receptionist, Part 11
A Most Unreceptive Receptionist, Part 10
A Most Unreceptive Receptionist, Part 9
A Most Unreceptive Receptionist, Part 8
Question of the Week
Tell us your story about a customer who couldn't understand the most simple concept.
