Need Help – Is this fraud?

Hey community,

Today, I went to a dermatologist to have a cyst looked at and removed. While making the appointment over the phone weeks in advance, I explained my situation to them , and they assured me it was something they could help with.

After waiting in the lobby and patient room, I was finally greeted by the doctor, who was very kind. She took a quick peak at my situation and said they couldn’t help me but referred me to another clinic. No sweat at all.

Walking out, I’d asked for a reimbursement of my co-pay as no service was really provided, and the doctor agreed to push it through. However, I was told my insurance would be billed.

TL;DR: It seems wrong to be billed when I was misled and told to come in as they could assist, especially without a service being provided outside of a recommendation for where to go next. Is this insurance fraud? I have reached out to my provider already to appeal the billing statement. I did not walk out with my co-pay reimbursement either.

Thanks for your time – looking forward to insight from the community.

Cheers – OP