Doctors office requiring deposit

I live in Tennessee and have Ambetter of TN insurance. (Everyday Gold plan)

My son has an upcoming appointment to see his ENT. He had tubes placed over 2 years ago with this same doctor. I have had this insurance policy for almost 2 years.

The office called me to let me know that the doctors are now requiring all Ambetter patients to pay a “deposit” of $270 before they are able to be seen. Any remaining funds will be a credit on our account. My copay is $55. I didn’t even pay $270 when he had tubes placed. This seems excessive and I’m wondering if it’s even legal. Not to mention this is likely his last visit because the tube was in his ear canal 6 months ago. She did not mention returning the money to me, only that it would be a credit on my account.

I called the insurance commissioner and they said to call my insurance company. I called Ambetter and she confirmed the doctor is in-network and my copay and plan details. She told me I should only be required to pay my $55 copay.

I’m now waiting for the lunch hour to be over to call the doctors office back.

Unfortunately my daughter also had tubes placed last year from this same doctor and has a checkup in January. It seems as though they may not even be in-network next year though so I will deal with that later.

Any input is so appreciated!! Thanks in advance!

submitted by /u/mugglemama2
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