In-network provider billing a lot more than EOB

I'm regularly seeing a specialist in Cigna's network (California).

For each service date, the EOB says there were 2 15-min units per session. Cigna pays a rate of $40 per unit. My copay is also $40, so they covered the other $40. Total cost of care, $80.

But when I see the provider, I am charged $110 up front. The same 2 units of treatment on their invoice are listed at $150 each, total $300!

Provider graciously promises they'll only charge me a "discounted" $110 per visit total later on when my coverage runs out and I must pay out of pocket.

What am I missing? Because from here, it sure looks like this provider is keeping my 110, collecting whatever my insurance will cough up in addition, and (presumably) giving them back their 40 copay cut. The 300 total, apparently, is just theater for my benefit.

So I believe I'm getting soaked for an extra $70 over & above my $40 copay each time, and they'll keep doing the same when I go to self-pay while pretending they're doing me a favor. I'm getting no benefit from my coverage.

Am I seeing this wrong?

submitted by /u/cantareSF
[comments]