Issue with eye exam billing

I found out that my health insurance covers routine eye exams. I was curious to know if this was correct so I called them to verify the information and the representative informed me that it was correct but it only covers a routine eye exam, not a vision screening. So I made an appointment with an in-network provider and explained I wanted to have a routine eye exam not a vision screening because thats what my insurance covers, and the day of my appointment i made the same remark just to be sure everything was clear. The exam was done and weeks later I get a bill indicating I had a balance due, so I call my insurance and explain the situation and the representative explained that for them to pay the hospital has to use a code for a routine eye exam and they are currently using a code for a comprehensive exam. So the representative disputed the bill with the hospital and weeks later I get a call indicating the dispute was denied because during my exam a diagnosis was made.

I'm not familiar with eye exams/billing so I'm confused as of what to do next. I was very explicit that i wanted a routine eye exam when i was at the Drs office. Also, i was never told that if I got a diagnosis during my eye exam then the eye exam couldn't be billed as a routine eye exam. Not sure if I should call the hospital or my insurance. Has this ever happened to anyone? The bill is for $300 but it feels unfair having to pay for something I was told it was covered.

Any advice/guidance is appreciated.

submitted by /u/wanderluster0
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